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How to Replace a Front Bumper Cover

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
Parts needed: Suggest Parts
Bumper Cover Bumper Clip
Tools needed: Suggest Tools
Sealant Screwdriver
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Supplies needed:
Soapy Water Primer
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Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $435.91 parts only
Shop Costs
Est. $712.00 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

Contributor(s) to this Article - Add to this Guide
1
 
Remove the front wheel well liners from the front bumper to gain access to bumper retaining bolts. edit step - submit photo
2
 
Take the new bumper cover and make sure it is primed or has an e-coat before the paint is applied. Many new original equipment and aftermarket bumper covers come pre-primed.  Some manufactures recommend this primer not be removed due to its anti-corrosive and paint adhesion properties. edit step - submit photo
3
 
Clean the entire bumper cover with 600 grit wet sandpaper to remove any contaminants such as dirt, grease, or dust. edit step - submit photo
4
 
Apply a basecoat to the entire bumper cover. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Let the paint dry completely. edit step - submit photo
6
 
Apply a clear coat to the entire bumper cover. edit step - submit photo
7
 
Check for dirt in the paint. edit step - submit photo
8
 
Remove any large dirt with a sharp razor blade. edit step - submit photo
9
 
Soak some 1500 grit sandpaper in soapy water. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Add some soapy water to a spray bottle and spray it on the painted surface. edit step - submit photo
11
 
Use a block with the sandpaper to help apply even pressure when sanding. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Sand the area in a circular motion until all the dirt is removed. edit step - submit photo
Bumper Sanded for paint
13
 
Repeat the process with 2000 grit sandpaper soaked in soapy water. edit step - submit photo
14
 
Wipe the bumper cover down with an alcohol water mixture and re-inspect for dirt. edit step - submit photo
15
 
Use a polish compound to remove any swirl marks left from the sanding. edit step - submit photo
16
 
Install the new bumper cover in reverse order. You may need to replace clips or retainers that were broken during the removal of the bumper cover. edit step - submit photo
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