No one likes getting into a car accident. But even the most careful drivers can find themselves in a minor fender bender from time to time. If you do find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. Repairing a bumper is not as difficult as it may seem. If your bumper is damaged, you may not have to rush straight to the mechanic shop. Provided you have some basic mechanical skills, a bumper repair can be done relatively cheaply with a few tools and some elbow grease.
Why You Should Pay Attention to the Bumper
Most people never think about the purpose of a car bumper until they’re in an accident. Then they’re suddenly very interested in how well it protects them and their investment. Bumpers are designed to absorb the impact of a low-speed collision, preventing damage to the engine bay, grill, headlights, and trunk. They also help to protect pedestrians from being injured by a vehicle’s sharp corners. Most bumpers are made from plastic or fiberglass, although some luxury cars have steel or aluminum bumpers. Newer cars often have sensors that activate the brakes if they sense an imminent collision, further reducing the risk of injury.
How to Take Care of Bumper Damage Yourself
Most car owners opt to have a professional mechanic repair their car bumpers. However, this option can be expensive. Alternatively, you may be able to take care of bumper damage yourself, as long as you have some rudimentary mechanical skills and the right tools. Here are some steps to help you handle bumper repairs from home:
The first step is to assess the damage. If the bumper is only scratched or dented, you may be able to repair it with some touch-up paint and a little sanding. However, if the bumper is cracked or deeply gouged, you will need to replace it.
If you need to replace the bumper, the first step is to remove the old one. This can usually be done by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. Once the old bumper is off, you can install the new one by lining it up with the holes in the frame and screwing it in place. Once the new bumper is on, you will need to touch up the paint. Begin by sanding down the area around the damage to create a smooth surface for the new paint. Then apply a primer and let it dry before applying a layer of paint.
Bumpers are vital, but sometimes they become damaged. With a little time and effort, it’s often possible to repair a damaged bumper without having to replace it entirely. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to repair your car’s bumper and improve its overall appearance.