Differences Between Metal and Plastic Bumpers
Everything to Know About Car Bumpers
One of the most visible changes between old and modern vehicles is bumpers. In the past, vintage vehicle bumpers were large components made of steel. At the same time, modern cars have smaller, slimmer bumpers that fit in with the panels and fenders of the vehicle.
When considering auto bumper repair, it’s crucial to understand the difference between the two materials and why plastic has mainly supplanted metal in automobile bumpers. Keep reading to learn more about the changes in car bumpers over the years, and contact Showtime Collision today if you’re looking for auto bumper repair in Running Springs, CA, that you can rely on.
Metal Bumpers
The first car bumpers were invented in 1901, consisting of metal beams mounted to the front and rear of the car to protect it in the event of a low-speed collision. Early metal bumpers were designed to protect expensive and delicate components such as headlights, taillights, hoods, exhaust, and cooling systems.
Metal bumpers are relatively durable but also costly to produce. They are likewise more prone to denting than plastic but are more difficult to repair simultaneously. Metal bumpers are now mostly found on antique cars and larger commercial vehicles like freight trucks.
Plastic Bumpers
Plastic bumpers have almost entirely replaced metal bumpers in modern vehicles and are mostly made of thermoplastic olefins, a mixture of plastic molecules, rubber, and a reinforcing filler like carbon fiber or calcium carbonate. This combination of ingredients produces scratch-resistant and impact-resistant plastic that bonds to various paints and finishes, making it perfect for vehicle bumpers.
Plastic is lighter and more aerodynamic than metal, resulting in increased fuel economy. Plastic is also safer than metal as a bumper material since it absorbs more of the impact during an accident.
Why Have Car Bumpers Changed?
There are two key reasons for the significant changes in car bumpers over the years:
1. Design Focus
Bumpers on older cars were designed to push, defend, and protect the vehicle’s body from damage. Today’s bumpers are built to absorb energy rather than push it.
2. Weight
Plastic bumpers have also replaced metal bumpers because plastic bumpers have aluminum tubes with styrofoam coverings and flexible fascia covering them. They are lighter than the original steel bumper.
Auto Bumper Repair You Can Trust
While auto bumper repair isn’t inexpensive, if your car’s bumper is damaged, you must have it replaced by a professional. If you have any damage to your car’s bumper, choose Showtime Collision as your go-to auto bumper repair shop.
You can trust our team of collision repair specialists for convenient and economical bumper repair. We’re experts in various repair techniques and have some of the most competitive bumper repair prices available.
Call 909.867.7025 today to learn more about our auto bumper repair services in Running Springs, CA, and how we can help get you back on the road safe and sound.