How to Repair a Chrome Bumper

A chrome bumper affects a vehicle's entire appearance.

A dingy, fogged or dirty bumper can ruin the entire look of your vehicle. If your bumper has become damaged due to factors such as environmental exposure or road solvents, a few fast and inexpensive methods can help you restore it and make it look new. Using materials you may already have in your home, you can renew the look of your vehicle by restoring the chrome bumper's shine and making it look new.

Things You'll Need

• 5 cups all-purpose auto cleaner
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Soft toothbrush
• 2 lint-free cleaning cloths
• Chrome polishing compound
• Auto spray wax

Instructions

1. Combine 5 cups of any all-purpose automobile cleaner and 4 cups of warm water in a bucket. Wet a clean, dry sponge in the mixture

2. Clean and scrub the entire bumper with the sponge and cleaning solution.

3. Detail the chrome by scrubbing it in firm circles using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Pay close attention to any especially soiled areas, grooves or crevices.

4. Rinse the bumper thoroughly using clean water immediately to reduce the chances of spotting or buildup.

5. Dry the chrome completely using a lint-free cloth immediately after rinsing to avoid water spots.

6. Polish the chrome by applying a small amount of any chrome polishing compound to a clean, lint-free cloth. Polish using large, smooth circular motions. Add more polishing compound as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear rubber gloves to prevent drying of the skin if desired.

• Ensure that all products you use are safe for use on chrome.

References

• Mothers Detail Guide: Cosmetic and Exterior Trim
• Thrifty Fun: Keeping Chrome Clean
• Auto Media: Restoration: Polishing Chrome

Resources

• "Motorcycle Cruiser"; Motorcycle Cleaning and Finishing; Art Friedman; 1999