If someone hits your car from behind, you’ll likely have damage to the bumper. There are some circumstances in which this part can be repaired, but if the damage is severe or there are other factors, it might need to be replaced at an auto body shop. Here’s how to tell which service you might need.

When to Repair

Bumper repairs are less expensive and sometimes easier to perform than a complete replacement. If you only have a small dent, a professional can usually pull it out using a suction cup tool.

They might also use pliers or a stud welder. The auto repair specialist will weld studs onto your vehicle’s dent and use pullers or pliers to pull the dent forward. 

Scratches can usually be repaired as well and don’t require a replacement. They’ll be sanded down to the base metal and painted over to conceal the damage.

If you drive a unique or classic car, the mechanic might suggest a repair even if the damage is more severe. This is because it can sometimes be hard to find replacement bumpers for these vehicles, since it’s not possible to find new factory parts.

When to Replace

Although replacing the bumper can be more expensive, it’s sometimes the best option. If it has cracks, it likely needs to be replaced, as the fractures can affect the structural integrity of the part and make the car less safe to drive. Large dents that can’t be pulled out might also require a bumper replacement.

Sometimes, it’s less expensive to replace the bumper than to repair it. Severe bumper repairs can be time-consuming and difficult, so it’s sometimes the better option to get a new one and have it painted to match your vehicle. The mechanic at your auto body shop will look at your type of car, the bumper material, the paint damage, and the location and severity of the damage before deciding whether to replace or repair.

If you have bumper damage, contact the collision repair specialists at Chris Paint and Body in High Point, NC. This auto body shop has been repairing dents, bumper damage, and scratches since 1981. They use state-of-the-art technology to return your vehicle to excellent condition. Visit their website to learn more about their collision repair, or call (336) 847-4006 to request a free estimate.