Negotiate a consumer favorable lemon law into any new car deal or lease. Remember that anything in writing by the dealer is likely not worth the paper its written on, as consumers usually are on their own in enforcing lemon laws and warranty issues after sale. Use the value of your consumership in leveraging a better lemon law that likely is on the books in your state. Consumers have a reasonable right to expect that a product marketed for personal transport will operate as intended. If it doesn't, then it should be repaired or replaced by the dealer or manufacturer, no questions asked.
Cheap bumpers are another way for manufacturers to pass hidden costs downhill to consumers.
A little extra in bumper reinforcement and protection would save consumers considerably in lower insurance premiums and deductible expenditures for major damage caused from minor impacts. See related CARveat Emptor pages and other informational references and resources for additional information which may assist you in thinking about lemon-proofing the Great American Car Deal. Generally, lemon laws only apply during the warranty period of the vehicle, and require the vehicle to be unserviceable for a specific period of time before replacement or other settlement is required. Even when the requirements of the lemon law are evident, it may be difficult to obtain replacement or settlement from some dealers or manufacturers. Consider writing a letter to your local, state and national government representatives demanding stronger lemon laws and comprehensive auto consumer protection legislation.