DIY: Repair a Scuffed Plastic Bumper

Bumper scuffs are common, and though they are more bearable than bigger dents and scratches, too many scuff marks on a bumper can become unsightly blemishes on the car's exterior. However, you can repair these scuff marks with a little paint job done at home. DIY scuff repairs on plastic bumpers require some sanding and spraying, and the end result is a body shop repair job for a fraction of the cost. Take time on the prepping, though, as it is the most important part of the repair.

Instructions

1

Clean the area with soap and water to remove any grease or oil. Wipe down with a sponge. Dry off with a lint-free cloth.

2

Sand the scuff area with 400-grit sandpaper. Sand the area in several directions and avoid sanding one spot for too long. Scuffing the area is crucial in creating a good adhesion surface for the paint.

3

Feel the surface of the sanded bumper to make sure it is smooth. If not, sand again.

4

Clean the area once again with soap and water. Rub down with a sponge to remove any excess paint debris. Dry off with a lint-free cloth.

5

Mask off the surrounding area with heavy paper and masking tape to prevent spraying surrounding areas.

6

Spray several light coats of primer on the bumper. Do not stand too close to the bumper while spraying as it may create drips. Let each coat dry before applying the next, and sand in between coats to smooth out any drips or imperfections. Let the final coat dry for 30 minutes.

7

Pick a color coat that matches the car's exterior using a color code system based on the car's model and year. You can find the car's tint listed in a reference book in the spray can aisle of an automotive store.

8

Spray the color coat, as with the primer, in several light coats, letting each coat dry before applying the next.