Expert: John Scharnhorst - 5/4/2007

Question
Hi there.  I noticed when I returned home from NYC, after leaving my car in a parking garage, that the back bumper was damaged.  The scratch looks like the end of the bumper scrapped against a brick/cement wall.  After buffing/compounding it myself it looks better but the scratch is deep- down to the gray plastic.  I called the garage when I got home and they said they are not responsible once I leave..and that they don't cover bumper damage.  I was looking for the best/cheapest fix... should I buy touch up paint for a do-it-yourself or take it somewhere?  I am also curious about the costs associated with the two options.  Thanks!!

Answer
It's going to depend on the severity of the scratches. You could start by taking the car to a detailer to see if they can be buffed out and/or touched up. If those two options don't provide satisfactory results then you'll need to take the car to a body shop. I would recommend getting 3 or so estimates from several different shops. Ask them about cost saving options like "spotting" the damaged section instead of removing and repainting the entire bumper. Without seeing the damage or knowing what kind of car you have I can't advise you on whether those options would be available or advisable for that matter, but if you ask, they should let you know if it's possible and whether it's an advisable method considering all the factors.