Can a Cracked Plastic Bumper Be Repaired Instead of Replaced?
Most scuffed, scratched and many cracked plastic bumpers can be repaired and colour matched. Here is how to tell.
Modern bumpers are made from flexible plastic, and a surprising amount of damage can be repaired rather than replaced. Repairing is usually cheaper, quicker and better for the environment.
Damage that can usually be repaired
Scuffs, scratches, small dents that have pushed the plastic in, and short cracks away from mounting points can normally be repaired. The plastic is cleaned, the crack is welded or bonded from behind, filled, shaped and then painted and blended to match the rest of the car.
When a new bumper is the better choice
Large splits, missing pieces, broken mounting lugs or damage to the sensors and brackets inside the bumper can make replacement the safer option. Many cars now carry parking sensors and radar behind the bumper, which may need checking or ADAS calibration after the repair.
Does a repaired bumper look as good?
Done properly with correct preparation and colour matching, a repaired bumper should be impossible to tell apart from the rest of the car.
Get it checked
Use our free instant estimate and your local Solution Repair bodyshop will tell you whether your bumper can be repaired and what it will cost.
Need Expert Car Accident Repair?
Find a trusted independent bodyshop near you through the Solution Repairs network.
Get a Free Quote