Question
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Hi Dave,
I hope you can give me some good insight/advice here. My roommate was backing out of the driveway when he accidentally backed into my parked car. He's offering to cover the damage, and says he knows a guy who can work on the dent, but I wonder if I should also get it checked out to make sure nothing is wrong with the car, such as the frame, etc. He struck near the gas tank, and I wonder if something could be damaged there that is unseen. Is taking the car to the dealership a good idea? About how much would the repairs be?
AnswerHi Michelle!....Thank you for the pictures, as they definitely help me out. First off, and most importantly, I can guarantee that there will be NO frame damage or structural damage done to your vehicle whatsoever. The impact is much too high and minor, for any type of frame or structural damage to occur. In regards to any hidden damage, in my opinion, it would be unlikely to have occurred as well, for the same reason. As for taking your vehicle to the Dealership, it is honestly a matter of personal preference, but there are benefits to doing so. Dealerships provide on going training for their technicians, their staff are fully versed on any problems/recalls/updated information, parts are original equipment (OEM), and they know their vehicle product and components better than anyone else. That being said, there is absolutely nothing wrong with an Independent shop either, as some do offer additional training, can get and use OEM parts, etc.. Truth be told, the end result of the repair depends solely on the competence and skill of the Technician. My advice, is to get a written estimate from both type of shops. Have them explain to you, line by line from the estimate, what steps are involved in the repair. Also, if they have a lifetime or limited Guarantee, supply loaner vehicles if you need one, and have them answer any other questions or concerns you have. That way, you can determine who you feel most comfortable leaving your vehicle with for repairs. In regards to cost for the damage, and judging from the pictures, my estimate would be around $1500 Dollars.....Hope I have helped you out. If you have any other questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to write me back....Thanks....Dave
