Painted bumpers/sideviews

[Grabat]

Does anybody have any experience/insights on painting the factory stock bumpers and/or sideview mirror covers? The texture on these pieces seems as though you would have to put in an inordinate amount of prep work to get a smooth finish. I have seen them painted but never found out if the parts were factory or after-market.

[CRUZIN NW]

The bumpers and mirrors can be painted..but it'll be risky. So many people have tried it and failed. You'll have to have them prepped meticulously, and then painted with very special primers and flex agents before applying any color. Then you still have to worry about peeling and cracking if they're "bumped"..plus..power car washes are brutal. Check out the aftermarket covers from Xenon. Many people seem to have much better luck with these. They still need to be painted, but the material is much easier to work with, and look great when they're done. Check out Jody's (the one in the upper left corner of this site) or the many that've used them in the archives, also on this site.

[Grouch]

I disagree it all depends on the painter. Go to someone who does custom paint work. The body shop around the corner may be cheaper but you almost always get what you pay for. If the prep and primer work is done right painted bumpers will outlast the factory paint.That the trick finding the right person. Keep in mind painting instead of covers even from someone who does custom work will cost half as much. Some of the covers don't fit very well anyway.

[skylight]

I got the bumper cover, made by Xenon, and had it painted by Race and Street ( www.raceandstreet.com ) before they shipped it. It takes about 30-60 minutes to install it with 3M adhesive and several screws.


[i]

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jody

[Craig]

I've had my factory bumpers painted now for 2 months. They still have that rough appearance not smooth but I have had no problems with peeling or cracking. Like others say, it will depend on the painter. Your better off to deal with painters who work on bodykits etc. as they usually know what they are doing with painting plastics.

I like how mine came out. Not as nice as brand new bumper covers but a fraction of the cost.

[Crash]

There are primers and there ar plastic primers. Most painters dont take the time to mix up some plastic primers to paint the bumpers. you have to tell them you want them smoth or they wont take the time to do it. Even though all it takes is a few more coats of primer to be able to sand them smooth.if it is done right they will ba as dourable as the rest of the bumper cover.

2001 Touring