So, you’ve had a little fender-bender in your Tesla Model S? It happens. Maybe you misjudged a pole while backing up, like we did. The immediate question that pops into your head is: “How much is this going to cost me?” A quick search online might leave you with more questions than answers. We’re here to share our experience repairing a cracked fender and bumper on our Model S in the Bay Area, hoping it provides some clarity.
Our mishap, though seemingly minor, involved a cracked fender and bumper. Here’s a look at the damage:
Tesla Certified Body Shop Quote
Our first step was to get a quote from a Tesla certified body shop. Two key factors influence the repair cost:
- Number of parts needing replacement: In our case, it was the fender and the bumper.
- Severity of the damage: Is it just superficial, or is there underlying damage? Disassembly is often required for an accurate assessment.
The initial quote from the Tesla certified body shop came in at a hefty $6,200.
Insurance Company Quote
Next, we contacted our insurance company. Their quote was significantly lower, at $2,700 – a $3,500 difference!
The major discrepancy stemmed from the amount of painting required. Replacing even one or two panels (fender and/or bumper) involves considerable labor and, therefore, painting costs. While the parts themselves (fender and bumper) were around $500 each, the labor and painting were the real cost drivers.
Initially, the body shop recommended replacing both the fender (obviously cracked) and the bumper. The insurance company initially thought the bumper could be repaired. However, upon closer inspection after disassembly, the body shop confirmed the bumper was also cracked and needed replacement.
Both the body shop and the insurance company indicated they would negotiate to reach a compromise.
The Final Cost: Repairing a Cracked Fender and Bumper
So, the burning question: How much did it ultimately cost to repair the cracked fender and bumper on our Tesla Model S? The final invoice totaled $5,823.09. Here’s a detailed look:
Repair Timeline
The entire process, from the initial quote to getting our car back, took a little over two months. Here’s a timeline:
- Feb 13th: Quote from Tesla certified body shop
- Feb 20th: Quote from Insurance / Paperwork with body shop / Body shop ordered parts from Tesla
- Apr 8th: Took the car to the body shop
- Apr 19th: Picked up the car
A crucial point: we were able to keep the car until the parts arrived. The body shop ordered both the fender and bumper upfront, even though the insurance initially only quoted for one. This proactive approach saved potential delays. Had they waited to order the bumper, it could have added another week (or more) to the repair time.
Hopefully, this real-world example provides some insights into the cost of repairing a Tesla Model S after a minor accident. While every situation is unique, understanding the factors involved can help you prepare for the unexpected.
