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What is behind a bumper cover?

Author

David Richardson

Updated on February 16, 2026

What is behind a bumper cover?

Typically, behind the bumber cover is an steel bumper mounted to the car by two high impact shock mounts. The shock mounts are supposed to absorb those 5mph impacts without damage.

Considering this, what is the rear bumper cover?

Rear Bumper Covers by Replace®. The bumper cover is the outermost and only visible part of the bumper assembly, and may suffer impact damage in even a minor collision.

Furthermore, what is the difference between bumper and bumper cover? On the other hand, the bumper cover (also known as the front fascia) is a visible, molded body component that's typically made out of either plastic or fiberglass. This is the part of the front end that people often misidentify as the bumper itself. The bumper cover sits in front of the actual bumper.

Correspondingly, what is the purpose of a bumper cover?

Bumper Covers Reinforce the Safety of the Bumper

Bumpers on vehicles are designed to help absorb the shock of a collision. This not only protects the passengers inside the vehicle, but it protects the individual parts of the vehicle as well---such as the grill, fender, taillights and headlights.

What is the plastic part under the rear bumper called?

Valance Panel

These can be found on the front, rear or both on most modern cars. Valance panels attach to the underside of the bumpers and resemble streamlined plastic “flaps.” This component serves first to help direct airflow in the pursuit of aerodynamics and second to conceal and protect underside components.

How much would a rear bumper cost?

All said and done, the cost of a rear bumper replacement comes out to between $700 to $1,750 (before shipping). This increases by a considerable amount if you need a brake light assembly, exhaust components, or added trim pieces.

Is it illegal to drive without a bumper cover?

As a matter of safety, yes, it is illegal to drive without bumpers. NSW Roads & Maritime Services says that front and rear bumpers positioned at the correct heights are part of the minimum design features that “safeguard persons travelling in the vehicle in the event of it crashing”.

How long does it take to replace rear bumper?

Repairing and Replacing a Bumper

So, how long is a typical bumper repair? Typically, to repair or replace a bumper cover takes about 3 days. Repairing a bumper cover usually involves first removing the cover from the car. After it is removed, any imperfections are removed or sanded down for a smooth surface.

Can plastic bumpers be repaired?

Many plastic bumper parts can be repaired, especially bumper covers, which are commonly damaged on a vehicle. By saving your bumper, the technician will also be able to blend the appended paint more efficiently and accurately.

How much does it cost to install a bumper cover?

Typically, a bumper replacement costs between $885 – $1389, with costs varying based on the cost of the part and the amount of labor time involved in the repair.

What is under the bumper of a car?

That's why some automakers add a plastic strip (also called a front lower valance or air dam) to the bottom of the bumper on their cars. A bumper valance, also known as an air dam or rear spoiler, is a panel located below the bumper, usually installed for decorative or aerodynamic purposes.

Can I replace my own bumper?

Replace a rusted or dented pickup bumper yourself

A rusty or dented bumper can drag down the whole appearance of a pickup that's in otherwise good shape. Having it replaced by a pro will set you back $1,000, but you can save $500 or more in labor and parts by doing the job yourself. It takes only a few hours.

Are car bumpers plastic or fiberglass?

Materials. Generally, car bumpers are made of a plastic cover reinforced by a bar made of steel, fiberglass composite, plastic or aluminum. In addition to crushable brackets and a bar, bumpers sometimes incorporate polypropylene foam or formed thermoplastic.

Are car bumpers plastic?

Most OEM bumpers are made out of plastic and feature an aluminum or steel reinforcement bar hidden in the middle. Some bumpers may also contain polypropylene in order to help absorb energy during an impact.

Do I need a front bumper?

Front bumpers are mandatory in most states, and you can get a fine for driving without one.

What is a 5 mph bumper?

Five miles per hour is a benchmark, an impact speed at which bumpers could easily — but generally don't — prevent all but very minor cosmetic damage in barrier tests. The “5 mph” label doesn't mean that in real, as opposed to test, crashes the bumper would prevent damage only at speeds slower than 5 mph.

Can I use a bumper cover as a bumper?

No. A bumper is meant to protect the car, other bodywork, and occupants during a collision. A bumper cover covers the actual bumper. It may be designed for additional safety, performance, or for aesthetic reasons.

What is included in a bumper assembly?

An assembly includes all of the parts seen like the grill inserts, bumper reinforcement, turn signal light and parking lights. If your car was in a moderate collision, then chances are you do need to replace the entire assembly.

How much would it cost to paint a bumper?

Professional Cost Per Square Foot

If the average cost for painting a bumper is $150-$300 then that means a cheaper quality paint job will cost $25/square foot, and a more expensive luxury car paint job will cost about $50/square foot.

What is the plastic piece under the engine called?

The engine splash shield is a plastic or metal protective panel installed on the underside of a vehicle engine. It goes by many other names including engine splash guard, skid plate, underbody cover, and lower engine cover.

What plastic are car bumpers made of?

Car manufacturers use a variety of plastics to make bumpers. The most common include polycarbonates, polypropylene, polyamides, polyesters, polyurethanes, and thermoplastic olefins or TPOs; many bumpers contain a combination of these different materials.

Does insurance cover bumper damage?

Auto insurance coverage: Collision coverage takes care of car bumper repair, subject to your deductible. Collision pays for damage to your own car that's caused in a collision -- not only accidents with other cars but also objects, such as a telephone pole, or fence.

How important is the plastic under your car?

It is the plastic undercovering; below the engine. It seems to be there for airflow, but it would also help prevent water from splashing up from under the car. It will help protect the engine (mostly from dirt) and likely improve your mileage, (a little) and reduce noise.

Can you drive without a splash shield?

It is probably okay to drive your car without a splash shield for a short period of time. However, your car will be much quieter if you have a shield and they do keep mud off the engine. If you drive without a shield for a long time, your engine may get debris in it. Dirt can hurt many of the components of your car.

What is the back bumper of a car called?

Fender is the frame installed over the wheel. Bumper is installed on front and rear side of the vehicle. It's main function is to absorb the impact upon collision, minimizing the damage to main body. Fender is the frame installed over the wheel.

How are car panels attached?

These are robotically spot welded together. Removal of damaged panels is usually done by drilling, cutting or grinding the welded attachment points. If the damage is localized, patch panels can be either welded or riveted into place and filled in with body filler.

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