Auto body repair & detailing/body refinishing

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Expert: William Forster - 7/24/2006


Question
I had a minor parking accident with my two week old GM car which removed the paint on the back door. The GM dealer quoted $1000 to refinish, including minor dent, but a second quote from a well recommended repair shop was only $500. Are there special techniques available to large GM dealers that might not be available to a private car repair shop, that would jusify the large price difference?

Answer
If you like the work of the cheaper shop, then take it to them. GM may have quoted  a price that included removing door handles, body side moldings, and the belt strips. This costs more, but the repair is nicer, and lasts longer. This is important with a new car. Maybe the other shop is low on work, and wants the job more than the GM shop. It's hard to say. Bill  

Auto body repair & detailing

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William Forster

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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.

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Just about every major insurance company in NW Ohio

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