So my car got hit in the parking lot yesterday, the guy came and found me and told me what happened (turns out, he's in my platoon. Go figure), it's not bad, just some places on the rear bumper and cracked the tail light. I told him I wouldn't file an insurance claim about it, but that he was going to pay to get it fixed. My question is this: would it be better to take it to the dealership, or would it be safe to take it to a shop? I'm not paying for it, so money isn't really an object. I've never had to have body/paint work done on a car, so I'm asking what would yall do if it was your car? Thanks guys.

 

Ask a hand full of local people what body shop they recommend. Which ever gets the most votes, go there and get a quote. Ask them if you can take a look at some of their finished work so you can get an idea of how it comes out.

 

yes ask around for the best body shop that people where happy with.

ask to see finished work, inspect for paint edges, overspray, dirt in the paint, sand scratches under clear, dry paint (alot of orange peel with big gaps) unfinished edges.
warranty. make sure its at least 3 years i would say but lifetime is ideal, any good shop should offer a lifetime warranty as that will mean they use a quality paint

also so your friend is prepared.


i am an auto body appraiser and just did a very rough figure for you

full legit job should be between 650-800.

depending on shop. i figured in for 2 hours repair as i cannot see bumper. but make sure you friend is prepared to pay min $500. also if he reports to his insurance there is a good chance his rates will not raise if the insurance does not have to pay out more than X amount usually $1-1500. have him call and ask his agent. and then that way he will have no out of pocket expense either.

 

If money ain't an issue, then look for a well known local body shop that other people and insurance companies recommend.

 

I would take it to the best shop you can find, also. Thing is, they'll charge a lot more for the quality work they do. Your buddy was nice enough to tell you he did this. If it were my baby, I might ask him to just pay up to what the dealership would charge (which will be less) if the difference is significant. Depends on how close you guys are.