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Bumper is one part of vehicle that you take care of religiously. It protects drivers from getting injured in accidents. But what happens if the bumper cover gets damaged or worn out? In this blog, we will show you the step, and the important information you need to know before and after the replacement.
Five things you need to know before replacing bumper cover
Bumper covers play an important role in protecting your car from damage and can often be the deciding factor as to whether or not you end up with a scratch or dent. When it comes time to replace your bumper guard, there are 5 things to keep in mind.
Determine if your car has a factory bumper encasement or if you'll need to install one yourself. Factory covers are usually easy to remove and replace, while aftermarket covers may require some drilling or fitting.
Determine the size of the replacement cover you'll need. Most bumper covers come in either a small (fits cars with OEM bumpers that measure 18 inches wide by 9 inches high) or a large version (for cars with aftermarket bumpers that are wider than 18 inches).?
Consider the material your new bumper guard will be made out of. Car parts stores typically carry both vinyl (a cheap option that can easily show dirt and dust) and fabric (more expensive but more resistant to dirt and dust).
Consider the price of installation time. You might discover that a professional installation is necessary to provide a precise fit and enough protection, depending on how complicated your repair is.
Keep in mind that the cost of replacing a bumper cover may be impacted by tax laws. For instance, the majority of jurisdictions permit deductible costs for auto repairs like repairing a damaged bumper guard.
STEP-BY-STEP guide to replace bumper cover
If you are replacing your bumper overlay for the first time, you will find the step-by-step guide helpful.
Remove the damaged bumper overlay: Use a screwdriver or pry tool to remove any fasteners or clips that secure the bumper guard to the vehicle. Once all the fasteners are removed, carefully pull the bumper guard away from the vehicle.
Inspect the bumper reinforcement: Check the bumper reinforcement for any signs of damage. The reinforcement should be replaced before installing the new bumper overlay if it is damaged.
Prep the new bumper encasement: Most new bumper covers will come unpainted and may require preparatory work before installation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to prepare the new bumper cover for painting or installation properly.
Install the new bumper cover: Carefully align the new bumper guard with the vehicle and secure it with the fasteners and clips that were removed in step 1. Check to make sure the cover is properly aligned and fits snugly.
Paint the new bumper cover: If the new bumper encasement is not pre-painted, it will need to be painted to match the color of the vehicle.
Reinstall any other components: If any other components were removed during the bumper guard replacement process, they should be reinstalled at this time.
Test the bumper encasement: Once the new bumper guard is installed, ensure it is securely in place and does not rattle or vibrate while driving.
What you should pay attention to before and after the replacement
Safety : Before replacing the bumper cover, ensure the vehicle is safely parked on a level surface with engaging brakes. Also, wear protective gear like gloves and goggles to safeguard yourself against any possible injury.
Suitable fit : You must select a compatible model matching your vehicle's make, year, and model to avoid misalignments. Double-check the new part's dimensions, holes, and clips to ensure a precise match. Seek professional help if you need more clarification about the installation process.
Quality of the replacement part: The quality of the replacement part will directly affect the durability and longevity of the new bumper cover. Choose a reputable vendor or automotive parts store that stocks high-quality bumper covers. Check its material, color, and texture to ensure it matches your car's original bumper. Avoid low-quality alternatives that tend to crack, fade, or fail prematurely.
Check for hidden damage: Before installing the replacement cover, inspect the bumper reinforcement, mounting brackets, and other components for any damage. If any damage is found, it should be repaired or replaced before installing the new cover.
Proper installation: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the replacement bumper encasement, and use the correct tools and hardware to secure it to the vehicle. Improper installation can lead to rattling, vibration, or even the cover falling off while driving.
Test the new bumper encasement: After installation, test the new bumper guard to ensure it is secure and properly aligned with the vehicle. Make sure it does not rattle or vibrate while driving.
The cost to replace a bumper overal
The cost of a bumper guard replacement varies depending on the model of the car, the material used in the cover, and the type of installation. In general, bumper cover replacement typically cost between $60 and $320.