How to "restore" chip-damaged front bumper...

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Jul 18, 2007 | 12:52 AM
  #1  
Hey all,

I'm getting ready to put some face ducts in my OEM bumper to give it a bit more style. However, when I got down there to start sizing up the ducts, I noticed an insane amount of chipping. Most of the paint chips are small (though there have to be hundreds), but some are 1-2 inches long. Here are some pics:









I've asked around about repainting the polyurethane front bumper and have heard several people say it will probably eventually crack if I have the whole thing repainted. So I'm really looking at two options now:

1. Get some touch-up paint from the dealer and try to repair the big chips as best I can.

2. Get a replacement OEM bumper that's pre-painted from the factory.

Can anyone recommend which is the better way to go? Or any better options?

Thanks,
B
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Jul 18, 2007 | 01:04 AM
  #2  
just get it repainted
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Jul 18, 2007 | 01:11 AM
  #3  
Any risk of the paint peeling?
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Jul 18, 2007 | 04:12 AM
  #4  
You can't buy a prepainted bumper from the factory. A properly prepped bumper that is repainted with flex additive will not peel. Get it repainted and get a clear bra installed if you are worried
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Jul 18, 2007 | 09:15 AM
  #5  
Thanks redlude.

Any idea about how much I should pay for the paint job?

And where can I find a clear bra to protect it after the fact?

Thanks,
Brian
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Jul 18, 2007 | 02:57 PM
  #6  
they will strip the old bumper then prep it will fill in to smooth out the dents then go through their painting procedure
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Jul 18, 2007 | 03:43 PM
  #7  
Quote: they will strip the old bumper then prep it will fill in to smooth out the dents then go through their painting procedure

+1 for any good body shop

i recently got some rock damage to my front bumper and had to strip her down and re prime her but worth it
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Jul 18, 2007 | 04:32 PM
  #8  
I would say buy a used bumper from someone on here in the marketplace, or have yours repainted.
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Jul 18, 2007 | 04:57 PM
  #9  
Thanks for the tips. I suppose some sell their OEM bumpers on here after buying an aftermarket kit...

Once I replace/fix, I was considering the clear bra to protect from future damage. I'm in the process of researching that...but what's your guys' feeling about the clear protector?
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Jul 19, 2007 | 11:02 AM
  #10  
I just bought touch up paint and "repaired" it myself. Spent about and hour or two but it turned out great.... Lol just didnt have time/money to repaint my front bumper.

Although it dosnt look perfect, you only notice it when your up close to the bumper.
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Jul 19, 2007 | 05:09 PM
  #11  
Did you use any type of finishing kit or clear coat to give it a bit more of a glossy look?

And did your bumper look as nasty as mine?

Quote: I just bought touch up paint and "repaired" it myself. Spent about and hour or two but it turned out great.... Lol just didnt have time/money to repaint my front bumper.

Although it dosnt look perfect, you only notice it when your up close to the bumper.
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Jul 20, 2007 | 05:57 AM
  #12  
I am also thinking about repair my paint chip. I was thinking about purchasing a product from www.langka.com and get the touch up paint from the dealer or at www.expresspaint.com. The Langka system is more expensive than the kit from the autoparts department, but might be well worth it. There are other products out on the web, just do your research. And always practice on a small hidden area first. Don't make the same mistake I did and do a big area without perfecting your skill. I'll see it I can get some before and after of the result. Not of my mistake, I sold that car already.
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Jul 20, 2007 | 10:35 AM
  #13  
Thanks for the info. I'll do some more research based on your guys' suggestions.
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Jul 25, 2007 | 03:49 PM
  #14  
If I were you I would just have it repainted...the touch up paint looks blotchy and looks terrible IMO so I would just go with repainting it. Dont cut corners with such a nice car!!
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Jul 25, 2007 | 03:55 PM
  #15  
^^^^^+10000000000000
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