Does the OEM Bumper Come with Primer?
4 Answers
Car bumpers are among the most vulnerable components to damage during use. Currently, the market offers two types: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and non-OEM, commonly referred to as aftermarket parts. OEM bumpers do not come pre-painted upon leaving the factory. Some may only have a layer of primer. This approach is primarily based on the following considerations: 1. If bumpers were pre-painted, the paint surface could be damaged during transportation, necessitating a repaint. 2. If OEM bumpers were painted, they might develop color discrepancies over time compared to the vehicle's original paint due to aging. 3. If OEM bumpers came painted, repair shops would need to stock various paint colors to match different vehicle body colors, leading to significant inventory pressure. Without pre-painting, shops can simply match the vehicle's current color during repairs. The advantage of OEM bumpers lies in their direct supply from the manufacturer, ensuring superior quality, as well as enhanced durability and strength in terms of flexibility and impact resistance.
I often help friends with car part issues and have replaced quite a few OEM bumpers. Generally, OEM bumpers don't come with the final color topcoat, but they are coated with a primer layer that appears gray or light yellow. The main purpose is to protect the plastic from UV aging or cracking, and it also helps the subsequent paint adhere better. If you install it directly, you'll notice the color doesn't match the car body, so you'll need to take it to a professional shop for painting. Remember not to paint on rainy days, as the primer can be affected and may peel off easily. I've also encountered cases where people bought cheap bare plastic bumpers, which cracked within a year, while OEM ones with primer last several years longer. In short, check the bumper surface first—if it has a glossy primer, it's OEM, and you shouldn't delay addressing the color issue.
In the workshop during car repairs, I've seen all kinds of bumper replacements. The original factory products usually come with a primer layer, not a complete topcoat, designed for universal production convenience to suit different body colors. The primer is treated with UV hardeners to prevent plastic deformation and corrosion. Before applying new paint, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned, otherwise grease can affect adhesion. Many people take shortcuts and spray paint themselves, but the results are often unsatisfactory, not as even as professional shops using air spray guns. I also recommend applying a layer of clear protective wax after painting to extend its lifespan. Remember, the original factory primer is of good quality; don't sand it off casually to avoid waste.
I'm passionate about car modifications and often disassemble parts to test performance. Most factory bumpers come with a standard gray primer, revealing their true colors only when painted. Choosing water-based primer is environmentally friendly and odor-free. When spraying, apply a thin layer first, let it dry, and then apply the topcoat to avoid orange peel effect. Some people want to skip steps and go straight to the primer, but factory processing is more even. I've tried DIY painting, and after comparison, factory primer is more durable, with no color change within five years. To pursue a unique style, treat the primer first before deciding on a color scheme.
