My unlucky day

I got rear ended today, fortunately there were only a few scratches no dents...i was wondering if anyone knew if the scratches could be buffed out or does the bumper need to be re-painted?

Anyone have any idea how much repainting might cost? how about professional buffing?

 

You should have your car inspected by a body shop. My son is a body man and he said that there is a Foam support structure behind those bumpers that is good for only one-hit and that the foam compresses and never comed back. He also said that it will be reduced in strength after taking any hit.

 

I can attest to this. Small bumps can cause significant damage you can't see. My Honda Odessey was dinged on the front bumper (no, it wasn't my fault.) The plastic poped back out, but its crash protection was compromised. A new bumper, installed and painted, was $800. Ouch.

 

guys how am i supposed to know if i have to replace my bumper or not? i am sure the other guy's insurance company will say no way! they will say its a minor scratch... the hit was like 5 mph, does it really damage the foam frame?

 

You don't decide. Take it to a body shop. They will make an estimate that you give to the insurance company.

 

Front bumper for my wife's Jetta (similar structure to the Camry), $600 painted and installed.

 

And don't let the other guy's insurance tell you THEY'LL look at it. I suspect it depends on the state, but Washington will let you take your car to shops of your choice for estimates. Such a hassle, to be sure, but look at it this way: the shop very well could say hey, it's just a scratch and there's no damage to the strutrure, and all you are out is the hour or two for the inspection.

 

Thanks for the help guys!