Hi Guys!
Not sure if this kind of thing goes on a forum, but here goes:
So I've got a couple of pictures that could help you out.
Background: A smaller pickup truck backed into the side of the car, at roughly 3-4 mph. The truck's bumper had no damage (WHAT!), but unfortunately, as you can see from the pictures, TLS has damage. One body shop quoted 2500 bucks. That seems a bit ridiculous. I can maybe see some frame damage, but its minor. Apart from that, shouldn't just riveting or welding these two panels back together fix it? How much does that structural member cost, if its broken? Any help or opinions would be greatly appreciated, as I dont want to get ripped off by a body shop.
Its a 2003 TL type S, 65k miles on it.
Additionally, if any of you have any auto body shops in southern or central California or know of any that could fix this for much less than 2500, please let me know and you can have my business. I'm still safe to drive like this right?
Thanks,
Adi

 

I think the picture link is broken. Here:
<iframe class="imgur-album" width="100%" height="550" frameborder="0" src="http://imgur.com/a/wJN9Y/embed"></iframe>

 

damnit. ok here's the link haha
http://imgur.com/a/wJN9Y/

 

Hey Nothinfancy, It appears as though that low speed hit was only superficial.

If the other driver's insurance co. is willing to cut you a check, I personally think that you could have that driver's rear quarter and bumper damage done for much less than $2500, IMO. Check around at another shop. Tell them that you are willing to have the fender repaired, along with a used bumper. There doesn't appear to be an structural or frame damage by looking at the pics. But, the bumper's subframe may be compromised, IDK ! But, at less than 5 mph....I think that it'll be fine. When buying a used bumper, these parts can be bought at the same time. My guess is that you could have the job done for $1500 easily ?

 

Would the quarter panel need to be replaced? Or can it just be hammered back to position? Does the same thing need to be done to the bumper? I didn't want to take it to insurance because I was partially at fault (having parked illegally), and I've had problems with my insurance before.

 

Hey man, it's really not all that bad....it's safe to drive as is.

Depending upon your desired final appearance, my guess is that the rear quarter fender is repairable. The shop can pull it out and refinish it as necessary. The bumper appears to be only pushed in a bit, with the corner's paint scuffed at the point of impact. Getting the 1/4 panel and bumper to properly align are the bodymans's expertise and magic. A new mounting strip and clips will secure the refinished panel to the bumper. Personally, I think that the bumper is salvageable....only needing repainted with the fender. Is it crushed or misformed at all ? With your present situation, cut the other driver a deal and check around for a basic fix. It may not be as good as new, but hey....it's a 10 year old car !!!! Check around some more.

 

We do share a similar damage.. LOL.. got mine fixed for $1k, am in norcal. Bumper and tail light replaced..

Here is my damage:
https://acurazine.com/forums/2g-tl-problems-fixes-117/just-sh%2At-giggle-888001/

 

Yup its all superficial.. No mechanical damage as it seems so Its safe to drive.

 

paint is what costs the money. the body shop is painting that corner of the car to be back like new. Go to a 1 day paint place and it'll be good for 3-5 years.