How To Decide Between Replacing And Repairing Your Bumper After A Fender Bender

Collisions are never fun, even when the accident is only a minor fender bender that leaves you with a dented or cracked bumper. Despite what your insurance company might say, the damage done to the bumper determines whether full replacement or basic repair is best. Find out what you kind of service to request at your favorite collision auto body repair center to preserve your car's value and safety.

Underlying Safety Risks

Some modern bumpers feature a foam filling that absorbs the shock of a rear or front end collision. If the fender bender left that foam compressed or crushed, the bumper can't protect you in the next accident unless you replace it. Your auto body repair technician can tell you if your car features this kind of structural foam or similar devices behind the bumper.

Don't skimp on a cheap replacement bumper to cut costs either. You can find a replacement part from a generic manufacturer for as low as $30, but those cheap parts usually lack the quality materials that protect you in an accident.

Style Considerations

If you drive an older car, you may not be able to find a matching bumper from the original manufacturer anymore. In these cases, a replacement from a different source may not match the original look of the vehicle. Rare and unusual vehicles are usually easier to repair, even if the bumper needs removal and rebuilding before it is reattached, than to find a matching brand new part.

Bottom Line Costs

Repairs tend to cost less than replacement parts. However, a completely fractured or hanging bumper may still cost less to replace than repair. Take your vehicle to a trusted collision shop to get a quote before assuming which choice will cost you less, especially when you are paying out of pocket for the work.

Accessory Connections

How many extra accessories are installed in your front or rear bumper? Extra components increase the costs of repairing a bumper instead of replacing it due to the additional labor required for disconnecting and reconnecting the wiring for some parts, such as the following:

• Sensors and cameras that help you avoid accidents with concrete poles and shopping carts
• Airbag triggers to provide a faster reaction time during accidents
• Half a dozen or more lights, all with individual bundles of wiring.

If you're still not sure what to do, let your auto body mechanic make the choice for you. They can examine the bumper for the severity of damage and warranty exclusions to give you the best service at a fair price.

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