What you need to know about bumper covers

Used truck parts are plentiful, but do all of them make the grade when it comes to quality? And to elaborate the matter even further, what happens when it comes to those car parts that add to the appearance of the vehicle? We'll have a look at the bumper cover, an increasingly popular addition to the modern vehicle's exterior, and elaborate on the different types as well as the applicable regulations. Being informed will not only help you buy with confidence, but also save you some money.

Where the interiors of our cars have been fitted with seat belts, air bags, side air bags and power door locks to keep us safe inside the car, the exteriors have undergone the same transformation. Consider the grill, the fender, lights and bumper, the latter protecting the former. And to protect the bumper, we have the bumper cover.

They are chosen primarily for their appearance as they enhance the exterior by adding some bulk to either the front or the rear of the vehicle and to cover up the usually dull factory bumper. It is however important to note that bumper covers serve a purpose aside from adding to the aesthetic appeal by adding to the shock absorption capabilities of existing bumpers. In addition, some bumper covers contain air dams which add to aerodynamics as they provide stability by blocking turbulent air currents under the chassis. Bumper covers can also be fitted with fog lights and small billet grills.

Though bumper covers may seem like an attractive offer either new or on display at used truck parts shops, there are a few things to watch out for before you buy. Bumper covers have to adhere to a number of regulations before they are fitted to any specific vehicle. Stock holders of used truck parts will often stock primed bumper covers, that is to say those that have been made to fit. Yet there have been recent complaints from used truck parts dealers in an increase of the raw, unfinished versions, aptly called raw bumper covers.

While the Automotive Service Association (ASA) announced a revision of the steps required for the refinishing of a raw bumper cover to assist its members, some of which include used truck parts dealers, it is down to the vehicle owner to pay attention to those parts fitted after the original purchase. Being vigilant will not only save you some money, but may also add to the safety of you and your passengers.

As a vehicle owner and discerning buyer it is important to ensure that, when buying from a used truck parts supplier, that the bumper cover is sufficiently primed. This will not only ensure maximum protection, but also add to the value of the vehicle. In addition, buying an already primed bumper cover from a used truck parts dealer will ultimately save quite a bit of money. Needless to say it is essential to check for the legitimacy of the supplier as well as the parts they stock. Additional used truck parts qualifications such as ISO9002 compliance can serve to verify the dealer.