I recently found that someone had clipped my right front bumper (while parked at work). No note, nothing... Probably some idiot who did not even notice he had hit my car while pulling out of a parking space

Now I have multiple deep black gouges and several square inches of discoloration on one face of my formerly all-white and well-Zaino'd bumper. The only good news is that the damage is only to the bumper skin.

Should I report this to my insurance? It might be worthwhile for comprehensive but probably not for collision because I have a $500 deductable - anyone know which would they call this kind of damage?

Assuming that I want to replace the bumper skin rather than try to get it patched up, would I be better off buying one, getting it painted by a body shop, then having a dealer mount it (or take a shot at mounting it myself - can't be too hard), or would I be better off letting a body shop take the car and do whatever they think is best? It looks like I can get a bumper skin for about $233 over the net, and I bet that a body shop will try to charge me retail. Also, I have to admit that the idea of letting anyone with paint anywhere near my car makes me a bit nervous!

 

That sucks. You might also look into a spot touchup, depending on how bad it is. Any photos?

The problem with white is matching the color, even on relatively new paint such as yours. It's REALLY quite noticable if the color is off even a little bit, so having the body shop paint it and blend it with the fenders and hood would be ideal if you go for a full replacement.

Ask around in your local forum for a well-respected body shop.