You may not think about it often, but that sleek black plastic bumper is a silent workhorse. It protects your vehicle, acts as the first line of defense against minor bumps and scrapes, contributes to your vehicle’s safety system, and is a big part of how the vehicle looks. Like many things in your car, it also needs some love and care to keep it looking good. This article contains everything you need to know about black plastic bumpers. We will discuss what bumpers are, why they are so popular, and what common issues you can expect with them.
What Is a Black Plastic Bumper?
Essentially, black plastic bumpers are elements composed of a durable type of impact-resistant plastic, usually a thermoplastic (such as polypropylene) or comparable composite. While many cars have painted bumpers that match the body color, a notable number of vehicles, especially trucks, SUVs, and some economy cars, have an unpainted, textured black plastic bumper. This does not imply the vehicle is inexpensive; it is simply an effective method of bumper design.
Why Automakers Use Plastic Bumpers.
Big-fashioned bumpers made of heavy, chrome-plated steel: strong, rigid, and very expensive to make. A minor fender bender meant you’d be in for a hefty repair bill, as much of the damage was done to the bumper and the vehicle’s frame due to the rigid design.
Welcome in the black plastic bumper – automakers welcomed plastic for a few main reasons:
- Cost: Plastic is considerably cheaper to produce and mold into complex shapes than metal is.
- Weight: Plastic bumpers are also much lighter than steel bumpers, which helps with fuel economy.
- Safety: Plastic can also flex, which absorbs and dissipates energy away from the vehicle structure and occupants in the event of a low-speed impact. This means that an accident in a parking lot may only leave a scuff on your bumper instead of a bent fender.
Key Benefits of Black Plastic Bumpers.
In addition to the overall benefits of plastic bumpers, the black plastic bumper, unpainted version, has a few distinct benefits listed below:
- Durability and Scratch Resistance: The textured finish of a black plastic bumper is generally more forgiving than a smooth painted bumper. A small scratch or scuff that may look terribly obvious on a painted bumper will more than likely mix in and not be as visible on the black plastic.
- Easy to Maintain: You will never have to worry about trying to match the paint color. Cleaning is easy, and minor blemishes on the surface are less of a concern.
- Outdoorsy Look: Many vehicle owners like the rugged, utilitarian look of a black plastic bumper. It is a design statement saying, “This vehicle is meant to get dirty.”
Common Problems with Black Plastic Bumpers.
Although tough, black plastic bumpers are not indestructible. They also have their own weaknesses that can affect your vehicle’s look.
Scratches and Scrapes:
By far the most typical problem is to remove scratches from plastic bumper. Scratches take place in parking lots, on narrow paths, or even when bumping into something when you’re not paying attention. Though you may not see them as lightly as you do on a painted surface, deep gouges still look horrible. For very small scuffs, you can probably do a DIY job on removing scratches from a black plastic bumper; for anything larger, you will have to go pro.
Fading and Discoloration:
The arch-nemesis of all black plastic. All plastic slowly deteriorates from UV rays from the sun. Obviously, when the sun fades, the part turns dull, chalky, grey, or even brownish colors. Though it may not seem important, this action makes the plastic more brittle over time. If you want help to remove rust chrome bumper, Westside Collision Center can help.
Cracks and Serious Damage:
A heavy impact can crack or even shatter a plastic bumper. This is when you get to see the protective properties of the material. Even a small crack changes the structural integrity of the bumper.
How to Clean and Maintain a Black Plastic Bumper.
Consistent upkeep is the best way to stop an issue before it begins. Here are ways to make sure your bumper looks great.
Best Cleaning Methods.
Just like the rest of your car, take care of your black plastic bumper section:
- Use a soft microfiber cloth or wash mitt and a mild car wash soap.
- Stay away from abrasive cleaners and harsh degreasers; they can dry out the plastic and increase fading.
- If you have built up dirt or grime, feel free to use a gentle scrub brush. When finished, rinse thoroughly and use a clean towel to dry the area so you do not get water spots.
Protecting Against UV Damage.
This is the most important step to prevent fading. After cleaning, apply a plastic or trim protectant. Almost all of them are designed with UV blockers that will help protect plastic from the sun’s rays. Think of this product as sunscreen for your car! Using it as part of your regular car maintenance every few weeks or months, depending on the product, will go a long way.
How to Restore a Faded Black Plastic Bumper.
If your black plastic bumper has started to fade, do not worry! There are many wonderful products and methods available to refresh it.
DIY Restoration Methods.
For slight fading, a simple plastic dressing or trim restorer will help immensely. For slightly more faded, two more restoration methods could be considered. The first is to thoroughly clean the surface. You can either use a plastic cleaner or even a mild cleaner like isopropyl alcohol to remove old waxes and grime.
Best Products to Bring Back the Shine.
With so many products available, some products are known for lasting longer than others. If you want something that will last, we recommend a product like Forever Black Bumper & Trim or a dye-based restorer.
Unlike a simple dressing that sits on the surface, these products penetrate the plastic to restore the original color of the plastic trim. Many search for the best black plastic restorer because they are looking for a permanent way to restore plastic. Usually, when you see a “how to permanently restore black plastic trim DIY,” it involves a lot of work and with process to restore. Again, read the instructions carefully. However, a product like Forever Black Trim Restorer is extremely well-known and is easy to use with great and long-lasting results.
Repairing vs Replacing a Black Plastic Bumper.
If your bumper has experienced more than just fading or minor scratches, you now have a decision to make: repair it, or replace it.
Cost of Repairs.
Generally, the cost of black plastic bumper scratch repair, or fixing a cracked bumper, will vary widely in price. Minor repairs may be only a couple of hundred dollars. One common method used by professionals is a plastic welding technique, which might be less than replacing the bumper altogether.
When Replacement Is the Better Choice.
If the bumper is cracked in several areas, shattered, or incurs structural damage, it may not be safe or worth the money to repair it. If the bumper is damaged, it compromises your vehicle’s safety. In contrast, patching a severely broken bumper may or may not stay in place. Therefore, in cases like these, a full bumper replacement is the smartest decision.
To get the full array of options, always speak with a professional. At Westside Collision Center, we are experts in Bumper Repair Houston, and we will give you an unbiased answer about whether a repair can be made or if a new bumper is needed. We see it all; everything from small cosmetic repairs to complex structural repairs.
Where to Buy Black Plastic Bumpers and Restoration Products.
Restoration products can be found in auto parts stores, detailing supply stores, or online. Products like Forever Black Bumper & Trim can be found without any issue. Replacement parts are best found through a reputable collision center Westside Collision Center. Always remember to use the correct product or the right professional for the best outcome.
Conclusion: Keep Your Black Plastic Bumper Looking Like New.
Your black plastic bumper is more than just a piece of plastic; it is an important part of the car’s safety and aesthetics. Understanding what it does, learning about simple maintenance, and finding out when to restore or repair it will allow you to keep your bumper looking and functioning just like it should. Whether you will complete a DIY job or reach out to a professional to remedy something deeper or worse, stay mindful that the team at the Westside Collision Center is here to help you return your automobile to its best appearance. You should not let a faded or scratched bumper affect the look of your ride: take the initiative to keep your bumper looking great!
FAQs About Black Plastic Bumpers.
Can you paint a black plastic bumper?
Yes, it is, although it can be somewhat complicated. The black plastic needs to be prepped with an adhesion promoter specially designed for plastics, followed by a flexible primer, and then painted. This is a tough DIY job, so it should probably be done by a professional body shop, so that you can feel confident that the paint will properly stick and not crack.
How long do plastic bumpers last?
With good care and proper protection from the sun’s UV rays, a plastic bumper can last the lifetime of the car. However, plastic bumpers are designed to be sacrificial parts during some collision events.
What’s the best way to prevent fading?
Regular cleaning and using a dedicated UV protectant or ceramic coating designed for plastic trim are the best preventative measures.
