Completefitness

My 2001 ml 55 has aquired a smash to the plastic piece that runs across the bottom of the tailgate under the license plate from side to side. The dealer said it costs a 1000 plus. After my heart attack I thought I'd ask for suggestions from anyone out there.
Also the car only has 37,000 miles but the headlight lens are getting sun stroked, any ideas and is it something I can replace with my pretty good skills?