Bodywork cost guide

Bumper repair and replacement cost in the UK

Bumpers take the brunt of car park life. Most damage can be repaired rather than replaced, which is usually a lot cheaper, but sensors and radar have made modern bumpers more expensive to put right.

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Typical UK bumper prices

Prices assume a bodyshop at around £80 an hour. Whether the bumper can be repaired or must be replaced makes the biggest difference to the bill.

JobTypical UK cost
Light scuff, smart repair on site£120 to £250
Scuffed bumper, removed and resprayed£350 to £600
Cracked bumper, plastic welded and resprayed£400 to £700
Replacement bumper, mainstream car£450 to £900
Replacement bumper, prestige or SUV£800 to £2,000
Parking sensor replacement (each)£60 to £150
Front radar or camera recalibration£150 to £400

What affects the cost

Repair or replace

Plastic bumpers can usually be welded and filled unless the mounting tabs are destroyed or the damage crosses several sections. Repair is nearly always cheaper than a new painted panel.

Sensors and driver aids

Parking sensors, cameras and cruise-control radar all live in modern bumpers. Replacing or refitting them, then recalibrating, adds cost that older cars simply did not have.

Brand and paint finish

A Dacia bumper skin is a fraction of the price of a Range Rover or Audi equivalent, and pearl or tri-coat paint adds hundreds to the refinishing side.

Hidden damage

What looks like a bumper scuff can hide a cracked bracket, damaged crash bar or bent bonnet slam panel. A proper inspection before quoting avoids surprises mid-job.

When a bumper needs more than a polish

  • Deep scuffing through the paint into the grey plastic beneath.
  • Cracks, splits, or a bumper sitting proud of the wing.
  • Parking sensors beeping constantly or not at all after a knock.
  • Broken mounting clips leaving the bumper loose or sagging.
  • Damage that will be charged for on a lease return inspection.

How to pay a fair price

Insurance excesses are often £350 to £750, so many bumper repairs are cheaper paid for directly and keep your no-claims intact. Get two or three quotes before deciding, and ask specifically whether repair is possible instead of replacement.

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Frequently asked questions

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