Expert: Gary - 7/11/2008

Question
I recently had damage to the front right fender of my 2007 Chrysler Town & Country and had van repaired.  The shop assured me that only OEM parts would be used.  This is my first experience with body repair and my question is if an OEM fender was used shouldn't it match up EXACTLY like before?  The fender is properly aligned (not crooked) but the gap between fender and hood is greater than it was originally and bigger then the the other side.  The fender also seems to be a bit longer than the original and the front tip is not flush with hood (as on other side).  My guess is that if they attempt close gap it will probably mess up the gap at the door.  Am I expecting too much or should I just accept that this is the best that can be done?

Answer
Hi Ray,

If the gaps don't match up you either have a problem with the actual part or the mounting holes are out of alignment. It could have some damage to the rad. support or some other support structure that is causing the misalignment. I would definitely take it back to the shop and make the owner/manager aware of the problem. He/She may have never looked at the vehicle after it was "finished". They have the responsibility to make it look as close to preaccident condition as they can. If it can't be made to look like preaccident condition it would have be totaled by the insurance company. Good luck with it.