Repairing small damage from road debris?

[BoingoBongo]

It was driving home on the freeway yesterday, and a car in front of me ran over a flattened aluminum soda can, which flew up and hit the front of my car while I was going about 75mph.

Here's a quick photo of the ding. The picture doesn't give a great idea of the size unfortunately, but even though it's not incredibly huge, it is big enough that I'd like to try and get it taken care of.



How much should something like this cost to get repaired? Thanks in advance!

[Sharp]

Take it around to a couple body shops and get quotes. I did some decent damage to my 06 bumper and got a few quotes.

Chances are the prices will all be close, so go with whichever shop gave you the best impression.

If its metal, some bondo and paint will do a decent job. If its on the plastic, Im not sure how theyd fix it.

[kingjames1983]

which panel is that one? if its a smaller one its easier to just paint the one panel. You obviously need a bit of filler and painted. You could try some high grit sand paper and cut it after just to make it look better but there is no way you can remove it without painting in my opinion.

[BoingoBongo]

It's on the front panel where the hood meets the body (almost right above the front emblem). Thanks for the info. I know this stuff gets pricey fast, so I'm hoping a simple repair wont cost too much.

[joeylgarcia]

to the OP... are u not a DIYer?

[BoingoBongo]

I have a feeling I'd only make things worse with this one, so I'd prefer to take it somewhere. I'd be up for it if this were my old Corolla, but not my brand new one.

[FirstXrs]

Bluuuuuuuueeeee...

Hmm, I wouldn't expect to pay more than $75. Some places might charge you $100 flat for labor or whatever. Personally, I'd pay no more than $75. Hardest part for that job will be prepping the surface for a repaint and clear coat.

[BoingoBongo]

I'd be totally fine with a price like that. I guess I just need to shop around a bit, thanks for the help! I just really wanted to get a ballpark figure beforehand.

[kingjames1983]

onl 75 to paint the panel? I hope you know someone to get that price. Keep in mind with paint you usually get what you pay for. The odd time people get lucky but there are some horror stories.

[thestone11]

do it asap! And make sure u don't get that part wet!

[joeylgarcia]

if its $75 to $100 then that is just fine for someone who cannot perform a DIY. more than $100 is way too much for a cosmetic damage that small.