I picked up my new 2008 Clubman S yesterday from South Bay MINI in Southern California. As they showed it to me for the first time, they pointed out a small ding in the rear bumper that they said came from the distribution center. As expected, they said they would fix it.

The problem is that I live in the San Francisco bay area (on the peninsula), so I'll need to get an estimate from a local body shop. Does anyone have any recommendations for shops, preferably near San Jose or on the peninsula?

 

I brought my Mini in to German Motors in SF for bumper work, as well as roof damage for my mom's VW. They are a BMW/Mini certified/authorized body shop, and they did excellent work on both cars...and I am VERY picky with the quality of paint/workmanship.

 

My Mini's front bumper was repainted by Autobahn in Mountain View. They are very close to Mini of Mountain View. Paint match is good and I didn't have any complaints. The dealer paid for it as it was warranty just like your repair.

 

We've had good work from Autobahn, not on the MINIs though.

Edit: For clarification, their work has always been good, we've just not pranged a MINI for them to practice on.

 

Orlandi's in San Rafael. totally out of your way, but well worth the trip. Garren has worked on 4 of my cars in the last 10 years. You could get an estimate maybe from the BMW body shop and get the dealer to give you the equivalent in cash and take the car wherever you want? I once had insurance work done on a BMW, at the body shop recommended by the Marin dealership, and had to have them re-do the work 3 times, it was so bad! Then I found Garren!

 

Thanks for the recommendations. I got an estimate from Autobahn yesterday; the next step is getting the dealer to approve it and cut a check. Wish me luck!

 

I would think it shouldn't be a problem since this shop is the one the local dealer uses when they have this type of issue.