Tips on What to Do After a Car Accident

The sickening crunch and out of control motion of two cars meeting the wrong way can be very scary. But after the accident is finished, you're actually just starting a long process of accident assessment and potentially repairs. However as you start the journey from roadside shock to the hands of someone with auto technician training, certain steps can make the process more smoothly.

On site:

The first thing to look for is your safety. It's okay to move your vehicle over to the shoulder or out of harm's way, as long as you don't leave the scene. A first priority is dealing with any injuries or danger. If it was an accident of any magnitude and if anyone was hurt, even minimally, call emergency services, either 911 or the local police telephone line. Your local jurisdiction will also determine the extent of the damages necessary to notify the police.

At this point you need to exchange information with the driver of the other car. It can be very stressful, especially since both of you may be worried that your insurance rates will increase, that you need to prove fault and that the other person will be angry. Leave who is at fault to the police and the insurance companies, after things have been looked over in a detailed assessment by qualified technicians and an auto body estimator.

Make sure you get the make and model of the other car, and if you have a camera, thankfully found on most mobile phones, take pictures. Consult with the police as necessary, and send your car off to the garage. You may need to call a tow truck. One other productive thing you can do is make a sketch of the accident scene while your memory is fresh. If you have to give testimony in court, confidence in your memories will work to your advantage though.

At the Garage:

Generally though, once your vehicles are in the hands of the mechanic it's a matter for the insurance companies to negotiate with each other. Your car will need to be assessed, both to get an accurate picture of the sort of damage that occurred and if your car is road worthy or repairable. Auto mechanic programs teach their graduates just these sorts of skills, which can provide forensic testimony if the other party in the accident disputes your claim, for example if you claim to have been in a particular location in an intersection and the other party claims that you weren't, the impacts on both cars will show both the point of contact and how fast you were going. The mechanic will also help your insurance company decide if you get a cash payout and can go car shopping if your car is totalled, or how you will rebuild and get back on the road.

Tool Checklist For the New Mechanic

Hello everyone and welcome back to my short series on auto tools for the new weekend warrior auto mechanic. In past articles I've covered some tools that every new auto mechanic should consider including in their tool collections and in today's article I've put together a checklist for you. This way you can easily print out this checklist and take it to the store with you when you go shopping. Now if you haven't read the articles before this, it's okay you can go back and catch up. This list will still provide you with an understanding of things you should be on the prowl for while looking for the best prices. Of course, for the more experienced mechanics reading this article, the list will also provide the benefit to you of having a travel checklist if you are on your way to the race track, or other motor sports event.

So here is a great list of tools you should have at all times:

Combination wrenches
Standard Screwdrivers
Philips screwdrivers
Screw holder
Offset or Distributor Wrench
Ignition wrenches
Allen key wrenches
Socket wrench set
Flexible head extension
Any adapters you may need
Torque Wrench
Adjustable Wrench
Ball-Peen hammer
Combination slip-joint pliers
Wire and taper feeler gauges
Flat feeler gauge
Compression gauge
A Work Light
A jack and jack stands
A Creeper
Fire extinguishers
A Funnel
Spare Tire
A Cross Shaft or "Four Way" lug wrench
Jumper cables
Flashlight
First Aid Kit

Having these tools will cover almost every problem you might encounter and problematic repair you may run into.

Auto Body Repair Technician - 5 Steps to Decide If It's Right for You

There's nothing more beautiful than a well-designed car body. From Ferrari to Porsche to Lexus and BMW, the swooping lines of an automobile are often a thing of beauty. It's for that reason that so many people consider becoming a finishing and automotive body technician. But how can you be sure if this career is the right one for you? Here are 5 steps to help you with your decision.

STEP 1: Do your homework.

Make sure that you know what an auto body technician does. In a nutshell, the job is about repairing a car's bodywork. That includes removing damaged material, replacing it with new parts, sanding the body, painting it, etc. But there are many more subtleties there that you may not be aware of. Do some research and get all the details.

STEP 2: Do a self-assessment.

In order to be a good auto body repair technician, you need to have strong technical knowledge of cars, but also, a good sense of aesthetics. Does this sound like you? Patience is also a requirement of the job. Do you think you have the patience to sand and work on car bodies to ensure that the final product is flawless? Think about it, and be honest with yourself.

STEP 3: Follow an car body repair technician around for a day.

One of the best ways to find out more about a job is to follow around someone who has that job and watch them work. How does one do this? One way it to simply visit a local automotive body shop and volunteer your help for free for a day, under the condition that you spend the day with an auto body repair technician.

STEP 4: Visit an auto body school.

Auto body training schools usually have open houses, where prospective students can visit the campus, and learn more about the program. Use these open houses as an opportunity to talk with teachers, and ask them about the Auto Body Repair Technician courses and the career outlook for the position.

STEP 5: Enroll in an auto body trainingschool.

The last step is to enroll in an automotive body training school. By totally immersing yourself in the program all day, every day, you'll truly develop an intimate understanding of the job, and you'll know if it's right for you.

So if you're seriously thinking about becoming an Automotive Body Repair Technician, follow these 5 steps to know if it's really for you. If it is, enroll in an auto body training school and get going!

What You Need to Know About Tinted Windows

We've all seen cars with dark tinted glass before. They give off an air of mystery and allure. On limousines, the dark tint keeps whoever is inside shrouded in privacy, so gawkers can't see in. You have to admit, whenever you see a car or truck with tinted windows, you think it looks pretty cool. After all, having your car windows tinted makes the vehicle look sleek, stylish and mysterious. But there are many more benefits to having your windows tinted than visual appeal.

Take, for instance, the protection from UV light. Ultra Violet light exposure is harmful to the fabric and the leather or plastic trim on the interior of the car. Over time, prolonged exposure to UV light and heat from the sun can cause cracking and fading of plastic trim, as well as fading and drying of fabric. The entire interior of the car may become brittle and deteriorate more quickly without the UV light protection tinted windows provide. Furthermore, the tinted glass keeps the driver and passengers safe from UV light, too. We've all had nasty, uneven sunburns from riding in a car without tinted windows. Having your auto glass tinted will keep your skin safe from burns while riding in the car. No more half-a-leg or one-arm sunburns!

More importantly, however, is the reduction of UV light that is able to reach small children. The sun's glare is distracting enough for drivers, but for babies and children can be harmful to their eyesight. Tinted windows significantly reduce this glare so your child can ride comfortably in your car, and you won't have to rely on sunshades to keep your child's eyesight safe.

Another huge benefit to having tinted auto glass is the privacy. When your vehicle's windows are tinted, it is difficult to see inside. The reason why limousine windows are tinted is precisely for this reason. The person riding inside expects a certain level of privacy, and if you've ever tried to see inside a window of a limousine, you know that it is next to impossible to do. Imagine a criminal wants to break into a car to steal the valuables inside. The burglar will break into a car only if he can see what is inside. He wouldn't want to steal what he can't see. While you shouldn't leave valuables in your car, it is good to have that added level of security to ward off potential thieves.

If you are interested in having your car windows tinted, make sure you know the law in your state. Many states regulate how dark windows can be tinted. A reputable auto glass shop will know the maximum tint grade allowed by law and should not install anything over that legal limit. Also be sure to discuss with the window-tinting technician the different options of film. You'll enjoy how much more appealing your car is visually, and you'll be able to take advantage of all the practical benefits tinted windows have to offer.

Tempered Glass Vs Laminated Glass

The main difference between tempered and laminated glass is in the way each is produced. Laminated glass is made by sandwiching a glass substrate (also called laminate or polyvinyl butyral) in between two additional sheets of glass, while tempered glass is made by heating and cooling a large piece of glass in rapid succession. Both types of glass are heated and while hot, the large glass pieces are rolled on rollers so that it conforms to shape that fits the pattern of the windshield. Both of these methods creates a strong and durable glass that is used in automobile windows and windshields, but each has its own set of characteristics and behaviors.

Laminated glass in beneficial because if it is struck during a car accident, the windshield or window will not shatter into a million tiny pieces. Instead the windshield or window will stay together but have tons of cracks in the glass but for the most part, the broken pieces will still stick together rather than being thrown in a hundred different directions. In the event that a rock or other object hits the windshield or window at a high rate of speed, the windshield will not shatter either, however a crack or chip could appear that can obstruct the view of the driver. Fortunately, most cracks or chips can easily be corrected with the help of a professional windshield repair person or on your own by using a windshield repair kit or resin.

Tempered glass is also very strong, however it can shatter into a million tiny pieces. The more the quick succession heating and cooling process is done, the strong the glass will be, however it will also become more brittle. The heating and cooling actually causes the glass to compress, making it 5 to 10 times stronger than it was originally. That compression is also what causes the glass to break into dull pieces instead of sharp, jagged (and dangerous) shards.

While still more safe than breaking into huge, sharp shards of glass, you do not want a windshield made of tempered glass. This is why tempered glass, when used in automobiles, is only used for the driver, passenger and rear windows. While it may seem unsafe to use glass that can shatter in an automobile, there are two good reasons why it is done. Firstly, using this breakable type of glass can come in handy if there has been an accident or other emergency in which a rescue crew needs to break the window to get someone out of the vehicle. The other reason is that using tempered glass is much, much cheaper than using laminated glass.

Though it is more expensive, there are many additional benefits to using laminated glass other than its resistance to shattering. Laminated glass, because of its glass substrate and two layers of glass, is actually a buffer to loud noises as well as UV rays from the sun. This is another reason it is used for the windshield as it is the biggest window in a vehicle. This is the same reason why laminated glass is often used for the windows in high-rise buildings that get lots of direct sunlight. Some car manufacturers have even been contemplating using laminated glass as the roof of the vehicle. Many concept cars feature this idea, which is called a cielo roof.

Understanding the differences between laminated and tempered glass should help you see why each type might be used. Today, windshields in all cars are made from laminated glass, while tempered glass is almost always used for the rear and side mirrors. However, some car manufacturers are now using laminated glass in the rear passenger windows. If you are worried because these windows cannot be easily shattered in case of emergency, it is important to find out what type of glass is used in the car you are thinking of purchasing.

Why Automotive Painting and Body Technician Training Could Fit You

You don't need to be an artist to be a great automotive painting and body technician. But if the following points describe you, then automotive training programs could be the right route for you!

YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A HANDS-ON CAREER

You can't get more hands-on than automotive training programs. All of the courses to become an auto painting and body tech involve hands-on training to develop the essential experience needed to enter the profession. Learning how to paint a car will involve training in a wide variety of areas. You can expect learning things like:

• automotive refinishing prep tools and shop procedures


• surface preparation


• repairing small dents in cars


• priming


• the refinishing of plastic car parts


• masking procedures


• introduction to the refinishing procedures involved


• the tools and equipment used in the profession


• learning the welding technology used


• sheet metal repair


• learning the technology involved in vehicle construction and plastic repair

Once in the work field, you will take this knowledge and apply it to hands-on tasks like:

• the repairing of minor damages on vehicles


• preparing vehicles for painting; masking and priming


• collision or restorative work, or even designing and creating custom paint jobs


• removing parts, damaged fenders, doors, panels, and grills


• repairing the structure of vehicles

YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A JOB WITH EARNINGS GROWTH

The pay structure for a Refinishing Prep and Auto Body Technician allows for plenty of room to have an earnings growth. This is because many auto shops charge a flat rate system, but the technicians are paid a fixed rate even if they complete their work in less time than was initially budgeted.

The latest information provided from Statistics Canada states that 96% of those employed in automotive painting auto body work are currently experiencing earnings growth and are also working full time. What's more, the average pay for Collision Repair technicians is between $40, 000 and $ 56, 000. Automotive training programs remain the best way to enter into this world of earnings growth.

YOU ARE LOOKING FOR JOB SECURITY

Auto Body Technicians and Automotive Refinishing Prep Technicians are two areas that are both in constant demand. Good automotive training programs will focus on the development of the job skills required to guarantee successful entry into this career sector.

Graduates of automotive training programs can count on entering a promising industry. The Automotive Industry remains one of the most important in North America. There is lots of competition, significant advances in technology (including "green initiatives") and a continuous demand to repair and service the some 500 million cars that are circulating on the roads. This is all to say that enrolling in automotive training programs can practically ensure that you get an employment.

Areas where you can find employment include:

• new car dealerships


• collision repair facilities


• custom specialty shops


• facilities that handle heavy duty truck repairs


• you can even become an entrepreneur and own your own shop

Find out more about painting and auto body technician programs.

The Automotive Windscreen Manufacturing Process

Materials

Glass is made up of several oxides that fuse and react with one another upon heating to create a glass. These include silica, sodium oxide, and calcium oxide. Raw substances from which these materials are formed are sand, soda ash, and limestone. Soda ash acts as a flux; put simply, it reduces the melting point of the batch composition. Lime is added to increase the hardness of the glass. Glass designed for windscreens also contain several other oxides: magnesium oxide, potassium oxide and aluminium oxide.

The Process

The raw materials are weighed in the correct amounts and combined with a small amount of water. Once made, it will be fed to a large tank for melting, implementing the float glass procedure. Initially, the batch is heated to a molten state, and then it will be fed into a tank known as the float chamber, which contains a bath of molten tin. At its entrance, the temperature of the tin is about 1,835 degrees Fahrenheit, while at the exit the tin's temperature is slightly cooler 1,115 degrees Fahrenheit. In the float chamber, the glass doesn't submerge into the tin but floats on top of it, moving through the tank as though on a conveyor belt. The perfectly flat surface of the tin causes the molten glass also to become flat, while the high temperatures clean the glass of impurities. The decreased temperature at the exit of the chamber allows the glass to harden enough to move into the next chamber. After the glass exits from the float chamber, rollers pick it up and feed it into a furnace called a Lehr. In this furnace, the glass is cooled gradually to about 395 degrees Fahrenheit, after the glass exits the Lehr, it cools to room temperature. It is now very hard and strong and ready to be cut.

Cutting and Tempering

The glass is cut using a diamond scribe. Diamond is used because it is harder than glass. Next, the cut piece must be moulded into shape. The sheet of glass is placed into a metal mould. The glass filled mould is then heated in a furnace to the point where the glass shapes to the mould.

After this shaping step, the glass must be hardened in a heating step called tempering. First, the glass is heated to about 1,565 degrees Fahrenheit, and then blasted with jets of cold air, this process toughens the glass. This allows the auto glass, when damaged, to break into many small pieces of glass without sharp edges.

Laminating

In this process, two sheets of glass are bonded together with a layer of plastic. The lamination takes place in an a special oven. The plastic layer is often tinted to act as an ultraviolet filter. When laminated glass is broken, the broken pieces of glass remain bound to the tear resistant plastic layer, and the broken sheet remains transparent. Unlike traditional safety glass, laminated glass can be further processed

Mouldings

After laminating, the windscreen is ready to be assembled with plastic moulds so it can be fitted. Known as encapsulation, this assembly process is usually done at the glass manufacturer. First, the windscreen is set in a mould. Next, molten plastic is injected into the mould, when it cools it forms a plastic frame around the glass. The windscreen is then shipped to the car manufacturer, where it is fitted to a vehicle. The installation is done by a process that uses a polyurethane adhesive to bond the windscreen to the vehicle's body.

Quality Control

This step includes testing of raw materials and checking melting temperature. As the glass is made, special devices are used to look for defects in the glass. Other automatic devices have been developed to measure dimensions and radius of curvature after the windscreen has been shaped.

Safety glass used in windscreens must meet certain specifications regarding properties such as impact resistance, and strength. Safety standards have been developed to ensure the quality of the glass.

Car Repair - Learn How to Do It Yourself

Doing a car repair on your own can save you time and money. Before you get started it is important to know as much as you can about your car and the repair it requires. Following some simple tips can help you become your own mechanic.

If you own a car, you know that it can be very expensive. Between maintenance costs, such as oil changes and tire rotations to car repair, costs can really add up. Mechanics can cost a fortune and you do not even know if they are doing the job to the best of their ability and really doing the best they can to take care of your car. The only way to really make sure that the job is done properly is to do it yourself. You do not have to be a mechanic by trade to do it yourself. There are a few quick tips that can help you save money and make sure the car repairs are done properly and on your time line.

Be informed on the ins and outs of your vehicle - This is such an important step that most people breeze over or think is not important. There are some really good guide books out there that can be purchased at local car parts stores. These guides detail the ins and outs of a particular year, make and model of a car. No two cars are exactly the same. Some cars have parts that others do not. It is important to learn what comprises your vehicle in order to be able to move on to the next step, diagnosing.

Learn how to diagnose - The first step in any car repair is knowing what the problem is so that you can fix it properly. Some problems are going to be easier to diagnose than others. The key here is to knowing what the problem is. This, of course, is going to take some knowledge. You will have to take the time to research the problem. Use your resources to the best of your ability. Scour the internet for articles pertaining to your vehicle's problem, reference the guide book that you purchased for step one. The most important thing here is to realize that you need to be patient as it can be a long and detailed process.

Have the right tools - In order to do it yourself, you are going to need to have all the tools on hand. All problems are going to require a different set of tools. But, there are some basics you should have in your tool box at all times. These include: a mechanic's tool set of wrenches, a rolling creeper, which allows you to roll under the car. In addition, a good jack is very important. In you plan on doing a lot of oil changes on your car, you should purchase an oil filter wrench as well.

Know when a problem is too big for you to fix on your own - Although doing a car repair on your own can save you money. If you believe that the problem is too big of a project to take on yourself, leave it to the experts. If not, it can end up costing you even more time and
money.

Follow these simple steps and you are on your way to fixing your own car. Happy Car repairing!

The Benefits of Airbags

Airbags have been all made available for many vehicles for a long time running. In fact, the United States government has made sure that these would be made standard for vehicles. This has become reality for in July 11, 1984, the US government has already required all cars to airbags for the driver's side at least. Come 1998, it was later on mandated that all vehicles should contain airbags in the front end of the vehicle.

Insurance agencies and companies have come up with results that drivers and passengers who would like to have greater protection during crashes would benefit greatly from side airbags. In fact, this is just a recent study and was reported only last April 15, 2006. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has also found that, indeed, these side airbags have been beneficial and really helpful during side impact crashes.

Some of the tests conducted by the IIHS with regards to side impact crashes showed that majority of vehicles that do not hold such a safety feature suffered from dislodged seats, or had seats that separated from the floor. Just imagine riding in a vehicle that would have dislodged seats because of a side impact crash. However, thanks to the side airbags, safety of the passengers were greatly increased.

Of course, airbags should not be considered as a replacement to seatbelts. Seatbelts also serve their own unique purpose in providing safety. And this goes true for airbags as well. There are actually various types of airbags so as to provide proper and enough protection to a vehicle's passengers during crashes. There are front side airbags, front airbags, passenger side airbags, and even airbags located somewhere on the steering wheel to assist in keeping the driver in place and not being thrown off the windshield.

In fact, it could be deduced that airbags are actually supplements to the safety belt system. What it does is it reduces the chance that the passenger's or the driver's head and upper body will strike a part of the vehicle's interior. Serious injury is also reduced because these airbags actually distribute crash forces evenly across the body of the passenger. To support this claim, there is a recent study that concluded that there are already some 6000 lives already saved and kept safe because of the use of airbags.

Volkswagen vehicles also contain and come with these airbags. In fact, Volkswagen also assures its customers and patrons worldwide that their vehicle would provide enough protection during crashes.

Bumper Repair - Four Things You Should Know About Do-It-Yourself Bumper Repair

An automobile's bumper is the front-most or rear-most part of the car. It is designed to allow the car to sustain an impact without inflicting further damage to the car. Though bumpers do not have the capability to reduce injury to the passenger of the car during high impact collisions, it lessens the degree of injury to pedestrians hit by cars.

If you have damaged your bumper and are considering a bumper repair, these six tips will definitely help you in deciding whether you would want to do it yourself, what does do-it-yourself bumper repair take, and if it is worth doing it yourself. Knowing the answers to these beforehand lets you get the most out of your bumper repair, so read on.

First and foremost is do not attempt to do it yourself, especially if you do not have the proper skills to do it and you haven't done an auto bumper repair in your life. Instead, work with experienced hands of a professional auto repair mechanic. Though it may sound so simple to do, can be fairly difficult to complete.

There are several things to consider when you want to try to do it yourself, and unless you are experienced enough, do-it-yourself bumper repair can backfire and may cost you more money, time, and effort. As a matter of fact, most of it is done by auto repair technicians are botched jobs by DIYers. However, if it is only a scratched or rusted bumper, and the affected area is not too large, an experienced DIYer may be able to repair it with ease.

1.You will need to select a proper location to do the repair. You will need a warm, dry place with adequate ventilation to work on. It is not advisable to do it in the basement because of the risk of inhaling dangerous fumes and odors the adhesives and fillers produce.

2. Bumpers are made of different types of plastic materials and you will need to identify the type of plastic your bumper is made of. You need to know if your bumper is made from polypropylene (PP), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyurethane plastic rigid (PUR) or thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPUR). Each type of plastic has different sanding and workability characteristics; therefore, it is crucial that you be able to identify your bumper type before working on it.

3. Generally, bumpers are attached to the vehicle using different methods. The outer fascia or bumper cover is commonly held in place by tabs and screws that fit perfectly into slots in the body sheet metal. Therefore, you must first find the screws or tabs that hold the plastic shield of the bumper to unhook them. They are usually attached underneath the trunk carpeting, behind the fascia or under it.

4. You will need to follow your car manufacturer's manual and DIY bumper repair kits regarding priming and painting instructions to a T. You are told to follow instructions carefully since the day you first walked, but it cannot guarantee you won't be having a hard time doing it yourself.

If you think you are experienced and capable enough to do a bumper repair then do it by all means. Otherwise, it may be a wise decision to just bite the bullet and pay a little more to get the assistance of a professional auto bumper repair technician.

Choosing a Reliable Auto Glass Shop

No matter how safe you drive, there are many cases when someone hits your vehicle thus leaving its windshield, side glass, window, etc in a damaged condition. This is the time when you need support of an auto glass repair or replacement shop. There are plenty of glass repair shops that have been helping customers to a large extent in this regard. Before choosing a particular shop, one needs to be careful.
Always choose a shop that supports important features like:

Use of advanced equipment for repair and replacement

This is one of the major features supported by a good quality shop. Quality of equipment used by the shop directly affects the performance of the vehicle. If the quality is poor, there are chances that you might not achieve the best possible results from it. A good quality shop always makes use of advanced equipment that also are well tested before use.

Same day service facility

Most of the auto glass shops provide customers with the facility to take their vehicles back to their homes within the same day. It is good to choose one such shop. Thus, you can get back on the road with your vehicle within a very short time.

Guaranteed work

A high quality glass shop always provides guaranteed services to the clients. This means they would not have to worry about facing any kind of trouble with their vehicle in the coming time. In case it happens, they can get the damaged part repair or even replaced without paying any extra amount of money from their pockets.

Addition services

Most of the auto glass shops provide additional services like vehicle cleaning, maintenance, discounts, etc. from time to time. Choosing one such centre is indeed a good option.

Trained and experienced technicians

Make sure that the centre you are choosing for any of your vehicle glass repair and replacement needs should include experienced and skilled team members capable enough to look after different kinds of troubles. In addition to this, they should also be insured and licensed to carry out all types of repairs.

A glass shop with all these features is definitely a good option. Taking help from internet can be extremely beneficial in this regard. Many websites provide customers with a list of shops offering quality services in this regard. Customers can compare all and choose the one depending on their needs, requirements and budget.

Cracked Windshields Can Be Repaired

Even to this day I still hear these words. "I didn't know you could repair a cracked windshield"Windshield repair has been around for over twenty years and there are still people who don't know windshield repair is possible.

Repairs preformed by skilled patient auto glass repair technicians who specialize in crack and chip repair can repair your vehicles windshield within certain limitations. Inspection of the windshields overall condition should be considered. First is the windshield pitted or frosted from sand and other debris striking our windshield over the years, is the windshield cracked beyond twelve inches or is the crack directly in your line of sight? The technicians initial inspection when preformed will take all these factors into consideration before recommending repair or replacement.

When repair is the choice expediency is in order for several reasons. Cracks in glass can and will expand over time and some have more time then others but there is no way to tell which ones those are. This could be a very expensive experiment or you could just have the cracks repaired and save some money and time. Second with time water enters the crack and carries dirt with it and this decreases the finished appearance and clarity of the repair. Another problem with water entering a cracked windshield is if the water freezes, it expands and so will the crack. Water must be removed before injection and bonding or the bond will fail. Remove water either by heating with the De-frostier or heat gun, setting the vehicle in warm sunlight for a little bit or by chemical water removal aids, it's best to let the technicians decide which method poses the least risk of the windshield spontaneously cracking out.

After water removal, injection of the resin is next followed by vacuum and injection and vacuum repeated over and over. When the resin has reached the very end of the crack and all air has been vacuumed out, pit resin is applied which fills the pit or area of missing glass and is super hard after curing. After curing excess resin is scraped away with a sharp razor blade then polished to clarity. That is how a basic windshield repair is preformed.

Long cracks in windshields are a little different first the crack must be stopped or re-leaved of stress, this is done by drilling part way through the first layer of glass and popping a bull's-eye with a carbide probe. From this point if the crack reaches the edge of the windshield the area by the edge must be sealed prior to injection or the resin will just flow out the edge and not into the crack. Once the resin has filled the crack and reached the relief hole it is then covered with Mylar film and cured, scrapped and polished and you saved your windshield from replacement.

So for those of you that don't know about windshield repair I hope this will help. For those of you that do know, understand the urgency in repairing those small rock chips and small cracks before they crack out.

Mandatory Car Maintenance

Unless you live in a city with easily accessible mass transit, you rely on your car for your day to day life. Whether you drive into town from the outskirts on a daily basis or just enjoy visiting friends in neighboring towns, your car must be in tip-top shape or you'll be stuck in the middle of nowhere. By making sure to keep your car tuned up, you also ensure your own safety and avoid a lot of frustration. These mandatory auto maintenance tips are the most important things you should do for your car in order to keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Oil change: You should be getting an oil change every 3,000 miles or 3 months in order to keep your car up and running. If you have experience changing oil, you can do this at home and save some money on the cost of labor that a mechanic would typically charge.

Spark plugs: Typically, you'll have conventional spark plugs in your car, which should be changed every 30,000 miles. However, if you know your car has double platinum spark plugs, they should be changed every 50,000 miles.

Transmission filter and fluid: Your car's transmission filter should be changed at 30,000, 90,000, and 150,000 miles. The transmission fluid should be changed at 60,000, 120,000, and 180,000 miles.
Fuel filter: Unless your car's fuel filter is in the fuel tank, you should be changing it every 35,000 to 40,000 miles. However, if your tank is ever dropped, you should change the fuel filter immediately.
Coolant flush: You should have your mechanic do a coolant flush every 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Tire rotation: One of the most important maintenance tips is tire rotation. Every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, you should have your car's tires rotated. If left untouched, the car's tires will wear down at an unbalanced rate because the weight in your car can be distributed unevenly. Your back left tire may be worn down way less than your front right tire, which will cause balance issues.

Tire alignment: Going hand in hand with tire rotation is getting the alignment checked out every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. This can go unchecked for some time as long as your car is still driving straight.

Brake fluid and power steering fluid flushes: These fluids should be flushed every two years or when they look dirty, whichever comes first.

Professional fuel injection: Your car needs a fuel injection done by a professional mechanic every 40,000 miles to keep it running smoothly.

Throttle bore plate: The throttle bore plate must be cleaned every 20,000 miles.

Air induction: This service should be performed every 20,000 miles as well.

Air filter, cabin air filter, PCV valve: These three items should be replaced as needed.

Taking your car in for these tune-ups is easy enough, but the most important car care tip is to have reliable auto insurance. For more information on auto insurance and getting the best bang for your buck, read about auto insurance savings tips.

Window Tinting - Tint Laws & Tips

Making your vehicle stand out is something that many car owners strive to do. They may achieve this goal in many different ways either by painting, body kits, rims, tires, and much more. However, there is a simple way to start and a very common way to get your vehicle to stand out and look great. That is getting your windows tinted. This is a fairly simple process that has many benefits not only aesthetically. However before you get your windows tinted you need to find out as much as you can about it and the tint laws for your state.

When getting your windows tinted it is important that you find a qualified professional for the job. There are many window tinting shops everywhere you go, the key is finding the right one for your budget and your expectations. Start by asking around and getting word of mouth opinions about different window tint shops. Then do your research. Find out how long they have been in business for, usually if they have been in business for sometime their work is of good quality. Also see if they give you any form of guarantee or warranty for their work. Sometimes the tint job can look good when they first do it, then after some time it can look bad either peel or bubble. So, make sure you choose a good shop to tint your windows.

Next, you need to make sure that they are using a high quality tint film. There are many different films that can be used. Since you are enhancing your vehicle you will want to make sure that only high quality products are used on your vehicle. You should ask each shop that you are interested in using about what kind of tint they use. There are also different forms of tint to choose from.

You also need to check the tint laws for your state. Each state has different laws regarding tint on vehicle windows. These laws can restrict where you can put tint and how much of it, also it can restrict how dark your tint can be. It is important that you follow your states guidelines. You can be pulled over, receive a ticket and asked to remove your window tint if your window tint is out of the state regulations. You would not want to have wasted your time and money on something that you are forced to remove so follow your states guidelines from the beginning.

If you are wondering why people get their vehicles windows tinted, there are many reasons. First of all it keeps a majority of the heat out of your car. That can make your car more comfortable and can save you money on gas. Also it can enhance the appearance of your vehicle and improve its resale value. It also gives your vehicle more security since items are not as visible.

If you are getting your vehicles windows tinted make sure to follow the tips above and follow your states laws on window tinting!

Auto Service Marketing - Increase Car Counts With These Tips and Tricks for Your Mobile Website

Experts now claim that there are really two internets; one for the desktop or laptop user; the second for the mobile user. That's because the mobile user is on the go and only really interested in a few things (to start) about your business. If you make the mistake of sending a mobile visitor to your regular site you're going to find that most will just 'click' away.

Your mobile site is all about inspiring the visitor to take action. That action could be to call; text, visit or even make a purchase. The key here is to take action. So make it easy for them.

Your mobile website should:

• Be a stripped down version of your existing website; Remember, most mobile users still pay premiums for internet access and bandwidth. You must respect that. Make all the pages small so they load fast and refrain from forcing them to view a lot of graphics, pictures or video. I'm not saying that you can't include that content, but at least give the user a choice to view it or not. Keep your landing pages short and sweet.


• Make your landing page 'take action friendly': Believe it or not, the mobile user doesn't care that you've got 12 service bays; that you're family owned for over 25 years; or that you've got the latest 'fancy scanner' to fix cars. What the mobile user wants to know is "How can I get in touch with you". Like any other form of marketing, give them as many ways as possible. Your landing page should provide your phone number and a link to a map for sure. Also include e-mail addresses and (better yet) a link to text direct to you. Remember, they're mobile and they use text messages. Make it easy for them and 'take action friendly'


• When listing your contact information, make them links. As an example, you can make your telephone a 'link' so that just 'tapping' the link on a smartphone brings up the visitors phone with your number automatically inserted. The only thing they have to do is press 'send'.

You can also create links like that for texting and e-mail. Although you have to keep in mind that there are different operating systems, the link code works on most phones.

Just to be sure, don't make the link something like "TO CALL, CLICK HERE"; Instead, make the link something like "CALL NOW - 1-888-772-2069". That way if the link doesn't work or the visitor isn't on a smartphone, they can still see your phone number.

Finally, take the time to be sure your mobile website is optimized for search. Google recently reported that mobile search is up over 400%. In fact, recent survey showed that 61% of smartphone users make local searches from their mobile device (phone or tablet).

If that's not convincing enough, also consider that a December 2011 eMarketer survey showed that 61% of customers who visit an 'unfriendly' mobile website are likely to go to a competitors.

You have to take your business mobile, but be sure you follow these simple tips and tricks when building your mobile website so that you create a real asset.

Window Tinting and Its Increased Popularity

When we think of tinted windows we invariably think about vehicle windows. But window tinting is becoming more and more popular for buildings too, and as such there are more and more tinting technicians and professionals around who can carry out the tinting work for us, even though tinting kits are available for people with no qualifications or experience to do it. However, whoever applies the tint, the home owner will see the benefits and advantages of it almost immediately.

The reasons why tinting a building is so popular are the same reasons vehicle owners use when they have their vehicles windows tinted. By having the windows tinted the temperature inside the car or the room is reduced by approximately 60%. This is especially beneficial for residents of hotter states, as well as for anybody who does not like the increased heat that the summer sun brings with it. One of the other advantages that having the windows tinted brings is that privacy and security is improved. Anybody inside the vehicle or the house will be unable to be seen by people outside, and this is a definite plus point for women living alone. The health advantages of window tinting film are also numerous, especially when it comes to harmful UV rays being blocked by the tint.

With window tinting various colored films are bonded together, and where vehicles are concerned all of the windows except the windshield can be covered in this tinting film. The windshield however, is only allowed to be tinted at the top of the glass. As possible for the tint to be applied in complete sheets, or that are also options for them to be applied in sections.

When it comes to choosing which home window tinting option you want, care should be taken and a little research carried out. There are various and numerous tinting options available for both vehicles and buildings, and the color ranges and transparency options are also varied. It is possible for different combinations of color and transparency to be used so that the different effects can be achieved, but this will obviously depend upon the requirements and budget of the home or vehicle owner. It is also important that the consumer understands the different legislations and laws that are in effect in their particular state, as please also vary from place to place. This is not so much the case when it comes to window tinting on the buildings, that it is more common place with regards to vehicles.

Why Does it Cost So Much to Have a Small Scratch Repaired?

Why does it cost so much to fix a scratch? Often times consumers in this industry are left thinking body shops are overcharging. A scratch only a few inches long can bring in a bill up to or beyond $1000. It's easy to jump to the conclusion there taking you for a ride given the shop down the road only wants half. You can also bet your boat that someone's even willing to do it for a quarter of that preferred high quality shop. So, when doing it properly how does the bill get so high? That's why your reading isn't it? So let's have a look at what's involved.

Teardown all moldings, door handles, bumpers, mirrors, antenna's, lights, nameplates and anything else tight to the panel being repaired needs to be removed & in the case of some nameplates or moldings replaced all together. This is to allow for thorough sanding and preparation of the panel and to eliminate the chance if clear coat bridging a molding, paint peeling and keeps overspray off the part all together.

Next comes repairing the scratch. In most cases it needs to be sanded about 3-4 inches back, primed then block sanded straight. Sometimes there can be a dent that you may not have seen but the repair professional knew was there, it can add more time to this type of repair. Once the scratch is fixed the entire panel needs to be sanded and usually the next panel to the right and left require sanding for color blending. Blending is a necessary step and if you would like to learn more about it I suggest you look at my blog titled "why the shop needs to blend color".

So now the one scratch has turned into painting three panels. It may sound crazy but it's what is required for an undetectable repair. Like I touched on earlier in regards to using a cheaper shop, it can be done and maybe even look half descent but they are more often band aid jobs not meant to last. Most of the time you don't get a job that looks good, usually you will get a job where the clear is excessively textured, runs in the panel, the clear coat was blended (leads to fading edges) and sometimes much worse.

Now comes the actual painting itself. It's a smaller part of the job. The actual spraying will likely be completed within about an hours time, the comes the drying which takes about 30 min on average. Once well dried it can be reassembled, re-decaled, cleaned up and ready for delivery. Sometimes a shop will wetsand the finish to remove dust nibs and other imperfections from the clear to give the best possible finish (another time consuming procedure). Some shops are more particular then others when it comes to polishing as it is purely cosmetic and often goes unnoticed by the customer.

Materials make up a very small portion of a repair invoice. Most of the repair costs are a result of the required procedures being quite labor intensive. The labor rates of a body shop at the time of this writing are anywhere from $30-$65 / hr. A mechanical shop is about $80-$140. The reality is a body shop is not making a fortune off of that scratch repair (when doing it properly), but don't forget even if they are charging you through the roof there not necessarily doing it right. Take the time, educate yourself and ask the shop the right questions.

Choose the Most Dependable Auto Repair Shop For Your Windshield Replacement

Various auto glass repair shops provide services either at the spot of damage or at their own centre depending on the extent of the damage needed to repair. These services include cracks, scratches, window tinting and windshield replacement. The most important section for a vehicle and drivers safety is a windshield, thus, keeping it clean and protected is necessary for your protection, and to avoid any miss happening. One should not ignore even the minor crack or damage as they can also impair the overall reliability of the windshield. Small delay in the replacement of a wrecked windshield will not only harm the drivers visibility, but will also transform the general consistency of the vehicle.

A broken windshield may fall short in a crash or roll over, making the vehicle, the driver and the passengers ejected. It is always better to have automobile check ups almost every month in order to avoid any miss happening. Make sure to fill your washer solvent reservoir, in order to use the wipes and get the clearer view at the time of travel. It is mandatory to repair the Phoenix windshield if even a minor crack is identified because it may harm the vehicle later, as there is a possibility that the glass might continue to bend along with each strike that may worsen the split.

However, one may find many self-repair kits in the market or various auto repair shops, yet the do it yourself techniques will harm the automobile on the long-term basis. Phoenix auto glass repair replaces the windshield along with the chips and minor damages and make sure to correct any other damage if present. One must keep in mind that the auto repair shop is certified, and offers a sensible amount for their services. Phoenix windshield replacement offers a quality glass brand and their well-trained technicians repair it as if it was never broken.

They are the trusted and recommended auto repair shop and their professional behavior keeps the customers bringing back to them. They also provide the same day and late night drops in order to keep in mind the significance of your vehicle and the ease it provides. They are known to be the best in the business and are the most dependable shop for all your automobile needs. Get the genuine and responsible services, as the basic aim is to provide customer satisfaction.

10 Useful Tips For Getting Your Car Ready for Winter

As we all know living in the Rocky Mountains can be very unpredictable when it comes to mother nature. We all know the scenario way too well. One day it is beautiful and 70 degrees out and the next day you find yourself in a freezing rain storm on I 70, which now looks more like a Target parking lot. You find yourself quickly reacting to the freezing liquid falling down on your windshield by turning on the wipers. The usual hypnotizing sound this morning sounds more like fingernails on a chalk board.

Where did all the rubber go on my wipers? Then it hits you like a broken record playing in your head. Your husband's voice reminding you multiple times to replace your wipers and fill up your fluid so this very thing would not happen. This year I promised myself I was going to surprise my husband and get prepared for winter. I went into my local auto repair shop, Pro Auto Care of Denver and received some tips from the experts. So here it is Denver, 10 very easy ways to prepare your vehicle for winter. Hopefully I won't see any of you stranded on the side of I-70 this year.

1. Replace you Wiper Blades and fill up your Washer Fluid. Believe it or not, there is a difference between standard wiper blades and snow wiper blades. Because we live in a cold weather state it is a good idea to purchase snow wiper blades. Below are some things to consider when purchasing:

• Made of heavy gauge steel


• Prevents snow and ice from accumulating


• Tough rubber boot blade surface

You should be able to find snow wiper by doing a Google search or at your local auto parts store. When in doubt ask your local mechanic for advice.

2. Get an Oil Change. As the weather turns cold in CO your oil can tend to thicken. When this happens, it can tend not lubricate your vehicle correctly. Turn to your vehicles Owners Manual to find out what oils is right for you car in cold temperatures. Your local mechanic will also be a great resource.

3. Have your Tire Pressure checked. In Co when the temperature changes drastically it can also affect your tire pressure. Because tire traction is such a key factor in icy, wet driving conditions it is important to make sure your pressure is ideal for your tires. If you do not know how to check your tire pressure you can watch this How To Video and save yourself the trouble of taking your car into the shop.

4. Check you Battery. The last thing you want to be is stranded on I-70 with a dead battery. Now is the time CO to go have your battery checked by a certified tech to see if it can hold a charge, especially if you have an older car. Check your battery for corrosion as well, this could be a sign of a battery about to go dead.

5. Belts and Hoses: Colorado weather can do a number on the wear and tear of your belts and hoses because our extreme temperature ranges. It is a good idea at every oil change to have your mechanic check the condition of your hoses and belts.

6. 4-Wheel Drive? Driving in CO calls for AWD or 4WD vehicles-we all know this. As the weather turns colder it is a good time to have your mechanic check the working condition of this. Also to note-everybody in your household should know how to put your car into 4WD if needed.

7. How Old Are Your Tires? If you plan on heading up to the slopes this winter you may want to invest in some good snow tires for the season. In CO you can make the choice for a really good all-season tire or in higher elevations you may want to purchase some good snow tires. When you are in your next oil change ask your mechanic about the shape of your tires and what they recommend for the season.

8. Get an Emergency Car Kit Ready. If you are planning to take any long trips in Colorado this winter this is essential. This kit should consist of a flash light, wool blanket, water, extra warm clothes, gloves, hat, flares, jumper cables, shovel, spare tire, first aid kit, and tire changing equipment.

9. Antifreeze Mixture. Because we live in a colder climate this is important. Your antifreeze should have a 50-50 mix of coolant and water. Talk to your mechanic at your next oil change about what's right for your car.

10. Emergency Plan: You are heading up to Vail for a ski weekend. So, what's your plan if your car breaks down. Your cell phone coverage may not work on I-70. Make sure when venturing out this winter in CO that you always have an emergency plan. As we all know Mother Nature is not always predictable here.

Windshield Repair - Which Method Is Best?

If you need to replace or repair a windshield, you will have several options. Some may be better than others, and it can be overwhelming deciding what to do. Leaving a cracked or chipped windshield untouched will end up causing more damage to the glass in the long run. It's best to have this fixed sooner rather than later. Here are some options to consider.

Complete Replacement

If you have insurance that will cover windshield repair with a low deductible, this may be a good option. Many companies that specialize in windshield repair will pay the deductible for you provided it's under $100. If you call ahead to make an appointment most of these companies can replace the windshield in less than an hour. If you don't make an appointment, you may have to wait a few hours if there are many customers in front of you.

Even without full coverage insurance, these companies are typically fairly inexpensive to work with. Just be sure they offer warranties, and check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints before you spend your hard earned money.

Chip Damage Repair

If you just have a small chip or small crack to deal with, you may not have to replace the entire windshield. A special epoxy resin can be used to fill in the crack or chip and strengthen the area around the chip. Once the resin dries the chip isn't noticeable anymore, although you may see a slight difference in the glass around the repair. This difference isn't typically enough to make a dangerous situation while driving. This type of repair is usually under $100. You may have to pay a little more if you choose a mobile repair option and the company comes to your location. Even so, it's cheaper than replacing the entire windshield.

Do It Yourself Kits

Those who want to save time and money may choose to repair small blemishes on their own using a repair kit. These can be purchased at any auto parts store or ordered online. In the kit you will find the epoxy resin and the tools to apply this. Care needs to be taken when using these, and the outdoor conditions must be warm and dry. After the repair is done the windshield will need to be able to cure in the sunlight for a few hours before maximum strength is achieved.

Advantages of Repair

Repairing a windshield has several benefits opposed to complete replacement. Repair is always going to be less expensive. Repairing a chip or crack also doesn't damage the watertight seal created in the factory windshield, replacing the windshield will require this seal to be broken. Secondary windshields tend to leak over time. Repairing a windshield is also much better for the environment since your windshield won't end up in a landfill somewhere.

Car Repair Terminologies

In order to avoid feeling whether or not you were overcharged for your car repair starts with knowledge. A lot of advice has been written on how to avoid getting ripped-off. Unfortunately, there are only a few that discuss actual car repair prices for you to benefit. The best solution is to look at the charges on a car repair estimate and see the details to determine if we're paying too much. The only way to know they legitimate charges is to understand them in the first place. The best place to start this is to question whether they are justified by industry guidelines.

Now car repair estimates can be confusing. So let's break it down to get a better idea if your auto repair shop is billing you appropriately. The glossary of terms while be listed below because it is important. The auto industry is a technical field that is why you need to learn their language also.

Aftermarket Parts: Produced by small time shops or repair centers. They are not made by or for the manufacturer.
MSRP: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price
OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer. This term is equally applicable even in the computer industry.
TSBs: Technical Service Bulletins. You can find this information by looking at the manufacturer's manual and technical hand-outs when you first buy your car.
Flat Fees: These are certain services that are impractical to itemize on paper. A good example would be alignments because they are inconvenient to break down into parts, tax, and labor.
Miscellaneous Charges - Small time expenses like shop supplies - rags, chemicals, hazardous waste disposal fees, waste oil...etc.
Labor Rate - As the name implies, it is the rate by which they will charge you per hour.
Labor Time - it is the estimate of the technician on how long it will take to repair your car.
Labor Description - You can read this information to get an idea of the details of repairs and/or services performed by the repair center.

Auto Repair: Steps That You Can Do To Keep Your Vehicle Healthy

A lot of people are taking the present economic scenario seriously which is why a lot of them are no longer buying new vehicles. In order for you to save money and keep your cars in good health condition, you need to get them the necessary auto repair services as often as possible or as needed. You need to know that auto repair is a process that's important in prolonging the life of your car.

When auto repairs enter into people's minds, they immediately think about spending huge amounts of money. However, this is only true in the case of really serious accidents. A lot of people don't realize that a lot of automobiles need frequent small repairs regardless of how well they are taken care of.

Let's take a look at the different common repair services that you can get for your cars so that you can keep them healthy so that they'll last for a long time.

Auto Body Part Alignment

This involves maintaining the consistency of all the parts of the vehicle. This procedure exemplifies the quote "first impression is the last impression" because the first thing that catches the human eye about a car is the appearance of its body. A car looks really appealing if has perfectly fitted body panels. This is why ensuring proper alignment of the auto body is important.

Color Matching And Painting

This is one of the most common services that auto body shops do. These types of services are not only done during accident repairs but also when people to get their cars customized using new colors or other decorations. Auto body shops can easily match the desired color using computerized paint mixing systems.

Auto Glass Mending

In this procedure, an informal check is done on the glasses of the car in order to make sure that there are no other damages aside from what the owner is complaining about. Based on the extent of damage, liquid resin is used to get rid of and fix the damage. If a crack is present on the windshield, it will be repaired immediately. However, a replacement is more advisable if the damage is huge and can no longer be repaired.

Brake Repair

The brakes of your car can get damaged or worn out over time. Brake repair is important because this helps ensure the security of the car. This needs to be done as soon as possible if brake damages are seen.

Maximizing Your Car's Reliability Potential

Consumer reports just released the results of their annual automotive report card and the result is overwhelmingly clear - Japanese auto makers still top the list for most reliable cars in both new and used models.

The hidden message in the Consumer Reports data is that import models have the highest reliability "potential". However, in order to achieve its potential the vehicle must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended service schedule.

Achieving the reliability potential for any car requires car owners to take simple steps.

Consider that Consumer Reports compiles their data from the paid subscribers of their magazine. By the nature of this data collection method, paid subscribers to Consumer Reports are generally people who pay attention to their purchases and are willing to sit down and fill out a long survey on their car.

Flashing back to reality, most of us barely have time to stop and put gas in our car on the way to work, and if it weren't for the little sticky plastic on the windshield we couldn't remember exactly when we last put oil in the car.

So while Consumer Reports subscribers found that many three-year old import cars had higher reliability than some brand new domestic and German models the rest of us will not see that kind of reliability if we don't follow the manufacturer's service schedule.

With that in mind here is the short list of actions to achieve your car's reliability potential AND SAVE MONEY:

1. Find an independent mechanic that uses original equipment manufacturer (OEM) service scheduling - I recommend a shop that uses Alldata.


2. Ask the service manager for email or phone notifications when you are due for service.


3. Use an automatic bank transfer to move $25 per paycheck into a separate savings account for auto maintenance.

With these three things copied into your "To-Do" list for the week let me explain how they will save you money this year.

First, an independent mechanic is almost always going to be less expensive than a dealer or chain store mechanic (i.e. Pep Boys, Goodyear Service Center, Wal-Mart Service Center, etc). Independent mechanics, dealer mechanics and chain store mechanics are certified by the same national board systems like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence). So you can find mechanics trained and certified at the same level as any "technician" at a dealership, but usually at a lower hourly rate because the independent doesn't have as many overhead expenses. Next, your independent mechanic needs to use an OEM service guide.

Years ago, the big manufacturers needed to find ways to predict the cost of warranty service so they built standard labor guides for replacing every part on a car. This OEM data on repair times and procedures also comes with the manufacturers recommended maintenance schedule you need to achieve your reliability potential. There are a few systems out there used by independent mechanics, AllData is direct OEM data and my preferred source. However, the Mitchell Guide is also another reliable source available to independent mechanics.

Now for the second list item. It is too easy to lose track of time and find excuses to not get your auto service done. The little window sticky from the quicky lube place that changed your oil is not tied to your manufacturers service schedule. Your car may require belts, filters, sensors and occasional internal components to be replaced. So have your independent mechanic give you a call or shoot you an email describing exactly what service your car needs and when it works best in both of your schedules to get it done.

Finally, the whole point of working to achieve long-term reliability from your car is to save money. The last thing you want to do is pay for your car's maintenance on a credit card and accrue debt. Your car is going to last a long time. $25 per paycheck tucked away in a separate savings account will add up to pay for all your required maintenance and save you thousands over the long run when your car lasts years longer than it otherwise would have.

Remember, the reliability potential for cars, especially Japanese imports, is getting better every year, but achieving a car's reliability potential requires action on your part. Follow the three steps above to avoid the headache and danger of highway breakdowns while saving money at the same time.

Prior Planning Can Lower Your Stress Level When You Really Need A Dependable Auto Repair Service

Knowing which local auto repair service to take your car when disaster strikes is a stress reliever when you need it most. Readily available transportation is central to most people's lives, and when your vehicle is out of commission it's at least a small comfort to know where to take it for fast, reliable repairs at a trustworthy shop. Harsh winters can only serve to increase the need to get your repairs sorted out quickly, while at the same time possibly increasing the necessity for them.

The experiences of family and friends are probably the best place to start, since many families have their traditional go-to mechanic or shop that knows both them and their vehicles, with records to show past problems and service. The Better Business bureau is a valuable resource for checking on a repair shop's reputation, but only if there have been complaints. Many times the BBB has no complaints filed for a business, which cannot be necessarily taken as a recommendation. If all else fails, look for ASE Certified technicians, the appearance of the shop, and the professionalism of the employees, as well as how your questions are handled.

When you take your vehicle in to the repair service, it will help speed repairs if you can give the mechanic a detailed account of what the symptoms of your problem are, such as pulling to the right or left, a high pitch screech when applying the brakes, a shimmy when accelerating, or whatever prompted you to bring the vehicle in for service. Even if you experience a total breakdown, relating what happened prior to the car becoming nonfunctional can help the mechanic find all the problems and do it more quickly.

Regular maintenance can help avoid larger problems, and even though many people try to avoid the cost of oil changes, tune-ups, brake inspections, and tire rotations, the cost of these can all help prevent much more expensive repairs and the inconvenience of going without a vehicle while they are performed.

Auto body repair is, of course, not part of regular maintenance, since it's usually needed as the result of a collision. Since most people have an accident at some point, whether it's their fault or not, family and friends are still a good place to seek a recommendation for a reputable shop.

These days you should expect a computer printed estimate, with figures on both repair cost and the time repairs will be completed. The auto body shop should also be able to deal with getting approval from your insurance company, since it's possible that more damage may be uncovered as the repair work progresses, requiring additional approval. Experts also recommend that if you are considering the purchase of a used vehicle, having the car inspected by an auto body shop in addition to your regular mechanic can catch potentially costly damage that would otherwise remain hidden.

Take the time now, before you really need repairs, to find a reliable local repair service and establish a relationship with them. As their valued customer, you can retain some peace of mind, even when you're suffering through the stress of an accident or breakdown, knowing you'll get fast service at a fair price.

How to Fill and Sand Down Auto Body Rust and Dents

You will need:

1. Plastic body filler and hardener (Make sure that the type used is designed for automotive use. Automotive filler is very easy to sand.)

2. 35mm straight edged putty knife

3. 100mm straight edged putty knife

4. Cork rubbing block. approx 125mm x 75mm

5. Block of flat wood, approx 300mm long x 75mm wide 25mm thick

6. 80 grit drilube sandpaper

7. Mixing board. [Piece of hardboard or similar, about 300mm square.)

Mix up some plastic body filler on the mixing board, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply smoothly over the rusted areas using the wide putty knife on large areas and the narrow knife on small, hard to get at areas. Use the wider knife where possible. Try and get the desired shape before the filler goes hard. Remember, all excess must be sanded off. Some last minute trimming and shaping can be done whilst the filler is passing through its 'cheesy' stage.

This lasts for about five minutes after the initial set-up. Use a slicing action with the wide putty knife. Usually several applications must be made. The time taken for the filler to reach the sanding stage will vary according to the air temperature. Around fifteen minutes in summer, and up to an hour in winter. Placing the vehicle in warm sunlight will speed-up the curing.

When the filler is hard and has lost its 'cheesy' feel, sanding can begin. All fillers tend to form a gummy surface which clogs sandpapers, but once this is removed most will sand freely.

Remove this gummy surface using the cork block and 80 grit drilube sandpaper. By folding a full sheet of sandpaper lengthways and then crossways, it can then be torn into four rectangular smaller sheets that will fit the cork block nicely.

Small filled areas can be sanded level with the small block. It is very important however to use the 300mm long block of wood to sand the larger areas. This will avoid ripples, low spots, high spots etc, that spoil so much amateur work.

Inwardly curved areas can be sanded by tightly rolling a large magazine lengthways, taping it to prevent unrolling, then wrapping a full sheet of sandpaper around and using that as a sanding block. Small intricate areas must be done by hand.

It is vital that all the filled areas are exactly level with the surrounding surfaces, and that when the palm of the hand is rubbed quickly across the filler in any direction, it feels flat and smooth. Keep adding filler and sanding, until it feels perfect. Paint will not hide anything; rather it shows up faults much worse.

Pin holes in the filler may appear after sanding. These are caused by sanding deep into a thick application of filler. All mixed filler contains air bubbles, however, these are expelled by the smoothing action of the putty knife on the surface of an application, but tend to remain in depths past 6mm. Pin holes are best filled with plastic filler - primer, or putty, is not satisfactory.

Auto Paint Repair Can Give Your Car a Face Lift

Much as you car to be prevented from scratches and dents, this is quite impossible because the exterior part of your car is the one exposed to a lot of objects and unwanted accidents. Some car owners do not care about the exterior dents and scratches of their car and disregard the need for an auto paint repair. They often neglect this need not knowing that the damage can certainly expand in the future. There are auto insurance companies that cover all the expenses of your car from the engine repair to the body repair. However, if your car is not included in this insurance policy, then you have no choice but to spend for car paint repair.

There are different auto paint repair services available nowadays. If you have less time to scout from one car paint shop to another, the internet is always ready to supply you with needed information on car repair and repaint jobs in your area. By browsing over the internet, you can look on different companies that offer the quality and affordable painting jobs. Depending on your budget, you can pick to choose the best deal for your car paint repair job.

Auto paint repair is not only focused on the entire car body painting job, it also focuses on specific body parts such as the hood, trunk and doors of the car. The auto paint mechanic shall focus on that part which needs paint repair. A smaller part for repair would of course incur a smaller amount of price. Doing this for your car is prolonging its life span. Although every part of a car is important, the part of which has to suffer most is the outer body. This is because it has to protect the car from all types of weather condition.

There are times when your car has to be parked in places where there is no shed, then it has to be exposed to sun or rain for a couple of hours. Thus, a quality car painting job can keep the body protected at all times. Make sure that you do not neglect taking care of your car's body. Aside from the cleaning and vacuuming that you do, your car also deserves a certain type of makeover which will make it look fresh and new.

If you have more than one cars in your home, you can have the old ones be repainted and have a new look. An auto paint repair is the best thing that can do to restore your car's old paint. With this, an old car can even turn brand new if done by a quality auto paint service provider.

Getting Car Grants - Free Money to Buy Or Repair Your Auto

Grant money never has to be paid back, and car grants can help you buy your new car or repair your existing auto. There's millions of dollars in various grant programs that are being given away to tax paying citizens, but most people don't know where to find these funds. Once they discover resources such as car grants that can help them with personal expenses, they may not know how to properly apply for them.

But when you have access to the right resources that allow you to quickly find and apply for the grant money you need, the process can become much clearer. Whether you need to apply for car grants to purchase a new vehicle or pay for auto repair, grant money can be found through various private foundations and organizations.

The great thing about grant money is that once you obtain these funds, the cash is awarded to the individual and never has to be paid back. Car grants are normally tax-free funds, and applying typically does not require a credit check, down payment or any kind of collateral. In many cases there is no income verification required either.

Once you access a current and up-to-date grant database, you may notice that there are many grant programs that you could qualify for that go far beyond car grants. For instance, you can frequently find grant for first time home buyers, financial aid for debt relief, and money to pay for school.

These funds are offered by a number of organizations and government agencies, and there is no limit on how many times you can apply. These resources are available for qualified individuals, and once you have the resources to quickly find and request your grant money you'll be that much closer to getting the cash you need.

Bumper Repair - Is it Worth It?

There are many repairs that completed on vehicles today. Now we do not have to rely on replacement only. Auto body specialist can work with the existing material on your car and repair it. Repairs usually cost less and take up less of your time. Many times those are the two reasons that car owners put off getting their vehicles repaired. One part of your car that can be repaired is your bumper, this is an important repair to have completed on your vehicle.

It was not always the case that bumper repair could be completed on vehicles. That was because bumpers were made of sheet metal, which is not able to repaired easily. Vehicles are now made with plastic. There is a metal bumper but it is covered with plastic in the hope that minor abrasions could be easily repaired. So, if you have a plastic bumper you can get it repaired.

Still many auto body shops or dealerships will tell you that you need to completely replace the bumper. This will on average start at 500 dollars and cost you two or more days in the shop, depending on the volume of repairs at that time and if they have to wait for parts or materials. However if you choose to get bumper repair you will be paying a lot less and the job can be completed in just a few hours. I would say that the money savings alone are worth it. Not to mention the time you will save with the repair getting completed quickly. You also will not have to worry about or pay for a rental car. That is a huge plus!

Getting your bumper repaired is important. The bumper is on the car to protect your vehicle and most importantly you and your passengers from harm. If you bumper is in need of repair it will have a hard time doing its job. Since you can get it repaired in a short time and low cost don't put it off.

Also preserving the value of your vehicle is important. If your vehicle has any blemishes or basically if it doesn't look so good, the value of your vehicle will decrease. So, when you try to sell it or trade it in you will not get a great price for it, or it may be harder to sell.

Just to add to all the great benefits of bumper repair, you will be helping the environment. You will be keeping more materials from going to the dumps.

So, getting the bumper repaired on your vehicle is completely worth it. You will be protecting your vehicle, your passengers and yourself, by helping your bumper do its job. You will also be protecting the resale or trade in value of your vehicle! You will get the same outcomes as replacement. However with choosing to repair your bumper you will be saving yourself lots of time and money! So, get your vehicles bumper repaired today at an auto reconditioning shop!

Paintless Dent Removal - Why?

Dents. We all hate them. They are unsightly, depreciate the value of our cars and even affect a symbol of status for certain people. Most people are hesitant to get these blemishes fixed because we all know that a body shop is very expensive. But, if we only knew that an alternative generally costing 2/3 less than the traditional method were available, we'd think twice about living with that car scar.

Paintless dent removal (pdr) is a process where minor dents and dings can be removed by using specialized tools that allow a dent to be pushed up (or pulled up) without disturbing the paint surface. Access is gained on the offended panel, and with these special tools and dent is massaged out with carefully placed pushes or pulls. If the paint is intact, the dent isn't too stretched (deep), and access allows, it can be repaired with pdr.

There are two ways that a dent can be repaired through the paintless method:

• Access is gained behind the dent on any given panel and pressure is applied via a specialized set of metal rods until the dent is pushed flat again.


• If access is limited behind the panel, it may be possible to repair a dent using a special glue. A plastic tab is fixed to the top of the dent using this special hot glue. Once the glue cools, it adheres to the tab and the panel to be fixed. Gripping onto the plastic tab and pulling outward pulls the dent out. This method is far less accurate and generally requires tapping down over-pulled portions of the dent.

Traditional body shops have to grind off the paint, apply body filler (bondo), sand the body filler to reshape the panel flat again, primer, sand, paint, clear coat, and finally wet sand and buff. With the amount of work they have to do, it's no wonder why traditional body shops are expensive.

Now, I'm not here to bash older methods. I have a great respect for what they do. I even worked for a body shop so I know how hard their work is. I am just trying to explain how paintless dent removal can be a great alternative to traditional body shops given the right conditions. If in fact your paint finish is disturbed and can't be corrected with a wet-sand and buff, a full service auto body shop is your best chance at a flawless repair.

Now, the whys:

Save money: Paintless dent removal is 1/3 to 2/3 less expensive than the old choice for repairs. There are no materials needed (usually) to perform a pdr. Less supplies means lower cost, and being that most paintless dent technicians are fully mobile, they don't have the expensive overhead of a proper body shop. All this means is that the costs are a lot lower for you.

Save value: As in your car's value. Everyone knows if your car has been repainted, it lowers the value of your car when you sell or trade it in. The integrity of a factory paint job is far superior to that of a repaint. Factory paint jobs are baked on at very high temperatures in extremely clean conditions creating the best possible paint surface.

Save time: The traditional body shop, for small repairs takes 3-5 days to complete the work. Most paintless dent removal can be done in a matter of hours, sometimes less than an hour. Again, being that technicians are usually fully mobile, repairs can be done at your home or work while you take care of your business. An additional perk is that since you won't have your car out for more than a few hours, you won't have to rent a car until repairs are done, thus saving you money.

Why paintless dent removal?...Why not?

Ride the Parts Crunch With an Independent Auto Repair Shop

Perhaps you've heard that auto insurance premiums are slated to rise. The lower prices we have been paying lately for gasoline will be negated with a big hike in insurance premiums.

Maybe now is the right time to shop around for a better deal, after all, we're all trying to spend less these days. So you won't potentially be shocked when the quotes come in, why not take a look at what you're driving. It might make a difference.

Is there a convertible in your driveway? Insurance premiums are higher on these vehicles because they appeal to drivers who like to drive fast. As sure as night follows day, speeding results in more accidents, and up go the rates.

In most cases convertible drivers are also young, so that in itself adds to the bottom line. Interestingly enough, convertibles are cheaper to buy, so perhaps what you save at purchase time will be offset by the increased insurance.

Cool, sporty cars with lots of horsepower and a stick shift are fun to drive and certainly attract attention. These cars a joy to own, and make you feel good, until they become the target of thieves. One day, when you return to the spot where you thought you parked, and your car is missing, you'll know why it costs more to insure these desirable vehicles.

If you aren't driving a desirable vehicle and therefore paying higher premiums, then perhaps you're driving something not so desirable. Take another look. It is true that run-of-the-mill cars cost less to insure, but there is something else going on right now.

As you know Chrysler and GM are in bankruptcy and now the stage is set for a decline in resale value for certain models, especially those that have been totally discontinued. Will you be likely to purchase a used Pontiac when you realize they don't make them anymore? Where's the prestige in that?

Even if you get a really good deal with the intention of hanging on to the car as long as you can, where will you obtain parts? If you become involved in an accident, the same scenario will apply. If it's a write-off the money you get from your insurance company will be based on the car's much diminished market value.

When the market value of these discontinued American vehicles declines and insurers find themselves paying out on total losses at an increased rate, insurance rates on these will rise sharply. Remember Oldsmobile and Plymouth? One year after they were pulled off the market, you could buy a two year old for the price of a five year old.

Until the market settles down if might be best to not panic. Hang on to your Chrysler or GM vehicle and seek out the services of a reputable independent mechanic who routinely works on all makes and models of vehicles. They have the smarts and the ability to scope out used parts, or even machine a new part if need be.

Car Repair Questions Answered

A lot of car owners today want to take it to themselves to make the car repair as much as they can help it. However, not all times will you be able to handle exactly what's wrong with your car. But if you want to cut back on expenses, of course you're going to find out if you can first, right? In that case, here are some of the most common car repair questions that you may have and the answers to help you decide if you can do the repair yourself or it's far better to bring it to a car repair shop.

Q. Can I fix car dents at home?

A. A lot of people think that car dents and scratches are only fixable in car repair shops. However, that's not always the case. Right now there are actually auto body fillers that you can buy over the counter to use for your car. The instruction manuals in these are usually very easy to follow and you can easily your very own professional mechanic.

Q. I can sometimes hear pings when I start my car. Do I need to bring my car for a tune up or can I fix it at home?

A. Your car is better off at the repair shop. However, don't go into panic mode when the mechanic starts saying things that are wrong with your car. With the problem that you mentioned, it looks like a good tune up will be the appropriate solution. A typical tune-up will involve a checkup and/or replacement on the spark plugs, the distributor cap and rotor and the spark plug wires.

Q. I have a flat tire, but I've heard that it's not recommended to replace only one tire. What should I do?

A. If you have a flat tire, you don't necessarily have to replace it immediately. A quick stop at the repair shop can have it inflated in no time and you can already be on your way the same day.

If you are experiencing more serious problems that the ones listed above, you can always ask a professional mechanic for some tips. You would be surprised that a lot of them are really helpful to answer your inquiries, but be prepared if they should tell you that you need to leave your car in the shop for some major repairs.

How Auto Glass Repair Improves Road Safety

There are plenty of cars out on the road today. This fact is very undeniable. A lot of commuters go to the places they need to be in through the freeways and the roads.

Technology is getting more and more advanced and this is being used by car makers to improve the safety of their vehicles. Accidents can happen at any moment; in fact car accidents are among the most common accidents that occur.

You can find a lot of safety features in your vehicle including airbags and seat belts. Some cars even have side bags installed inside. One of the things that can keep you well protected when inside your car is auto glass repair of your windshield. The lack of a windshield can lead to a person getting thrown out of a car in case of an accident. A windshield that does not work well can lead to debris hitting the driver.

It is important that you keep your car protected from cracks that may have formed in your windshield. If you do not have a good windshield, you risk the event that you can suffer from sharp objects that can get to you. This can lead to fatal consequences since the body cannot endure this kind of trauma especially when the car is being driven at a really high speed.

To help you with car repair involving your windshield, you can do an online search of companies that specialize in this work. Most of the companies that do this service also provide tinting for the windshields. Consider getting this done as well since some tints actually have accident-proof properties.

Safety is the most important thing when you are out on the road. All it takes, sometimes, is for you to conduct an examination of your windshield and proactively avoid any problems that can come as the result of any cracks.

Importance of Advanced Auto Repair Shops

A variety of vehicles are available in the market which are manufactured with different looks and features. And they need proper servicing to remain functional for longer. And auto service centers play a significant role in this regard.

Accidents may happen anytime and with anyone. But centers are present to help car owners in case of any minor or major accident. Apart from accidents, one may face problem due to old or expired body parts of vehicle. And for this, a good centre is required.

Features of a good auto centre are:

• Reputation

They should have solid reputation which is important for winning customers faith. They should have impressive list of clients from different sectors.

• Quality work

Another important feature of a reckoned good center is quality work. From management to workmanship, nature of work should be of quality and well managed. Every worker needs to contribute equally for the betterment of services.

• Skilled workmanship

Workmanship is one of the most essential parts of a good auto repair centre. If workers are skilled, talented and have deep practical knowledge about vehicle parts, then it becomes easy to diagnose the problem occurring with vehicle.

• Latest equipments

Use of equipments and tools vary from service provider to provider. If advanced equipments are used, it saves a lot of time and efforts as compared to primitive tools used.

• Friendly and diverse services

Customers' satisfaction matters a lot in any business. Most of service stations provide several services along with repairing of parts like free visual inspection, car cleaning, preventative maintenance and many others. And most centers offer same day service as well as warranty for their work done to gain customers' faith. Hence, all these features are required to be considering for finding a capable auto service center.

All Home Mechanics Should Possess an OBD2 Scanner

The prices associated with everything that we do today seem to only increase and never decrease. If you are looking for a way to save yourself some money, then you might want to consider getting a OBD2 scanner. This instrument is exactly the same type of tool that a normal garage mechanic uses to diagnose what it wrong with a car.

They are very simple to use, all you do is plug it into the connection that comes with every new car today. It will then check out your automobile, and if it detects anything wrong it will let you know in the form of a code. An instruction manual comes with an OBD2 scanner that will let you know what the code stands for.

If that all sound fantastic, but you don't know how to fix anything on your car, even if you did know what was wrong with it, there is a solution to that dilemma also. Almost every auto parts supply store today carries repair manuals written in easy to read language for the novice. While certain repairs like rebuilding an engine or changing a head gasket are going to be too difficult for most people, there are certainly other smaller jobs that you can do.

All of us are fully aware of the fact that once a car loses its warranty, its repair bills can be crippling to a family's monthly budget. So, if you are relatively skilled with your hands, or do not mind taking the time to learn, an OBD2 scanner can be a huge money saver and greatly extend the life of a car.

Some of the items that an OBD2 scanner will let you know is wrong with your car are the following; if you are low on a particular fluid like oil or antifreeze, if your car needs a tune up, if the timing belt needs to be replaced, if your brakes need to be repaired, or if some of your LED car lights are out.

Do you have any idea what an auto dealership will charge you to make any of those minor repairs? If you happen to be reading this article, more than likely you do know, and it is quite a bit of money. Once an OBD2 scanner lets you know what is wrong, all you will need to do is to read the repair manual that you obtained, and more than likely you will be able to save yourself at least 75% off the normal price of having an auto dealer or some other shop repair your car for you.

Are these types of auto repairs going to be the easiest thing that you have ever finished in your life, if you have never done this type of work before? Probably not, but then again, think about all of the personal satisfaction that you will get when you save yourself a ton of money repairing your very own automobile. If you have not thought about using an OBD2 scanner before, hopefully you will now consider acquiring one.

Car Repair - Avoiding a Large Bill

Visions of a large car repair bill loom up in front of you and you wonder how you're going to come up with the money for an unexpected bill. Before you hit the panic button there are a few things you can do to assess your situation and decide how bad your situation is.

It's every driver's worst fear. You get into your car; all set to go to work or pick up the kids from school and your car won't start. First off the most common reason your car won't start is usually the battery. When you turn the key do you hear any noise? Any clicking sounds? If your car is not turning over at all it can be the battery. Your radio will likely still come on even with a dead radio because it is getting its source of power from your alternator so don't let a live radio fool you into thinking your battery is still good. Take a look at your battery. Sometimes it's a bad connection or even battery corrosion and not a bad battery requiring car repair at all. Check the terminals. If they wiggle you may be able to tighten them up and get your connection back.

If this doesn't fix your problem, take a look at terminal connections. If you see a fuzzy, green powder substance around the connection points and your battery, it may be corrosion that is keeping your connection weak. Being careful to avoid skin contact with the corrosive powder, take the terminal connections off and clean off the corrosion. If you have a wire brush to brush it away that is idea but if you don't you may be able to use something as simple as cola. The acid in your cola drink will eat away at what's eating your car and you can dry it off after a few minutes and reconnect your terminals. If your car battery still wont turn over you may need to get a jump start.

Even if your battery starts after a jump, don't become complacent. Have your battery tested to see if it's weak or old and replace it accordingly. Colder weather will make a weak or old battery even more unreliable and this is a good time to take the warning and replace a worn out battery.

This is the simplest car repair you can do and you can do it yourself or take it to any car repair shop and have them do it for you. It's usually relatively cheap to have someone do it for you, and it's a lot less hassle than doing it your self.

Auto Body Repair - Restoring Vehicles and Lives

With oil spills, job loss and recession topping the headlines these days, it's hard to find news with a positive message. The St. Petersburg Times, however, managed to do just that recently with an article titled "The auto body man restored his life and does the same for cars." Highlighting auto body repairman, Russell Bailey, the article relates how a chance meeting with "a government agency that helps people with disabilities and health problems find jobs" led Bailey to his calling. In the process, it put an end to a troubled past in which he "battled depression and a host of medical problems, including high blood pressure and complications from an old head injury. He used drugs and alcohol. His marriage failed; he was separated from his three children. He tried to find jobs, but his spotty attendance record would get him fired."

In much the same way the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation's On-the-Job Training Program helped restore Bailey, an expert auto body repairperson can restore your vehicle to its original condition. When an unexpected accident or act of nature turns your normal way of life topsy-turvy, you can count on a reputable auto body repair operation to get you back on the road quickly and with the confidence that your vehicle has been restored to your complete satisfaction. A repair shop with ASE and ICAR Gold class certifications gives you the peace of mind that your vehicle is being handled by the highest-rated technicians in the auto repair industry.

So what can you expect from your experience with a trusted auto body repair operation? The implementation of a painstaking five-step process in the repair of every damaged vehicle for which it is entrusted. That multi-step approach should include:

1. Estimating Services - State-of-the-art computer software aids in the detection of each and every damaged part on your vehicle. Technicians who completely disassemble and check for any hidden damage not apparent from initial inspection ensure that non-visible damage is reported to your insurance company and repaired. In addition, if frame or structural damage is suspected, state-of-the-art laser body scanners can be employed.

2. Repair Process - This stage will include replacement of each and every damaged component of your vehicle with only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or certified alternative components.

3. Refinishing Process - Only the finest quality, catalyzed urethane primer surfacer to the previously damaged area will be applied during this phase. And because color match is so critical, a Touch Mix Computer System will guarantee a flawless color match, including shading tips for custom color jobs.

Once the color has been deemed a perfect match, your vehicle's surface will be sanded, masked and cleaned before the paint is expertly applied. An epoxy prime coat, followed by the matched base color coat and finally an acrylic urethane clear-coat assure the auto body repair is completely invisible.

4. Finishing Touches - On time delivery, properly fixed and looking as if the accident or damage never occurred-these are the quality control hallmarks of a professional auto body repair operation.

5. Out the Door - Ready when promised and returned to pre-accident condition... or even better, you'll be on your way with final repair papers in hand and already filed with your insurance company.