ok so it happened.... my wife bumped into my other car while backing up gl550 and it resulted in getting 1 chip next to rear right black plastic fake grill and about scratch marks (see pics. brown stuff just dirts). i don't think it hit any sensors so damage seems just cosmetic. what's my best option? has anyone repaired this under $400 by local dealer? any other cheaper/alternative options?
First I would try some rubbing compound to get the rub marks out. You will be surprised on how much of it will buff out. You do not need a buffer, just hand buff it with compound. It will take some time but be patient and continue to rub it. Once the scratches or marks are gone, then apply some wax over it. Where the paint is totally rubbed off, the black spot, you can get a small can/stick of paint at dealer to touch it up. You are lucky it is on the bottom portion of the bumper, because it will be less noticeable than on the top half of the car.
Also one other option is you can go to a body shop and have them respray the bumper. MAACO has specials on this, yes I know, it sound tacky but I had a Mini Cooper and had them respray my back bumper and they did an excellent job. Think it was around 200.00 , they run specials on it.
First I would try some rubbing compound to get the rub marks out. You will be surprised on how much of it will buff out. You do not need a buffer, just hand buff it with compound. It will take some time but be patient and continue to rub it. Once the scratches or marks are gone, then apply some wax over it. Where the paint is totally rubbed off, the black spot, you can get a small can/stick of paint at dealer to touch it up. You are lucky it is on the bottom portion of the bumper, because it will be less noticeable than on the top half of the car.
Also one other option is you can go to a body shop and have them respray the bumper. MAACO has specials on this, yes I know, it sound tacky but I had a Mini Cooper and had them respray my back bumper and they did an excellent job. Think it was around 200.00 , they run specials on it.
thanks for the suggestions. i will definitely try buffing and touch up paint first before spending few hundred bucks on paint repair
try going to the mb collision repair centre attached to your dealer. Explain to them the situation and ask if they have a bottle of touch up paint for you.
They'll usually give it to you for free if youre nice.
I got a bottle that way and they even applied it for me.
Also they might just buff it out for you too.
If not, my dealer charged 500 for a whole bumper on respray. Up to you if you think it is worth it and if there might be more accidents in the future.
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