Adding a front bumper modification to your truck is a good plan for taking your vehicle off-road. An OEM bumper will protect your truck in a modest collision, but beyond that, it's not good for much. OEM bumpers aren't built to handle the rigors of the trail, and most cannot accommodate winches that are essential for off-road recovery. That's why the first mod off-road enthusiasts run to is an aftermarket front bumper.

If you're off-roading, you need a better bumper. But do you need a bull bar?

What is a bull bar?

A bull bar is a sturdy bar that offers high-grade protection for the entire front end, including headlights. Bull bars are made from either steel or aluminum and are made primarily to withstand collisions with animals. They are typically mounted to the vehicle's frame to offer maximum structural support.

Do you need a bull bar?

Bull bars effectively prevent expensive damage to cars and trucks that are involved in animal collisions; the presence of a bull bar can be the difference between a fender bender or a totaled vehicle. A bull bar can be a wise investment if you live in an area where deer or other animals are likely to jump out in front of you. And, if you're taking your truck off-roading regularly, a bull bar is a wise addition. They aren't infallible, though; for example, a rock thrown up from the road won't be stopped by a bull bar. But if something large is hurtling towards the front of your truck, a bull bar will stop it before it harms the more vulnerable components of your vehicle.

Are there downsides to a bull bar?

While a bull bar looks great and adds additional protection, there are a few critical downsides to consider before jumping into one. These downsides include the following:

●        Some bull bars will interfere with sensors or lights in your front bumper. For example, you may lose front parking sensors if you install a bull bar. This depends largely on the design of the bumper mod and bull bar, so be sure to ask lots of questions before you buy.

●        There is some evidence to suggest that bull bars interfere with the safety measures that are built into the vehicle. Since the bull bar absorbs so much of the force during a collision, it may prevent crash sensors from detecting the collision and deploying the airbags, putting passengers at greater risk. Put another way, your truck will survive the crash, but your passengers might not. Again, this is a conversation to have with the make of the bumper mod to make sure you have all the relevant information.

The Bottom Line

A bull bar can be a good idea for off-roaders and folks who live in rural areas. Shop carefully to make sure you get a model that protects your vehicle and your passengers.