Question
DamagedMystiqueBumper
Hello Mr. Forster,
Thanks for reviewing my question. Recently my 1999 Mercury Mystique was struck in the rear bumper by another passenger vehicle traveling about 30 mph. Most of the damage seems isolated to the rear bumper, with some surface scratches on the side fenders. I have gotten three estimates, but am concerned because all body shops say they want to replace the bumper cover with a salvaged one. The bumper appears to me to have been "bumped out" and, with the exception of some cosmetic blemishes, is in otherwise usable condition. It is not cracked or broken in any location that I can see. I am including a picture of this to better assist you. Please assist me with these two questions:
1. Why would the bumper cover need to be replaced if it could be sanded and refinished, then reused?
2. I would like any old parts returned to me. Is there any non-warranty situation with a body shop in which this would not be possible?
Thank you for your assistance.
AnswerAl, you are not a bodyman, and therefore not qualified to make judgements upon the repairability of the bumber. Bumpers are plastic- they warp, dent, crack (not all cracks go through- some are spider cracks, and cannot be easily fixed) and distort. If all 3 shops say they want to replace it- it needs replaced. Simply tell the shop you want the old bumper, and they will surely be glad to have you pay to dispose of it for them.
