Expert: John Scharnhorst - 5/24/2007

Question
I just turned in a Honda Pilot lease and received a $500 charge to repair a credit card-sized scrape on the rear bumper. There is no damage to the plastic, only the paint. It's a metallic tan color. My question is, does that sound like a reasonable charge? I'm assuming they are spraying the entire bumper for that amount. Could it be spot-sprayed for less?  

Answer
$500.00 is a reasonable charge for overhauling and repainting the bumper. They will not do that, they will pay $50 to have it spotted and put it on the used car lot as "certified". Yes, you got screwed. In the future fix the damage before you turn the car in.