Your vehicle bumpers are designed to protect passengers from a front or rear-end collision impact. Even with a minor hit, it’s easy to think that your bumpers are fine or easily fixable at any reputable auto body shop.
However, many car owners leave bumpers with dangerous internal damage unchecked, under the assumption that bumper damage is only a cosmetic problem. Or they assume that since there isn’t much external damage to the vehicle, that it is not worth the hassle or increased Insurance rates that may come with reporting the accident and taking the car in. This line of thinking can be dangerous as it can threaten the safety and integrity of the vehicle.
So many drivers are asking: when should I replace or repair my damaged bumper? Here are three big red flags that you should take your car to a trusted mechanic immediately.
1. When the Bumper is Cracked
Whether it’s big or small, a crack in a bumper cover warrants a replacement. This is because any crack affects the bumper’s ability to provide protection.
A crack indicates that the bumper’s structural integrity has been compromised. This affects the ability of the bumper to absorb the maximum amount of impact in the event of a car collision. In addition, a cracked bumper becomes an easy access chamber for dirt and moisture. This may result in rust and/or damage to the parts behind the cover.
In some cases, you can use an epoxy product and a fiberglass repair kit for repairing the damage, but this still doesn’t restore the bumper’s strength and reliability.
2. When the Bumper is Dented

Now, this depends on the severity of the dent. If your car has suffered a minor to medium-sized dent, then it’s nothing that a collision repair shop can’t handle. You can simply exchange insurance information and be on your way after the accident.
However, when there’s widespread denting across the bumper and is more than a few inches wide, or if there are multiple dents on the bumper, a dent repair might be out of the question. Severe and widespread denting has likely compromised what’s under the cover. Again, the bumper’s ability to provide protection is decreased. In this case, you’re better off replacing the bumper.
3. When the Bumper is Loose
If your bumper is loose or out of alignment after an accident and there’s no other significant damage, you can take it to a reputable auto body shop and they’ll sort it out granted that all the hooks and fasteners are still intact.
On the other hand, if the hooks on your bumper are broken or damaged, then it’s better to go for a replacement. The hooks of your car’s bumper adhere to the grill, splash guard, and valance panel in order to keep your bumper securely in place. If the hooks on your bumper are damaged in an accident, then the bumper could fall out of alignment, fail to protect your car in an accident or even fall off completely over time. Damaged hooks can’t be easily repaired or replaced, so a bumper replacement is the safest way to ensure that your car is safe and well-protected.
Take Bumper Damage Seriously
When it comes to a damaged bumper, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Whether it’s a small or significant damage, a damaged bumper needs to be looked at by a professional. Your trusted local mechanic can advise you from there on whether to go for repairs or a replacement.