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This paper summarizes an ongoing effort to develop a computer-aided engineering methodology for the design and analysis of automotive bumper systems. The barrier impact of a bumper system was studied in detail to validate the analysis procedure. Several different finite element analysis procedures were compared and evaluated based on available experimental data. The results showed that a successful finite element analysis of an automotive bumper system should be based on the following basic assumptions: a) Transient dynamic approach is necessary to simulate the impact response of the bumper system; b) Elasto-plastic material properties are necessary to model the permanent deformations and plastic damping effects; c) Large deformation shell theory should be adopted to describe the thin-walled open section of the bumper structure.