Bumper Removal and Installation

Been in an accident? Is your bumper smashed, crashed, broken, beat-up or busted? Obviously it's time to replace it.

You can purchase a new or OEM bumper that will fit your vehicle perfectly. But remember, salvage and used parts dealers can supply you with that perfect bumper, too, sometimes at a fraction of the cost of new. Check them out for price, service, part availability and quality.

Rear and front bumpers are similar. Consult a repair manual or online repair service for specific instructions related to your vehicle about how to replace and install a bumper. Below are some general instructions. Always remember: safety first.

Almost all cars, trucks, vans and SUVs today are equipped with a supplemental restraint system (SRS), commonly known as airbags. Warning: Always disarm the airbag system before working near any airbag component to avoid the possibility of the airbag accidentally deploying. Do not use a memory-saving device to preserve the system's memory.

Set the parking brake, put the vehicle in gear or in Park, raise the vehicle and put it on jackstands. Caution: always use extreme caution when working underneath or near a raised vehicle.

Remove the pin retainers from the inner fender splash shields, if so equipped. (To release a retainer, use a panel tool or screwdriver to lift up on the center section, then grab the outer part of the retainer and pry it up.)

From below the bumper, remove the pin retainers from the upper and lower parts of the bumper's cover, which may be fastened on a number of areas on the vehicle. Disconnect any lights, such as fog lights or sidelights. Remove the bumper cover from the fender. Disconnect the energy absorber from the bumper.

To install a replacement bumper, perform the procedure in reverse.

Whether you install a new, used or aftermarket bumper, you are now equipped with a replacement bumper that will give you years of reliable, safe service.