Ask The Wizard

Dear Wizard of 'OZ',

What is the purpose of those black covers I see on some cars front ends?


Signed,
Curious

Dear Curious,

It is called a "bra". Comes from "Steinschlagshutzshulle" - literally Stone/Strike Shield.

A front-end bra (car bra, front-end mask, hood bra, auto bra, hood mask, or car mask) is a stretchy type of vinyl (usually black) that attaches to the front of a car or other vehicle to protect the bumper, hood, and sides of the fender from scratches, paint chipping, and other minor damage from rocks, gravel, and other road debris. The bottom side of the bra is lined with a feltlike material.

Bill Colgan, founder of Colgan Custom Manufacturing, Inc. successfully operated a trim and upholstery business in Burbank, California for fifteen years prior to creating the car bra business. The "Original Car Bra" was invented in 1961 when three German engineers from Lockheed walked into Bill's upholstery shop, asking Colgan if he could redesign a protective covering cover for their personal Porsche vehicles. The very first pattern was for the Porsche 356. The pattern Colgan designed was the creation of the one-piece "Original Car Bra."

Do not allow dust or dirt to accumulate under the bra. These accumulations can damage the paint on the vehicle. Remove the Bra every two weeks, and if needed, wash both the vehicle and the Front End Cover. Do not the leave the Bra on the vehicle when washing. Soap may become trapped between the fabric and painted surface and may cause damage. To further protect your vehicle’s finish, wax as often as needed.

Personally, I only use it for longer hi-way trips where bugs and stones may be an issue. It will ruin the paint if you leave it on all the time (or most of the time)..

Not at all sure what the 2 roller plastic bumper thingys are for.

Hope this helps.

Yrs,

The Wizard