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How can I fix a bent metal bumper?

I just bought an older F150, and it runs great. However, the back bumper is bent, and I don’t want to pay to replace it. Is there a way I might be able to fix a bent metal bumper?

avatar
Rachel Rigolino · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Replacing a bumper can be expensive, so I understand why you might want to repair this yourself. Keep in mind, however, that repairing a bumper is not necessarily straightforward.
Here are some tips on repairing a bent metal bumper:
  • Is the bumper bent? Sometimes a bumper will look bent if the brackets need adjusting. Loosen the bolts in the bumper and see if you can realign the bumper before tightening it back into place.
  • If the bumper is misaligned, you might consider looking into buying (or, better yet, borrowing) a standard body shop tool called a Hustler Stick ($169). Google around until you find a YouTube video showing how body shop mechanics use it to put mental bumpers (and other parts of the vehicle) back into place.
  • If the bumper is dented, you can take it off and use a hammer and dolly to tap out the dent (tip: pour boiling water over the dent first, to heat the metal and make it easier to work with).
  • It may be that your bumper brackets are bent as well as the metal bumper itself. In that case, you’ll need to replace the brackets.
Good luck with the repair!
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