Buy Chevrolet (Chevy) Caprice Bumper Filler

Background Info

Chevrolet Caprice bumper fillers-sometimes called bumper gap fillers, insert panels, spacers, or extensions-are small plastic pieces that seal the space between the steel bumper and the body. They keep dirt out, smooth the look, and help airflow at highway speed. On many 1977-1996 Caprice models these fillers were made of ABS plastic that can crack or crumble after decades of sun and heat.

Function & Role

• Seals the gap. The filler bridges the space so rocks and splash cannot reach wiring or lamps. (BS Auto Supplies)
• Finishes the look. It lines up with the fenders and grille so the bumper looks "built-in." (CarParts)
• Minor airflow aid. GM engineers used fillers to cut wind drag on full-size B-body cars by a few counts, which helped fuel economy. (Dezo's Garage)

Design Features

• Location. Front fillers sit under the headlamps; rear units wrap the quarters. Many Caprices also use a slim center strip. (ChevyTalk)
• Mounting. Typical fasteners: 7 mm or 10 mm screws plus plastic barbed clips; bumper removal makes access easier. (Turbo Buick Forum)
• Part numbers. One catalog lists GM #12390727 (1986-90 front center) and #14083844 (front corners). (Old GM)

Common Issues

• UV cracking. ABS loses oils, turns brittle, and can snap by hand after long sun exposure. (EEVblog)
• Sag & gaps. Broken clips let the panel droop, showing daylight between bumper and fender. (YouTube)
• Paint peel. Old filler paint often flakes because plastic was never scuffed or primed correctly. (JTAPE)

Material Options

← scroll table horizontally →

Installation Tips

1. Remove bumper. Four main nuts let the steel bumper slide forward for room. (Turbo Buick Forum)
2. Unbolt filler. Keep factory screws to reuse; aftermarket kits rarely include hardware. (GMT400 Forum)
3. Test-fit. Hold the new spacer panel in place before paint; sand edges if needed. (YouTube)
4. Prep & paint. Clean with wax remover, apply plastic adhesion promoter, then primer-sealer, color, and clear. (3M)
5. Re-torque bumper. Most Caprice bumper-to-frame bolts tighten to about 38 ft-lb. (Chevy Bolt)

Maintenance & Care

• Wash gently. Use a soft brush around the trim gap to keep grit from eroding paint. (JTAPE)
• UV protectant. Apply a plastic restorer with UV blockers every few months to slow fading. (Fender Bender)
• Winter check. Road salt can lodge behind the insert panel; rinse the back side during under-body washes. (CarParts)

Compatibility

• Box-body (1977-1990). Wide three-piece front fillers + two-piece rear. Different shapes for wagons. (ChevyTalk)
• "Bubble" body (1991-1996). Smooth one-piece front insert; rear filler integrated into bumper cover on police (9C1) versions. (YouTube)
• Special trims. Brougham and LS sedans share filler profile but may have extra chrome bead. (Old GM)

Safety & Regulations

• A tight filler helps keep the bumper absorber and reinforcement free of debris so they compress evenly in a crash. (Fender Bender)
• No federal test targets fillers directly, but U.S. FMVSS 581 sets a 2.5 mph barrier test that assumes gaps are sealed. (BS Auto Supplies)
• In some states, inspectors can fail a car for a loose bumper insert because it counts as "missing body trim." (Reddit)

Customization

• Color-match paint. Enthusiasts often spray fillers body color for a seamless look. (YouTube)
• Smooth-bumper mod. Some "bubble" Caprice owners shave the seam and mold the filler to the bumper for show cars. (YouTube)
• Chrome delete. Removing factory brightwork and painting fillers satin black gives a police-spec vibe. (YouTube)

Environmental Impact

• Plastic recycling. ABS can be mechanically recycled, but UV-damaged parts often go to landfill; PU is harder still. (theengineblock.com, knowledgecenter.mearthane.com)
• Better prep = longer life. Proper primer and UV sealants can double service life, reducing waste. (3M)

Troubleshooting

← scroll table horizontally →

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is a bumper filler?
A: It is a thin plastic insert that closes the empty space between the bumper and the car body so water, rocks, and air do not rush in. (BS Auto Supplies)

Q: Is it the same as a bumper cover?
A: No. A bumper cover wraps the whole bar, while a filler is a narrow strip or panel that fills only the gap. (CarParts)

Q: Why do Caprice fillers crack so often?
A: GM used ABS plastic; years of sun make ABS dry out and become brittle, so it snaps easily. (EEVblog)

Q: Can I drive without the filler installed?
A: You can move the car, but dust, mud, and small stones can hit wiring and fog lights, and the car fails many state inspections for "missing trim." (Reddit)

Q: Do I need to remove the bumper to replace it?
A: It is possible to sneak the panel in with the bumper on, but most owners remove four bumper bolts first to avoid scratching paint. (Turbo Buick Forum)

Q: What tools are required?
A: 7 mm and 10 mm sockets, plastic clip pliers, and a trim panel tool to pop old clips.

Q: Should I add a flex additive to the paint?
A: Yes-flex agents let the coating bend with the part, preventing cracks. (Reddit)

Q: Which is better, ABS or polyurethane replacements?
A: Polyurethane bends more before breaking, but ABS is simpler to sand and paint. Choose based on local climate and budget. (theengineblock.com, knowledgecenter.mearthane.com)

Q: Will a 1990 filler fit my 1985 Caprice?
A: No-the 1980-85 box-body uses an earlier design; 1986-90 fillers are longer and shaped to match the composite-headlamp header panel. (ChevyTalk)

Q: How tight should I torque the bumper bolts after re-install?
A: Around 38 ft-lb is typical for GM full-size cars of this era. Always check a factory service guide. (Chevy Bolt)

Q: Does replacing the filler affect crash safety?
A: A secure filler keeps the bumper absorber clean, so the bumper crushes as designed at low speeds. (Fender Bender)

Q: Can I 3D-print a custom filler?
A: Yes-PETG or ASA filament holds up better to sunlight than PLA, but must be sanded smooth before primer. (EEVblog)

Q: How long does a new filler last?
A: With UV protectant and regular washing, modern ABS or PU fillers can last 10-15 years in most climates. (Larte Design)

Q: Where do I find exact color codes to match my Caprice?
A: The GM paint code label is on the trunk lid or glove box; give that code to a paint supplier for a perfect match. (JTAPE)

Q: Is it worth upgrading to chrome delete fillers?
A: If you prefer a sporty or police style, painting fillers satin black is a cheap visual update that many owners like. (YouTube)

By understanding what bumper fillers do, how they wear out, and how to replace or upgrade them, you can keep your Chevrolet Caprice looking sharp and protected for years to come.