Hi guys and gals,

Long time listener, first time caller.

I am about to buy a used LR3 SE, and I want to have the black plastic wheel flares painted or replaced to mimic the sleeker look of the LR4, as well as upgrade the headlamps and get some steel bumps fitted... Can anyone recommend a good Los Angeles-based body-shop that specialize in Land Rover work that might do a quality job for me?

Thanks for your suggestions.

 

Sleeker look or "weaker" look?

The molded wheel arches are so much better in terms of durability. If you paint them, you may reduce that ruggedness since that paint is going to get beat up and/or scratched by brush. If you find a black vehicle, the molded arches will at least match the paint color.

I know this is not what you asked, but I couldn't help myself.

 

I dig the look of them painted and want to do mine some day to match the body.

No idea on west coast body shops though sorry. Maybe check and see who the local Land Rover dealer uses?

 

When I was looking to buy, I saw a few that had been painted.

Chipping, cracking, peeling - yuck.

Can't vouch for their quality of work, but - it was too often to be a fluke.

So just FYI - painting textured black plastic that previous owners likely slathered on "black" products, or worse - Armor All - prep will be 100% key to a halfway decent job.

But I would still count on it failing sooner than later - quicker if you off-road.

 

I think a consideration would be to get LR4 wheel arches and get them paint matched as with the rocker panels etc. Painting the textured plastic may not be the best option, however, I know it has been done plenty of times. Good luck, I'm sure some local Southern Cal folks will pop in and recommend a shop!

 

Every time, I have stopped in for a quote for paint work, the estimate made me run away! (I live in LA too). I agree that the texture will be an issue with getting good result. I don’t think you’ll find any shop that will give you a guarantee.

 

Eurotech next to Land Rover Cerritos does good work with a warranty. But, expensive.

i have a guy that works out of a makeshift location using a tent. Does great work despite his location.

if you PM me I can give his details. But buyer beware, no warranty, cash only. If he doesn’t do a good job, it’s not on me.