Expert: Gary - 12/30/2008

Question
Hi - I backed into my son's volvo and dented the front fender slightly just above the wheel. There is no paint damage and the area is about 6 inches square.  I took it to a body shop who estimated filling in the dent and doing the best possible paint job, i.e. blending into hood and door adjacent panels.  Is all that blending into adjacent panels really necessary?  Can't they just blend the one panel?  I did not get the ins. co. involved because I opted for a high deductible.  Tech said the panel would not match if not blended into adjacent panels.  This is a college kids car, 2004 silver volvo.  What do you think???

Answer
Hi Julie,

Judging by the description you have given me there is no reason to blend adjacent panels. The color should be close enough to just blend around the actual damage and clear-coat the fender. The best advice I can give you is take it to several shops and get estimates. Ask lots of question about how they will do the repair. Make sure most all shops are doing the same basic work for the most accurate quote. It sounds as if this particular shop is trying to take you for a ride. However, this is just my opinion. Good Luck!