Expert: william [bill] tuma - 8/22/2009

Question
Hi, the front bumper on my 2004 honda accord lx is shot.Needs to be replaced fully...Could you give me an estimate as to how much a new one would be, with paint job, and labor.Thank you

Answer
Dawn,without a picture its hard to tell what the actual repair involves  ie." SHOT" the basics are: bumper cover,[plastic],reinforcement,[steel or aluminum],absorber,[foam],brackets,they mount between the cars frame and the reinforcement [steel]. If all this is shot you will need a complete front bumper assembly.To save money try to locate a recycled"used" assembly in "perfect shape". To replace with new parts go to Honda dealers parts department and ask for a illustration and price quote print out. If all the above parts are damaged you will most likely have some structural misalignment that will need some professional repairs .At that point  if you can still drive the car get some estimates, not a D I Y er. HTH Bill