
The cost of a new car bumper varies dramatically, but you can generally expect to pay between $500 and $3,000 for a full replacement. The final price depends on three core factors: the vehicle's make and model, the type of bumper (OEM, aftermarket, or used), and most significantly, labor costs for painting and installation.
For common non-luxury sedans and SUVs, a replacement often falls in the $1,000 to $1,500 range. High-end luxury vehicles or trucks with integrated sensors and complex styling can easily exceed $2,500. The bumper itself is just one part of the cost. A modern bumper assembly includes the energy-absorbing reinforcement bar, impact-absorbing foam, brackets, and often integrated parking sensors or cameras. Painting to match your car's exact color is a skilled process that adds several hundred dollars. Labor, which involves disassembling the front or rear end, is a major component of the total bill.
The table below breaks down average costs for different vehicle categories, combining parts and labor.
| Vehicle Category | Average Bumper Replacement Cost (Parts & Labor) | Key Factors Influencing Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Compact Car (e.g., Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla) | $900 - $1,300 | Lower parts cost, simpler design with fewer sensors. |
| Mid-Size SUV (e.g., Ford Explorer, Honda CR-V) | $1,100 - $1,700 | Larger part size, more complex mounting, common integrated fog lights. |
| Full-Size Pickup Truck (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado) | $1,500 - $2,500 | Often includes a heavy-duty steel reinforcement bar and bulky plastic cover. |
| Luxury Sedan/SUV (e.g., BMW 5 Series, Mercedes GLE) | $2,000 - $3,500+ | High OEM parts cost, advanced driver-assistance sensors (radar, cameras) requiring calibration. |
| Electric Vehicle (e.g., Tesla Model 3) | $1,500 - $2,200+ | Specific OEM parts, potential need for specialized EV-certified repair shops. |
To get an accurate estimate, your best move is to get quotes from a few reputable body shops. Provide your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to ensure they quote the correct part. If the repair is through insurance, your deductible will be the primary factor in your out-of-pocket cost.

I just went through this. My Honda CRV’s rear bumper got tapped in a parking lot. I got three quotes. The dealership wanted $1,800. A local chain shop quoted $1,400. I found a small, highly-rated independent guy who did it for $1,100. He used an aftermarket part that looked perfect once painted. The lesson? Shop around. Don't just go with the first estimate, especially if you're paying out-of-pocket. Those small shops can save you a bundle.

It’s not just the plastic piece you see. There’s so much underneath! My son’s car was in a fender bender, and the estimate included a new bumper cover, the foam cushion behind it, and even a bracket. The big surprise was the cost to recalibrate the parking sensors so they'd work correctly. That added over $200. If your car has any of those safety features, make sure the estimate includes checking and recalibrating them. Otherwise, you might have a new bumper that causes false alarms.

Check your insurance policy. If the damage wasn't your fault, the other driver's insurance should cover it. If it was your fault, you'll pay your deductible—usually $500 or $1,000—and your insurance handles the rest. My advice? If the damage is minor and the cost is close to your deductible, consider paying for it yourself. Filing a claim can sometimes increase your premiums down the line. It’s a math problem: compare the repair bill to your deductible and think about the long-term cost.

The price hinges on your choice of parts. You have three main options, each with different price points and considerations. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part comes from the carmaker, ensuring a perfect fit but at the highest cost. Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies and are cheaper, though quality can vary. Finally, a salvage yard bumper from a similar model can be the most affordable, but it may need significant prep work and painting. For an older car, an aftermarket or used bumper is often the most cost-effective solution.


