Every time someone asks about car body repair costs, I see the same ballpark figures thrown around: $500 for a bumper scratch, $1500 for a door panel, $3k for “major” damage. But is anyone else skeptical that these numbers actually reflect real world repair costs anymore, especially at honest shops? I feel like every quote I get is way higher than wat people say it “should be,” even for what seems like minor dings or scrapes. Is it just inflation, or has something changed with paint/materials/labor that’s blown up prices?
Also, does anyone have recent experience with DIY repairs vs. shop work? Was it genuinely cheaper after factoring in the cost of tools, paint, clear coat, etc.?
Curious if this forum is holding on to outdated estimates or if I’m just being gouged locally.