How much to replace a front bumper panel?

On a typical passenger car, replacing a front bumper panel (bumper cover) costs roughly $500 to $1,500, depending on parts and paint; with sensors, cameras, or reinforcement hardware, the total can rise to $2,000 to $4,000 or more. Local labor rates and whether you go through a dealer or independent shop can also affect the price.

Replacing a front bumper panel involves more than just swapping a shell. The question covers a range of variables: the type of bumper component, choice of parts, the amount of bodywork and paint required, and whether any electronics or structural parts are affected. This article breaks down the typical costs and what influences them, so readers can budget accurately and shop smart.

What goes into the price

Several factors determine what you’ll pay for a front bumper replacement. The following list highlights the main variables you should consider when budgeting or requesting quotes.

• Type of bumper component: Replacing only the plastic bumper cover is cheaper than replacing the internal reinforcement bar, energy absorber, and mounting hardware, which adds substantial cost.


• Parts: OEM (dealer) parts tend to be more expensive than aftermarket equivalents. Availability varies by make and model, which can also affect price and lead time.


• Paint and color matching: Proper painting to match your vehicle’s color (including metallic or pearlescent finishes) adds to material and labor costs, and may require a color calibration for certain repairs.


• Labor time and rates: Labor costs depend on regional rates and the amount of work required. A straightforward cover swap is usually quicker than a full panel replacement with electronics and realignment.


• Added features: Parking sensors, adaptive or rear-view cameras, fog lights, grille inserts, and integrated lights or decorative trim increase both parts and installation time.


• Structural or frame work: If the radiator support, crash structure, or other unibody components are damaged, repairs become significantly more expensive and time-consuming.


• Vehicle model and parts availability: Luxury or newer models may have higher part costs or longer wait times if OEM parts are needed.


• Shop type and location: Dealer service centers generally charge more than independent or specialty auto-body shops, and urban areas typically have higher rates.

In short, the total cost is driven by the bumper system’s complexity and any electronics or structural repairs that accompany the panel swap.

Typical price ranges

These ballpark figures help with budgeting, but exact quotes will depend on your car and location. Always confirm what is included (paint, warranty, sensor calibration) before approving work.

• Basic bumper cover replacement (aftermarket or non‑OEM cover, no sensors or reinforcement work): about $500–$1,000 for the part and labor; painting, if required, can bring the total to roughly $600–$1,500.


• OEM bumper cover replacement (color-matched, no sensors): typically $800–$1,800, depending on model and paint needs.


• Bumper replacement with reinforcement bar and/or radiator support (parts plus labor): usually $1,000–$2,500, plus paint if needed.


• Front bumper replacement with sensors or cameras (parking sensors, backup camera, or related electronics): commonly $1,500–$3,000 or more, with luxury models sometimes exceeding $4,000.


• Dealer quotes vs. independent shops: dealers often quote higher, while independent body shops may offer more competitive rates, especially for non-warranty work.

Prices vary widely by vehicle and region, so it’s wise to obtain multiple written estimates and ask for a breakdown of parts, labor, paint, and any calibration or diagnostic fees.

What to expect during the repair process

To avoid surprises, customers should understand the typical workflow: assessment and damage scope, part sourcing (OEM vs aftermarket), removal of the damaged bumper, replacement with a new cover and any internal components, calibration of sensors/cameras if present, painting and clear coat, and final fit-and-finish checks. If electronics or safety systems require recalibration or testing, that adds to the timeline and cost.

Tips for planning your repair include getting quotes from at least two shops, asking for a color-matched paint specification, confirming warranty terms on parts and labor, and verifying whether sensor alignment and calibration are included in the price.

Summary: Replacing a front bumper panel is a common repair with costs driven by parts choice (OEM vs aftermarket), whether interior hardware or reinforcement is replaced, paint requirements, and electronics like sensors or cameras. Basic bumper cover replacements typically fall in the $500–$1,500 range, while models with sensors, high-end finishes, or structural work can reach $2,000–$4,000 or more. Shopping around and clarifying inclusions can help you secure a fair price.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a front bumper?

Generally speaking, the cheaper route is usually replace and repaint. It just depends on the amount of damage.

How much do body shops charge to put on a bumper?

Labor And Installation
Since most body shops generally charge around $50 to $200 per hour, and most bumper drops and installs take between 2 and 4 hours, the labor cost for a new bumper installation could range from about $200 to $800.

How much to replace a front panel?

The cost to replace a front panel varies significantly depending on the type of panel: a car's front bumper can cost $300-$700 for the part, while an electrical panel replacement in a home typically costs $850-$2,500. The total price depends on factors like vehicle make, the extent of the damage, labor rates, and whether the panel is an auto part or an electrical component. 
Automotive front panel replacement

• Front Bumper: Costs typically range from $300 to $700, depending on the vehicle. More complex bumpers with sensors will be more expensive. 
• Hood: Can add $500 to $1,000 or more to the repair bill, especially for higher-end vehicles. 
• Quarter Panel: If the damage is severe, replacing an entire quarter panel can cost from $300 to $800 or more, not including paint matching and labor. 
• Headlights: Individual headlight assemblies can cost between $200 and $600 each. Newer models with advanced lighting technology will be more expensive. 
• Painting: A quality paint job to match the existing color is an additional cost, often between $800 and $2,500. 

Electrical front panel replacement

• 100 amp panel: Costs range from $850 to $1,150 for an upgrade and $1,200 to $1,600 for a new installation. 
• 200 amp panel: Costs range from $1,200 to $1,600 for an upgrade and $1,750 to $2,500 for a new installation. 
• 400 amp panel: Costs can range from $1,800 to $4,000. 
• Labor: Electrician labor rates vary from $50 to $120 per hour. 

Factors that influence cost

• Damage extent: Minor damage is cheaper to fix than severe structural damage. 
• Vehicle make and model: Luxury and specialized vehicles often have higher parts and labor costs. 
• Shop reputation: Well-regarded shops may charge more for their expertise. 
• Labor rates: Hourly rates for labor can vary based on location and the shop. 

How much does it cost to replace a front bumper cover?

Most front bumper replacements cost between $500 and $1,500, but luxury or sensor-equipped models can run $2,500 or more. Is it cheaper to repair or replace a bumper? Small cosmetic repairs are usually cheaper, often $150 to $600. Severe damage typically requires replacement, which costs more but restores safety.