Preventing chips on front bumper from getting bigger

[Seadweller]

It really depends a several factors. There's really not an attractive way to stop the flaking. I've seen folks apply the 3M clear film before, but it's not a long-term fix.

Regarding the cost of repainting, if you can remove the front bumper cover yourself, you'll save a lot of money. If you just want an average fix, take it to one of the national chains. If you want a quality job, take it to a well known independent shop. Painting could range from $200 - $600 I would think, depending on the shop and quality of labor/materials.

[78F350]

I pretty much concur with Seadweller. The cost to repaint will vary a bit, but here, its $300-$500 depending on how much prep is needed and how much you shop around.
On one of my old Hondas, I feathered the clear coat back and resprayed it. It looked good from about 10 feet and was starting to peel again in about 6 months. Keep in mind that if you try to mend it yourself, you could end up making it more work for a pro to refinish later.

[Slate 01]

Not much to do except a respray.

I cringed when you menitoned taking it thru a car wash, I would never recommend taking any car, other than a beat up thing, thru any car wash, okay a hand car wash would be acceptable, but machines Over My Dead Body/