New front bumper

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Md_dingo @ Mar 22 2007, 02:16 AM) [snapback]410057[/snapback]</div>

No chance whatsoever - EXCEPT if you make a warranty claim directly associated with the bumper AND it can be shown that the defect arose because you did the work in a faulty manner. There is no relationship between the warranty and who does any kind of service / repair... whether it be a non-Toyota repair shop or yourself.

Of course, in the case of getting repair done by a Toyota Dealer they can't use the excuse that faulty workmanship of the repair or service is the reason for a warrantable failure. That's the only extra protection you get by having Toyota do the work.

 

There's a big block of energy absorbing styrofoam behind the plastic bumper which is important to crash protection. Please make sure it isn't damaged.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Md_dingo @ Mar 22 2007, 05:04 PM) [snapback]410414[/snapback]</div>

The bumper cover is about $155 and the energy absorber under it is around $40 if it is also needed. Having the thing painted before putting it on is liable to be the main cost.

There are several on-line parts places. Here's one that I've bought parts from. Remember, shipping on a bumper cover is liable to be pricey.

http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/ind...amp;catalogid=2

Another source: http://www.toyotapartscheap.com/

You might try calling metropolitan and see what they can do for you. Perhaps you can get a prepainted bumper cover like you can get for mirror housings or door moldings??

http://www.metrotpn.com/

- Tom

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Bill Merchant @ Mar 22 2007, 03:28 PM) [snapback]410435[/snapback]</div>

Is there any chance of a do-it-yourselfer setting off the airbags when working on the bumper?

 

I got smacked by a freeway tire tread when the car was 2 weeks old. To have an independent bodyshop (not Toyota) replace the bumper, fog light and lower grill was $1300. The passenger door also got smacked and needed a repaint, too. I paid the deductable, and was on my way. I have done bodywork. Unless you really enjoy it, why bother?

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(MrK @ Mar 29 2007, 10:00 AM) [snapback]414225[/snapback]</div>

No, not if you disconnect the 12V battery and wait an hour. Same thing for swimming...

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Bill Merchant @ Mar 30 2007, 06:50 PM) [snapback]415183[/snapback]</div>

Good advice. Never swim with a 12V battery.

 

I just completed mine with a helper. $203 from Toyota for the bumper, $350 to have it painted, 1.5 hours to replace - taking our sweet time.

It's a very easy task that anyone can do.