Many of us have taken part in one end of the other of a collision, and if not yet, statistically the likelihood is high that one will occur in which we’re involved. With that being said, most people never really think about what to expect after an accident in regards to the auto body repair that will more than likely be involved. It’s one of those out of sight, out of mind events that no one really thinks about until it happens. With that said, and thanks in part to some insights from Laura T. Coffey over at today.com, we have put together a list of tips to keep in mind before having the auto body repair work done.

1. Be prepared to actually see what you signed up for in your insurance policy. Unless your an avid accident causer, most of us don’t fully realize what our insurance covers until it’s time to use it. With that being said, you may be in for a surprise, starting with the deductible. While many of us end up grabbing a higher deductible to lessen our insurance, this is where is may come into play. The average deductible is $500, which means you have to pay that amount first before the insurance can/will begin to cover repair costs. For some, the deductible is much higher due to wanting a smaller premium. Take a look at your policy and see where it stands. Also to note, that if you have caused the accident, you will need to confirm whether you even have collision coverage to pay for the repairs. If you went for a lower premium, there’s a good chance you may have removed collision from the coverage.
2. If you’re using insurance and want them to coverage the collision repairs, it’s important to know, understand, and follow the system. Realize that the insurance company will often want to direct you as to whom to go to in order to get quotes and may even have recommended or approved repair shops. Be aware that when working within their network, you are still best off doing your own research. See what kind of reviews the shop has, how long they’ve been in business and even a gallery of their work if possible.
3. Always get more than one estimate. This will benefit you in several ways. It will allow you to see a healthy cross-section of what the repair costs truly can be. If you go with just one estimate, you won’t know if it’s the highest, lowest, or somewhere in between. It will also be beneficial to see different opinions on the repair work that will be needed to be done. Some shops may recommend going further while others may recommend only touching what is absolutely necessary.
4. Choosing the repair shop. You should always have at least a little bit of choice as to whom you use to do the repairs. Even if you must stay within the insurance companies list of approved repair shops, they’ll usually have several to choose from and some insurance companies will allow you to choose your own. With this in mind, keep the following criteria on a checklist:
   1. Replacement parts. Are the OEM (original-equipment manufacturer) parts? Are they salvaged or generic parts. What do you prefer and what do they use?
   2. How does the repair shop rate in the area. Do they have strong reviews with a history of great work or are they a brand new company that looks a little shady?   Check into their reputation and complaint history and with the internet, this can easily be done from home.
   3. Do they specialize in your type of vehicle – especially if you have a European auto. They will often need specialized tools and procedures to work on foreign automobiles and it’s important to note whether they are certified to do so or whether they are just piecing the tools together to “make” something work.
   4. Do they offer a rental car or is that something you need to try and obtain through your insurance company? Some auto body repair shops with offer you a rental car at their expense (often written into the quote) and others have no such option, but be sure you know how you will get around while your car is in the shop.
   5. Ask them how accurate their estimation of the timeframe of the repair is and how often they meet that estimation. This can help save you a lot of headache if they consistently over promise on the timeframe, you don’t need to be so locked into what they say. Rather you can plan additional time if they tend to consistently miss their mark.
   6. What kind of warranty do they offer? Salt Lake City collision repair shop Go-Collision offers a lifetime warranty on all collision work for as long as you own the vehicle. Some shops over limited warranties, while others offer no warranty. Obviously, we would recommend finding a shop that offers a long and strong warranty and that has been in business long enough to have serviced that type of warranty.

If you’ve done the research right and followed the above tips, your auto body repair should come out looking like new. When done right, you should even be able to tell that there was ever any damage and your vehicle should run like new. When done wrong….. well just follow the tips and focus on getting it done right by knowing what to expect.

Want To Know About Auto Repair? This Is For You

Getting a vehicle repaired can be one of the worst experiences a person can have. Not only do they have to spend money on repair costs, they have to deal with auto mechanics that charge too much and take forever to do repairs. The following article has tips that can make collision repair easier.

Check the transmission fluid every two to three months. Let your engine run and open the hood of your car. Use the transmission dipstick to check the fluid levels. If there is not enough fluid in your transmission you probably have a leak somewhere in your system. It is best to take the car to a mechanic so he can locate the leak.

If you have doubts about the work of a mechanic or their diagnosis, ask if you can see the old damaged parts. A good mechanic will show you the part and point out the issues. If a mechanic cannot show you the old damaged parts, you need to check your car to make sure the mechanic actually put some new parts in.

When hiring a mechanic to repair to automobile, always seek referrals and opinions from friends, family and colleagues you trust. Doing so will ensure that you can find someone who has provided reliable, quality service in the past and provided good value to customers. In this way, you can greatly improve the likelihood that your car will be in good hands, and you will ultimately be satisfied with the work done.

Collision

You need to fix small chips in your windshield as soon as possible. A small chip or crack will get bigger if your go over a bump or sustain a small collision. Go to a good windshield repair shop and you will be able to fix a small chip without spending a fortune.

Repair

Keep on hand all of your car’s documentation. Keep these documents in a solid folder inside your glove compartment. Any mechanic who works on your car is going to want to see them. It will aid them in figuring out any issues.

Avoid unexpected auto repair problems while driving by performing a basic safety check before you set out in your car. Start your engine, turn on your lights and your flashers and walk all the way around your car. Check your tires and make sure your lights and flashers are working properly. This simple check will ensure a safer ride and help you avoid the need for emergency repairs.

Ask your auto mechanic about their A.S.E. certification. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence has a test twice a year for it. To earn this certification, mechanics must pass a written test while also having about two years of work experience in auto mechanics and repair. This certification increases your chances of finding competent mechanics.

Check a variety of sources of information before attempting an auto repair for the first time. Do a good online search, watch instructional videos and seek out books at your local library and take time to talk with an experienced mechanic before you dive in to try that repair. Once you feel comfortable with the concept, make a list of the things you need and the steps you will need to take to make the repair successfully.

Many people have had bad experiences with auto repair, but you don’t have to be one of them. All of the dangers and pitfalls associated with auto repair can be eliminated when using the tips from this article. You’ll be able to drive your vehicle once again and not have to go through trouble to do it.