Savings $ on bumper repairs

[John Ranalletta]

We have a habit of running into things like the garage door frame, the GS' engine guards, etc.  Each time it's taken for repair/paint, it's a $1k adventure as the entire valence is removed, the repair effected and the entire valence repainted.  My body shop guy does excellent work, however...

 

The last few dings and scrapes just didn't warrant the expense.  I bought a tube of Plio bond from a local auto paint supply store, a can bondo primer, a can of clearcoat and a can of BMW matched paint.  All together about $100.  I've made two repairs.  They're not perfect but good enough for an 8 y/o car.  Granted, I can't pull and straighten a metal body panel, but the valences are pretty simple.

 

When I've accumulated a half dozen or so dings, it'll go to the body shop. The discolorations in the photo are shadows and white marks are dirt.

 

[wbw6cos]

At that price for repair, why not buy a used one and fix it up?  Swap them out when needed, then repair, repeat.

 

Just a thought.

[John Ranalletta]

17 minutes ago, wbw6cos said:

At that price for repair, why not buy a used one and fix it up?  Swap them out when needed, then repair, repeat.

 

Just a thought.

I don't have the ability to repaint an entire valence.  Used front bumper covers (valences) run from $300 to $700 plus s&h.

 

[Hosstage]

Or, you know, quit hitting things..........

😏

I like your repairs, they look good. Nice to save some dough once in a while.