I'm going to replace my 2011 BMW X3 soon - should I bother claiming on my insurance for a bumper scrape?
I have owned a 2011 BMW X3 2.0 from new. It's now done 55,000 miles and is in excellent condition. I'm thinking of changing it later this year or early next. Now, after over 10 years of no claims (protected), I have just scraped my front bumper. My BMW bodyshop have quoted £220 to do a 'cosmetic' repair or £1000 to remove and repaint the complete bumper. I would value your opinion on whether, in my circumstances, it's worth getting the 'cosmetic' job done at my own expense or claiming off Saga for a complete repair - I have a £300 total excess. What option would you choose and why?
Asked on 11 July 2017 by T1tone
Answered by
Honest John
If you're trading your car in, I wouldn't make a claim. At £220, that is not a cosmetic repair, and £1000 is way over the top for a scrape. If the bumper is just scraped and not torn, I would not take it to the BMW agent. I would use a "SMART" repairer, a bumper scuff will cost around £80 - £120, but a larger scuff that needs a plastic repair because it is damaged would cost around the £300 mark. For £1000, you are talking a new bumper. Contact a smart repairer like www.autorestore.co.uk/ and google similar companies and get quotes.
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