Auto Body Collision Repair - Find the Right Shop

Nobody hopes to get into a car accident. Its not on someone's "to do" list at the beginning of their week. Nevertheless, it does happen and when it does you want to be able to get your vehicle repaired to its original condition in a timely manner. Finding the right auto body repair shop will ensure just that.

Here are some things to look for when you are selecting a collision repair facility:

1) Do They Have the Latest Tools

The cars of today have a lot of computer components in them. They are also more advanced and new to be diagnosed properly before work can even be started on them. Smaller auto body repair shops may not be able to afford all the expensive machinery needed to work on some of the newer vehicles. Make sure they are prepared.

2) What Does Their Repair Shop Look Like

Take a look at their auto body repair shop and make a mental note about what you see. Are employees wearing uniforms. Do you see a different variety of tools for different applications. Is it neat and orderly? You want to do business with a professional auto body company that is organized and a filthy shop with parts and tools all over place does not say that.

3) Do They Handle the Little Things

I would ask if they deal with the insurance companies for you and take care of things like getting your car towed and obtaining a rental car. Again, the bigger auto body shops usually have a customer service department that handles this "minor" details while the smaller auto body collision repair shops will not. You will be on your own and I can tell you, from firsthand experience, that an accident is already stressful enough.

4) What is their Current Parts Ordering System

If they cannot get the parts they need in a timely fashion your vehicle will just be sitting in their shop waiting. I have seen cars just sitting for weeks a because an auto body technician could not get the proper part he needed. Having a wide network of quality OEM parts suppliers is important and can be the X factor on how long your vehicle takes to get fixed.

5) Get Tons of Reviews

First, ask your friends family, and co-worker who they have gone with. This is an excellent place to start. They will not recommend someone who was not good to them.

Second, there exist a lot of online local review sites where people can post comments about their opinions and experiences about businesses they have done business with. The major search engines each have their own review places where you can look as well.

By following these five easy steps and asking a lot of questions you will be able to find a good and dependable local auto body repair shop. The whole accident process is stressful and hopefully the phase where you need to get your vehicle repaired will not be one of them.