replacing front bumper cover

[jesse v]

Hi,
My '05 montana was involved in a very low speed (>10mph) fender-bender a few days ago. The front bumper cover is cracked up, and according the the estimate, the energy-absorbing piece needs to be replaced. There is also "paint" included in the estimate.

I'm wondering if I can take the insurance money and fix this myself. I found the front bumper cover on rockauto.com. It says, "primed and ready to paint", but the picture appears to be the correct color.

My question is, does this part actually require me to paint it? If so, I'll just take it to a body shop.

Also, how important is it to replace the energy-absorbing part? Is this a serious safety issue?

Thanks for your help.

 

[melsg5]

Yes it has to be painted and if the energy absorbing part is crushed you may not be able to attach the bumper.

 

[jesse v]

Hmm, interesting. I wasn't expecting that response. The bumper cover is cracked is several places, and when I look at the piece it appears that the material itself is gray, as opposed to being painted.

Just to make sure I'm communicating the correct piece, it is the gray body part, under the headlights, in front of the front tires. (Sorry, this is the best picture I have on photobucket.)

 

[melsg5]

Thanks for the picture, yes it would appear that regardless of body color there is only gray for that piece.

______________________________

 

[jesse v]

(sorry for the double post)

Thanks! Great to hear.

 

[Steelcity]

Hey worst case u take your torn apart van and new cover to a body shop and pay them to finish putting it on. Might make out financially but bruised pride ?

 

[jesse v]

Haha, no bruised pride. Just like saving money I guess. Your idea is a good one... I thought of that after m original post.