got into a small accident with the x

[mp3province]

Originally Posted by Zoich

Repost the pics (can't see them) and will let you know whether it's a repair or and replacement for your fender. Replacing an entire fender takes some parts reassembly, also the welding markings on the inside make it easily identifiable when you open the hood. I'd avoid it if the accident is minor.

Guys,

I really appreciate all the help I am getting here.

The pics are directly viewable at: car photos

Make sure to click on "full size" when your going through the pics.

About the insurance being standard, I'm not sure. I wish there was something a little more comprehensive. Now I will definitely check the different types of insurance available here.

BMW has told me that if I get this repaired/replaced from any non bmw party, then my "paint and bodywork" warranty is void. Is this something that is important to me? Will I regret my decision if I get the work done from a non BMW bodyshop?

My main question is can the crack in the fender be fixed up? Please check the picture of this crack.

There is also a depression in the fender, about the size of a quarter. the bodyshop dude said that can be fixed up by filling it with something. I do not know anything about fixing up cars, but I just want to make sure this guy knows what he is doing. The only way to know is by asking you friendly bunch.

Thanks again for any help!!

Thanks guys!

[LeMansX5]

BMW is right about paint warranty...normal practice everywhere.
You need new fender. That's what i will do if its my car. repairs are not good on those cracks in that area.

[FunfDreisig]

Originally Posted by LeMansX5

...
You need new fender. That's what i will do if its my car. repairs are not good on those cracks in that area.

This crack is at a very poor location for a long term repair. I'd replace the fender. Since it is composite it will probably be a bolt on install. No welding to show the repair. I'd have the fender painted OFF the vehicle to avoid over spray and 'blending'. Yes the paint might not match exactly but the transition is at a gap between the fender and all other parts.

Ironically, the reason the damage doesn't look so bad is because the fender is composite (AKA plastic). So it 'bounced back' to approximate it's original shape. But the crack shows that the composite was taken passed it's deformation limits and failed.

FWIW we have had two horrendous hail storms (baseball and bigger) this year. Most of the vehicles in stock at the local BMW dealer were severely damaged -- fist size dints every 3-6", windshields and back glass smashed or missing, etc. The X5's looked like thugs had taken baseball bats to everything except the front fenders

Funf Dreisig