Expert: Ernie - 1/13/2007

Question
My wife backed into our 2001 Subaru Forester and creased the front fender.  After getting a shop estimate, I opted for a DIY repair and obtained a replacement fender.  Installation looks pretty straight foreward, but I would like some advice on painting.  I was thinking of just bringing the fender into a shop B4 installation for painting, but am concerned about color match and cost.  The car has several other dings and with teenage drivers will likely receive more (Why I opted for DIY out-of-pocket v. ins claim).  Any ideas on what I can do to get a closer match and avoid the expense of blending with adjoining panels.  

Answer
You didnt specify the color but unfortunately it is almost impossible to get a perfect color match without blending.I have seen some painters get really close by spending a little time tinting.My recommendation would be to take the old fender to your preferred shop with your new part and they should be able to provide an acceptable match.Your cost should be around $200 to $250.