4 Essential Steps for an Effective Bumper Cover Repair for Your Automobile

Any car owner may at some point need to complete bumper cover repair work due to an unexpectedly cracked, dented, or broken bumper. Deciding which repair method is best for the bumper material will depend on the particular make and model of the automobile. For example, some vehicles have molded style polyurethane plastic bumpers that cannot always withstand some of the more conventional bumper repair methods. This article provides four useful repair tips for different types of bumpers that may benefit from repair.

1. Polyurethane Plastic Bumpers: If your bumper is made from a polyurethane plastic material, options for repair are limited as it can be difficult to even get duct tape to stick. However, because these bumpers have a certain memory and tendency to return to form, they may be able to recover from a dented bumper due to a gentle application of a heat gun. The damaged area will need to be removed and reapplied, and this method may prevent it from cracking further.

2. Cracked Bumpers: If the bumper has a crack, heat may be used to melt the plastic and seal it together again. If this is not possible, patching the inside with color matched plastic weld and covering the outside is also an option.

3. Chrome Plated Metal Bumpers: This type of bumper is relatively straightforward to mend, and may require a rubber mallet and a carefully shaped, rounded wooden block. The dent will then need to be knocked gently out from the inside of the bumper, and caution is required as creases in the metal could crack if left unchecked.

4. Heat Method: Take the bumper off the car, lay it on soft material (protecting it from further scratching) and turn it to the underside. Apply a heat gun to the dent area for approximately 30-40 seconds without melting the metal, and then liberally spray 12 with a Carbon Dioxide liquid product. The combination of the sudden cold with the hot metal may encourage the dent to pop out. Although this method is not guaranteed, it is worth trying if all else fails.

Overall, knowing the type of bumper you have and the best methods of repair is essential in order to achieve a professional finish. For example, plastic bumpers need to be heated evenly across the surface, while metal bumpers cannot risk causing further creases or cracking. If in doubt, it can often be best to contact a professional for an expert opinion and finish.