Auto Insurance Claims: minor damage/matching paint, swirl marks, old paint

Question
I have an older Volkswagon that we use as a second vehicle. I was hit in the passenger side quarter panel (not at fault). Due to the cars age (1992) the paint is very faded. When the damage is repaired I would imagine the paint will not match the rest of the vehicle. Could I be entitled to getting the entire car re painted?

Answer
Hi Mike,

The insurance company is only required to pay to paint the areas of the vehicle that were damaged and required repair. A good body shop should be able to match the paint. Not just the paint color based on the color code on your car but they should also tint the color to match the current faded color. With the computerized paint mixing systems available today they should be able to match the color to your satisfaction. Even with a very good color match, you will still be able to see the difference. The new paint will look brand new where as the old paint will have scratches and swirl marks that the new paint will not. You may want to ask the shop to buff your entire vehicle to reduce the difference in appearance. You may have to pay for this your self though, the insurance company will likely not pay for it since the vehicle is so old.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh