Deer, meet my front quarter panel

[Gottsox]

The other day I was driving and a deer leeped into the side of my 4 runner, denting up the front left quarter panel pretty good. I didn't even see him until the last second, when he was mid air. I gave him an 8 on form, but he lost points on not sticking the landing.

I attached a pic and just wanted some feedback from members that knew about auto body work and repair costs [mainly so I don't get robbed without the gun].

I already picked up a new side mirror from Certifit, however, that will need painting, so throw that into the cost.

Also, for the paint, will I need to go through the dealership or will it be cheaper to get it through an autobody shop. I'm mainly just looking to keep costs down as much as possible.

Thanks.

 

[jharris2]

Ouch!!

I'd think the autobody shop would be cheaper -- often, dealers sub out body work anyway. But it's not likely to be cheap in any case.

 

[2buku]

if you have comp insurance prolly be the cheapest and comprehensive losses do not negitivly effect your policy

 

[rook]

Either file an insurance claim or shop around various body shops. You can obtain a list of reputable shops from your insurance company. Go get a couple of estimates and make an informed decision.

I gave him an 8 on form, but he lost points on not sticking the landing.

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

 

[techno]

One option would be a fender from ebay for about $170 http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/FEND...015QQitemZ250222796644QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW , then you just need to paint it. May work out cheaper than panel beating labor (if its beatable). If you can wield a wrench and screw driver I'm sure you and some buddies could do the fitting yourselves.
Many of thte yota forums have guys advertising vehicles they are wrecking, so check them out to.

 

[Even Steven]

Hey, at least you have a sense of humor about it. I'd be pretty pissed....

BTW, I'd avoid the dealers in my area because they tend to be much higher priced than the independent body shops. Your area dealers may be different though...

If you really want to save some money, but the fender (and whatever other parts you might need), and install it yourself, but definitely have it painted professionally!

 

[gapboi210]

no one is going to do body work on that. Just bolt on a new fender and spray it. Buy your own fender and call around.

 

[Gottsox]

Thanks for the replies all. As per most of your advice, I am going to look around for a new quarter panel, have a buddy who's father does body work paint it and I'll be installing it myself.

 

[whipkiller]

But you got some free vennison outta' the deal, right?

 

[Gottsox]

I wish, but Bambi hobbled off until the next deer dive. I wonder if he gains any street cred having pulled off a stunt like that. Or a "I took on a 4 runner and lived" T shirt from his peers.