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View Full Version : Accident. MM got a black eye. Advice. Help.



Shora
08-18-2008, 01:00 PM
I guess that it was going to happen sooner or later. 12 yrs. of driving and never been involved in an accident.

I was traveling south on a four lane road. I was in the lane second from all the way right. I needed to get to the left lane so I looked at my side mirror and all was clear. I then turned my head to check the blind spot and all was clear so I begin to turn left and BOOM! The driver right in front of me slammed on his brakes because some fool wanted to turn into the shopping center but didn't notice the entrance until the very last moment.

I slammed on my brakes but I was too late. I must have hit him going around 10 MPH or so since I was only traveling 30 MPH in the first place. My front passenger side hit his left (driver's side). Traffic was too busy to leave a longer distance than I left. People would have been honking or cutting me off.

Anyway, this is my first time in this situation. The adjuster is coming tomorrow to look at the car.

-How do I make sure that it is fixed right and only with OE parts?
-The bumper (which holds the fog light) is cracked in a few spots. (Is this fixable or is a new one in needed?)
-The fog light shattered and fell off.
-The head light broke and doesn't turn on.
-The structure behind the grill (seems like fiberglass) that the head lights screw into broke into a number of pieces.
-The grill lost some grills
-The fiberglass piece that just above the grill and between the hood broke.
-The hood got scratched and dented.
-The fender got scratched and dented (do they replace it or just fix it?)

I am also really worried about the paint. Is going to look like crap now with different paint in parts of the front than the rest of the car?

Please, tell me what I need to make sure my adjuster does so that she is good as new? I know that it will be impossible (or at least much more difficult) to get it fixed a second time if all is not well the first.

Also, I am in Ocean City, MD and don't know anyone here. Recommendations where to take it?

Thanks in advance.

http://i512.photobucket.com/albums/t327/ShoraMarauder/2-1.jpg?t=1219089254

http://i512.photobucket.com/albums/t327/ShoraMarauder/3.jpg?t=1219089375

http://i512.photobucket.com/albums/t327/ShoraMarauder/4.jpg?t=1219089419

http://i512.photobucket.com/albums/t327/ShoraMarauder/5.jpg?t=1219089476


http://i512.photobucket.com/albums/t327/ShoraMarauder/1.jpg?t=1219089590

http://i512.photobucket.com/albums/t327/ShoraMarauder/6.jpg?t=1219089519

^^^^
Three Fords BABY!

Pops
08-18-2008, 01:06 PM
Talk to the body shop not the adjuster. Tell him you want OEM parts and ask how it should be repaired. Ask around for a good shop and do not always take the one the adjuster says to go to. They are not always looking out for you or the quality of repairs. Ask Plenty of questions.

DOOM
08-18-2008, 01:13 PM
What he ^^^ said.

Shora
08-18-2008, 01:13 PM
They are not always looking out for you or the quality of repairs. Ask Plenty of questions.

I know. I don't trust the adjusters one bit. They could care less. Who even knows if they have connections with certain shops and they get a cut? I have heard the stories.

I need facts. Like they "must use OEM if I request". However, I don't know the facts.

What about the paint?

What should I tell them to make sure that it is not noticable??

SILVERSURFER03
08-18-2008, 01:40 PM
go for all oem parts used are to hard to find

Shora
08-18-2008, 03:07 PM
Insurance company just called. I can take it the only body shop that they have a contract with (within a 50 miles) or they will not guarantee the work.

Not good news so far.

Zack
08-18-2008, 03:18 PM
Ill give you $50 for that grill.

Iowa Rick
08-18-2008, 03:24 PM
I just picked up my MM today from the body shop. A tree limb fell on my trunk and put some waves in the metal.

I have State Farm, went to the adjuster and got my estimate. Took it to my choice of body shops (it is State Farm certified) and had it fixed.

The State Farm adjuster said that with the black paint on Fords, matching wasn't a problem. It seems he was right as it looks to be a perfect match.

Any Warranty on repair work it seems to me would be with the body shop, not the insurance company.

Anyway good luck on the repair. I believe you are within your rights to request the repair be made with OEM parts for safety reasons. Rick

Rocknthehawk
08-18-2008, 03:41 PM
Insurance company just called. I can take it the only body shop that they have a contract with (within a 50 miles) or they will not guarantee the work.

Not good news so far.

I've heard of this. Make them show you where it says this in writing. There's a debate in the industry over this, insurance companies contracting through certain bodyshops.

Ask the shop they want you to use for references, any good shop should be able to provide them.

From what i've learned, you can request that only oem parts will be used. The only issue here is if the vehicle is close to a total write-off, they will sometimes write for aftermarket or even used parts to save it.

How can you know they only used OEM Parts? You COULD request to see the invoice from the bodyshop for the parts, or even inspect them before being installed.

The damage doesn't look too terrible.

My guess is that both the hood and fender will be replaced. Most bodyshops aren't in to fixing parts anymore, its not worth the time (not saying the won't, just speaking from experience working in the field).

The bumper will be replaced. It's rare that a bumper is fixed nowadays. Most high end/ high volume shops don't waste the time because of the cost to fix them.


You're lucky in the fact your MM is BLACK. People say black is hard to blend...BOLOGNA! If it was silver, even DTR, I'd be worried.

If the shop is an experienced and qualified shop, you won't have an issue. If the fender and hood are being replaced, they will more than likely write to blend into the good fender and the passenger door. That is the correct way to do it. With black, they may not, because it's not a metallic or pearl. If it was silver, they would have to blend so the new paint wouldn't be noticable. Black is lucky in the sense you don't have to worry about hue and tint issues.


Looks like their car got the major damage...hard to tell, but looks like the quarter buckled just in front/under the taillight. Can't see, but there's probably a matching shape next to the rear window or on the wheel lip.



Ill give you $50 for that grill.

ARGHH!

Vortech347
08-18-2008, 03:43 PM
Make sure they use all OEM parts. Not OEM priced parts.

larryo340
08-18-2008, 04:01 PM
Insurance company just called. I can take it the only body shop that they have a contract with (within a 50 miles) or they will not guarantee the work.

Not good news so far.

I've seen alot of insurance company "body shop" work, and all I can say is it NEEDS to be guaranteed.

If you deal with a reputable body shop they will guarantee their work.

Shora
08-18-2008, 04:07 PM
I've seen alot of insurance company "body shop" work, and all I can say is it NEEDS to be guaranteed.

If you deal with a reputable body shop they will guarantee their work.


The only problem is I am in Maryland only for the summer. I am not going drive back up to deal with this shop when I go back to Miami.

I need the "insurance" to back this place up (since they are sending me there) because a fix will only happen in Miami.

larryo340
08-18-2008, 04:14 PM
The only problem is I am in Maryland only for the summer. I am not going drive back up to deal with this shop when I go back to Miami.

I need the "insurance" to back this place up (since they are sending me there) because a fix will only happen in Miami.

This may not be possible with the insurance company although I don't see why not, but why don't you get yourself a side marker light (dare I say a MGM) duck tape it on. Use the car for the remainder of the summer (almost over) and then have it repaired when you get home.

I know it won't be pretty, but you will have the satisfaction of having it repaired locally.

Just a thought :dunno: :hide:

Shora
08-18-2008, 04:58 PM
This may not be possible with the insurance company although I don't see why not, but why don't you get yourself a side marker light (dare I say a MGM) duck tape it on. Use the car for the remainder of the summer (almost over) and then have it repaired when you get home.

I know it won't be pretty, but you will have the satisfaction of having it repaired locally.

Just a thought :dunno: :hide:

Trust me, that is FAR from a bad idea and will be my preference. The head light isn't working either and I don't want to buy both from the dealer since they should be covered when I finally take it in. Im in Ocean City, there is no junk yard that I know of close enough.

I have a $1000.00 deductable (yes 0 claims or tickets in 12 yrs. of driving and I still pay over 2K per year for insurance on the Marauder) and don't want to increase this situation by another $300 or so.

Also, I don't think that problem is a simple headlamp switch since the headlight doesn't work and the bulb is fine. Maybe something happened to the wires?

Pops
08-18-2008, 05:25 PM
So you know its the body shop that has to guarantee the work! A good shop will guarantee the work and paint for as long as you own the car. You have the right to have it repaired at the shop of your choice. You do not have to take it where they tell you. They have contracts with shops to do the work by the methods the insurance company dictates which are not always the way to restore your car to preaccident condition. Ask the shop of your choice if they work with your insurance company and have them negotgate the repairs. Someyimes you might have topay a little out of your pocket but they usually come to a fair agrrement. Remember its your car and your rights!

Shora
08-18-2008, 05:40 PM
So you know its the body shop that has to guarantee the work! A good shop will guarantee the work and paint for as long as you own the car. You have the right to have it repaired at the shop of your choice. You do not have to take it where they tell you. They have contracts with shops to do the work by the methods the insurance company dictates which are not always the way to restore your car to preaccident condition. Ask the shop of your choice if they work with your insurance company and have them negotgate the repairs. Someyimes you might have topay a little out of your pocket but they usually come to a fair agrrement. Remember its your car and your rights!

Thanks, but this shop says that they guarantee the paint for 3-5 yrs. on their web site. I find that figure to be total BS and will not be using them because of that statement alone. No matter what they tell me in person, I do not trust a shop that says:

"provides a 3-5 Year Limited Written Warranty on painting-related priming and painting work against solvent blistering and peeling, excluding defects which are caused by extreme environmental conditions to which the vehicle may be exposed. The Shop will, at its sole option, re-prime, re-paint or re-stripe the specific section or sections of the vehicle warranted hereby. Paint Warranty is valid only when paint is applied over original factory finishes that are fee of defect."

I am not in a happy situation.

Pops
08-18-2008, 05:54 PM
That is the standard warranty from the shop. Ask them what the paint manufacters warranty is. Most of the time it is lifetime. Your insurance company will only redo under the conditions listed above. Ask for a copy of there warranty and one from the shop they want you to take it to. Its your car so you have to make the decision. I was in the body shop worls as a technican and owner for 40 yearws and
understand what goes on in a claim. Bottom line is up to you not the insurance company.

Shora
08-18-2008, 06:02 PM
That is the standard warranty from the shop. Ask them what the paint manufacters warranty is. Most of the time it is lifetime. Your insurance company will only redo under the conditions listed above. Ask for a copy of there warranty and one from the shop they want you to take it to. Its your car so you have to make the decision. I was in the body shop worls as a technican and owner for 40 yearws and
understand what goes on in a claim. Bottom line is up to you not the insurance company.

Help me out John.

If it were so much up to me why is this situation driving me crazy?

All I want is a shop that will give a lifetime warranty on their work and the insurance company to back that up because I will never drive across the Country to get it fixed..

Also, the shop will see my FL plates and now that if they do something that only shows up weeks or months later that I am out of luck.

larryo340
08-18-2008, 07:32 PM
Also, I don't think that problem is a simple headlamp switch since the headlight doesn't work and the bulb is fine. Maybe something happened to the wires?

Check this attachment that shows the underdash fuse panel fuse location number for each headlamp. You might get lucky. If the fuse is blown and a new fuse blows as soon as the lights are on it probably pinched a wire behind headlamp, maybe even right at the connector as it looks like it was pushed back a little.

Shora
08-18-2008, 07:44 PM
Check this attachment that shows the underhood fuse panel fuse location number for each headlamp. You might get lucky. If the fuse is blown and a new fuse blows as soon as the lights are on, it would be a simple wire run from the underhood panel to the headlamp connector.


I won't lie.

I have no idea what I'm looking at there.

Should I check a fuse under the hood? Yes, tell me a number. I'll check it now.

larryo340
08-18-2008, 08:12 PM
I won't lie.

I have no idea what I'm looking at there.

Should I check a fuse under the hood? Yes, tell me a number. I'll check it now.

10 amp Fuse in space #26 in the underdash fuse panel (I said underhood before by mistake)
#26 is in the top row second fuse from left when looking at the fuse box.

Windsor58
08-18-2008, 08:24 PM
I'd recommend rescheduling the adjuster out a couple days and use the time til then going and getting quotes from a couple good shops. If you don't know which shops are good and don't know anybody who can advise you, you could try calling a high end car dealer (don't tell them why you are asking) and just ask who they have do their body work. I did this several years ago and found a good shop. I had just moved to town and didn't know anyone. i called 3-4 dealers - Mercedes, Lexus, BMW and I can't remember who else. One did their work in house, so I scratched them, but two recommended the same place. I went there and looked over their shop andthe work they were doing. Turned out to be a good shop. Since then, I have heard from others that it was a good shop, too.
Having an idea what a good shop(s) would charge when the adjuster gets there helps. I did this once and the adjuster tried to low ball the estiamte (less than half of what it really cost), and having the other estimates helped. I think the adjuster was planning to use all used parts and even then his estimate would not have covered the repairs.

sorry you had to go through this. If this is the worst you have to go through, though, you are lucky. Good Luck

TAKEDOWN
08-18-2008, 08:37 PM
I say go with a new badgeless grill from zack.

larryo340
08-18-2008, 08:42 PM
I say go with a new badgeless grill from zack.
I think deciding which grill to use is the last thing on his mind right now :rolleyes:

Shora
08-18-2008, 08:44 PM
10 amp Fuse in space #26 in the underdash fuse panel (I said underhood before by mistake)
#26 is in the top row second fuse from left when looking at the fuse box.


I just checked the manual and went to the car.

I thought it was #26 is for the driver's side (which works) and #24 for the passenger side which doesn't.

Anyway, the fuses are good. They both light up the driver's side head lamp. Also, the high beams work on both sides so does that mean that the bulb is still good or can the bulb lose only the low beam function?

Shora
08-18-2008, 08:48 PM
I say go with a new badgeless grill from zack.


I think deciding which grill to use is the last thing on his mind right now :rolleyes:

I have seen his best grills in person. Don't forget I am a member of the SSM so I have had my Marauder parked next to the Fruit Punch and many others from all black to black and chrome etc....

Nice grills indeed but, like Larry said, spending an extra $500 is the last thing on my mind.

larryo340
08-18-2008, 08:51 PM
I just checked the manual and went to the car.

I thought it was #26 is for the driver's side (which works) and #24 for the passenger side which doesn't.

Anyway, the fuses are good. They both light up the driver's side head lamp. Also, the high beams work on both sides so does that mean that the bulb is still good or can the bulb lose only the low beam function?

According to the factory wiring manual that I'm looking at right now shows fuse #26 is for the passenger side headlamp. The bulb has two filaments so yes it can lose one and the other will still work. It's possible that just the low beam filament went bad from the impact. If you can still get the connector off of the passenger side headlamp you can take the bulb out of the drivers side and plug it into the passenger side and see if it works on low beam. Just be sure not to touch the bulbs with your bare hands, use a paper towel or clean rag. Hopefully it will work, and then you would just need a bulb. If not then most likely a wire is pinched right behind the headlamp.

Shora
08-18-2008, 08:52 PM
I'd recommend rescheduling the adjuster out a couple days and use the time til then going and getting quotes from a couple good shops. If you don't know which shops are good and don't know anybody who can advise you, you could try calling a high end car dealer (don't tell them why you are asking) and just ask who they have do their body work. I did this several years ago and found a good shop. I had just moved to town and didn't know anyone. i called 3-4 dealers - Mercedes, Lexus, BMW and I can't remember who else. One did their work in house, so I scratched them, but two recommended the same place. I went there and looked over their shop andthe work they were doing. Turned out to be a good shop. Since then, I have heard from others that it was a good shop, too.
Having an idea what a good shop(s) would charge when the adjuster gets there helps. I did this once and the adjuster tried to low ball the estiamte (less than half of what it really cost), and having the other estimates helped. I think the adjuster was planning to use all used parts and even then his estimate would not have covered the repairs.

sorry you had to go through this. If this is the worst you have to go through, though, you are lucky. Good Luck

Really smart idea about going to a few shops first. It will put the adjuster in his place before the games begin. Too bad THERE ARE NO GOOD SHOPS IN THIS MINI ME TOWN.

The last part you said is very true. This is nothing, in the scope of life, but I still need this done correctly the first time or I will suffer trying to get it fixed later.

It's almost funny. I am used to big Cities and these small family run garages scare the living...outta me.

The last part you said is very true and I am thankful, but if I don't get this fixed right the first time, I will suffer later trying to get it fixed a second time.

Shora
08-18-2008, 08:59 PM
According to the factory wiring manual that I'm looking at right now shows fuse #26 is for the passenger side headlamp. The bulb has two filaments so yes it can lose one and the other will still work. It's possible that just the low beam filament went bad from the impact. If you can still get the connector off of the passenger side headlamp you can take the bulb out of the drivers side and plug it into the passenger side and see if it works on low beam. Just be sure not to touch the bulbs with your bare hands, use a paper towel or clean rag. Hopefully it will work, and then you would just need a bulb. If not then most likely a wire is pinched right behind the headlamp.


I was going to try switching the driver's side bulb with this one but I couldn't believe that bulb has too filaments. I thought about it, that's why I asked, just didn't believe it.

I will switch and check it.

Thanks.

Georges93LX
08-18-2008, 10:18 PM
The headlamps and corner lamps have quick disconnects on the harnesses. You can see it in your second and third picture. The bulbs have two filaments for high/low beam and turn signal/parking lamp. The corner/turning lamp is single filament. Some insurance companies are saying that if a car is older than 3 years that they can use aftermarket parts or you pay the difference for OEM. Check your policy. I would replace the bulbs and drive it as is until you got home or to where you wanted it repaired.

Motorhead350
08-18-2008, 10:42 PM
Make sure you are getting Marauder parts and not Crown Vic parts. When my car was crashed the first time I found a CV mirror on the passenger side because it didn't have any black paint on it. :mad2: The fender looks like it can be worked it. Sell Zack that grill because anyone else will just toss it in the garbage, Zack is probably the only one that will have any use for it. The front bumper guard should be fine as long as you do not have any holes in it and by the looks of it, you'll be fine.

I think you'll be fine, but watch yourself, there's a lotta scum in this world that like to take advantage of people in these situations... it's good that you are alert.

HotRodMercury
08-18-2008, 11:13 PM
Insurance company just called. I can take it the only body shop that they have a contract with (within a 50 miles) or they will not guarantee the work.

Not good news so far.
usaly, when your insurance sends you to a place
thay aint gonna do you wrong, just for you to feel
better ask the body shop to show you some of ther

work, im sure you'll sleep better, not saying that
the place your going to is a bad place but, always
befor you get your car repaired at any place, dont
matter what kinda shop it is, it could evan be
father and son kinda setup just ask to see ther

work, some times ther small hinky dink shop
compared to those big chain companys,
when it comes to work thay put those big guys
to shame not saying this applys for every one,
just the ones who are talented Seeing is beleaving.

Pops
08-19-2008, 05:33 AM
I am with Windsor 58. If you have to go out of town to find a shop. Other wise ask the questions I posted for you.

SID210SA
08-19-2008, 06:09 AM
Here was my experience with the same type of accident:

http://mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=33332

Cobra25
08-19-2008, 07:25 AM
The main thing is no one got hurt bad. Sorry to hear this happened to you.

ckadiddle
08-19-2008, 10:07 AM
I just picked up my MM today from the body shop. A tree limb fell on my trunk and put some waves in the metal.

I have State Farm, went to the adjuster and got my estimate. Took it to my choice of body shops (it is State Farm certified) and had it fixed.

The State Farm adjuster said that with the black paint on Fords, matching wasn't a problem. It seems he was right as it looks to be a perfect match.

Any Warranty on repair work it seems to me would be with the body shop, not the insurance company.

Anyway good luck on the repair. I believe you are within your rights to request the repair be made with OEM parts for safety reasons. Rick

I use a Ford dealer that is State Farm certified also. They have done multiple jobs large and small for me over the years. I stick with them even if it comes out of my pocket because their paint and body work is always top notch. I have had small dings done, spoiler added, front bumper repaint and major fromt end collision repairs on Blue Thunder. They know me by first name now. LOL

I consider myself lucky that they do good work.

magindat
08-19-2008, 11:24 AM
I recovered from THIS!!!!

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/files/3/5/4/8/EX000006.JPG

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/browseimages.php?c=73&userid= (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/../showcase/browseimages.php?c=73&userid=)

Eric-Blk2004
08-19-2008, 11:26 AM
^^ Wow...

Wheres your grill? :)

magindat
08-19-2008, 11:27 AM
^^ Wow...

Wheres your grill? :)

I left it on the road in a million pieces.

SID210SA
08-19-2008, 12:07 PM
Rich....that blue wire with the fuse: was that for the stereo system...I have a fuse on mine in that same area but my fuse looks nothing like that...

magindat
08-19-2008, 12:26 PM
Yeah, that was the old system. Just an in-line 60. It's 0 gauge now with a 200 ANL.

omarauder
08-19-2008, 01:44 PM
I had someone back into my cornering light and bumper last year. Not as bad as yours as I only needed the light assy. Watch out for that cornering light assy. Apparently there's a cheaper 'generic' copy out there which my insurance co advised the body shop to use. I noticed it right away by comparing it to the other side, which was OEM. As well as not fitting properly, the color was wrong and it doesn't have the tiny Mercury symbol on it. I had them replace it with an OEM piece, which only cost $10 more.
As for paint, the whole bumper got re-painted and it looked better than new, with the bodyman complaining about the lousy factory paint job!

Shora
08-19-2008, 02:07 PM
Thanks for the advice guys.

I went to a body shop that a local cop recommended. They said that the I need a new hood and fedner because they cannot be fixed perfectly. They said the hood is aluminum and the fender is double walled so they will replace them. Also, needs a new bumper and head light and grill.

When I looked at his list I said, what about the fog light and he gave a dumb look and replied "what fog light? You have those?"

I was thinking about calling my insurance company and telling them that I want the work to be done here but I didn't trust him in the end.

Right before calling I asked him if he can order all the parts, gather them, and when they all arrive to call me before installing them because I want to make sure everything is OE. He said that they don't really do that but that he will use only OE so not to worry. I looked him in the eye and said that it is the first time we meet and I ask to please inspect the parts before they go on the car since it will make me feel more comfortable. He said, no, we don't like doing that.

So I said, thank you for your time and left.

What a dumba$$!

The hunt continues.

Shora
08-19-2008, 02:07 PM
I had someone back into my cornering light and bumper last year. Not as bad as yours as I only needed the light assy. Watch out for that cornering light assy. Apparently there's a cheaper 'generic' copy out there which my insurance co advised the body shop to use. I noticed it right away by comparing it to the other side, which was OEM. As well as not fitting properly, the color was wrong and it doesn't have the tiny Mercury symbol on it. I had them replace it with an OEM piece, which only cost $10 more.
As for paint, the whole bumper got re-painted and it looked better than new, with the bodyman complaining about the lousy factory paint job!

Never thought to check for the little Mercury symbol. Thanks!

Shora
08-19-2008, 02:09 PM
The headlamps and corner lamps have quick disconnects on the harnesses. You can see it in your second and third picture. The bulbs have two filaments for high/low beam and turn signal/parking lamp. The corner/turning lamp is single filament. Some insurance companies are saying that if a car is older than 3 years that they can use aftermarket parts or you pay the difference for OEM. Check your policy. I would replace the bulbs and drive it as is until you got home or to where you wanted it repaired.

I may not have a choice.

HotRodMercury
08-20-2008, 02:01 AM
I may not have a choice.
hurry and drop it off cruise a rental intill its done

Aren Jay
08-20-2008, 10:01 AM
Mine was just like that:

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/files/6/9/8/3/Maurader001.jpg

Iowa Rick
08-20-2008, 03:03 PM
Just for your info if interested. There is a used right MM headlight on Ebay right now. ends in 5 days if I remember right

Shora
08-21-2008, 12:08 PM
Just for your info if interested. There is a used right MM headlight on Ebay right now. ends in 5 days if I remember right


Thanks for the info.

I bought new bulbs all around (head light, signal, and marker lights and) ducked taped it together. Honestly, I know it sounds ghetto or trailer trash but it doesn't look that bad and everything works. I just wanted to stay legal until it's fixed. It too 5 minutes to do and I will post pics later today.

I did this as a temp. solution because I went to the original place that the insurance company sent me and I was very impressed with their facility AND their service. I spoke with the owner and he had no problems answering all my questions or working with me. They really made me feel like they "give a *****" so they already ordered all the parts and when they arrive I will inspect that they are all OE and drop off the car.

I learned not to judge a place before I actually see it and speak with the staff. However, my car isn't fixed yet so I will review them further when it's finished.

Also, can anyone confirm that they indeed make an aftermarket bumper, grill, and header panel? The insurance company wants me to use those items as aftermarket but I am having a hard time believing that they even exist for the marauder.

Let me know before they waste my time and send over CV or MGM parts.

Thanks guys.

larryo340
08-21-2008, 01:53 PM
Yes they are really out there, here is a link for the aftermarket bumper covers

http://www2.partstrain.com/store/?N=11266+1669+4294967262+11921 +9277

Shora
08-21-2008, 02:20 PM
Yes they are really out there, here is a link for the aftermarket bumper covers

http://www2.partstrain.com/store/?N=11266+1669+4294967262+11921 +9277

That sucks. I just checked and most of the parts are available aftermarket. When the parts arrive, how can I tell the difference between OE and aftermarket. Do the OE have some form of marking on them?

The worst, they are charging my insurance comp over 1K for the bumper. Basically, they're prices are bouble those of that sight.

larryo340
08-21-2008, 02:40 PM
That sucks. I just checked and most of the parts are available aftermarket. When the parts arrive, how can I tell the difference between OE and aftermarket. Do the OE have some form of marking on them?

The worst, they are charging my insurance comp over 1K for the bumper. Basically, they're prices are bouble those of that sight.

OEM parts will have Ford labels, and part numbers on them. I believe the front cover from Ford is over $900 last I heard.

Shora
08-21-2008, 03:16 PM
OEM parts will have Ford labels, and part numbers on them. I believe the front cover from Ford is over $900 last I heard.

Does anyone have the Ford Part numbers for the following items:

-Hood
-Pass. side fender
-Header Panel
-Grill
-Bumper
-Corner light
-Head light

Thanks guys

larryo340
08-21-2008, 04:34 PM
Does anyone have the Ford Part numbers for the following items:

-Hood
-Pass. side fender
-Header Panel
-Grill
-Bumper
-Corner light
-Head light

Thanks guys
No part numbers, but you can get the oem list prices from this Ford site
http://www.forddirectonline.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=getLocator&siteid=214462&chapter=DR2LA03&appSectionid=2276&groupid=51817&subgroupid=2278&make=23&model=Grand%20marquis&year=2003&catalogid=2

Shora
08-21-2008, 05:10 PM
No part numbers, but you can get the oem list prices from this Ford site
http://www.forddirectonline.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=getLocator&siteid=214462&chapter=DR2LA03&appSectionid=2276&groupid=51817&subgroupid=2278&make=23&model=Grand%20marquis&year=2003&catalogid=2


All the OE prices here are cheaper than the aftermarket listed on my invoice.

larryo340
08-21-2008, 05:53 PM
All the OE prices here are cheaper than the aftermarket listed on my invoice.
When you say the OEM are cheaper, was it the list price or that site's discounted price? They shouldn't charge more for aftermarket parts as opposed to OEM, if they are higher for aftermarket then they are taking advantage. :mad2:

Shora
08-21-2008, 06:02 PM
When you say the OEM are cheaper, was it the list price or that site's discounted price? They shouldn't charge more for aftermarket parts as opposed to OEM, if they are higher for aftermarket then they are taking advantage. :mad2:

They are charging my insurance company more for the aftermarket parts then the web site you linked sells the OE for.

I am fighting to get my insurance company to pay for all OE but it's not easy when the prices are so high.

finster101
08-22-2008, 04:43 AM
Look for the "Blue Oval" on everything. Shops are in business to make money. If you think they are gouging call a dealer and get a quote on the parts yourself. The fact that they are pre-ordering an dallowing you inspection is a good sign. Don't start motorheading them. It is not good to piss off your cook, mechanic, or painter. You pay for when you do.

Georges93LX
08-22-2008, 07:22 PM
Thanks for the info.

I bought new bulbs all around (head light, signal, and marker lights and) ducked taped it together. Honestly, I know it sounds ghetto or trailer trash but it doesn't look that bad and everything works. I just wanted to stay legal until it's fixed. It too 5 minutes to do and I will post pics later today.

I did this as a temp. solution because I went to the original place that the insurance company sent me and I was very impressed with their facility AND their service. I spoke with the owner and he had no problems answering all my questions or working with me. They really made me feel like they "give a *****" so they already ordered all the parts and when they arrive I will inspect that they are all OE and drop off the car.

I learned not to judge a place before I actually see it and speak with the staff. However, my car isn't fixed yet so I will review them further when it's finished.

Also, can anyone confirm that they indeed make an aftermarket bumper, grill, and header panel? The insurance company wants me to use those items as aftermarket but I am having a hard time believing that they even exist for the marauder.

Let me know before they waste my time and send over CV or MGM parts.

Thanks guys.

Carparts.com also has aftermarket parts. Check with Ray the Dealer. I bought OEM parts from him and got a great deal on pricing.

Georges93LX
08-22-2008, 07:34 PM
Let me know before they waste my time and send over CV or MGM parts.

Thanks guys.

You do realize that these are all the same car with minor differences.

Shora
08-23-2008, 07:59 PM
You do realize that these are all the same car with minor differences.


I know they are similar. I own 3 Crown Vics and both my Brother and I had Marauders (until his was totaled by fire).

I just don't want them sending the parts that are not the same (grill, bumper, lights,) etc. I know that they will fix the problem; I just don't want an unnecessary delay.

blackrauder
08-26-2008, 08:46 AM
Ive had as similar problem, and they will just put the cheapest non OEM parts on the car ask them. The left and right fender will be at least $500, you may not be able to find the grille OEM because ford/mercury no longer produce it.:)

Georges93LX
08-26-2008, 02:20 PM
Ive had as similar problem, and they will just put the cheapest non OEM parts on the car ask them. The left and right fender will be at least $500, you may not be able to find the grille OEM because ford/mercury no longer produce it.:)

I would check with Ray the Dealer. I bought one a couple of months ago.