Guide to Aftermarket and OEM Miata Bumpers: Repair, Replace, Brands

An Introduction to Miata Bumpers

Miatas, also known as Mazda MX-5s, are lightweight two-seat convertible sports cars that have been in production since 1989. With their affordable pricing, rear-wheel drive, near 50/50 weight distribution, and an emphasis on the joy of driving, Miatas have become extremely popular among automotive enthusiasts.

Given their lightweight construction, Miatas can be prone to body damage from bumps and scrapes, especially on the front and rear bumpers. Thankfully, there is a wide variety of aftermarket and OEM bumpers available to suit different styles and purposes.

Bumper Construction and Durability

Miata bumpers, like those on most cars, consist of a plastic or urethane cover over an underlying reinforcement bar. This construction is designed to absorb low-speed impacts without damage while providing a cushion between the body and whatever the car hits.

However, Miatas are particularly low to the ground, making their bumpers more vulnerable. Additionally, plastic bumper covers can become brittle and crack over time when exposed to sunlight and temperature extremes. So it’s fairly common for Miata bumpers to become scratched, cracked, or dented.

Replacing vs Repairing Miata Bumpers

When Miata bumper damage occurs, owners essentially have two options: replace or repair. Replacement Miata bumpers, either aftermarket or OEM, can be easily bolted on. But they represent a significant expense - often $500 or more just for the parts.

Repairing bumper damage is far cheaper in most cases. Scratches can be buffed or touched up with paint pens. Small cracks and holes up to 3 inches long can usually be mended through plastic welding or specialized glues and epoxy fillers.

Types of Miata Aftermarket Bumpers

The range of aftermarket Miata bumpers spans different materials, styles, and performance levels:

• Polyurethane bumpers - more flexible and durable than stock.
• Fiberglass bumpers - lightweight for racing.
• Carbon fiber bumpers - premium lightweight and high-strength.
• Body kits - complete packages with front, sides, rear.
• Custom one-off bumpers - match unique builds.

Within those types there are bumpers made specifically for:

• Street use - Black Bird Fabworx Stealth Bumper
• Track racing - Autokonexion MR Extreme Bumper
• Autocross - Flyin' Miata Super Bumper
• Show cars - DAMD front bumper lip

Popular Aftermarket Brands

Well-known manufacturers making replacement Miata bumpers include:

• Good-Win Racing: OEM-quality and JDM bumpers
• Duraflex: Affordable fiberglass bumpers
• Revel: Bumpers optimizing cooling airflow
• Extreme Dimensions: Unique custom bumper options
• KITZ: Top-notch carbon fiber bumpers

What to Consider When Buying

Key considerations when shopping for an aftermarket or replacement Miata bumper:

• Compatibility - Ensure it fits your Miata year and trim level
• Performance Impact - Cooling, aerodynamics, weight
• Intended Use - Street, track, show car?
• Appearance - Color, styling, customizations
• Brand Reputation & Reviews
• Price - Budget polyurethane to premium carbon fiber

Installing Aftermarket Miata Bumpers

Replacing Miata bumpers is a straightforward bolt-on mod procedure, though bumper cover alignment can take some patience:

1. Remove stock bumper and clean mounting points
2. Transfer over any sensors, lights, badges, etc from OEM bumper
3. Test fit replacement bumper before full install
4. Carefully tighten all mounting bolts to ensure good alignment
5. Detail and paint/clear coat if needed

For many Miata owners, an aftermarket front bumper with integrated splitter is one of the first exterior upgrades. Not only does this improve appearance, but it enhances front end downforce on track models.

Repairing Miata Bumper Damage

To repair mild-to-moderate scratches and cracks on Miata bumper covers, owners can:

• Lightly sand damaged areas to prepare for filler
• Use plastic epoxy or filler, building up layers as needed
• Sand smooth once fully cured
• Buff with rubbing compound to blend repair
• Repaint or touch up with color-matched paint pens
• Apply clear coat for longevity

For punctures or tears exceeding a few inches, professional plastic welding may be required. This chemically fuses the plastic via melting rods into the gap.

When to Replace a Miata Bumper

Replacing a damaged Miata bumper becomes necessary if:

• There is heavy damage extending across most of the bumper
• It would require extensive repairs exceeding the cost of replacement
• The bumper reinforcement bar is bent from a collision
• You desire an aesthetic or performance upgrade

In some cases where both bumper covers are damaged, it can save money to replace both as a set instead of mixing OEM and aftermarket pieces.

Conclusion

To sum up, Miata bumpers take more abuse than most due to the car's low ride height. But there are many options available from reputable aftermarket companies when repairs or replacements become necessary. With attention to compatibility, performance impact, appearance, and cost, Miata owners can install bumpers that not only protect the car but enhance its looks or capabilities.

FAQs

What is the easiest way to repair minor damage to my Miata's bumper?

For light scratches, scuffs or cracks less than 3 inches, using a plastic filler, sanding smooth, buffing, and touching up paint is typically the easiest DIY repair method.

Are aftermarket Miata bumpers a direct bolt-on replacement?

Generally yes, most aftermarket bumpers are designed to bolt directly on to the factory mounting points with little or no modification needed.

How much does it cost to replace a Miata bumper?

Between the bumper cover and potential structural reinforcement bar, you're typically looking at $500-800+ for an OEM replacement Miata bumper. Aftermarket options vary widely in cost from around $300 up over $2000.

Will an aftermarket bumper void the factory warranty on my Miata?

No, installing an aftermarket bumper will not automatically void your Miata's manufacturer powertrain or other warranties. The bumper itself may not be covered, but the rest of the car still retains factory warranty protection.