a bumper system includes a tubular beam with flattened end sections , and further includes an energy absorber having a rear recess mateably receiving the tubular beam in a nested relationship , with the recess also including flat mating surfaces engaging the flattened end sections . mounts engage a rear of the flattened end sections , and fasteners secure the tubular beam and energy absorber to the mounts . in one modified bumper system , corner sections on the energy absorber are shaped to slidingly engage a side surface of the mount and simultaneously an end of the beam upon corner impact of the vehicle . in another modified bumper system , offset ends of the tubular beam fit into a recess in an energy absorber , with its center section being between vehicle mounts .