So last night it was rainy and I went around a highway off ramp a bit too fast (who doesn't). The backend came out a bit and I made the split decision... turn the wheel to compensate and fish tail, or slam the breaks and just kill the speed. Problem was the inside concrete wall. If I fish tailed I would have road rash my right side along the wall. But putting on the breaks killed the speed but sent me slowly into the wall head on. Right choice? A front bumper surely is cheaper than car side and a door.

But now I need a new bumper.

I have a $500 deductible.

Do I go with an aftermarket fix or plunk down $500 max and let the car be as manufactured with an oem look?

My only real concern about non-oem is if it would lower the trade in value. I plan on moving on to something with a back seat in the fall.

So the question is, do aftermarket body parts help or hurt the resale value at a car dealer? I certainly know a 350z with body parts can be a dream to a kid but I'm trading it it to a kid. It will be to a dealer.

I also know I can probably get non-oem painted and installed for about my deductible so out of pocket cash now isn't an issue.

 

HA! Just for kicks I pulled up the spot on Google. That wall seems to get a lot of visitors.
Looking from satellite it seems there are two curves in this exit. I guess the first is to make you slow down hopefully, and if not enough then the second runs you into a oversteer condition and into the wall.

 

Posted on the 370z subforum. If you're worried about trade, I wouldn't go through insurance. Depending on your start, it will show up on Carfax and a dealership is certain to look it up at trade. Aftermarket parts generally do not add any value, some will reduce it, depending on the front you get.

 

Moved to 350z section

OP should have powered out.

 

Okay, well the bumper was replaced with a new OEM cover and painted to match. Also replaced right headlight has it had a small cut. Looks as good as new. Now onto my other issue... (new post)