Do I need to replace my bumper cover??

[ederoche]

Hi,

I was recently involved in a light collision *under 10 mph*, and I have a couple of small cracks to my bumper cover. I rear ended a van.

My question is: since there is no obvious damage to the bumper itself and only a few scratches and two approx 1 inch long cracks on the cover...do I really need to replace the cover for a total cost + labor of $500+? The car runs fine...no noise, all front lights still work... I see no reason to replace it.

I am not made of money so I am hoping this is something I can put off for a while. I am also far from being an automotive expert...so I ask anyone who can help.

Thanks,
Eric

[paintless]

if the damage doesn't affect the driveability of the car, and you have checked to make sure there is no underlying damage ie the front core cupport isn't pushed back or the radiator isn't damaged you'll be just fine driving it as is.
Another hint, depending on what vehicle you drive, there is always a good possibility you can find an undamaged bumper cover at the junkyard, alternatively you can talk to some body shops to see if anyone will just fix (instead of replace) the bumper for a cheaper price... or if you are feeling adventurous, go out and get sandpaper and jb weld and try to fix the bumper yourself, getting a front bumper resprayed should be relatively inexpensive.
good luck

[ederoche]

Thanks. I will probably have it checked out thoroughly to make sure there is no significant "unseen" damage, behind the cover... etc.

Thanks for your time!
Eric