Had to choose between using ramps or jack stands on a BMW 5 series yesterday

I went with the ramps because I was feeling lazy but the front bumper scraped the whole way up and now I've got a 3 inch scratch I have to explain to the owner, has anyone else had a ramp disaster like that?

2 comments

2 Comments

sean_perry1mo ago

Oh man, I felt that scrape just reading this. Nothing screams "pro mechanic" quite like watching a bumper eat the driveway while you're trying to save a few minutes. Hope the owner's got a good sense of humor and a touch-up paint pen handy.

fiona1301mo ago

Spin that jack stand logic on its head and call it an express lane to bodywork, I guess. @sean_perry nailed it too, because half the battle is just hoping the owner's got a sense of humor about their now customized bumper. Honestly, ramps are a gamble every time, especially on any car that sits low, but tell yourself it's a souvenir from a job well done and move on. Nothing says trust like a fresh scratch you can't blame on the road gravel.