Whether it’s your fault or not, accidents can happen at any time no matter where you are and how well you drive. But the main problem after the accident is getting your car repaired.
If you don’t go to a good place, your car will never be the same. The auto body shop might not have expertise in dealing with your car’s make and model, the specific type of issue, or may not be able to source the right parts.
To help you out, here are five tips to help you pick the right auto body shop
Do Your Research
Take some time to research local auto body shops in your area. Reading reviews from previous customers on websites like Yelp or Google Reviews can be helpful.
Pay attention to overall ratings, customer experiences, and any recurring issues that people mention. You can even find people leaving reviews about the service relating to the make and model of your car. Doing your homework will help you narrow down your options and find reputable auto body shops.
Ask for Recommendations
Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth recommendations. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who have recently had their vehicles repaired after a collision.
Ask them about their experiences, the quality of the work done, and their overall satisfaction with the shop, along with anything that comes to mind. Recommendations from people you trust can give you peace of mind.
Check Certifications and Experience
When it comes to auto collision repair, it’s important to choose a shop with the necessary certifications and experience.
Look for certifications such as I-CAR, ASE, or others, which indicate that the technicians working on your vehicle have received proper training and meet industry standards.
Additionally, consider the shop’s experience in handling collision repairs. A shop with several years of experience is more likely to have encountered various repair scenarios and can provide reliable service.
Get Estimates and Compare Prices
Before making a final decision, it’s a good idea to get estimates from multiple auto body shops.
Contact a few different shops and provide them with the details about your car and the repairs needed. Ask for written estimates that outline the cost of labor, parts, and any additional fees. By comparing these estimates, you can get an idea of the average price range and identify any significant differences.
Remember, the lowest price doesn’t always guarantee the best quality, so consider the overall reputation and expertise of the shop as well.
Inquire About Warranty and Additional Services
A reputable auto body shop should offer some form of warranty on their work.
Ask about the warranty policy and what it covers. A warranty demonstrates that the shop stands behind its repairs and is willing to address any issues that may arise. Additionally, inquire about any additional services offered by the shop. Some shops provide services like paintless dent repair, bumper repair, or even detailing, which can enhance your overall experience and save you time by addressing multiple repairs needs in one place.