Why Do They Use Bumper Clips And Not Screws?

[SquirrelMadness]

I was in a small accident where someone bumped into the back of my car. Decided to take the bumper off to inspect damage and whilst doing so realised how inferior the bumper clips are. They don't tighten hard and allow the bumper to move side to side... is this normal? What would happen if I used real metal bolts instead of the plastic expanding bumper clips? Would it cause the bumper to crack from vibrations? Should I just get better quality bumper clips that will secure it harder?

http://thumbs4.ebaystatic.com/d/l190/m/m9OCexgXR2Cf1fUQsmTZ4sg.jpg

** Do Not Hotlink images **

 

[rodenal]

The guide rails and side fixings are generally what actually secure it in place and are what give room for alignment

Pop clips just give it an extra bit of security around the other fixing points, I dare say also allow a little bit of movement and are probably used for quickness / lower cost tbh

I can't see much benefit in replacing with anything else, they're particularly easy to work with (when not brittle) and do their job fine

 

[Rroff]

Is there any safety aspect to the design?

 

[Jonnycoupe]

The side to side float is probably intentional as other parts of the bumper interface will be better controlled where the alignment is more sensitive, ie the body side or wings, and the movement where you describes allows for tolerance on part sizes. Also clips are cheaper and allow bumper security to the body without effecting the bumper A surface. Ie a cover.