Bumpers
The bumper is a structure on the front and/or rear end of a vehicle designed to reduce the impact of a collision. It is usually made of heavy-duty materials such as steel, aluminum, plastic or rubber. When you hit something, the bumper absorbs the shock and keeps it from reaching your engine, where it can do serious damage. Some bumpers have brackets that absorb the energy, while others use foam cushions.
What are bumpers for?
Bumpers are made for low-impact collisions, such as hitting pedestrians or curbs. They do not offer protection for major crashes; this is usually provided by an additional bull bar in front of the bumper. Most governments don't even consider it a safety feature. Simply put, the bumper protects the car, not the passenger-so don't think of it as a license for reckless driving.
Who makes car bumpers?
You can find a car bumper from most car supply shops, but most of them will carry the major brands. Car manufacturers usually make their own bumper lines, so you should have no problem finding a bumper that's compatible with your car model. If you want to save money by getting a third-party bumper, make sure it's approved by your dealer to prevent any warranty problems.
What makes a good bumper?
Various regulations apply to bumpers, so it's best to check with your state to see what kind of bumper is best for your car. Although metals are sturdier, plastic and rubber bumpers offer better deflective properties for better impact absorption. Have your bumper installed at the shop to make sure it's properly in place. Learn more about choosing and using a bumper from our website, Bumpers.
