We don't do estimates here since we can't see the damage, and there's too many variables. Every body shop has people trained in providing written estimates. For a lot of repairs, they use a "flat rate" guide that spells out how much time and materials a job should take, then the biggest variable is their hourly shop rate. When they go by flat rate, you get charged the time stated, even if a really experienced and efficient specialist gets the job done in less time, and you do not get charged for more time if something goes wrong and they have to do it all over. Mostly that applies to painting when the color doesn't match or they get runs in it.
Some shops still have people who are real good at pounding out dents. That is an art form in itself. To save you money for their time, most will just fill in small dents, but then they still have to do a lot of careful sanding so it doesn't show through the coats of paint and clear. Taking out dents also requires more time for removing interior trim panels and any hardware that's in the way.
If you get estimates from two or more shops, be sure they're expecting to do the same work when you compare them. For example, it is unlikely your rear hatch needs to be replaced, but if it did, one shop might want to use a good used one from a salvage yard to save you money on parts, and another shop might want to use a brand new one from the dealer to save you money on refinishing / painting. Insurance companies put a premium on saving on their cost of parts, so they'll specify an aftermarket body panel, even though it usually takes more labor time to make it fit. Color is another big variable. It is not uncommon for a gallon of paint to cost over $500.00. Red is especially expensive. Expensive additives are needed when the paint must be made flexible, such as for plastic bumper covers.
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Saturday, June 6th, 2020 AT 8:35 PM
