Learn the key factors to consider when choosing the ideal aftermarket bumper for your ride.
Pickup truck customization has evolved dramatically over the past twenty or thirty years. It wasn’t all that long ago that owners were fixating on performance enhancements, flashy lift kits, auxiliary lighting, and tacky – er, we mean “eye-catching” paint schemes. The bumper was often an afterthought, a simple piece of utility rather than a canvas for creativity.
Not anymore. Today’s aftermarket bumpers are a big metal statement of individuality, a symbol of both style and substance. Are you an urban cowboy? A weekend warrior? Do you even off-road, bro? One look at your truck or Jeep’s front-end is often enough for many folks to form an opinion.
Get a handle on your rig’s first impression by choosing the right aftermarket bumper. From style and construction material to functionality and installation requirements, learn what features matter most when making your selection.
Why Upgrade?
As your vehicle’s initial line of defense against obstacles, collisions, and wayward deer, the bumper is a critical component. It safeguards vital internal systems – not to mention you and anyone else along for the ride.
But part of the joy of owning a vehicle is being able to customize it to your exact needs. And if you regularly put your rig to work, do a lot of towing, or love crawling rocks, then the stock equipment might not be up to snuff.
Essentially, an aftermarket bumper not only allows for tailored functionality but also an expression of personal style. Speaking of which…
Style
When choosing an aftermarket bumper, narrowing down a style is a good place to start. To pick one, you’ll need to find a compromise on form vs function.
Think about what bumper profiles appeal to you, whether that’s big and bulky with full-coverage and a beefy grille, or slim and streamlined with a timeless prerunner look or throw-back tubular design. Then, think about what bumper styles make the most sense based on how you use your vehicle.
Do you drive a heavy-duty work truck in need of maximum coverage and protection? Or are you more interested in showing off your rig’s face as you zip down highways, byways, and desert runs? Is this a classic Jeep in desperate need of better tire clearance? These preconditions will help you cull the very large selection of available aftermarket bumpers, as will size.
Bumpers generally come in full-width, mid-width, and stubby configurations. As their names suggest, each size covers a different amount of the vehicle’s front face. Full-width will span the full length, while stubby stays to the width of the grille and mid-size splits the difference. There are pros and cons to each style, but in a nutshell, full-width will offer full coverage and protection while stubby will give those tires plenty of breathing room for articulation. (It will also improve your approach angle.) Again, mid-width bumpers will split the difference.
Material
Equally important when choosing an aftermarket bumper is construction material.
Most options you come across will likely be steel, usually in stainless, chrome, or black powder-coated finishes. Steel makes for a great bumper – it’s durable, strong, and capable of taking hard knocks. However, steel is also very heavy; and when it’s running across the front of your vehicle, it could weigh you down significantly (especially if you start adding things like winches, tow hooks, and light bars).
By contrast, aluminum bumpers generally weigh in closer to that of the OEM equipment. They’re lightweight but sturdy, excellent at standing up to corrosion, and easier to install. The downside? They cost significantly more than their steel counterparts, sometimes running 1.5 - 2x more for similar features.
That said, it’s important to research specific brands and models to get an exact idea of the cost difference as they can vary widely. Weigh your options (literally) and see how this stands to impact driving needs. Then, weigh that against your budget.
Functionality
Beyond providing protection and an aggressive appearance, aftermarket bumpers serve as great platforms for integrating accessories. From winches and towing accessories, to cube lights and light bars, to grille guards and bull bars, the options are wide and varied.
Many aftermarket bumpers include existing cutouts or mounting locations for these add-ons, making it easier to customize the setup. Some manufacturers even team up so they can include accessories with your purchase. For example, Addictive Desert Designs bumpers can be purchased in a variety of configurations – including with RIGID lighting and a WARN winch on board.
If you’re really looking for something you can tailor to your specific needs and preferences, consider a modular bumper. Unlike traditional one-piece bumpers, which are usually designed with a set configuration, modular bumpers feature multiple removable sections or panels.
For example, you might be able to remove the end caps or the center section, add or delete a bull bar. The adaptability lets you switch up the style, adjust the level of protection, or accommodate various accessories for ultimate customization.
Go Rhino’s Element Front Bumper features a unique modular design, with multiple options for personal configuration.
A power-actuated light bar mount allows you to hide away a 20” light bar with the flip of a switch inside the cab. If you’d rather have the light bar on the roof, then you can always relocate your DRL’s into the space instead.
Additionally, the bumper features mesh side panels that not only reduce weight and improve air flow, but can also be painted for a customized look. For further personalization, multiple light pods can be added to each wing behind the mesh panels. The bumper also installs in pieces, making for a simpler, modular installation as well.
Installation
When shopping for an aftermarket bumper, you definitely want to consider installation requirements. From size and weight to accessory mounting and potential wire splicing, there are several factors that can complicate the process. Just remember that there’s no harm in asking for help, and if you lack experience or the necessary tools, then it might be wise to seek professional assistance.
Whether or not you choose to tackle the job yourself, make sure the bumper you choose is compatible with your vehicle's make and model. Additionally, check if your purchase includes all necessary mounting hardware. Some aftermarket bumpers require additional brackets, bolts, or accessories that aren't included in the package.
Remember, your bumper is more than just an exterior accessory -- it's a statement of your vehicle's capabilities and your own ambitions. So, take your time, explore your options, and make an informed decision that enhances both the style and performance of your truck, Jeep, or SUV.