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I recently picked up a 2004 Nissan 350z and the front bumper has punched holes near the top with zip ties going through them. After looking closer it appears that the bumper is actually cracked in these areas and I'm assuming the previous owner zip-tied it to keep the bumper in place. Also, there is a crack near the grill area. I could be normal and buy a new bumper and dent my wallet. But I want to know if y'all have any restoration ideas that could work. If not, recommendations for replacing the bumper would be great too!
That bumper is toast. When you remove it, you'll find that the upper flange of the bumper has been cracked and the zip ties are used to help hold it up. Plastic welding will help, but it's really a temporary repair. Removing the front bumper involves removing the five push pins on the top, the two 10mm bolts on the sides (if they're still there) and the 10 mm bolts holding it to the lower splash pan. Consider it a "normal" part of buying a new car and restoring it. Find a local shop to color match it and put a little elbow grease into this DIY project before winter.
That bumper is toast. When you remove it, you'll find that the upper flange of the bumper has been cracked and the zip ties are used to help hold it up. Plastic welding will help, but it's really a temporary repair. Removing the front bumper involves removing the five push pins on the top, the two 10mm bolts on the sides (if they're still there) and the 10 mm bolts holding it to the lower splash pan. Consider it a "normal" part of buying a new car and restoring it. Find a local shop to color match it and put a little elbow grease into this DIY project before winter.
Yeah the more research I do the more I feel that replacing it would be best.
One other suggestion for a Colorado Z owner is to go with a urethane bumper. Don't try fiberglass or duraflex in our climate as they won't hold up. Also, when you check the bottom of that bumper, it really helps to have the belly pan (or splash shield) intact, as it helps stiffen and reinforce the bumper structure.
Front bumper cracks
