Whether installing a front bumper or rear bumper, the procedure will be similar, with variations due to the design used by the vehicle manufacturer. The following can only be a general guide to what you may encounter in your project and how to proceed.

Having followed recommended preparation ideas, you can begin the actual installation by removing the original bumper. This may include a trim panel and styrofoam absorber, as well as hardware items. Save everything. You may want to remove other items in the general working area such as license plate, mud flaps, etc. Some items such as reinforcement bars, horns or fog lights my need to be removed at some point.

Hold the new bumper up to the car to check it’s look and alignment. Take your time. Look carefully, from every angle. It’s best if you have someone else to assist in this. If all looks well, you may drill holes where appropriate and use hardware (screws, rivets, nuts, etc.) to attach the bumper. The original styrofoam absorber may or may not fit, so you may not be able to use it. Drilling the right hole in the proper location is key to having a good installation.

A certain amount of surface preparation may be necessary such as grinding and sanding to get a clean fit. Some areas of bumpers are purposely made with extra material to lower the risk of damage during transit. Some bumpers might need to be shaved or filed down in some areas to insure a good fitment. Use quality painter’s masking tape around the gaps to protect the car’s paint. Use 80 grit sandpaper in the gap area. If needed, prepare and fill the gaps with a reinforced body filler such as duraglass or marglass. When cured, the bumper can be removed and prepped for paint.

You can use more fasteners than used with the original bumper to ensure a solid fit and look, but this is not necessary. Also, you may want to replace the original hardware with new (This is up to you, but not necessary). Not only will new hardware be easier to work with, but it adds to the overall clean and new feel with your fancy new bumper!

Please note: The above is made available as general reference and for informational purposes only. No liability is assumed. No guarantees are made as to the accuracy of the information or its applicability to any specific situation. Every vehicle is different and a body kit installation is custom work. Any person not properly qualified to do the work should only do so with the understanding that any liability for that work, and any subsequent result, is theirs alone.