Bumper damage happens all the time. You may have accidentally backed into a pole or gotten caught on a high wheel stop. Now the paint is scratched or the bumper is cracked. It’s up to you to decide whether to repair the damage or replace the bumper.
On newer vehicles, bumpers are more than cosmetic; they house sensors and lights and play a vital role in absorbing impact. Making the wrong choice can lead to more damage or unnecessary costs.
Central Alberta Paint & Supplies (CAPS) supports you on whatever path you choose. If you’re debating collision repairs or replacements, this blog will help you decide which is best. CAPS is here to provide you with quality parts and ensure quality results.
Types of Bumper Damage
Before deciding what’s best for you, here’s a brief look at the common types of bumper damage.
Minor scrapes and scratches
These are mostly cosmetic, or surface-level damage that doesn’t impact the structure. Repairs like this can be resolved with sanding, filler, and repainting.
Cracks or splits
Depending on the location and severity of the cracks, this type of damage can be repaired by welding with plastic or filler.However, Cracks near mounting points or sensors might need to be replaced.
Detached or broken bumpers
Completely torn-off bumpers typically indicate underlying structural damage, which means they need to be replaced as soon as possible.
How to Decide: Repair or Replace?
Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide if a replacement is the better option:
- Does the damage involve parking sensors or cameras
- Is the crack small or large? Or is it affecting other areas?
- Are there any bent supports or brackets?
- Consider if it’s a newer vehicle, is the resale value important?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you should be replacing your vehicle’s bumper.
Key factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace:
- What’s the cost difference between repair parts and replacement
- Does the damage compromise the safety of your vehicle (especially if the sensors are damaged)
- Does your insurance cover collision repairs or replacement?
Insurance is a critical element in your decision, and you may need to weigh the pros and cons of out-of-pocket repair costs vs. paying through insurance. Some insurers may suggest repairing unless there’s a safety concern.
Repair parts make the most sense when it’s a plastic weld or minor dents. Replacements are safer when the structural integrity is compromised or advanced technology is in the damaged area.
CAPS is Here to Help
We keep stock of a wide range of collision repair and replacement parts, including OEM and quality aftermarket bumpers, and we make sure it’s the right fit for your make and model. Need a quick turnaround? Our Red Deer and Edmonton teams source locally to reduce vehicle downtime and keep you on schedule.
Our experts can:
- Match parts for your vehicle
- Advise on whether to repair or replace
- Supply everything from bumpers to brackets to paint in one go.
At CAPS, we can help estimate both sides to help you make the best choice. We suggest you take time to assess your vehicle’s bumper damage. It’s not just a cosmetic decision; it can impact your vehicle’s performance and resale value over time.
Not sure if it’s fixable? Contact us — we’ll walk you through your best options.