Are Bumpers Easy to Fix? Common Bumper Problems

Bumpers get a lot of punishment. They take heat from scrapes in parking lots, fender benders, and shopping cart collisions. When a bumper needs repair, it's natural to wonder if it will be an easy fix or a costly replacement. Fortunately, most bumper issues are easily repairable, depending upon type and extent of damage.

We see all types of bumper problems at our Peoria auto repair shop. If you've ever wondered how do bumpers work, it's important to know that they are designed to absorb and distribute impact, helping to protect both your car and its passengers. In order to understand whether it is possible to repair a particular bumper or not, an individual needs to have knowledge of bumper repair.

Determining Common Bumper Issues

Scratches and Scuffs

Mostly, bumper problems that we commonly see include surface-level scratch work. This is often caused by touching a post or curb or coming too close to a vehicle. In most of these cases, it is just a matter of painting and will not have an effect on the bumper's integrity.

Professionals are often able to buff off minor scuffs or use touch-up paint for heavier scratch marks. This is a fast and economical repair,, and one you don’t have to worry about too much.

Dents

Dents are caused when an object impacts your bumper with enough strength to dent plastic or metal. Examples include shopping carts, parking lot accidents, and slow-speed crashes.

The positive aspect is that new plastic bumpers have a degree of flexibility. Small dents can be pushed back out or heated to repair them without needing to replace the entire bumper. We analyze where and how large the dent is in order to decide how to repair it.

Cracks and Punctures

Cracks and holes are more dangerous than dented areas. This occurs when a dent is created with a force that is capable of punching a hole through a bumper. Holes, depending on their severity, may or may not be capable of being repaired through welding or filling.

In most cases, though, large cracks or holes in a bumper may need to be replaced. We analyze at Arrowhead Imports before suggesting a repair or a replacement whether the integrity of your bumper’s structure is affected.

Misalignment

Occasionally, a bumper may have a fit issue after a wreck. This occurs when screws or brackets that mount them become bent or broken, creating a gap between a bumper and a vehicle body.

Corrections to misalignment would include correcting or repairing brackets as a means of realigning, rather than fixing a bumper. We will examine if there is a related issue to frame damage that has caused problems in alignment.

When to Choose Professional Repair

A DIY kit might work for small scratches, but in most bumper repairs, it is beneficial to have an expert's assistance. We have equipment that is designed for plastic heating and modification, as well as painting that will match your vehicle’s color accurately.

Bumpers with damage or misalignment are best repaired by a professional. We will be able to determine just how well your bumper will work at protecting you in an accident if it is damaged or damaged beyond repair.

Cost Considerations

Repair costs will depend upon the severity of damage as well as your make and model of vehicle. Smaller scratch repairs will often be priced lower than $200, while more involved work may be higher priced. Full replacement of a bumper is a more costly investment, but at times is required.

Having an estimate before you start a repair job will give you a clear understanding of your options.

Keeping Your Bumper in Good Condition

Most bumper issues can be repaired, and this is especially true when caught early. Whether you have a scratch or a more severe bumper issue, it's helpful to know your options for a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi in Peoria, Arizona. Arrowhead Imports can examine your bumper damage and walk you through your choices so that your vehicle can be in top shape again.

Bumper damage shouldn’t go unattended. Bumper issues will have a greater impact if neglected, so contact our friendly team today!