Bumpers: Its Importance, Functions and Where to Find Replacement
Bumpers
Bumpers are one of the most essential auto parts. They serve
both an aesthetic and practical function. They are also
important safety features. Bumpers are made of heavy sheet metal
and are mounted on the front and rear of the car. Bumpers are
bent and formed into specific shapes in order to absorb and
deliver momentum during a collision. In the event of a
collision, the bumper absorbs some of the impact, which
decreases damage to the car and its occupants. It also protects
the front of the car by diverting all of the car's momentum to
the object with which it has collided. The bumper is mounted to
the car's chassis with special impact absorbers. These shock
absorbers are often spring loaded. In slow speed collisions,
this allows the bumper to compress, and then extend back to its
original position. All bumpers are designed to absorb the energy
of the impact. They do this through a series of valves and air
chambers.
Some car bumpers have hydraulic chambers. In the event of a
collision, the absorption unit allows air and/or hydraulic fluid
to pass through small openings. Forcing the air/fluid through
the valve openings absorbs the energy from the collision. The
bumper's job is to minimize damage, primarily to the occupants
of the vehicle and to the vehicle itself. US law requires cars
to pass special crash tests at various speeds.
In order to pass, the car's damage level during the crash must
be below a specific dollar level. This protects the consumer and
is very important for keeping the cost of automobile insurance
to a minimum. Sometimes bumpers are constructed with built-in
"crumple zones." Crumple zones are designed to absorb impact;
they will flex on impact. As the metal flexes, the action of the
bending metal converts the kinetic energy of the car into heat.
Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses while it is in
motion.
GM automobiles are all equipped with capable bumpers that help
protect the vehicle from serious damages in the event of a
collision. However, like all auto parts, bumpers will eventually
get damaged or defective due to accidents, wear and tear and
corrosion. Usually such damages will weaken the bumper's ability
to absorb the shock of collision. Thus, it is a necessity to
replace old and damaged bumpers with a new one. Replacement GM
Bumpers can be purchased from auto parts dealers everywhere.
However, to be sure of quality and durability, purchase only
from a reliable and trustworthy auto parts store with an
established reputation.
One of the best choices in auto parts stores today is
http://www.innerauto.com. It has already been recognized as an
excellent source of relevant and useful automotive information.
Its comprehensive inside look into the automobile makes one
marvel at the technology that has given us our vehicles.
Similarly, it now has a very comprehensive array of high quality
auto parts including top-notch GM Parts. Auto Parts Inner offers
a variety of GM Parts including GM A/C Condensers, GM Bumpers,
GM Carpets, GM Catalytic Converter, GM Mirror, GM Radiator, GM
Spoiler, GM Tailgate, GM Weatherstripping, GM Fuel Tanks and
other affordable and high quality parts.