How to Repair a Plastic Bumper

Scrapes, cracks, and gouges in your bumper don’t mean it needs replacing. With the right materials, you can repair most plastic bumpers at home and restore a smooth, factory-like finish. Here’s how to do it right.

What You’ll Need:

• Safety gear (gloves, mask, glasses)
• Sandpaper (80, 180, 320 grit)
• Plastic repair adhesive or filler
• Applicator or spreader
• Plastic primer
• Automotive paint (colour-matched)
• Clearcoat (optional)
• Masking tape and plastic sheeting
• Clean rags
• Wax and grease remover

Step 1:

Clean and Sand the Area

Start by washing the damaged area with soap and water and using a wax and grease remover to clean the surface. Dry the wax and grease remover with a clean, dry cloth.  Sand the repair area with 80-grit sandpaper to remove loose paint and roughen the plastic, giving the adhesive something to grip.

Step 2:

Apply Plastic Adhesive or Filler

For cracks or gouges, use a 2-part plastic repair adhesive. Mix according to the instructions and apply with a spreader, filling in the damaged area. Build it up slightly above the surface so you can sand it down flat once cured. Let it dry fully before moving on.

Step 3:

Shape and Smooth

Sand the area with 180-grit paper to shape the repair, then refine with 320-grit for a smooth, even surface. Feather the edges using a sanding block into the surrounding plastic for a seamless transition. Tack with a tack cloth.

Step 4:

Prime and Paint

Apply a plastic adhesion promoter or plastic primer first—plastic won’t hold paint properly without it. Let the primer dry approximately 30 minutes between coats. Apply 2–3 medium coats of colour-matched automotive paint. Allow each coat to dry as directed. Add a clearcoat if your vehicle was painted with basecoat/clearcoat from the factory.

Step 5:

Blend and Finish

If possible, blend the paint slightly into the surrounding panel to reduce noticeable edges. Once everything is fully cured, approximately 30 days, you can lightly polish the area to even out the finish.

When to Consider Replacement

If your bumper is torn in multiple places, has large holes, or is hanging loose—it may be time to consider a replacement. But for cosmetic damage or moderate cracks, repair is often faster and far more affordable.

We’ve Got What You Need

At Autohome, we carry plastic repair systems, primers, paints, and everything else to restore your bumper with confidence. Not sure where to start? Bring us a photo or stop by for expert advice—we’re here to help you get it done right.