Got backed up into. What now?

[joeybananaz18]

On Friday I went to get a car wash and when I got out I found that my car was hit on the drivers side front fender. The only thing I can think of was that when we were at my wife's aunts place for thanksgiving, someone backed up into it. Headlight is fine, but I've got a real nasty dent and pretty bad scratches around the wheel well.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171126/6ac7e19ce1d87ef89a7dafdb3758bb13.jpg

It almost feels as though the the inside lip (that you would roll if you needed to fit wider wheels) is come undone on the underside.
I don't have collision on the car so going through the insurance is out. But I've tracked down an OG fender from another e46 facelifted sedan (probably a 325). My biggest fear is that in direct sunlight you'll be able to see a massive difference between the new fender and hood and door.
How off do you guys think the paint will be when compared to the rest of the car? Has anyone ever replaced a whole panel, and if so was the paint at least close enough to not notice a diference?


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[Johnmadd]

I would definitely get a used fender if it's in better condition and if it bugs you to much after time, then try another route.

[ELCID86]

Body shop, insurance?

[joeybananaz18]

I would definitely get a used fender if it's in better condition and if it bugs you to much after time, then try another route.

I found one for 275. I feel like it's almost worth it just to try it out and see if the color is a close match.
Which colors fade more over time, dark or light? I feel like it's a lot like clothes- dark.



Body shop, insurance?

I don't have collision so it'll be straight out of pocket. I'm expecting it to be around $1k, after it gets straightened out and then painted.
I'm not going to do anything now going into the winter but if I don't get a new fender I might just get it straightened out first and then painted down the road.
Because the metal is "unfolding" underneath, I want to get that done before picking up a set of apexs over the winter, as I'll most likely have to roll them anyway.


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[BADCLOWN]

Painting a fender won’t cost much, get a used fender and if it doesn’t match then have it painted and have them blend it into the door.

[joeybananaz18]

Painting a fender won’t cost much, get a used fender and if it doesn’t match then have it painted and have them blend it into the door.

That's a great idea actually. I didn't even think of them blending it. Awesome thanks!


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[webster]

For the cost of repairs you might as well have had full coverage insurance. I would highly recommend adding that. Sorry about the damage. Protect that OG baby!

[Sailor]

Just make sure whoever paints it guarantees their work (including color match). Then don't be shy about insisting on a good match.