So a while back, I hit a deer on the way to a friends house. I was going about 60 when I saw one hop out and I stepped on the brakes and missed it thankfully. But the second I thought the coast was clear and I let off the brake, another jumped out super fast and hit me square in the grille, I was going about 45. I managed to bring it home and check out the damages. It was leaking coolant and just about everything on the front has cosmetic damage. My problem is that upon coming home my parents revealed to me that they never got full coverage so I'm stuck paying for this out of pocket. What I want to know is how much damage is actually done and what parts I need to fix it. I also would like to know what my best course of action would be. Like should I just sell as is and find something new, or is the damages low enough to fix myself? I will post pictures so you can assess the damage and let me know what you think. All and any help is appreciated. Thanks

 

Hi Lucas and welcome to the forum! Are you okay from the collision? Looks like the damage is mostly cosmetic from the picture. Is there any suspension damage or anything that got damaged under the hood? Looks like you'll need a new bumper, turn signal, grill, and radiator. Have you put together a list of parts other than those? You can likely find most of the parts used, so expenses shouldn't be too bad. I'm attaching a link to our site's DIY tech articles on the W163 platform - there are some helpful guides if you decide to do any of the repairs yourself.

Mercedes-Benz ML-Class W163 (1998-2003) Technical Articles – ML320 – Pelican Parts

 

Yes I am okay haha. Happened 6 months or more ago. The funny thing is I barely even felt it when it connected. MLs are truly built like beasts. To my knowledge there isn't any suspension damage and nothing under the hood other than the radiator. It did, however, warp the hood a little bit and warped the front left fender as well. Not sure how to fix those. Thanks for your help too.

 

If the radiator and a turn signal lens are the only two parts that need replacement, in addition to cosmetic body panels; then I don't think your bill is going to be too high (esp. if you're able to do some of the work yourself, like the radiator and lens..). Like I mentioned earlier, a parts car from a junk yard or some used parts in a classified section would be your best bet. For the hood and fender, if it's a clean hit; you may be able to pull out the dents (do a google search for this). Let us know if you have any further questions and best of luck!