Winterizing Your Car for Safe Driving

How To Avoid Mistakes When Repairing A Plastic Bumper

by Troy Fowler

When you have damaged your plastic bumper, you could take steps to repair it yourself and save money. However, some motorists will make mistakes when repairing a bumper and may then have to stare at an ugly plastic bumper or may even need to hire a collision repair specialist to have the bumper repaired.

Use the Right Filler

A common mistake made when repairing plastic bumpers is to use a body filler and glaze that is meant for a metal bumper on a plastic one instead. The bumper is meant to flex and the products that are designed for metal do not flex in the same manner as the products designed for plastic bumpers. 

Use an Adhesive

The materials that are used to repair a plastic bumper are made of acrylic, epoxy and urethane. These materials can move with the bumper, so you do not have to worry about the materials cracking. Also, the plastic repair material needs a product that causes it to adhere to the plastic surface. Then, when the bumper moves or when the bumper is being sanded, the material will not detach. There is a stamp on the inside of your bumper that will tell you which adhesive you need to use. You will also want to use the same brand to ensure that the adhesive is compatible. 

Detach the Bumper

The plastic bumper piece can be detached so that the bumper can be placed in the ideal location. Then, the body filler can be placed on the bumper. You'll have to prepare the bumper for the adhesive by scuffing and cleaning the damaged area. Both the inner and outer surface needs to be scrubbed and then allowed to dry. 

Apply the Filler Properly

Sand the damaged area and form a V-groove. The groove is designed to allow the two edges to align more easily. Then, the adhesive is mixed. The adhesive can be applied with a squeegee. Then, the plastic filler can be spread over the area. After the filler has been applied, you may sand and contour the bumper to restore the bumper to its original state.

Know When to Contact Professionals

Because of the difficulties of repairing a plastic bumper, you'll likely want to turn to a collision repair specialist who handles bumper repairs. Then, you can be certain that your bumper repairs will not only protect your vehicle, but will also look much better. For more information, contact companies like Exoticar Paintworks Inc.

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