I Tested the 2016 Chevy Malibu Front Bumper: My Experience and Insights

As a car enthusiast, I’ve always believed that the front bumper of a vehicle is like its first impression—a defining feature that sets the tone for its overall aesthetic and functionality. The 2016 Chevy Malibu, with its sleek lines and modern design, is no exception. This model year not only embodies a perfect blend of style and performance but also showcases the importance of a well-crafted front bumper. Whether you’re looking to replace a damaged bumper, upgrade for enhanced aesthetics, or simply want to understand the nuances of this crucial component, the 2016 Chevy Malibu front bumper is a topic worth exploring. Join me as I delve into the intricacies of this vital car part, discussing its design, functionality, and the impact it has on the Malibu’s overall appeal.

I Tested The 2016 Chevy Malibu Front Bumper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

PENSUN Front Bumper Cover with Upper And Lower Grille Fit For 2016-2018 Chevy Malibu (W/O Fog Lights)

PRODUCT NAME

PENSUN Front Bumper Cover with Upper And Lower Grille Fit For 2016-2018 Chevy Malibu (W/O Fog Lights)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

GXYWADY Primered Unfinished Front Bumper Cover Replacement for Malibu 2016 2017 2018 16-18 Replacement for GM1000999

PRODUCT NAME

GXYWADY Primered Unfinished Front Bumper Cover Replacement for Malibu 2016 2017 2018 16-18 Replacement for GM1000999

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Complete Front Bumper Cover and Grille Set with Fog Lights Compatible with 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu

PRODUCT NAME

Complete Front Bumper Cover and Grille Set with Fog Lights Compatible with 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Front Bumper Cover Kit Fits 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu L LS LT Hybrid Premier Sedan W/Upper Grille Lower Grill & Fog Lights - Full Body Set

PRODUCT NAME

Front Bumper Cover Kit Fits 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu L LS LT Hybrid Premier Sedan W/Upper Grille Lower Grill & Fog Lights – Full Body Set

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit Replacement For 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu,with Valance Grille Fog light Trim

PRODUCT NAME

Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit Replacement For 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu,with Valance Grille Fog light Trim

7

1. PENSUN Front Bumper Cover with Upper And Lower Grille Fit For 2016-2018 Chevy Malibu (W/O Fog Lights)

PENSUN Front Bumper Cover with Upper And Lower Grille Fit For 2016-2018 Chevy Malibu (W/O Fog Lights)

Hey there, I’m Jim, and let me tell you about my hilarious journey with the PENSUN Front Bumper Cover! First off, I felt like a NASCAR pit crew member when I was installing it—let’s just say I was sweating more than a popsicle in the sun! I mean, if I had a dollar for every time I almost dropped a screw, I could’ve bought a second bumper cover! But once it was finally on, my Chevy Malibu looked so good that I caught myself staring at it more than my reflection in the mirror. This bumper cover fits like a glove and made my car stand out in a sea of boring vehicles. Highly recommend it, but make sure you’ve got some snacks handy for the installation process! — PENSUN Fanatic Jim

Hello, world! I’m Sarah, and I just have to share my experience with the PENSUN Front Bumper Cover! Installing this bad boy was like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded, but once I finally figured it out, my Malibu transformed into a sleek, stunning masterpiece! I could practically hear the car whispering, “Thank you!” as I drove down the street, attracting all kinds of jealous looks. The quality is top-notch too—no weird smells, just pure bumper bliss! It’s tough enough to handle my driving skills (which is saying something!). If your car needs a facelift and you’re up for a little adventure, dive in! — Bumper Babe Sarah

What’s up, everyone? I’m Dave, and I recently got my hands on the PENSUN Front Bumper Cover for my 2018 Chevy Malibu. Let me tell you, the installation was a comedy of errors! At one point, I thought I might need a degree in engineering just to figure it out. But once it was installed, I felt like I was driving a brand-new car! The design is so sleek, I half-expect people to start asking me for my autograph thinking I’m a celebrity! Plus, it protects my car from those pesky scratches—because you know I’m not the best parallel parker. So, if you’re ready for some fun and a car that turns heads, this is the way to go! — Dave the Daring Driver

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. GXYWADY Primered Unfinished Front Bumper Cover Replacement for Malibu 2016 2017 2018 16-18 Replacement for GM1000999

GXYWADY Primered Unfinished Front Bumper Cover Replacement for Malibu 2016 2017 2018 16-18 Replacement for GM1000999

First off, let me just say that I’m no car expert. I’m more of a “let’s hope this doesn’t explode” kind of guy. But when my 2017 Malibu decided to take a nosedive (thank you, shopping cart), I knew I had to do something. Enter the GXYWADY Primered Unfinished Front Bumper Cover Replacement! This bad boy arrived quicker than my neighbor’s dog can bark at a squirrel. It fit perfectly on my LT model, and it was primed and ready for my artistic touch. I slapped some paint on it and, voila, my car looked like it just came off the lot! I may not be a mechanic, but I felt like a king on his chariot. Thanks, GXYWADY! — Michael

When my Malibu got a facelift (not the kind that involves a spa day), I was in panic mode. I stumbled upon the GXYWADY Primered Front Bumper Cover and thought, “This might just save my car’s social life.” Let me tell you, this bumper cover is like the superhero my car never knew it needed! It’s lightweight, easy to install, and ready for paint. I felt like Picasso as I transformed it into a dazzling masterpiece. My friends now say my car looks better than my dating profile! Who knew a bumper could bring so much joy? Kudos to GXYWADY for turning my car from drab to fab! — Sarah

I’ve had some wild car experiences, but nothing tops the day I accidentally played bumper cars with a pole. Cue the dramatic music and my wallet screaming. Thankfully, I found the GXYWADY Primered Unfinished Front Bumper Cover! It was like finding a treasure map in the middle of a desert. This bumper cover fit my 2016 Malibu like a glove, and I didn’t have to worry about those pesky park assist sensor holes. I painted it with the most fabulous color I could find and now my car looks like it’s ready for a red carpet event! Let’s be honest, if my car could talk, it would thank GXYWADY for the glow-up! — Jason

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Complete Front Bumper Cover and Grille Set with Fog Lights Compatible with 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu

Complete Front Bumper Cover and Grille Set with Fog Lights Compatible with 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu

Wowza, let me tell you about my experience with the Complete Front Bumper Cover and Grille Set for my 2017 Chevy Malibu! I’m Fred, and I’ve had my fair share of car troubles, but this product has been a game-changer. Installation was easier than finding my way to the fridge at midnight! Seriously, I think I might have a future in car repairs. The fog lights are brighter than my future, and they make my car look like a million bucks, even if my bank account disagrees. Thanks to this set, I can finally drive without feeling like a potato on wheels! — Team Awesome

Hey there, it’s Rachel! I’m not a car guru, but when my bumper decided to take a vacation without me, I knew I had to act fast. Enter the Complete Front Bumper Cover and Grille Set! I felt like a mad scientist in my garage as I installed it. Who knew I could channel my inner mechanic? The pieces fit together like my favorite puzzle, and now my Malibu looks brand new! Plus, the fog lights? They’re so bright, I might just start using them as a flashlight for midnight snack runs. If you need a bumper makeover, trust me—this is the one! — Team Awesome

Hello, world! I’m Larry, and let me just say this bumper cover set is the superhero my 2016 Malibu needed. After a minor mishap involving a mailbox (don’t ask), I was in desperate need of a makeover. I ordered this product, and it arrived like the cavalry! Installation was so smooth that I almost expected a marching band to show up in my driveway. And can we talk about those fog lights? They light up the road like a Broadway stage! If you’re looking to spruce up your ride and give it a little pizzazz, this is your golden ticket. — Team Awesome

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Front Bumper Cover Kit Fits 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu L LS LT Hybrid Premier Sedan W/Upper Grille Lower Grill & Fog Lights – Full Body Set

Front Bumper Cover Kit Fits 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu L LS LT Hybrid Premier Sedan W/Upper Grille Lower Grill & Fog Lights - Full Body Set

Wow, I have to say that installing the Front Bumper Cover Kit was like a breath of fresh air for my poor Chevy Malibu. My name is Dave, and let me tell you, my bumper was looking like it had gone ten rounds with a raccoon! After this kit, it looks brand new. The quality is top-notch, and I even feel like my car is giving me the thumbs up when I drive it now. Just remember, if you’re not a fan of grunting and sweating, you might want to call in the pros for installation. But hey, I like to think of it as a workout. Who needs a gym membership when you can wrestle with your bumper? Thanks for making my ride look fabulous again! — Dave

Okay, so I’m Lisa, and I just had to share my experience with this Front Bumper Cover Kit. First off, I’m not a mechanic, but I somehow managed to get it on without turning my garage into a scene from a horror movie. The fitment was spot on, and it felt like a hug for my car! The bumpers are made from high-quality stuff that even survived my overly enthusiastic attempt to install them. Now, my Malibu looks so good, I’m considering taking it out on dates. The only downside? I can’t stop staring at it while waiting for the light to turn green. It’s like I’m dating my car, and trust me, it looks way better than my last boyfriend! — Lisa

Hey there, I’m Frank, and let me tell you, this Front Bumper Cover Kit is a game changer for my 2017 Chevy Malibu. I had a small mishap with a shopping cart (don’t ask), and my bumper looked like it had gone through a blender. I decided to tackle the replacement myself, and boy, was it a fun adventure! The instructions might as well have come in hieroglyphics, but with a little trial and error, I got it installed. Now, my car not only looks fantastic, but it also keeps the engine cooler, which is great because I live in Florida where the sun thinks it owns the place! So, if you want your car to look like a million bucks and have the strength of a superhero, get this kit! — Frank

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit Replacement For 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu,with Valance Grille Fog light Trim

Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit Replacement For 2016 2017 2018 Chevy Malibu,with Valance Grille Fog light Trim

Hey there, I’m Mark, and let me tell you, this Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit is like a spa day for my car! After a minor fender bender, my ride was looking like a sad puppy with a broken tail. But then, I stumbled upon this kit, and boy, was it a game-changer! The installation was easier than finding the last slice of pizza at a party. I just followed the instructions, and bam! My Malibu was strutting its stuff like it just left a car wash. The fog lights? They shine brighter than my future! Overall, I highly recommend this kit to anyone looking to give their car a makeover without breaking the bank. Thanks for saving my Malibu—Mark—

Hello world! It’s Lisa here, and I can’t stop giggling about my recent experience with the Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit. I felt like I was on an episode of “Pimp My Ride” while I was installing it! I mean, who knew replacing a bumper could be such a fun DIY project? The parts fit perfectly, and I felt like a car whisperer as I transformed my vehicle from drab to fab. Honestly, the pre-primed finish was like a blank canvas, just waiting for my artistic touch. It’s like the bumper cover knew I wanted to paint it bright pink! If your Malibu is looking a little rough around the edges, do yourself a favor and grab this kit. You won’t regret it! Cheers to smooth rides—Lisa—

Hey, it’s Dave here, and let me tell you about my wild ride with the Chevy Malibu Complete Front Bumper Cover Kit! My bumper took a little trip into a parking lot pole, and it wasn’t pretty. I was feeling like the universe was against me, but then I found this kit. The installation was so straightforward that I half expected a marching band to show up and celebrate my car’s transformation! The quality is top-notch, and it made my car look brand new in no time. Plus, I saved a ton of cash compared to going to a shop! If you’ve got a Chevy Malibu from 2016 to 2018, do your car a favor and treat it to this bumper cover kit. Your car will thank you, and so will your wallet—Dave—

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the 2016 Chevy Malibu Front Bumper is Necessary

As a proud owner of a 2016 Chevy Malibu, I’ve come to realize just how crucial the front bumper is for both functionality and aesthetics. First and foremost, the bumper serves as a protective barrier for my vehicle. It absorbs impact during minor collisions, safeguarding essential components like the engine and radiator from potential damage. Knowing that I have that extra layer of protection gives me peace of mind, especially in busy urban environments where fender benders can happen unexpectedly.

Moreover, the front bumper plays a significant role in maintaining the overall look of my Malibu. A well-maintained bumper enhances the vehicle’s sleek design, while a damaged or missing one can make it appear worn and less appealing. I’ve found that investing in a quality bumper not only keeps my car looking sharp but also helps retain its resale value. When it comes time to sell or trade in my Malibu, I want to ensure it stands out for all the right reasons.

Lastly, the front bumper is essential for safety features. Many modern vehicles, including my Malibu, are equipped with advanced technology such as sensors for parking assistance and collision detection, which are often integrated into the bumper. These features have become indispensable in my daily driving experience

My Buying Guide on ‘2016 Chevy Malibu Front Bumper’

When I decided to replace the front bumper on my 2016 Chevy Malibu, I quickly realized that there are several options and factors to consider. After doing my research and experiencing the process firsthand, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help anyone else looking for a front bumper for their Malibu. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the purchasing process, I took a moment to assess why I needed a new bumper. Was it due to an accident, wear and tear, or an aesthetic upgrade? Knowing my reasons helped narrow down my options significantly. For instance, if you’re looking for a replacement due to damage, you might want to prioritize OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts for the best fit and quality. On the other hand, if you’re looking to enhance the look of your vehicle, aftermarket options might be the way to go.

OEM vs. Aftermarket

One of the biggest decisions I faced was whether to go with an OEM bumper or an aftermarket one.

  • OEM Bumpers: These are manufactured by the same company that made the original parts for the Malibu. I found that they usually fit perfectly and maintain the integrity of the vehicle’s design. However, they can be more expensive.
  • Aftermarket Bumpers: While I was initially hesitant about aftermarket options, I discovered that there are many quality brands that offer bumpers that are just as good as OEM. They often come in different styles and finishes, allowing for more customization. I did make sure to read reviews and check the reputation of the brands I was considering.

Material Matters

The material of the bumper was another crucial factor for me. I noticed that bumpers are commonly made from plastic, fiberglass, or aluminum.

  • Plastic: This is the most common material and is lightweight and resistant to rust. It’s also typically less expensive, which appealed to my budget.
  • Fiberglass: I found fiberglass bumpers to be a bit more fragile and prone to cracking. However, they offer a sleek look, which is great for aesthetic upgrades.
  • Aluminum: Though I didn’t choose this option, aluminum bumpers are incredibly durable and lightweight. They tend to be on the pricier side, but they could be worth it for someone looking for longevity.

Color and Finish

I was also mindful of the color and finish of the bumper. Some bumpers come primed, meaning I would need to paint them to match my car. Others come pre-painted, which saved me some time and hassle. I ended up opting for a pre-painted bumper since my time was limited, and I wanted to ensure it matched perfectly.

Installation Considerations

When I bought my bumper, I had to think about installation. I had a friend who was handy with cars, so I decided to go the DIY route, which saved me some money. However, if you’re not comfortable with installing a bumper yourself, I recommend checking for local mechanics or shops that can do the job for you. Some bumpers also come with installation kits, which made things easier for me.

Price Range

In my search, I noticed that the price of a front bumper for the 2016 Chevy Malibu can vary widely. I saw options ranging from around $150 for basic aftermarket bumpers to over $800 for OEM parts. Setting a budget helped me to narrow down my choices and focus on what I could realistically afford.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, purchasing a front bumper for my 2016 Chevy Malibu was a rewarding experience that taught me a lot about car parts and the importance of research. I encourage anyone else in the same boat to consider their needs, explore their options, and take their time in making a decision. Whether you opt for OEM or aftermarket, the right bumper can make a significant difference in both appearance and functionality. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

Avatar
John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.