Does the OEM Bumper Come with Primer?
2 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.
