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Auto body repair & detailing/Minor paint chip on bumper $600+ repair??

Expert: Mike Potter - 1/11/2008

Question

I had a small, low speed rear end collision and was right away concerned about a false claim. Driver exclaimed "You cracked my bumper" and then told me they were trying to sell the car. I had my camera and took 6 pictures. I see a small chip of paint missing and some paint cracking (new??) on this obviously poorly repainted bumper. I do have another picture that shows the non damaged side of the bumper and you can see the poor paint job. They got 3 quotes for REPLACING the entire bumper from $600-$800. I would like to avoid insurance as it will be my rates going up, no deductible paid by other party since it was my fault. Can't we get this fixed for less money? This is crazy for a small chip of paint. Of course I would like their car fixed to be as it was before the accident but I do not want to buy them a new bumper on a 9 year old car if that can be avoided. How much should it cost to repaint? Can we just get the cracked paint repainted or does the whole bumper need repainting? The car in question is a 1999 Hyundai Accent.

Answer
The most it should cost to repair and repaint that bumper is $350.00. You are being scamed. If he repairs the bumper on the car and paints it, about $275.00. Offer him $200.00 cash and tell him if he wants more to sue you. I'll bet he takes the money. There a lot of people out there just for the quick buck and he is one of them. I've been doing this for almost 40 years, I have seen a lot.

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 10	Politeness = 10
Comment	Thank you very much Mike as I am being pressured for an immediate response! Your expert advice is much appreciated. : )