Fifth Bonehead Design Award

This months award does not go to any particular manufacturer, but reflects a growing trend. Many of the vehicles today have rubber or plastic (actually thermoplastic) bumper covers. The covers were originally designed to protect the inner 'bumper' that was usually much more expensive. If the outer cover was damaged,  it was replaced (since it  was so inexpensive) with little fanfare. Well, things have changed. Now the covers are quite expensive, running anywhere from $200.00 to $600.00, plus the cost of refinishing. Not withstanding the cost of the cover, if is cut or gouged, in most cases it can be repaired and then refinished. It appears that the manufacturers do not like the fact that the bumper covers can be repaired and not replaced.  Now the trend is to make the cover with a 'grained' or textured finish.

Well, guess what? If the grained bumper cover is cut or gouged... you can't repair it! There is no practical way to match or restore the texture! You scuff it...you bought it. Think not? Wait until you turn in that leased car of yours and the dealer checks off the bumper as damaged.  What used to run $150.00 to repair, now costs the consumer $250.00 to $800.00 more.

American enterprise is great...ain't it!

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