New to XDrivers - had a prang in my X3

[deej]

Hey guys, first post on XDrivers after finding a link to it from bmwland.co.uk

We are the lucky owners of a facelifted E83 X3 3.0d - I say lucky because it truly is a lovely car in my opinion!

Stupidly, I had a little knock on Sunday stopped at some traffic lights - I thought the car in front had moved off so I set off too only to find that it hadn't and we bumped. How gutted did I feel! Damage not too serious - cracked front bumper, cracked number plate and a parking sensor needs replacing; that's about it.

We phoned the insurers and they're keen to push us through to their (kitemarked) approved repairers, who will use BMW parts to fix.

I, on the other hand, am thinking that it may be better to insist on a BMW-approved repairer but in doing so our excess goes up from £400 to £600.

I'm seeking opinion on what I should do - obviously I know it's my decision and all that but I'd be interested in the opinion of others.

So - approved repairers using BMW parts. OK, or no?

Thanks.

[AW8]

I have seen differing qualities of work from various body shops. IMO a decent independent can do a good job just as a main dealer might allegedly be capable of making a small mistake. I have personally not prior heard of a kite approval for premises or staff before though - I would find out more . If in doubt then vbra approval worth looking for as this means the repairer is industry approved - google for more info on vbra if desired.

[X5Sport]

Firstly, 

Secondly......

The 'kite mark' is a new one on me too.....but is real according to this.

As AW8 says it's six of one and half a dozen etc.......

Is the extra £200 cost to you going to make a significant difference when genuine parts are being used?  If it's not right then you refuse the car until it's done properly.

Whichever route you go, welcome to the madhouse and to the X3 Chapter.....the numbers are growing..

Richard

[deej]

Thanks for the replies and the welcome  

All I want is for it to be done correctly really, and that the future value of the car is unaffected by my genuine mistake...

Who would have thought that having a bump could be so complicated!! haha

[AW8]

Most folk either expect a used car to have had the odd minor repair and/or are unaware of what signs to look for.....thus if its done properly and not easily noticeable then all should be good. Never sign repair paperwork authorising payment to repairer unless fully satisfied as otherwise you have far less clout to get minor niggles rectified if unhappy.