Expert: William Forster - 5/22/2007

Question
I realize estimates are just that..estimates but why such differences..?  i got 2 estimates from 2 diff local shops. I hit a deer.  dmg to my front bumper and hood, lights.  fenders good.  i have a 98 toyota 4runner.  1 estimate was for 1500 and the other for 1900,  as far as i can tell 1 estimate has to blend the rt and lt fenders and the other does not.  i do not carry comprehensive coverage so this is coming out of my pocket.   is it nescessary to blend these fenders?  If i don't will it look bad.?  color veh is white.  
thanks.  

Answer
Rob, if cost is the number one priority, go with the cheap estimate. If you want it done right, have the fenders blended. Ask the lower priced shop if the price includes blending. That shop may be a little slow, and just wrote a cut priced estimate to try to land the job. The hood will look okay without blending the fenders, but you will be happier if they are blended out. Bill