by Every car owner knows that the most unreliable part of a modern vehicle is the bumper. You don’t need to get into an accident for it to crack; just actively using the vehicle is enough. And while bumpers used to be made of metal, today manufacturers strive to minimize the weight of the car by replacing metal parts with plastic ones. That’s why the desire to reinforce and protect the front and rear bumper is so evident.
Why Do You Need a Rear Bumper Cover?
Apart from reinforcing this ‘weak link,’ covers are often used to prevent damage to the car’s paintwork. This is necessary if you’re doing repairs and frequently transporting bulky items, building materials, and objects that extend beyond the car’s trunk.
However, if you want to significantly reinforce the rear of the car to carry bicycles or travel off-road, a cover won’t be enough — you’ll need to install a power bumper.
Is a Front Bumper Cover Necessary?
Generally, covers are not installed on the front bumper. The only exception is to change the car’s design. In such cases, chrome covers may be used. They offer little practical benefit but are ideal as a decorative element.
Types of Rear Bumper Covers
Conditionally, all covers can be divided into universal and individual. It’s obvious that universal ones fit all cars, whereas individual ones are designed for each model separately. The price is straightforward: universal ones will always be cheaper than individual ones.
Additionally, manufacturers divide covers according to the materials they are made from:
- Rubber. These are considered universal. They protect the rear bumper from scratches and add shock-absorbing qualities. The downside is the appearance, as all rubber covers are black and may strongly contrast with the car’s design and color.
- Plastic. These are some of the most budget-friendly models. They are suitable only for protecting the bumper from scratches but are practically useless in an impact. Advantages include low price, easy maintenance, and simple installation. An excellent option for covering bumper wear and tear when reselling a vehicle.
- Chrome. Available in matte and mirror types. Typically used as decorative items. Advantages include stylish design and scratch protection. The only downside is the high price.
- Metal. The construction features a bend that covers the front and rear bumper. This shape allows maximum protection during collisions. Of course, no cover can save the bumper in an accident, but you won’t have to worry about parking posts. Made from stainless steel and has a matte finish. Advantages include affordable price, maximum protection, and can be painted in the car’s color. The only downside is the complexity of self-installation, but any repair shop can do it in 15-20 minutes.
So, Which is Better: Plastic or Metal?
Answering the question of the article, the conclusion can be made: if you only need the cover to protect the bumper from scratches and the car’s design is not of critical importance, then plastic is a safe choice. However, if you want to genuinely improve the protective functions of the rear bumper or restore the car’s presentable appearance after an accident, it’s better to choose a metal cover.
