How to Fix a Metal or Plastic Bumper with Hot Water

Co-authored by Chad Zani

Last Updated: June 24, 2022 References

Is there anything more frustrating than a fender bender? Dents and dings in your bumper can really throw off your mood and the look of your car. But have no fear! You can actually remove minor dents without the help of a professional or fancy equipment. All you need is some boiling water and a little bit of elbow grease. To make the job easier, we’ve answered a few common questions about the process.

Question 1 of 5:

Does boiling water work on metal and plastic bumpers?

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Yes, it can help remove dents from both metal and plastic bumpers. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully pour the water over the surface of the dent to heat up the metal. Allow the metal to flex and return to its original shape.^{[1]
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Research source} If the bumper is plastic, push the dent out from behind after you pour the hot water over it.^{[2]
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- Don’t press the dent out of metal like you would for a plastic bumper.
- You may not be able to remove all dents from metal bumpers.
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Pour cold water over the area to help the bumper retain its shape. If the bumper is plastic, keep pressing out the dent from the inside until it’s fully removed. Then, pour a pot full of cold water when you’re finished to solidify the bumper.^{[3]
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Question 2 of 5:

Will boiling water damage car paint?

No, boiling water will not damage your car’s paint. Car paint is covered by finishes that keep them shiny and protected. Pouring hot or boiling water over a bumper to fix a dent won’t cause damage or strip away the paint.^{[4]
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Question 3 of 5:

Can all dents be removed from a car’s bumper?

Yes, there’s a way to remove most dents. With boiling water, you can remove many minor dents and dings from your car’s bumper. But if you aren’t able to remove them yourself, you can take your car to an auto repair shop. They’ll have specialized equipment that can repair more serious damage.^{[5]
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Question 4 of 5:

How much does it cost to fix your car bumper?

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Bumper repairs cost between $500 and $2000 USD. If your bumper is cracked or severely dented beyond the point that you can easily repair yourself, take it to a professional. They’ll have the equipment and gear to make the repairs, but you can expect to pay at least $500 to cover the labor.^{[6]
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The average replacement cost is $830 USD. If your bumper is so damaged that it can’t be simply repaired, you may need to fully replace it. With parts and labor, you can expect to pay more than you would for a simple repair.^{[7]
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Question 5 of 5:

Can I drive with a damaged bumper?

No, a damaged bumper is no longer able to withstand impact. Cracks and dents are more than just cosmetic problems. Even small ones can affect your bumper’s structural integrity. If you get into another accident, even a small fender bender, your bumper won’t be able to absorb the impact and it could lead to damage to your vehicle’s body.^{[8]
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