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Auto body repair & detailing/Rear Bumper Replacement Estimate

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Expert: William Forster - 8/6/2008


Question

Estimate
I recently rear ended a 2002 VW Jetta.  I was not going very fast, as we were stopped at a stop light, and I accelerated because I thought the light had turned green.  We agreed that to settle this without any insurance companies, since my deductible is pretty high, and it looked to be only a small dent and a few scratches. My car had no damage at all. I recieved the attached estimate from the owner saying they need a new bumper cover and that it would cost almost $1300!!  Is this reasonable?? Does it really cost $97/hour to paint a car?? They also sent over another estimate which totalled to $1500 as it included replacing right and left absorbers??  This just seems ridiculous to me.  Any knowledge would be very very useful.  Thanks!

Answer
Call a couple local body shops and compare labor rates, their lbor rate seems really high- but I don't live in California. If it's withis a few bucks of the rate on this estimate, either turn it in to your insurance, or pay the bill. The parts and labor times seem totally in line to me. Bill

William Forster

Expertise

22 year veteran, 2 years of vocational training. A.S.E. certified Master collision repair/refinish technician. I-CAR certified. 17 yrs. GM experience. I can answer most questions related to automotive body repairs, ranging from small scratch repairs all the way up to the most extensive collision repairs. I can expertly advise people on what to expect from their body shop experience, right down to what self repairs should, and should not, be done. Lastly, I can advise tricks and tips for classic car restoration, such as lead repairs. SORRY, I DO NOT DO ONLINE ESTIMATES OR GIVE PARTS PRICES!! BE PREPARED FOR THE CORRECT ANSWER- NOT THE ONE YOU WANT TO HEAR. I won't B.S. you, or sugar coat answers. Just plain, hard facts.

Experience


Past/Present Clients
Just about every major insurance company in NW Ohio

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