I just parallel parked my new 05 silverstone w/ 8k miles and an SUV with a hitch backed up into it. It left a slight indentation on the bumper. The clear coat and paint is ok just indented slightly. It isn't noticeable at night. But with a concentrated stare in sunlight it is noticeable. I am debating wether to get this fixed at a bodyshop or not. They quoted me $250 for spot paint and clearcoating the whole bumper. I am thinking of putting the front license plate back on with a Honda "H" badge on to cover and future protect. Has anyone faced this same issue? And what have you done? I should of made a better parking decision, I know that. Just trying to get some opinions.

 

If it bugs ya fix it. As its always going to be there if you do not.

 

try using a heat gun or a hair dryer to heat up the bumper and the plastic will pop back into its original shape.

 

How many miles per year are you planning on driving? If your daily driver in semi-urban setting, I probably would put the license plate bracket back on and not worry about it. You'll get more damage by using the car.

If it's a garage queen, then fix it.

 

heat gun is a viable options however paint never holds well on plastics. You could potentially get your paint to bubble if you overheat. Unfortunately its really the only other route you got unless you want to repaint the the bumper. $250 is a fair price granted the body shop you took it to will use quality materials. You can try the heat gun but just make sure you spread the heat around the damage and dont keep the gun focused in one specific spot or you will bubble the paint. You want to keep a hand or something to push the other side out with. so most likely the best way to do this is to take the rear bumper off. Once its off heat the area of damage then pop it out with a shirt or something as you dont want to burn your hand.

 

This is such a personal decision...I have several marks on my G35 that I've wanted to get fixed but never got around to doing. At the end of the day...I personally don't care enough, as bad as that sounds. But if you want your car (with practically no miles) to look new, then get it fixed.