Expert: Mark Haben - 10/11/2006

Question
Hi there. This AM I did the stupidest thing and rear ended the back of a scion (I'm pretty sure it was an Xa). NO major damage was caused, but the bolt of my license plate made an imprint of itself in her bumper. It basically pushed itself in there without actually puncturing the metal. My question is, will a body shop have to completely replace teh bumper or can they just fill it with something and achieve the same result (as if nothing ever happened)? THanks so much!!!

Answer
Melissa,

I have seen this a thousand times! The damage is easily repaired. The shop can repair the cover and refinish it, as long as there is no more significant damage than that. There still may be a significant expense however, a simple bumper cover repair can range from 300-500 dollars. It depends on the shop and the methods of repair, warranty etc. See my earlier response to a similar bumper cover question. Remember, these covers are plastic! Good luck.
Mark