An aftermarket bumper has several advantages. Customers will buy a new bumper for many reasons. Whether it is simply for the looks or because you looking for more durability, getting a custom bumper is one of the best modifications anyone can do.
However, some clients are generally concerned about the added weight that a new bumper can add to the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). Some other relevant questions include: “Will handling be impacted?”, “Do I need a lift with a new bumper?”, “Will my tires wear out faster?” (we are covering this as well as other questions in this post)
All inquiries posted above are closely related to the total weight of the bumpers. We are here once and for all to help put an end to the confusion that comes when choosing an aftermarket bumper.
Do Aftermarket Bumpers Cause Problems For My Truck?
While some custom bumpers can weigh upwards of 150 lbs, the benefits far outweigh the potential downsides. Even with the added bulk, a custom truck bumper still provides unbeatable protection that could have never been thought of with stock equipment.
However, it is not just about the weight, but also where it is on the truck. This small detail can have an impact on the overall steering and highway driving sensation.
Add to that some off-road accessories like a winch, lightbars, spotlights, etc., and you can begin the feel the difference. Those few extra lbs. make in the overall handling and even braking distance. But when going off-road, a custom bumper becomes a necessity.
Will My Tires Need Replacing?
Trucks are engineered to work within certain specifications. Although they are designed to take on the additional weight of a bumper, components such as tires can wear down quicker. But a little extra weight will not make a noticeable difference in wear.
Besides, all tires have a 10-year lifespan. And having to replace a tire simply due to the additional wear of a custom bumper is highly unlikely. If you are concerned with tread wear? Rotate them regularly and you will get plenty of trouble-free miles from your rig.
Do I Need A Lift With My New Bumper?
There is no doubt about it, new bumpers can be heavy. After all, they are made to withstand much greater impacts than their stock counterparts. Although manufacturers do try to reduce weight wherever possible, they can’t into consideration the fact that some owners might add permanent weight over the front or rear of their vehicles.
There have been reported cases of trucks sagging as much as 2” in the front just because they put a new bumper on(with accessories like winches, light bars, etc). Don’t believe everything the internet tells you. On average, a fully loaded bumper can make the front end come down 1/2”. For the front of a vehicle to sag that more than 2”, we are sure that some of the suspension components have been worn out long before the new bumper was added.
Does a lift help? Most certainly. It is one of the main modifications that truck owners do after bumpers and wheels. Should a lift be a necessity when installing a new accessory? Not at all.
Next time you are out on the road, have a look around. You'll quickly begin to see fleet and work trucks with huge ranch-style bumpers and stock suspension. If those guys have faith in the stock shocks and sturts, so should you.
Will Handling Be Affected?
Like with any modification, we want to be aware that yes, handling can be affected by the weight of an aftermarket bumper. Unless you are going to be taking corners at 50MPH(we don’t recommend do that in any vehicle), the added weight of a bumper should not make much of a difference in day-to-day handling.
Of course, with added mods such as a suspension lift, and a bigger wheel/tire combination, noticeable differences can be noticed in vehicle characteristics and overall stability. For those looking to get the ultimate front and rear protection without trying to show off, a simple bumper update may be all that’s needed.
Pros and Cons of Aftermarket Bumpers
Knowing which bumper is right for your truck is critical for the proper operation and durability of that vehicle. Below are some of the most common(and less common) known pros of cons that should be considered when buying a new bumper.
Pros
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Increased versatility
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Easy installation of accessories
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Several options available
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Protects critical components like headlights and grille
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Provides excellent protection in case of an accident
Cons
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Can decrease fuel mileage
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The steering feel can become vague
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Will put added strain on certain components such as ball joint, steering racks, and brake pads
Final Words
In conclusion, an aftermarket bumper’s weight should be taken into consideration when buying it. While the effects of installing new bumpers may be minimal, we would be liars if we said it had no impact at all.
Keep in mind that we have lightweight alternatives. BumperStock.com does carry a wide full-sized as well as aluminum and low profile options. Check out our entire stock today. Do you still have questions about fitment and weight? Give us a call at 844-827-4442 or send us a message right now!