AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION & POLICY INSTITUTE

Repair Choices

3 THINGS TO DO WHEN SELECTING THE AUTO BODY REPAIR SHOP THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

MOST PEOPLE HAVE NO IDEA HOW THEIR VEHICLE IS BEING REPAIRED

The two main difference in estimates is traditionally the type parts you’re using and if your damaged panels are being repaired or replaced?  In addition, as a rule, the labor rate in any given geographic area is the same.

The point is to ask. And if the shop is reluctant to take the time to briefly explain the type of parts being used and which panels they are repairing and which panels they are replacing, you may want to consider another shop.

In some cases, people don’t even know where or how their vehicle is being repaired  – especially if you turn it over to the insurance company.  Consider the following:

1) PAY ATTENTION TO WORD-OF-MOUTH

Any business can advertise, but you’ll do better with a shop that friends, family or acquaintances recommend rather than an insurance company’s shop that has an obligation to control costs.

Consider shops that have to prove they can satisfy customers and rely more on their reputation to attract your business rather than contractual agreements they have with insurance companies.

2) FOLLOW YOUR INTUITION

Your intuition about the shop you’re considering is important.

If the place is really dirty, cluttered or disorganized, this might reflect the kind of work you could expect on your vehicle.

Also consider if the shop owner or manager is friendly and eager to answer your questions and assist you through the repair process.

3) ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

When you’re choosing a body shop, go in smart and ask some key questions.

Click Here to view and print the questions you need to ask of the insurance company, the body shop, and yourself in order to receive a quality and safe repair of your choice.

Other key question to ask is how long the shop has been in business?  If they have a business license to operate their collision repair facility? And, if they meet important EPA environmental requirements.

If the shop truly cares about you as a loyal longstanding customer, they will have little trouble in briefly explaining the expense differences associated with the varying level of repairs.

Repair vs. replacement of damaged panels in addition to the what type of new or used genuine parts vs. imitation or aftermarket parts explains why estimates from different body shops can vary wildly.

Remember, YOU decide how you would like your vehicle to be repaired?

1. To the best of the shops ability using new original manufacturer parts and high quality materials only.

2. Safely repaired but some used or imitation parts with lower quality materials used.

3.The most cost-effective repair possible.(This option is for safety related or cosmetic repairs ONLY). **

** NOTE: THE INSURER AND ITS PREFERRED SHOP MAY ONLY GIVE YOU THIS OPTION