[Joe-BMW33]

Originally Posted by JRoyce

Is it unrealistic to expect an identical paint job? I'm concerned the shop may not be able to get the metallic finish right. Is the repair shop able to order the paint direct from BMW instead of trying to recreate it?

No, they will have to paint the new panel. A good shop will match it perfectly. If it's any consolation, I had a new fender put on my F10 that was dark graphite metallic and the paint was perfect. It was a BMW certified shop and an extension of the dealer that I bought the car at. The days are over where you can tell if done right.

Is your color actually metallic? I thought Bernina was flat? Which is even easier to match and blend.

[ArchieV]

Fully expected it but still crazy to think that headlamp replacements are 50% of the cost. I remember when the new Gen Maxima's came out about 15 years and those headlamps were $1,200 a piece and people were stealing them in droves.

But yes I'd be very picky about paint jobs as well. The good thing is you're taking it to a certified repair facility and I've never had one not back their work for paint. So if you're not satisfied you always have that on your side. Just would hate to have the hassle of potentially not having your car for another 1+ week.

[Opie55]

Originally Posted by JRoyce

Is it unrealistic to expect an identical paint job? I’m concerned the shop may not be able to get the metallic finish right. Is the repair shop able to order the paint direct from BMW instead of trying to recreate it?

It is not unrealistic. Nobody would get paint directly from BMW. And even if they did, that does not guarantee anything. Good body people color match the paint. If there is an obvious difference, I would not accept it. The one exception is the bumper. Bumpers, even from the factory, often look half a shade off. It's a well known phenomena.

Personally, using a BMW shop means nothing to me. I search online for who is good, not who they work for.