Dent repairs

[paddy_36]

Bought a brand new Golf in Dec 04, but someone reversed into it and dented the front wing (serves me right!). Have just read on another post that replacing a panel can devalue the car - is that true? Before my car goes in for repair (to a body shop approved by the insurer, who have said they will replace the panel as dent is too deep for repair) is there anything I could/should do? Really grateful for any advice.

[akaceefax]

If it is professionally done noone will know the difference and hense people will pay the same as for any other golf. the chances that anyone will care if a panel has been replaced is remote and if they do care they need to get out more.

[Joanne-G]

If the wing is replaced, check yourself to see if colour matches inside as well as out, if there is no obvious difference then you are sorted, who needs to know if it was replaced? The only important bit is make sure the steering was not affected by a front impact! Get the tracking done in any good tyre shop before selling!

Worth every quid of all of �15!

[paddy_36]

Thanks to both - that puts my mind at rest.

[MORELLO]

paddy_36. Both the above answers use terms like 'no-one will know the difference' and 'who needs to know' which would suggest that a replaced panel would affect the value of your car if a buyer did know. akaceefax - if you weren't put off, and slightly suspicious of a car with replaced panels, then more fool you.

[paddy_36]

Thanks for your comments, Morello - appreciated. I should probably add a couple of things here. It's very unlikely that I will be selling the car privately; even if I did I would never dream of being dishonest about any damage. The devaluing issue is not as important me; I just wanted guidance on things to look for to ensure the job had been carried out properly and professionally and any info. on steps I could/should take in advance to ensure this happens. All I really want is my car back to brand new condition so I don't know the difference. Thanks again.

[MORELLO]

Fair Dinkum.