Two very different estimates..

[madisonave]

Hey all,

This is my first post here, hopefully I can get some insight.

To summarize my problem: My finace is away on business, I have been driving his e36 328i, sadly while backing out of the driveway yesterday I had a slight encounter with a (luckily) very small tree.

I have been to two auto body places for quotes (have one more to check out tomorrow). The first was recommened by my boss (drives a 5 series) so I trust his opinion. However, I was told that they will need to buy a replacement fog light. The fog light fell out but is not damaged, it has just detached due to the support frame (?) breaking. The labour time is going to be 1.8 hrs @ $58/hr. So the breakdown without purchasing an OEM fog light - $121.80 and with fog light $331.81 (so total cost of light $174.46).

I didn't feel quite right about that, seeing as just the plastic support frame was broken. Second estimate said there was no need to purchase a fog light, no purchases at all. But get this, he quoted the job to take 8 hrs @ $55/hr. Uhhh 1.8 hours and 8 hours is a HUGE discrepancy no? Second place total would be a ridiculous $492 with tax and no new parts.

It seems that something is not quite right with either of these places..I definatly will not be going with the second place but should I tell the first that I was told I didnt need a replacement? I have never had to dealt with anything like this before, I dont know the ettiquite or procedures of getting repairs done.

This post is pretty much marathon long, I REALLY appreciate anyone who reads this..if anyone does and wants more of a description of the damage I will reply (I have photos too ) but I feel that this is embarassingly long for a "summary"

Cheers guys.

[daddyo8]

Madisonave,
If he is amenable, you might ask your boss to negotiate with his recommended repairman so as to avoid all that "little lady" discrimination so prevalent in the blue collar industries.
Or if you've a mind to, you might check out bavauto or other parts dealers online and install the light bracket yourself. It's really not as difficult or expensive as you have been lead to believe.
I have an e36 and we have a lot of rabbits out here in Kansas, so I've had to do this quite often.