happytang

Hey what's up guys.

So over the weekend I traveled to Arizona, and on the way back I hit a coyote at about 80 mph an hour (The speed limit is 75 MPH).

Needless to say the coyote was dead, but it owned me by taking a fat chunk out of the right bottom side of my bumper (which HAD an Aspec lip on it). I'll post pics later.

Basically everything below my right headlight is gone. You can see my window washing fluid tank.

So that being said... I unfortunately don't have "comprehensive" insurance since I wouldn't think I would be running into a lot of things in SoCal, so insurance doesn't cover this.

Does anybody know how much it would cost to fix this at:

A. A body shop
B. Acura Dealer
C. Myself (Junkyard?) (Parts Store?)

And if anybody could link me on how to take off the front bumper, it would be greatly appreciated.

ggesq

iTrader: (1)

Sorry to hear about that. Good to see you are ok.

There is alot of good info in the 3G Garage:https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/diy-video-updated-removing-front-bumper-3g-garage-e-080-a-628363/

happytang

Excellent. Thanks again ggesq.

So from reading that thread I guess I should just go ahead and try to order something from ebay and do it myself. I'll maybe take it into the Acura dealer to see if anything else has been ruined.

Since I got such a quick reply, I'll make sure to post some pics so I can get some more opinions. I'm sure it really messed up more than just my front bumper, but I can't get the words out to say what exactly.

pbcmedia

if you do go to the dealer most likely they'll try to charge you for a written estimate, so just go in like you definitely want them to do the job and then tell them you'll be back with the money. then compare their price with some local body shops that have reputable names and see how much they charge and go with the cheaper, but you can definitely change the front bumper yourself and then just pay to get it painted.

happytang

Anybody know what the lowest price would be to get a front bumper painted NBP?

Because I see a deal where I can get a front bumper + painted for about $300.

powerflow

You don't want to be too cheap, past a certain level. You could comprise prep quality, paint material quality, lesser skilled painter. As far as a fresh, new OEM bumper, you will be way better off getting it right the first time vs. living with crappy looking paint, or paying for a redo.

Crap work will really show on dark colors too.

New bumper+paint, that's definitely a re-maned/aftermarket/used bumper. New primed OEM bumper is about 300.

Maybe your not too picky though, just a heads up.

happytang

Yea, I saw OEM parts and I found I could get one for about 220.00.

But what about buying a used bumper? It is in the end just a bumper cover. Would it be cheaper to just buy a used one and get it resanded + paint?

powerflow

If you can find a good used one locally, yes. Shipping of anything that size is not worth it, unless you have a hook up on the shipping.

With used, you really won't know what's under the paint until you sand it. Could be bondo, crappy Maaco type paint, ect. Front bumper repairs are very common to come across, sometimes you can spot repairs from the backside. If it's used and has paint chips and impact pits (small indents), it may need to be primed, and sanded, loosing the cost savings. I would say it's a matter of luck if you can find a used mint bumper, for cheap, locally. Definitely worth looking though.

New OEM is easy to prep for paint, guaranteed to look good with quality work.

oarichard

iTrader: (3)

carlos9827

iTrader: (2)

I read your post a couple times and STILL don't understand why you would not have comp coverage, its not even that much more money, I could understand not have collision coverage, but not the fact of not having comp, it covers so many more things and that are most times not under ones control, i.e. theft, fire, vandalism?? I used to be an insurance agent btw. GL getting your car fixed.

DMZ

Was the coyote chasing a road runner?
Did he have an Acme rocket strapped to his back?

tl_rox

^ lol

Glad you didn't get hurt. Good luck shopping around with the new bumper..i would try junkyards as well, you'll never know. And powerflow is right...shipping $ would definitely be PITA!

LoveMyTL-S

Glad your okay. If you were local I know where you can get one from an TL that was burnt on the inside, but the outside is okay. So, I'd call around the junk yards.

smenz02

Hey guys just a follow up on this post. It seems it is pretty easy to replace front bumper cover does anyone have any thoughts on getting one and taking it somewhere to get it painted before installing it so I don't have to leave my car anywhere. In Sales and I live in my car. Thanks in advance for feedback!

csmeance

it's good to get it painted when it is near/on the car so the paint can be matched perfectly. Your best bet is to avoid the dealer for any repair work, their moto's are "the faster in and out, the more money." Take it to a shop that specializes in custom work/paint-jobs (check out the so-cal regional section for ideas and places) and you should be able to find a good shop. You can buy a new bumper for around 250 and paint job for around 200. 450 puts you under the 500 dollar deductible you would have needed to pay. There is a video tutorial on how to remove the front bumper in the 3G garage...

chairguru22

+1

LoveMyTL-S

I was in an accident and had to have my front bumper replaced and painted. All was covered under insurance. They feathered the paint. In other words they painted from the front of the hood and fenders down onto the bumper to blend it better. I have WDP, 3 stage paint. So, I'd say get the bumper painted while on the car. Had mine done at Autocrafters and they did a great job. Good luck with yours.

ac08odl

lmfaooooooooooo lmaooooo u guys r too much