What Do I Do About A Damaged Fender?
Broken fenders are extremely common. Unlike many other forms of auto body damage, broken fenders are usually due to collision with inanimate objects, rather than other cars.
This can make drivers loath to use their insurance to deal with the issue. Fender repairs are also rather inexpensive. In an era of increasingly higher deductibles, it makes sense that many drivers choose to let damage to their fender go unrepaired.
Unfortunately, a damaged fender is more than an aesthetic choice. Behind the plastic casing of your fender is a complex array of shock absorption technology. When you leave a damaged fender unrepaired, you are putting yourself at risk in the case of a more serious accident. Without the fender to absorb the shock of an accident, the force is pushed further into the cabin, closer to the passengers.
For all of their importance, fenders are one of the most fragile pieces of a modern American car. They are often composed of a rather thin layer of plastic, which is prone to break upon minor collisions and even in the incidence of too many minor scrapes.
For all the ways to damage a fender, there are innumerable DIY methods sold to repair fenders. Epoxies and resins and fiberglass kits abound. Unfortunately, these are merely aesthetic solutions which do nothing to repair the structural integrity of your fender. It may look better, but the reduction in safety remains.
Fender repair is exceptionally common, which means that it is offered by many shops at a variety of price ranges and quality levels. The type of repair that is right for you depends upon a lot of factors. One of the most important things to consider is your eventual plan for the car.
If you intend to drive it until it breaks down or is totaled, you should consider opting for a less expensive repair than you would if you intend to resell the car. Regardless of your eventual plans, you have many options to choose from at your local auto collision repair shop.
Professional Fender Repair
Professional fender repair is the least expensive way to ensure that your car is returned to maximum safety. It’s a quick process which shouldn’t cost you very much at all. Check with the shop to ensure the price you’re quoted includes paint repair.
Fender Replacement – Used
The cheapest way to totally replace your fender is to replace it with an undamaged used fender. The more common your car, the cheaper this route will be. Make sure that paint matching is included in the price you’re quoted.
Fender Replacement – New
If you’re driving a fairly new car with considerable resale value, you should invest in a new, factory-issued fender. Since it’s factory issue, it is sometimes possible to obtain pre-painted parts.
Broken fenders are a hassle. Contact Us to end the headache. Want to know exactly what your fender repair will cost? Online Estimate.
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