Front bumper chips and dings.
#1
Front bumper chips and dings.
I'm tired of looking at all the chips and dings on my front bumper. I'm wishing now that I would have put protective film over it, but I didn't. So what are my options? Is there a complete new front bumper in carbon fiber for a cool mod? Will vinyl wrap apply over the chips and dings or will I have to have it painted first? Just get it repainted?
#2
Tech Info Resource
iTrader: (2)
Repaint is your only option at this point.
#3
Intermediate
iTrader: (1)
Back in the day, we used to remove the front bumpers from our '55 and '56 chevys as a mod. Scroll down to near the bottom of this page to see some examples:http://www.mantisrodz.com/myRidz/200...1_archive.html
So go for it!
So go for it!
#5
Tech Info Resource
iTrader: (2)
Yes, it will happen again. It will just scratch and pit the clear bra instead of the paint, so the OP will be replacing the clear bra because it looks like crap after a few years of rock attacks - especially if he has a penchant for driving fast.
#6
Lead Lap
iTrader: (2)
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: NJ
Posts: 501
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
This is why I'm thinking of trying to install a clear bra myself. I've installed tint on at least 2 dozen cars and even the windows in my house. I know it's not the same thing but the process is similar.
Trending Topics
#8
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (1)
I agree with Lobuxracer - if your going to keep the car a long time - it is actually easier to repaint the bumper, than remove and reapply the clear bra. The clear bra will be done in about 4 years on the front bumper - the sides and hood will last longer
If your leasing and or expect a short relationship then clear bra makes more sense.
It all depends how you like to throw your money around.
#10
Lexus Champion
iTrader: (2)
Anybody heard of Dr. Colorchip? Some guy on ClubLexus tried it on his IS, looks decent...
I'm actually considering it, but not sure yet.
DIY & review below:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/aut...view-pics.html
I'm actually considering it, but not sure yet.
DIY & review below:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/aut...view-pics.html
#11
Lexus Connoisseur
I've had clear bra the day after I picked up my IS F. Granted my IS F has seen lots of times over 100 mph...it still looks fine to this day.
PS...I did partial hood because I find it pointless to cover the whole thing.
PS...I did partial hood because I find it pointless to cover the whole thing.
#12
Lexus Champion
iTrader: (13)
+1, I have done this with all my cars. Always keeps it looking fresh. Good paint shops will respray a front bumper for $200-$300. Aren't the high quality clear bras over $1k? So even if you had it painted every year. It would take quite a while to catch up to the cost of the clear bra which leaves you with a permanent orange peal affect.
#13
The IS F bumper gives even the most experienced clear bra installer fits. I believe they rate our bumper about 8 out of 10 - partly due to the fact that they do not get much practice. In my opinion, it is way more difficult than tint - because of the curves, and exacting bumper holes.
I just repaint mine every couple years. Keeps it looking good. First thing people notice are defects
+1, I have done this with all my cars. Always keeps it looking fresh. Good paint shops will respray a front bumper for $200-$300. Aren't the high quality clear bras over $1k? So even if you had it painted every year. It would take quite a while to catch up to the cost of the clear bra which leaves you with a permanent orange peal affect.
#14
Tech Info Resource
iTrader: (2)
Yeah, I'm in the repaint club too. I did a cost effectiveness analysis for the bra, and it doesn't make sense as long as you have a shop doing quality paint work for <$600 on a respray. Track duty hammers anything, and the effects of track time are pretty evident on the bumper, hood, and windshield.
#15
Lexus Connoisseur
Panel repaints kill the value of your car if you sell/trade in. Bumper covers are easy to get away with...but not on sheetmetal panels. $600 for a respray is kind of cheap for a hood and bumper cover.
Clear bra saves if vehicle value is important to you during a resale.
Clear bra saves if vehicle value is important to you during a resale.