Expert: David Caulfield - 5/31/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2006 Kia Sorento and backed into a car at a grocery store. No damage to the other car but my Kia has a softball size paint chip ( no dents ) on the rear bumper, how can this be repaired without replacing the entire bumper?

ANSWER: Tom, a good bodyshop can repair the damage if replacement is not needed by repairing the damage traditionally or by them sending your bumper cover to a bumper reconditioning company. Reconditioning is very common and 70% of all bumper repairs are done this way. Cost is between 450-1100 depending on year, make and model (not by the size of the damage). Down time is 3-5 days on repair or replace. Have them check replacement cost as well, as new may only be a few dollars more. Either way, you should be backed by a lifetime warranty. Do not go to a shop that does not warranty for a lifetime of ownership. If the urethane (plastic) bumper cover is damaged via a paint issue only, the shop will repair that area only by sanding and feathering the area smooth and then repaint the entire bumper. If your color is a metallic paint; ask the bodyshop if they can match the color. Metallics are difficult and must be matched perfectly to restore back to original condition. (assuming your car is in good condition)
Hope this helps, David

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: How hard is it to take this bumper off and have it fixed. Can`t have any down time to vehicle.  (The only work car I have.)

Answer
Have the shop give price for new or an exchange bumper. If you like price, have them order the part and call you to come in when it arrives. Drive by the shop to have them match the color (few minutes). Have them paint the cover and call you when its done. If this works, you have 1005 chance the bumper can be switched out while you wait. Aprrox time is 1 hour.

If you remove yourself, I do not have a guide in front of me to tell you how to remove. You will not save any money in the long run doing it yourself. Share your schedule with a good shop; i assure you they will help. Thanks Tom, David
www.fixauto.com to find a Fix Auto collision shop. Good people.