What to Look For When Choosing an Auto Body Shop
When choosing an auto body shop, there are many factors to consider. These include location, insurance company approval, and after-accident repair.
Location
One of the best ways to find a good auto body shop is to look for word-of-mouth recommendations. It is also a good idea to ask your insurance company for a list of recommended shops. Once you have a list of recommendations, check them out in person. Visit several shops and compare prices and reviews. This will give you a good idea of which companies provide good service. You can also check out reviews on the Internet. Check for before and after photos of the job done. Look for trusted customer reviews and descriptions of the work performed. Some body shops have a two-year warranty on their services. Others offer a lifetime guarantee. However, a lifetime guarantee may be unrealistic. Instead, try to find a body shop that offers excellent service and a fair price. Make sure the auto body shop you choose has the proper equipment and training. Many automobile manufacturers have created certified collision repair networks. These networks ensure that mechanics perform repairs correctly.
Insurance company-approved repair shop
One of the perks of having a car insurance policy is having access to an insurer’s list of approved automobile repair shops. This allows you to get your car back on the road with minimal effort and hassle. Your insurer may also offer you a rental car extension if you’re lucky. Insurance companies are often vested in recommending a particular repair shop because they make money off the service. You might also be eligible for a discount because your insurer has a close relationship with the establishment—no reason to be ashamed of choosing a reputable, cost-effective repair shop. Taking your car to a shoddy establishment could mean you are paying for repairs out of your pocket. The insurance company will cover some of the costs associated with the repair, but they will not pay for upgrades or repairs that might add to the value of your vehicle. Some insurance companies have a direct repair program in which you are responsible for the deductible and the repair. These programs are a great way to save both time and money.
Estimates from multiple shops
It would be best to get estimates from several shops when choosing an auto body shop. While it may be tempting to determine the cheapest estimate, this can often lead to poor repairs. The shop may use inferior parts and perform sloppy work. It can also delay the car’s restoration. If the first estimate seems excessive, you can request an additional one. Keep in mind that getting multiple assessments can be time-consuming. The difference between an insurance adjuster’s estimate and a shop’s cash pay estimate is due to the labor costs involved. A seasoned estimator will be able to ensure that all of the possible fees are listed on the cash pay estimate. Shops with a high reputation tend to charge more for their services. They have higher overheads and hire more staff. These factors can make it more expensive to repair a vehicle. However, these shops have a much larger customer base. A reputable auto body shop will have employees with the proper training, licensing, and certification. The shop should also have a written warranty.
After-accident repairs
It is essential to choose an auto body shop that will do a good job and ensure you are satisfied with the final result. However, this can be challenging. You need to do your research and ask questions. If you need more clarification about your choice, contact your insurance company to find out what to do. Insurance companies will often have a list of recommended shops. These shops are usually ASE certified and will work directly with the company to fix your car. The advantage of this is that the body shop can provide an initial estimate, which will give you an idea of the cost of the repairs. You should also check for reviews. Many online sources allow customers to share their experiences. Considerations typically include before-and-after pictures and detailed descriptions of the work performed. This can help you decide whether to hire the body shop or look elsewhere.