Expert: William Forster - 1/1/2007

Question
The front bumper cover on my 2005 Expedition was damaged after hitting a curb. The cover did not tear. What filler product should I use to repair and strengthen the impact area at the lower edge?  

Answer
If it wasn't torn, the strength of the cover isn't an issue. Check underneath, and be sure that all the attaching clips and tabs are intact. If you detect any looseness of the panel, it may have hidden damage, in which case I recommend replacing the cover. It can be re-shaped, if necessary, with a heat gun. Don't melt the cover, push it back into proper shape, and set it with cool water. If the damage is superficial, mostly just raking of the finish, you can sand the area down with 180 and apply a skim coat of USC Icing, PN 26006. If it has deeper wounds, like gouges or cracks, the cracks and gouges must be coved out with 80, followed by 150. Wash area well with a pot scrubber and water, and blow dry with clean air. Do not use a towel to dry! The left over lint will affect adhesion of the bumper filler material. Buy some 3M rigid bumper repair material, and fill. Sand with 150. A skim coat of icing can be applied to fill pin holes or heavy sand scratches.