Auto Repair - When You Should Pay More and When You Shouldn't

Auto repair, why does it cost so much? If you take your car to a reputable auto repair shop their services might not be the cheapest in town, but there are some valid reasons for this. The old adage "Would you go to the low bidder for brain surgery?" really does apply to auto repair shops as well. Cheap service today may just cost you more in the long run.

6 Reasons Why You Should Pay More
Here are six attributes that you will find at a reputable, high quality auto repair shop. This may mean that you might pay more for some services at a shop like this, but there is a good reason for it and it will be worth it.

1) They will employ only top notch, talented, certified technicians. These guys are highly sought after and command a decent wage. They spend a lot on their tools and training. They also spend time on continuing education to maintain their certifications and to stay abreast of the latest industry technology. If you haven't noticed, cars are getting more complicated just like everything else. This industry is filled with lousy mechanics that will work for cheap, but the good shops don't hire them.

2) They subscribe to the best technical information systems. This provides them access to all of the latest service bulletins and manufacturer's specifications. This is the only way to stay current on all makes and models.

3) They only use top quality parts. The auto parts market has been flooded with cheap off-shore manufactured imitations. A good shop is very careful about what parts they install. Quality (when it is still available) costs more.

3) They will be fully insured, so you are protected.

4) They dispose of hazardous wastes in an environmentally sound manner.

5) You will notice that they keep a clean shop equipped with the latest tools and diagnostic equipment. If they don't respect their shop, they won't respect your vehicle.

6) They pay their taxes and they make a profit. That's right, they have to make money to keep the doors open. That way they will be there the next time you need service, and the next, and the next.

The message in this is that good quality probably costs a little more, but if you want your vehicle maintained properly so that it lasts, it's worth it.

Why You Shouldn't Pay More
A lot of money is wasted on automobile service. Customer's are "sold" service their car may not really need. Many facilities employ "salesmen" as their service writers. They are trained in salesmanship and are paid according to how much they can sell. This is unfortunate because it gives the entire industry a bad name. Ask the shop if the service writers are paid commissions.

Here's a typical example. A customer takes his vehicle to the Cheapie, Super Fast Lube Shop for an oil change. The Super Fast Super Salesman informs the customer that he needs a transmission service, cooling system flush, fuel injection service etc. etc. and the customer doesn't remember when these things were done last so he says go ahead. Turns out he wasn't due for those services for another 20,000 miles! Wasted money!

Another example: a customer takes his vehicle to the tire shop for new tires. The service writer knows he is not going to see this car again for a long time. He figures he better sell the customer a brake job (or something else) now, and he does. The vehicle didn't really need a brake job for another 10,000 miles! Wasted money!

How to Avoid Over Paying
The way to avoid all of this is to find an honest, reputable auto repair service facility that can provide all or nearly all of your needs, and STAY WITH THEM! This does three things:

First, all of your service records will be kept in one place so you won't be "doubling up" on services at multiple shops. Remember the examples above.

Secondly, when you are going to the same place for service regularly, they know your car and your driving habits. A good shop that services your vehicle regularly knows how much life is left in your brakes. They would know that the way you drive, you can travel at least another 10,000 miles before the brakes will need to be replaced.

And third, by giving all your business to one shop, you become their "Bread and Butter". Funny thing about honest mechanics, they protect their bread and butter customers. They will bend over backwards to keep them happy. They need them. They are always providing little extras for them at no cost. You know, like replacing light bulbs and fixing little things that most people would overlook.

Your vehicle is one of your most important investments. If you wouldn't go to the low bidder for brain surgery, then don't go to the low bidder repair shop. You should protect your investment and take your vehicle to a reputable auto repair facility and pay an honest price for quality work.

Avoiding Collision Repair Shop Disputes

There's nothing more disconcerting than getting into an accident, arranging to have your car repaired and then getting it back, only to find that the collision repair shop has done it improperly. Aside from having had to deal with readjusting your schedule to accommodate the temporary loss of the car's use, needing to bring the car back to the shop for a back job is plain disappointing.

There are many disputes that may arise from a sub-standard auto body repair job. They can range from improper repairs to actions that result in breach of contract suits. Improper repairs by a collision repair shop include misaligned doors, paint spray that has not been cleaned off, color mismatches, rattling doors, hoods or trunks and improper sealing, resulting in water leaks or wind noise at speed. Or if a customer expected a part replacement but encountered instead a repaired part, then that can also be classified as a poor repair job. It can even be a case of fraud it the billing was for a new part instead of a repaired component.

The hassle of claiming for damages or improper repair can be limited by choosing a reputable collision repair shop in the first place. Asking around before you even call or talk to an auto body repair shop will already give you an idea if a certain facility is up to industry standards. Friends, co-workers and relatives will be able to tell you if a certain shop is good or bad. Another indicator of quality service is if the shop has taken the trouble of certifying itself or its technicians from nationally-recognized agencies. And don't automatically put your trust in a franchise chain. Just like there can be variations in the taste and quality of products in a food chain, so can there be quality differences between shop locations. After all, the quality of a repair ultimately boils down to the technician who will be handling your car.

One should also check the limits of the vehicle insurance policy to see which repairs are covered by the insurance company. Always confirm the coverage of the repair before you contract with a collision repair shop. Your expectations of the repair may not be within the scope of the coverage in the first place. As for preferred shops by your insurance company, the repair work performed by the shop may not be to your satisfaction if the insurance company dictates how certain repair work must be done, as opposed to how a shop would ideally want it done. It's worthwhile to ask, just in case.

Having settled on a collision repair shop, the repair order must detail the work to be done. The appraisal should also state whether the cost of repair is guaranteed not to go over the amount stated or if the shop can adjust the cost in case they discover hidden damage. A careful shop will ask for additional approval in cases like those. In the same vein, the warranty policy and coverage of the warranty should also be detailed and specific. If a car owner does find a disputable issue with a collision repair shop, he or she should first review the documents in hand before making a complaint to make sure that the complaint is within the owner's rights. Then contact the repair shop as soon as possible, in days, not weeks or months.

Depending on the seriousness of the issue, the auto body repair shop may settle the dispute promptly. However, if the shop takes issue with your contentions, contact you insurer immediately. If your car was taken to a preferred shop, the shop has their relationship with the insurance company to consider, and this will help push them in the direction the customer wants. In all cases, it's always better to avoid going to court to force an issue. Sometimes, the threat of a bad reputation or a letter from a lawyer is enough to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion.

Car Assessment Procedures After a Wreck

A car is in a serious accident. Maybe it was a multi-vehicle collision, maybe the car met a hazard in the road, or perhaps the car was safely parked and ran afoul of falling debris, unusual weather or a careless snow plow blade. Regardless, the police, the tow truck and the insurance agent are all duly notified and it's time for an army of professionals, from auto service technicians to an auto body estimator to see what can be done.

If there's too much structural damage to the car, it may simply be a write off. In these cases it would be impossible to render the car road safe again or the cost of repairs far exceeds the remaining value of the vehicle. Sometimes, in the latter case, a car owner may feel sentimental enough to try to salvage their car but usually there's nothing left to do but to send the wreck to the junk yard to be stripped for parts and then compress it.

Insurance companies will also decide what should and should not be fixed. They will also pursue the person responsible for the accident for damages, though as every driver is legally required to carry insurance and this includes liability coverage, if two people are in an accident it will almost always be a negotiation between the insurance companies. If the other party was uninsured, the insurance company may even pursue legal action after them directly. This is also the case if say, a negligently maintained property collapses onto a car.

Even if the car is still driveable, a thorough inspection is a sensible response after anything other than a scratched paint job. Road worthiness is controlled by strict regulation. Small problems may leave a car driveable, but put drivers and passengers at risk if there was a second accident. Alternatively it may be a matter of hidden structural integrity problems. Reputable auto mechanic programs give their graduates the certification they need to do wreck assessment.

To greatly simplify the inspection process, someone, or often several people with auto technician training will assess the engine, body, frame and additional features like the tires. A cracked frame can be a disaster for a car. If there was serious skidding, tires may need to be changed, and a deployed airbag always has to be replaced as they explosively inflate and are single use only. Small damage like chips to the windshield may be fixed, but cracks usually require replacing the entire thing.

Modern car bodies are fiberglass shells. A seamless looking patch has to be sanded level with the rest of the car's body, and painting in itself can be very expensive for perfect looking results. One of the reasons most cars have gloss rather than matte finishes are because upkeep is easier.

Things to Know About a Car Windshield Repair

At some point, most of us experience a crack, ding, or chip in our windshield - whether from a pebble on the highway, a rogue golf ball or damage from a fallen branch. However, there are things you should know about windshield repairs before you decide to replace your windshield entirely. You may be able to have it repaired for a fraction of the cost. Time is of the essence in such a matter, as a chipped or minor crack in a windshield can quickly spread or escalate beyond repair.

Use this helpful guide when pursuing windshield repairs for your vehicle:

When to replace your windshield - How do you know when the damage to your windshield is beyond repair and will need to replace it? It can cost anywhere from four to ten times higher to replace your windshield than repair it, so only replace it if a windshield repair expert recommends doing so. Likewise, get a second opinion and shop around for a few quotes from windshield repair facilities before choosing one that offers reputable service, at the value you're looking for.

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  When to repair it - Windshield repair or replacement depends on the size, location and severity of the damage. Consider the following points when having your windshield repaired:


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  Size of damage - Generally, you can have your windshield repaired for cracks up to 12 inches long, and chips less than the size of a quarter in diameter.


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  Location considerations - According to the windshield repair experts, the location of the damage also plays an important role in determining your windshield's fate. Cracks at the edge of the windshield tend to spread very quickly and can compromise the structural integrity of the glass. If they're caught in time, they can be repaired. But in most cases, it's usually advisable to replace the windshield.


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  Cost expectations - Replacing an entire windshield costs anywhere from $150 for passenger vehicles to over $300 for trucks and vans. Repairing a chip costs about $40-$50 for the first chip, then usually $10 extra for each additional chip. Keep in mind that the bigger the crack or chip, the higher the cost to repair it. Since cracks can easily spread, the sooner you can have it repaired, the better.

Where should you have it fixed or replaced?:

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  Dealer - dealerships are usually more expensive than other facilities, but if your vehicle is covered by a dealer warranty, this may be your best option.


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  Auto Glass Repair Specialist - better suited for situations such as difficult-to-fix cracks and chips, and specialty cars with unique windshields.


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  General Mechanic - a general mechanic can usually replace a windshield, but may not have the equipment to repair it.

Ways to be pro-active about keeping your windshield ding-free - drive at a safe distance behind trucks or work vehicles that can often spin damage-causing rocks into the air. When at all possible, avoid parking underneath large trees to reduce the risk of windshield damage from branches or fallen debris.

Now that you have some helpful things to consider when having your windshield repaired, you should be prepared in the event that you experience damages. Make sure that you have an auto insurance policy that offers the coverage you need to have your windshield repaired or replaced.

Suzuki Increases Presence In The Middle East

The Suzuki Motors Corp. (SMC), one of the largest Japanese automakers, has announced that it will implement an aggressive strategic marketing plan that covers the release of new vehicle types to boost auto sales and consolidate its share in the Middle East.

The automaker earlier gathered all its dealers in the Middle East to tackle about the strategic plan and bring together insights on how to better customize their cars and after-sales services so as to meet the growing demand of the customers. The Suzuki Strategic Regional Meeting was held at the Le Meridien Hotel in Dubai.

Kazuyuki Yamashita, the SMC's Deputy Staff Manager for the Middle East & Africa Marketing Group, said, "The Middle East is a very important market to Suzuki and has always proved to be full of success for the Japanese brand. Our new models are tailor-made to enhance comfort and efficiency, characters that we believe will further uplift Suzuki's brand image in the region as we prepare to launch more cars."

Yamashita added, "We are confident we can carry forward the momentum generated from the success of all our initiatives into our new offerings. As we have done with our previous successful ventures, Suzuki will continue to manufacture cars that relate to their owners, promoting the Suzuki experience as a way of life." The automaker is expected to build redesigned vehicles as well as new cars. Auto parts like the knock sensors are also expected to be refined.

The meeting was held to foster harmonious relationship between the automaker and its dealers at the same time to unite the efforts of the latter. They are all geared towards improving the image of the Japanese automaker and offering superb opportunities for the new vehicles through a unified marketing, advertising and PR campaign throughout the territory.

Suzuki and its dealers also tackled about strategies to successfully vie in the automotive market. They also formulated a fixed plan for 2007. The plan includes a promotional and advertising campaign for its new product lines that would last for six months. These strategies are all part of the automaker's struggle to promote the Suzuki brand as a 'way of life.'

Mustafa Karam & Sons from Kuwait, the Sabeha Trading Corp and Suzuki Yemen Co. from Yemen, the Al Rostamani Trading Company from the UAE, the Bamarouf Group Suzuki Saudiah from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Moosa Abdul Rahman Hassan & Co. from Oman, the G.A. Bazerji & Sons Co. from Lebanon and Al Hadaya Motors from Syria, The Commercial & Industrial Co. from Jordan, Bahrain's Mohammed Jalal & Sons, and the Teyseer Motors from Qatar are some of the SMC dealers that sent representatives to the recently held Suzuki Strategic Regional Meeting.

Basic Components of Automotive Air Conditioning Systems

We sure all take our car and trucks cooling and air conditioning systems for granted until they do not function in the hot summer and we swelter as we drive, fall prey to high humidity or both. Generally automotive air conditioning systems are relatively consistent and reliable, requiring a minimum of maintenance. Still when these cooling systems fail it is wise to have a basic knowledge of automobile refrigeration and cooling systems in order that we can quickly and succinctly describe out problems and concerns to our local garage man auto mechanic or your dealership professional service technician.

The basic function of air conditioning as well as wintertime heating systems and glass defrosters is to keep the temperature in the passenger compartment comfortable. The air conditioner transfers heat from the passenger compartment to the outside air, all the while removing moisture and humidity as well. Whereas come cooler times of the driving year the heating system does the reverse transferring heat from the engine to the passenger compartment.

The basic components of your autos' cabin cooling system is composed of first the compressor - which is basically a simple pump, the magnetic clutch, which serves to disengage the compressor to control the circulation of refrigerant through the system.

Next consider the condenser coil itself which dissipates the heat picked by the refrigerant from the evaporator coil which is located in the passenger compartment itself. The receiver dryer stores refrigerant keeping it clean and removing moisture. Next in line is the expansion valve whose role and function is to both limit the high pressure liquid coming from the receiver into the evaporator core, causing the high pressure liquid to change into a lower pressure low temperature gas.

Last in line are the evaporator core which is a radiator like container connected between the expansion valve and what is referred to as the "suction throttling valve'. This suction throttling valve itself contains a pressure between 28 and 2p psi, pounds per square inch measurement. Lastly for reasons of quick diagnosis of low refrigerant fluid most auto air conditioners often a transparent 'sight gas".

Having some knowledge of the basic components and terminology of auto cooling refrigerant air conditioning systems can be of great assistance of describing breakdown and maintenance issues with your local garage mechanic or auto dealership service department. All in all with the number and type of all of these complex components it is amazing that our vehicles' air conditioning systems are so reliable and trouble free.

Care Car Tips - Saving Time and Expense of Auto Repair

Oil Changes
Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations as outlined in your owner's manual. Typically you should have your oil and oil filter changed every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.

Fluids
Your vehicle has a number of important fluids that are critical for safety and performance of the vehicle. These include brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission/transaxle fluid, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. Have them all checked regularly.

Tires
Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.

Engine Maintenance
A dirty spark plug or a plugged fuel injector can reduce fuel economy by up to 30 percent. Keep your engine in proper tune.

Suspension
Your vehicle's suspension has a number of moving parts that require regular lubrication. Doing so will extend the life of these critical components.

Battery
Battery terminals and cables can develop corrosion, which will reduce your vehicle's ability to start. Don't wait to discover this some chilly winter morning! Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean as needed. Non 'maintenance-free' should be have their fluid level periodically checked.

Lighting
Your vehicle's lighting is an important to your safety. Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, brake and tail lights. Replace as needed.

Wiper Blades
Windshield wipers wear out over time and exposure to the elements. Check for streaking, cracks, tears and misalignment. A good rule of thumb is to replace them once a year at the onset of winter.

Engine Belts
Have your vehicle's engine belts inspected on a regular basis. A broken belt can have disastrous consequences. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments and replace as needed.

Air Filter
Your vehicle's engine needs unrestricted airflow for proper performance. Have the air filtration system checked frequently for clogging or damage. Doing so will help ensure that your vehicle is performing at peak condition.

Regularly Scheduled Maintenance
Vehicle requirements vary greatly, so be sure to always consult the vehicle owner's manual for individual service schedules.

If you have any queries about your auto repair, please contact us at http://www.foxrivertire.com or call us at (630) 584-0655 or e-mail us at FoxRiverTireAndSupply@Comcast.net or visit us at Fox River Tire at 20 N 17th Street St. Charles, IL 60174 where we never charge for free air.

Things That Destroy Your Paint Job

Vehicles are very expensive assets. People who own them take good care of them. This ensures that they remain in good condition, hence reducing unnecessary repair costs. One of the areas that are usually sensitive is the body. It is gives the vehicle its unique outward look, which enables one to identify it from afar. Therefore, it must be in good order so as to ensure that the vehicle is presentable. There are many things that can affect the paint job. Some of them are discussed here.

Rain is one of them. If you park your vehicle in the rain for a long while, the paint will become dull. This is especially the case with vehicles that have glittering body works. Due to excessive and prolonged bombardment of paint by rainwater, the outer coating that makes the paint glitter might wear off. Moreover, water can enter the vehicle through a slightly open window or faults on the roofing.

Direct sunlight is another factor that is harmful to your paint job. Sunlight not only discolors the paint but also causes peeling and cracking on the surface. This gives the car an ugly look. Therefore, one has to repaint it. Moreover, it causes peeling and discoloring of seats and the dashboard cover, if the windows are transparent. So, it is important to look for ways of protecting your vehicle from direct sunlight.

Dirt stains mostly occur when a vehicle is not washed frequently. They destroy its outward look, making it appear old and neglected. Some of the common stains come from mud, dirty water, oil and grease. They are difficult to get rid of. In most cases one has to repaint the vehicle. This is very expensive and not everyone can afford it.

Dust is a simple but very harmful thing. Most people assume that they can easily wipe off dirt from their vehicles, once it has accumulated. However, this is not the case. If dust is left to settle inside or of the body of the car, it can cause serious damage to the furnishing and paint job. This might require repainting or refurnishing of the vehicle.

To avoid damage to your paint job, you should purchase car covers. You can use them to cover your vehicle when you plan to leave it parked in an open garage for long. They are waterproof and prevent dust from landing on the body of the vehicle.

Different Types of Tyre Changers Available

Tyre changers are absolutely vital to being able to change a modern car tyre. Nearly every car, body, oil, and tyre shop has one type of model or another. Many car owners rely on these machines to make sure their expensive rims aren't damaged while the wheel is being serviced. There are several different types of such changers.

Semiautomatic Tyre Changer

The semiautomatic changer is an affordable alternative to the fully automatic version. We'll discuss the automatic model in a moment. The semi-auto changer takes a little more hands-on experience to operate than the automatic. The majority of these styles of equipment come with a tilting arm and a 20" wheelbase to support changing up to a 20" wheel. Other wider versions for the larger wheel bases are available for slightly more than the standard 20".

Most of this advanced tyre changing equipment combines the tilting column effect with a turntable that's only 665 mm off the ground, making the process easier and more efficient than with past models. The semiautomatic version is ideal for mounting and dismounting any car, van, or motorcycle wheel.

Automatic Tyre Changer

The automatic model is by far one of the fastest and most efficient means for changing a wheel in any shop. Many automatic changers are utilized in changing wheels that are up to 24" in size. The sheer size and weight of the rim makes using semiautomatic equipment too dangerous, not to mention slow.

The tilt column is pneumatically controlled and requires much less manual labor. Changers with this size often have a wheel bead breaking unit, reinforced structure to take the extra strain and weight of the heavier wheels and rims, and a fully automatic turntable to make things go much smoother and faster. All the mechanic has to do is set the machine and keep their fingers safe! These automatic changers are great for changing SUV, large car, and truck wheels.

The Newest Tyre Changers

I wouldn't make a heading just for "new" machines like this if it wasn't needed. There is a new strain of Tyre Changer making its way to the world markets. It is revolutionizing the features, gadgets, and looks of the standard auto or semi-auto tyre changing machine options; the Corghi-Artiglio 500, to be exact. This specific model is leading the edge in quality, speed, and safety for this niche.

It's one of the few models that come with dual bead breaker discs to make mounting and dismounting of the wheel twice as quick. This model also sports a newly designed dismounting system and improved clamping support to ensure there's no slippage of any kind.

At the end of the day there are many different types of tyre changing equipment you can choose from. Deciding on your budget, and which is the most efficient type, is all up to you and your business plan. If you can't afford the best, then the semiautomatic version may be the choice you want to make.

Auto Repair Diagnostic Sheets to Speed Up Auto Repair

The rising number of accidents has contributed to the growing demand of auto repair services. However, the auto repair services have become a very hectic and time consuming process. An auto repair diagnostic sheet can help to hasten the process and saves a lot of time. These diagnostic sheets help the technician to garner adequate information from web data bases.

The auto repair diagnostic sheets contain all the details which will aid the mechanic to complete the process of repair very fast. This also helps in completing the task at a least cost. The auto repair diagnostic sheet also adds on to the computer diagnostic information. As the technicians require different types of information based on the nature of the repair, separate diagnostic sheets are usually used. The less the number of questions for the customers, the more easy will it be to get the specific information. As these sheets are divided into specific sections, it becomes easy to identify the problems and rectify it. Various sections are incorporated in the sheets for convenience. In the vibration, harshness and noise section you can mention if the vehicle emits unusual noise. This helps the mechanic to more specifically understand the specific type of noise and does the repair work accordingly.

Another section for heating and air conditioning system takes note of the details regarding the airflow, the location of the problem, the cooling performance and other details. This enables the mechanic to identify the problem easily which will help him with the repair the drivability of the vehicle is also accessed in the form and the details regarding the engine is noted down. The electrical diagnostic sheet includes details regarding the accident history, battery and accessory replacement etc. This information comes handy for the technician in identifying the cause of the electrical problem. The engine performance is recorded in the cooling and overheating sheet. The cooling and heating of the passenger compartment is also taken note of. Other details regarding engine light, the temperature at which the problem happens etc are also recorded. Up shifting and down shifting problems as well as details of mileage are mentioned in the automatic transmission sheet. Driving conditions at the time of the problem and frequency are also recorded here. Diagnostic forms must be made use of to avoid confusion and minimize the amount spend on diagnosis. Thus auto repair diagnostic sheets are a necessity for making the auto repairs more cost effective and fast. The companies which offer the best services must be hired for doing the task.

Find A Good Auto Repair Shop Before You Need One

Don't wait until you need major work done on your automobile to find a good auto repair shop. You need to find a good repair shop before you actually need one. Otherwise, it's usually too late and you're at the mercy of whatever shop you've taken it to. You're at their mercy that they'll properly repair your vehicle and at their mercy that they won't charge you too much.

Here are some things you need to do before you need major auto repair work done:

1. Ask your friends if they know of any good repair shops. Friends help friends and their advice can be helpful, especially if they have the same model of vehicle that you have.

2. Try to find an auto shop that has mechanics that specialize in your make of vehicle. For example, if you have a vehicle that was made in Japan, you may want to consider a repair shop that specializes in repairing Japanese vehicles. This can make a big difference.

3. Check your phone book and call a few places. You can learn a lot about an automotive repair shop by talking to them over the phone. Are they courteous? Do they sound helpful? You should also ask them how much they charge to repair certain parts on a vehicle such as a tune up or brake replacement. This will give you an idea about pricing at these shops. Also, ask them what kind of warranty they have on parts and labor.

4. Once you've narrowed your search down, go online and go to the Better Business Bureau's website at BBB.org. Find out if any kind of complaints have been filed for the potential shops that you've picked out and what kind of ratings they've been receiving.

5. Find out if the potential shops you've picked out have mechanics that are ASE certified. To become ASE certified, a mechanic must have at least two years of experience and pass a test.

Do these things now before you need major repair work done on your vehicle. I know because I made the mistake of not doing these things before my transmission went out and the repair work cost me a small fortune. I found out later that another shop that had ASE certified mechanics would have done it for much less.

Don't make the same mistake I made. Look for and find a good auto repair shop before you need one.

Catastrophe Adjuster Training

A Catastrophe Adjuster is a claims adjuster that handles losses that arise from serious events such as a hurricane, flood or tornado. A CAT adjuster may be part of a CAT team that works directly for an insurance company, or they may be an independent adjuster that works for various adjusting companies as needed.

WHAT TYPE OF BACKGROUND OR TRAINING IS NEEDED TO BECOME A CAT ADJUSTER?

Most companies look for someone who has a background in construction or auto body repair. Construction background is helpful in adjusting property losses. A natural disaster will leave behind homes and buildings that have been partially or completely destroyed. It is the adjuster's job to evaluate the extent and amount of damages.

Auto body repair is important when events such as Hurricane Katrina leaves behind thousands of wrecked and flood-damaged vehicles. A skilled CAT adjuster must determine whether a vehicle is a partial or total loss.

There are many different schools and organizations that advertise CAT Training, however if you are new to the field, it is important to investigate a school's training claims.

RED FLAGS

If a school promises to put a student on an 'adjuster roster' once training is completed, be careful! Anyone can put you on a list. That doesn't mean you are going to get a job. Often the training will cost thousands of dollars and no job ever materializes!

Another ad that is out there is 'Xactimate' Training in a weekend. Take a look at the ads for adjusters that are on the web. Visit sites like monster.com and hotjobs.com. You will not see ads that require Xactimate. That is not to say that CAT adjusters don't use software like Xactimate. It is just that getting a weekend course in a software product will not get you a job!

What will get you into the field is hard work and experience. The first step is to obtain your adjuster license. In Florida, the All Lines License is available by designation from the University of Central Florida/Florida Insurance University at:
http://www.ce.ucf.edu/insurance

Completion of this course exempts the student from the state licensing exam.

If you have a background in construction or auto body repair, the next step is to prepare a good, one-page resume that lists your qualifications. Take some time to research some of the resume sites on the web to make sure that you put together a resume that will impress HR at whatever company you apply to. AOL has a very good site sponsored by CareerBuilder.

Research ads on the various jobs sites, including CatAdjuster.org You will find that most people do not get CAT adjuster positions immediately upon getting licensed. Unless we have a major disaster like the hurricanes of 2004-2005, CAT adjusters are most often drawn from the most experienced adjusters available.

You may need to work as an inside adjuster with a company to first gain experience adjusting claims. Adjusting is like any other profession in that, you must be willing to work you way up the ladder.

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE PURCHASING TRAINING:

1. What license do I need to work as a CAT Adjuster?

Answer: In FL it is the All Lines 5-20 (Independent) or 6-20 (Company) license. If you are in another state, check with your Department of Insurance or government agency that handles licensing of insurance professionals. If your state does not require adjuster licensing, you are eligible for the Florida non-resident license. The non-resident license is reciprocal with many states across the country which will enable you to work almost anywhere in the U.S.

2. You have offered to put me on a roster if I complete your training.

Will you give me the names and contact information of students who were hired as a CAT adjuster after training?
Which companies hire your students and how can I verify that information?
What percentage of students who complete your training get hired immediately?

3. You say I need Xactimate training to be hired as a CAT adjuster.

Which companies hire your students after training?
Do you place your students and if so, how can I verify that information?

Be careful in selecting your CAT Adjusting training. Insurance companies offer terrific internal training for new adjusters and you are paid while training! For more information contact Dr. Michael Birzon at the University of Central Florida at (407) 927-1235

Car Repair - Pinpointing the Source of Abnormal Sounds

An unlikely car repair tool for the do-it-yourselfer is a stick or piece of wood much like a yardstick. It won't help you fix much of anything, but it can help you pinpoint the source of abnormal noise in your car engine.

Here is how it works. Any abnormal noise is a type of vibration. An object like a rigid stick will transmit vibration over its length, so you can use it as a sort of stethoscope to identify sources of trouble in your engine compartment. It's not especially comfortable to use, but it works.

To use this homemade stethoscope, simply place one end of the stick on suspected sources of vibration (while the engine is running) and place the other end up against your ear. Gently press closed your ear opening with a blunt end of the stick and your closed ear will act much like a speaker, allowing the sounds to be transmitted to your ear drum so you can determine the location and nature of the noise.

By placing the stick against your closed ear, you block out distracting noises of the engine and focus only on noises that produce vibration in proximity of the stick. You'll be amazed at how clearly you can hear things like bearings, push rods, valve lifters and rocker arms - anything that is moving, clicking, rubbing or slapping up against something else.

Using this technique for diagnosing the nature of car repair through sounds helps you pinpoint the source of trouble and obviates removal and internal visual inspection to diagnose the nature of the problem.

A word of caution: be very careful while placing the stick against engine components as it can be harmful to you if it gets caught up in the fan blades, fan belts or other moving parts of the engine.

The best approach is to put the stick in place first and then position it on the outside of your ear. This allows you to see where you're placing the stick so you can avoid moving parts.

Guide to Car Exhaust System Repairs

Fire means smoke and smoke or emissions is produced by the controlled explosions in the car's engine. The exhaust system of a car is supposed to remove these emissions and clean them as much as possible before releasing them in the atmosphere. When the car's exhaust system does not do this job then it has to be replaced.

Some of the components of the exhaust system can be simply replaced with a wrench but others need welding equipment. Clamps can be used to cinch down joints between components. Working on the exhaust system requires getting it up on safety stands, blocking the wheels and crawling below.

Manifold Life of an Exhaust System
The exhaust system collects exhaust gasses as they leave the cylinders of the engine and then those gasses are piped to the catalytic converter through the exhaust pipe. Cars with all cylinders have one exhaust manifold. The exhaust system can become cracked or warped from excessive engine heat. If the exhaust is escaping from places it didn't before then the exhaust manifold may need to be replaced. Mostly the gasket seals between the manifold and the engine block have to be replaced when repairing an exhaust manifold.

For repairing an exhaust manifold, follow this guide:
First, locate the exhaust manifold on the car, find the exhaust muffler and pipe under the car and trace it where it attaches to the exhaust manifold. Remove the bolts that connect the exhaust pipes to the exhaust manifold output. A long half inch socket wrench driver is needed to loosen the bolts. After removing them, the gaskets should be checked and replace it if necessary. Remove the bolts that attach the manifold to the engine block. Remove the exhaust manifold and gasket from the engine carefully. After that, reinstall the exhaust pipe to the manifold output, replacing the gasket.

For replacing an exhaust pipe, follow this guide:
First, loosen and remove the bolts holding the exhaust pipe to the exhaust manifold. Then loosen and remove hangers holding the exhaust pipe to the under the car making sure it will not fall. Now replace the exhaust pipes and reconnect to the system. If you are replacing the muffler, catalytic converter or resonator, then do it while replacing the pipes. It is a job which deserves a treat when completed.

Keeping the Environment Clean of Auto Emissions
A car normally has 1.625 scads of emissions-control devices hidden in its nooks and crannies. The exhaust gas recirculation system returns exhaust gases to the engine for re-burning. The evaporative emissions control system recycles fuel vapors. The positive crankcase ventilation system re-circulates gases from the oil pan to the intake manifold. These systems need to be replaced when they go wrong. The car service manual or an aftermarket manual gives specific instructions test and replace these components.

Easy Auto Glass Repair

Your auto glass is one of the most visible parts of your car. Thus, people will notice if the glass is scratched, even when only a little. Replacing the entire glass is the solution that people usually take when they find cracks or scratches on their windshield. This may better the look of your car but it surely isn't an affordable option. Therefore, don't directly opt for window replacement when auto glass repair is still possible to do. In some cases, the glass can be repaired so that you don't need to break the bank to replace it. Just take your car to the auto glass specialist and your windshield will be restored to its original condition.

The auto glass specialist will take several steps to repair your windshield. The first step that he takes is usually in evaluating the extent of the damage. If he finds that the damage is severe, he usually will suggest you to go to a shop to obtain the used windshield. Then what kind of damage is a specialist able to repair? If the cracks or chips on your auto glass is less than 6 inches wide, they can still be fixed. Auto glass resin can be the solution for this kind of damage.

Your glass is probably made of modern glass that consists of two layers, with a rubber membrane sandwiched between the layers. If the crack is only on the top layer, is still possible for a specialist to perform repairs. However, you may need to choose window replacement if the damage is on the membrane.

When the specialist tells you that your glass can be repaired, then the process will be very easy. The whole repair only takes about 30 minutes to an hour. An epoxy will be injected to the crack or ship by the specialist. It will dry completely and finally cover the damage. The repair will hide the damage as well as reinforce your windscreen. The resin used to fix the damage is a permanent solution and it prevents the damage from spreading.

Some Tips for Auto Glass Repair

If one day you find a crack in your windscreen, make sure that you fix it immediately. The damage can be more severe if debris or heavy wind strikes your window. Just take it to the specialist immediately so that you can prevent further damage.

Make sure that you choose a reliable specialist to get the best repair result. The repair should be performed perfectly so that you will have maximum visibility through the glass. Low quality of service will only spread the damage and increase potential injury in the case of an accident.

Make Sure Your Auto Mechanic Training Is Electric Car Ready

As a vehicle choice, the electric car is still working on catching on with the everyday consumer. Even so, despite high price points and underdeveloped technology, constant efforts to go electric hint that people looking to become a mechanic will have to deal with more than the internal combustion engine in their future career.

Of course, all cars have an electric component. If you have ever experienced a flat car battery, you know the car can't run without a spark. A key twist triggers literal ignition of gasoline vapors, a considerable improvement over the first hand crank spark plugs. But for much of the automobile's history, messy, dirty gasoline power did everything else and the most the battery dealt with was headlights, a cigarette lighter and maybe a radio. Auto mechanic training was all about preparing you to get greasy with a wrench under the hood of the car.

But progress marches on, and as consumer electronics got more sophisticated, their features have been edging their way into the car. The radio became a tape deck, then a CD player and now a digital entertainment system, with flat screen televisions on the back of passenger seats and plug and play electronic music. Air conditioning became more than the car's natural vents and the heating can even involve electric coils buried in the upholstery. Meanwhile the map has competition from an onboard GPS and even the least sophisticated cars have back lit dashes and blinking warning lights. A mechanic school has to teach servicing all this as a matter of course.

But for a full electric car, there's two major challenges, first of all, a serious battery life issue, and secondly the need to get as an efficient result out of an electric system as the relatively explosive efforts of internal combustion. Whenever energy is transferred from one form or another some energy in inevitably lost. Gasoline engines rely on the pressure of combustions to turn turbines, basically the same technology in a steam engine and have been standard in part because the technology is very mature and there's a good power to fuel ratio. The same results in electric cars are much harder to achieve, but recent decades have shown increasing efficiency in electrical models. Meanwhile battery life is being tackled from two directions. Car batteries are getting more reliable in the length they can keep a charge, simply by piggy backing on the sort of battery innovations you can find in a mobile phone. On the other hand, as engines get better at using what they have, less power is needed. With these hints of things to come, it is only sensible to spend some time on the electric car in your auto mechanic training.

Popular Basic Car Repair Equipment For Your Trunk

Car repair tools are quite basic and inexpensive. However, there are quite a few of them, each used to treat a specific problem of the vehicle. Therefore, if you are hunting for an all inclusive tool or a machine for fixing every car problem you will find none of this kind.

Since car tools are not too expensive, buy ones that are dependable and have a good reputation in the market. In case of simple breakdowns or trouble with basic car parts you can fix them yourself with these tools. However, in case of serious problems or mishaps you need professional help.

If you are a car service expert your service station should have basic service tools and machines available for customers. These include:

o An air pump for tires
o A jack to change tires
o Battery chargers
o Screws
o Pocket knives of all sizes and shapes
o Pliers
o Cables and wires
o Cleaning brush for battery terminal and other car parts
o Torque wrenches
o Gloves
o Reflexive vest
o Duct tape
o Road flares
o Flashlights
o Spare tires
o Engine oil

Replacing car parts can be as easy or difficult as the problem. Therefore, some of them can be done within a day of the occurrence of the problem while others may take more time due to the need to ship the parts from outside the state or country.

If you are planning to take a road trip in your car make sure you have the basic tools and machinery packed in your car tool kit. In case of an emergency breakdown in the middle of the road if you cannot find a mechanic or a gas station you should be able to get yourself out of the mess long enough to find professional help.

Hence, you need to learn the use of the various equipment that you are carrying. So be prepared.

If you run a car service business you should first learn the basic troubleshooting techniques for the most common problems associated with the vehicles. Keep all the basic tools required for this handy. Don't compromise on their quality as this will come as to bite you in terms of customer complaint for poor service.

No Two Windshield Glass Repair Facilities Are Created Equally

The truth is, though, not all the facilities that offer windshield glass repair are the same. In addition to price differences, there are also variations in experience, service, and quality.

Price
If you're only getting a small windshield rock chip repaired, your costs should rarely exceed $100. This price includes all services, from initial estimate to a quality guarantee. If you're getting more than one windshield chip repaired at a time, you should also ask about reduced prices for additional chips. This price range should be universal, regardless of where you go for the repairs.

Experience
Oftentimes, consumers prefer the services of car washes and auto detail shops for any cosmetic repairs. However, these types of shops are often less qualified for windshield glass repairs because they don't specialize in windshields like auto glass repair companies do. A specialization in windshield glass repair means that the technicians have more training and experience, are equipped with the latest tools and technologies, and have streamlined their approach to save you both time and money.

Service
When you choose a windshield glass repair company, you should always make sure you come first. That means things like free estimates (either online or in person), mobile services, and flexible scheduling are all included. There are so many different windshield repair companies offering services that they must remain competitive in order to keep your business. This translates into great news for you; you have more options and get more perks than ever before.

Quality
Of course, the most important consideration when choosing a windshield glass repair company is the quality of the work. You want to rest assured that the factory seal on your windshield will be restored, that your windshield rock chip won't spread, and that the work is guaranteed to hold up to the elements. If the company you're considering doesn't offer a quality guarantee or other warranty package, you may want to keep searching until you find one that does.

How to Find a Good Used Transmission for Your Vehicle

Every owner of a vehicle or automobile must be aware that engines and transmissions are the most important vehicle parts that can move the vehicles run successfully. But a time will come that these auto parts such as the transmissions need to be repaired or even replaced. Repairing these auto parts cost a lot of money so it is advisable to get a still-in-good condition used transmission from a wrecked car or get one from a transmission shop that specializes in installing used transmissions. Either way, here are some tips you should know when buying a used transmission.

There are ways in finding used transmissions. You can find them by browsing through your phone book for local auto repair shops and searching the internet for websites that are selling second-hand auto parts. You can also look for used transmissions in forums sites dedicated to repairing or selling used auto parts.

When you find the right used transmission for your vehicle, you must first check the mileage before you buy it. Make it sure that the used transmission you are buying is a low mileage transmission, as this is the best indicator if how much life remaining the transmission has. Some salvage yards may have records which will show how much the mileage was on the vehicle the transmission was taken from. You will have to verify the mileage of the transmission yourself if you need to be sure the mileage is right. You can ask for the VIN of the vehicle the transmission is from. Run a mileage verification report with Auto Check or CARFAX. Some of the salvage yard might only have the year of the vehicle, so choose the newest vehicle. If the salvage yard don't have such vehicle records, it is best to go somewhere else.

Since used transmission comes from a wrecked or damaged vehicle, it most likely has not been road tested yet. The only best way to check a used transmission is to make sure that it runs smoothly when shifting through all the gears. You can do this while the transmission is installed to the vehicle or you can use a transmission test stand. Visual inspection of the transmission is also important. You will need to check for noticeable signs of damage to the transmission such as cracks in the case.

You should consider asking or negotiate for a warranty. Warranties on used transmissions could be confusing and may even include very specific requirements depending on salvage yard or auto repair shop. Many high quality used transmissions will come with a 1 or 2-year warranty, while some may have 90-day warranty.

Buying a used transmission has many drawbacks. Even though when you are dealing with a specialized transmission shop but with not enough knowledge about a transmission type can result in a poor quality transmission repair and installation. However a smart buyer knows how to get what they really want and do it less expensive.

You Say You Want to Become a Mechanic - Could You Be More Precise?

Auto mechanic training is a potential pathway to a long list of exciting careers - emphasis on "potential." To succeed, aspiring mechanics must take the right steps. To make sure that their dreams become a reality, students in auto training schools need to get specific about their goals. They want to become a mechanic - but what kind? Once they decide, they can tailor their training to their needs. Here are some probing questions friends and family can ask to get the ball rolling.

Do you want to become a mechanic so that you can design hot rods and custom cars?

Students in auto mechanic training who would like to one day work in a specialty auto shop, transforming vehicles into works of art, will have to make sure that they are exposed to many of the same skills as are used in collision refinishing (see below):

• soldering


• welding


• fabricating and manipulating sheet metal


• assembling and disassembling a vehicle part by part


• sanding, priming, painting (and custom mixing colours)

While they are pursuing their auto mechanic training, they may want to seek part-time employment in an auto parts plant, a specialty shop or a collision repair shop for real-life exposure to these core skills.

Do you want to become a mechanic so that you can refinish vehicles that have been in collisions?

In addition to knowledge about soldering, welding, sheet metal and paints, students in auto training schools who are aiming for a career in auto body repair also need to be handy with a hammer and other tools. Sometimes fixing a dent is just a matter of knowing how to pound it out!

Do you want to become a mechanic because you love motorcyles?

Students in auto training schools who are attracted to motorcycle repair may want to complement their general training with a manufacturing-specific concentration.

Many graduates of auto training schools go on to seek additional training on:

• Harley-Davidson motorcyles


• Campagna motorcycles


• Indian motorcyles


• Mistubishi Motors motorcyles


• Yamaha motorcycles

Do you want to become a mechanic so that you can work on in a train yard, at a port, or in a farming community?

Students in auto training schools who are attracted to heavy equipment maintenance will have to make sure that they learn as much as they can about diesel systems. Learning about heavy-duty clutches, torque converters and power trains empowers them to work on such equipment as:

• ships


• tractors


• constructions trucks


• mining vehicles


• cargo trucks


• trains

If you have an aspiring mechanic in your midst, pour them a cup of tea, and start asking questions. By taking them seriously, you will help them give their dreams the consideration that they deserve.

Counter-Steering In The Collision Repair Business

Nowadays, a lot of collision repair shops rely solely on Direct Repair Programs or DRPs, where insurers and certain body shops have formed a partnership. Whatever the reasons or motivations for engaging in such a relationship, shops sometimes end up at the mercy of insurers, to the point where they practically have no say in appraising repair costs for cars that end up in their shop. On the other hand, shops do have an assured market because the insurers will direct their insured's cars to that particular repair shop. But issues arise when shops can't afford to expand their capacity. When an insurance company is able to give a shop the majority of their work, the collision repair shop can be dictated to. When this happens, the shop will find it very difficult to demand proper rates for their repairs.

Collision and auto body repair shops need a balanced customer base so that they are not dependent on a single market - in this case an insurance company. But the fact is that insurance companies have the power to influence where a potential customer will take his or her car to. And the situation is made even more complex by the fact that different localities have different regulatory requirements regarding insurance companies. But studying and understanding government policies on how insurance companies can act or influence the insured can help shops develop a preferred list of insurance companies. There are insurance companies that are easier to work with, and collision repair shops would do well to cultivate relationships with these kind of insurers.

Having a small, even informal, network of collision repair shops that has a "preferred list" of insurance companies that act fairly will help the shops in an area influence how much insurers can dictate to them. By identifying which insurers are easy to work with and are fair in their dealings, these shops can steer their customers towards these insurers. It may not produce obvious results immediately but over time, this counter-steering effort can diminish the influence of greedy insurance companies.

It must be noted that a lot of collision repair shops have gotten soft about marketing their services since DRPs became a staple in the industry. In the process, shops have become even more susceptible to insurer steering, signing on to the program and then waiting for insurers to send work to them. By making themselves completely dependent on insurer whims, they lose a big part of their independence. When shop owners become dependent like this, they have no right to complain that they're not making any money.

Why Truck Owners Should Schedule Regular Tire Rotation

Some truck owners have no problem jacking up the vehicle and moving tires according to their schedule. Others may prefer to have the job done by a professional auto mechanic. Either way, most experts agree that vehicle owners should have their tires rotated after approximately 6,000 miles of use. Sometimes vehicle have this service done at the same time as other routine maintenance to consolidate visits to the auto repair shop.

The front tires on most passenger vehicles are under more stress than those on the rear. They are responsible for reacting to the steering system when the driver makes a turn. Every time the car changes direction, friction between the road and tire causes the tread to erode. Vehicle owners who have tires under warranty must document having this service done to ensure the warranty is valid.

The process of moving the tires provides the ideal opportunity to inspect the tread for signs of excessive wear that can lead to a leak or blowout. The mechanic should remove any rocks and other debris that is wedged between the treads. If a nail or screw has worked its way into the rubber, the mechanic can usually remove the foreign object and patch the hole without a need for replacing the tire.

Drivers will notice a difference in handling characteristics if the tires are not wearing at the same rate. The vehicle may pull to one side or the other when driving in a straight line. Sometimes rubber loses traction as the vehicle maneuvers around a corner. The driver may notice that the vehicle is no longer reacting immediately to the steering wheel when it moves.

The rearward cross pattern is recommended for rear wheel drive vehicles. This means the left front moves to the right rear and the right front moves to the left rear. The rear tires move forward but remain on their original side.

The forward cross pattern should be used for front wheel drive vehicles and is basically the opposite of the rearward cross. For this pattern, the left rear goes on the right front and the right rear goes on the left front. The front tires move to the rear on the same side where they were.

The x-pattern is suitable for all vehicles and is an acceptable alternative to both the rearward and forward cross patterns. This pattern involves swapping the right front with the left rear. The pattern is completed by swapping the left front with the right rear.

Rotating tires requires just a few basic tools. With a floor jack, a standard four-way lug wrench and four jack stands, anyone can rotate tires as long as they have a flat solid surface to work on. It is safer to loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle into the air. Anyone who is uncomfortable doing this job can have a service professional do it for an affordable price.

The ultimate goal is to have the tires wear at the same rate so the owner can replace them all at the same time. Uneven wear causes the treads to wear out faster than they normally would and forces the owner to buy replacements much sooner. In extreme cases, failure to rotate the tires can cause the wheel to become stuck on the housing due to rust buildup. When this happens, it will be necessary to call a car service with access to special tools to remove the wheel.

Truck owners should also take care not to strip the lug nuts. Once they are stripped, the soft metal can rust and break off under excess pressure. To avoid this problem, always replace lug nuts by hand and twist until they are hand tight before applying a wrench or air gun to finish the job.

Regular tire rotation is just one thing truck owners can do to extend the life of their vehicle and tires. Preventive maintenance provided according to the manufacturer's recommendation will keep all warranties intact and reduce the risk of the vehicle breaking down on the road in the middle of nowhere. Many tire retailers offer service contracts that include routine rotation to help customers monitor and meet their maintenance schedule.

Top Tips For Making An Auto Glass Repair Insurance Claim

Occasionally, damage to the windscreen of a vehicle can be caused by accidents. Whenever this occurs, it is important to fully understand your vehicle's insurance policy, so you can arrange for the damage to be paid for. A windshield claim, which falls under the comprehensive auto insurance category, relates to windshield damage in the form of cracks, chips or a seriously damaged windshield.

If you have comprehensive insurance, then you can make a claim to completely (or partially) cover your repair or windshields replacement costs. In contrast, liability cover will only pay for the other person's repair costs. All of this is based on the deductible, and will vary from one policy to another and from one state to another.

Prior to a claim being filed, it is essential to think about a few things. Firstly, you should find out how much your insurance deductible is. Secondly, you should obtain a quote for auto glass repair to discover the total repair costs. Bear in mind that the quantity of claims you make can increase your insurance premium over the long term. For instance, we will assume that your insurance deductible is $300.00, and that the quote you get for auto glass repair is $330.00. In this situation, you would need to decide whether making a claim for $30.00 (that the insurance firm would cover) will be worth having the claim recorded on your insurance history.

Should you opt to make a claim, and then try to do this as soon as you can? In most cases, insurance firms will cover the whole cost of the repair work on the windshield cracks or chips. Thus, you will not have to have a complete windshields replacement. Always check this with your insurance firm, because it could save you a great deal of cash.

After your claim is made, it is best to consult with your insurance firm. Your agent will advise you about your deductible and your policy. Also, they will provide you with a choice of auto glass firms which can be hired with your insurance policy. Then, your chosen glass company will be contacted. Conveniently, most glass companies offer customer service to keep you up to date with all the paperwork and dealings with the insurance firm. After this, your windshield will be replaced or repaired, your insurance will have been dealt with, and you will be able to start driving again straight away.

Car Repairs Are Often Covered Under Car Warranty

Having to pay for car repair work can become quite expensive. The good news is that often you can have your car repair work costs covered under your car warranty. This is especially true for new cars but you can also have it for used cars as well.

The cost of repair for the engine, engine block, transmission, clutch, axles and such can become extremely costly. If your car has a drive train or power train warranty on it, these car repair costs can be significantly reduced or completely paid for by the warranty. This will save you money in the long run.

Many auto warranty companies offer a wear and tear car warranty for new cars and some limited amount of coverage for used cars. With the wear and tear car warranty, you can have items that are not covered on the drive train, power train or standard warranty repaired. For example, if you have electric windows for your car. The regular warranties will not cover the car repair costs to have the worn out motor replaced. However, if you have the wear and tear car warranty, you can get the motor for the electric window repaired for less because you only have to cover the deductible.

It is very frustrating to have a flat tire anywhere, let alone on a busy road. If you have roadside assistance then the repair cost for fixing the flat tire or even replacing the tire completely will be significantly lower than without any type of roadside warranty coverage.

A bumper-to-bumper car warranty can also save you expense on car repair requirements. While many people think that bumper-to-bumper means the entire car is covered this is a misconception. The majority of the car repairs problems will be covered but problems that resulted from wear and tear are not typically covered. The drive train or power train warranty only covers a small percentage of the car parts. Adding a bumper-to-bumper car warranty will help to reduce car repair costs for other sections of the auto. Find out more about saving money on car repairs and warranties at http://www.carwarrantypolicies.com

Maintaining your car by the car warranty requirements is the best way to prevent high car repair bills. If an auto is properly maintained, there is less over-all wear and tear on the car which then results in fewer car repair problems. It is important to remember to check the transmission fluid, oil filter, oil levels and air pressure in the tires. Also, you will need to have the oil changed on a regular basis. This will make your car not only run more smoothly but will cut down on the over all car repair costs for the auto whether it is used or new.

Some people argue that the cost of maintaining a car is expensive. After all you have to change the oil, change the oil filter and things like that. However, running the car without the maintenance can end up ruining things such as the engine, the transmission and even the clutch. These are extremely expensive repairs that most warranties of any kind will not cover the car repair costs because the basic maintenance was not carried through.

Sandpaper, An Indispensable Shop Tool

Whether it's in woodworking or in metal refinishing such as auto body repair, one tool has been indispensable to the workings of these shops, yet is taken for granted. We're talking about the lowly sandpaper. From penetrating the substrate, evening out chipped material from a scratch to leveling old surfaces or paints, the sandpaper is indispensable. And in the finishing stage of a paint job, sandpaper is also a very important tool in providing a proper surface for new paint to adhere.

Most sandpapers have paper backing on them, although there are some variations with cloth backing. Newer types of sandpaper for automotive use have plastic backing, and this new type seems to be highly suited for use in waterborne paints. This is because waterborne paint technology allows for thinner coats. Being thinner, it's critical that the sanding material does not cut through the thin coat. A plastic film-backed sanding sheet is so much flatter, compared to traditional sandpaper backing materials. The effect of this is that the peaks and valleys on the sanding surface are minimized, which allows for more consistent cutting.

Natural minerals like emery, garnet and flint are used in fingernails, wood and soft metals, but these are too soft and degrade easily for automotive refinishing use. This is especially true when a painter needs to refinish a car that uses coatings like urethane paint. What's needed is an abrasive that's harder, sharper and more durable. It turns out that the materials suitable for these types of sandpaper are all man-made, and these are silicone carbide, ceramic and aluminum oxide. Ceramic-based abrasives are the most expensive, but are the longest lasting, so a good shop manager will take these factors into account when choosing which abrasive to buy. Labor costs are one of the highest cost items in auto body repair, so if the cheap paper discs wear out more quickly, the time spent replacing the sandpaper (and possibly fitting it to a sander or other tool) may add up to a significant amount of time that would have been more productive, if a much longer-lasting abrasive had been used.

When using sandpaper in an automotive refinishing environment, wetting the sandpaper is highly advised because it is what sweeps away the abraded surface and grit material. In a dry environment, this grit, technically called swarf, clogs the sandpaper prematurely, thus forcing the worker to change sandpaper more often. As with most things, you get what you pay for when buying sandpaper. Lightweight paper, softer minerals and cheaper glues do cost less, but the tradeoff in more time, labor and materials being used can actually be more costly for an auto body repair shop.

The Four Generations of the Daihatsu Charade

The Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. is an automobile manufacture who has its base and headquarters located in Japan. This Japanese car manufacturer is commonly known as Daihatsu and it is famous for its production of compact cars and small cars that are known in Japan as kei jihosha.

The Daihatsu Charade is actually one of the cars that this automobile manufacturer has produced. And this vehicle is actually a subcompact car, making it fit nicely in the line of vehicles that this company has been producing. The Daihatsu Charade was born in the year 1977. It lived through several decades up until the year 2000 when its production was halted. However, the company thinks that this vehicle is actually a large compact car. This is most likely because the Daihatsu Charade is the largest compact car that the company has produced compared to all the other compact cars in its line up of vehicles.

Last year, 2005, the Charade name was actually brought back in the automobile market in the United Kingdom and in Australia as well. In fact, the vehicle that holds the Charade name is actually a rebadged Daihatsu Mira which is more known as the Daihatsu Cuore in other markets in Europe.

The previous Daihatsu Charade was known in the automobile world to have gone through four specific generations. The first generation was known as G10 and it lived through the years 1977 up until 1983. It was made available as a hatchback that either held three doors or four doors. Its power came from a 993 cc engine with three cylinders and could produce 50 units of horsepower.

The second generation, known as G11, lived from 1983 up until 1987. The body styles offered were still the same. However, as per the power, there were several variations of the engine. There also was a five speed manual transmission made available.

As per the third generation of the Daihatsu Charade which was known as G100, it lived from 1987 up until the year 1994. This time around, the subcompact car had trim levels available for this vehicle. The vehicle also had features like a sunroof, power windows, air conditioning as well as a power steering. In the United States, the Daihatsu Charade was sold with a high price and was not marketed well so much so that it sold poorly in this area.

The last generation of the Daihatsu Charade was known as the G200 and this generation started in 1994 and it ended in 2000, which also was the last year for the Daihatsu Charade. This time, instead of just having a hatchback version, there also was a sedan version made available for the consumers.

Baby Boomer Women Are Getting Ripped Off by Auto Mechanics

Auto repairs are the second most common consumer complaint filed against a business, says the Better Business Bureau. Second only to your home your car is the most valuable purchase that baby boomers make. Your car will Inevitably need repair and some preventative maintenance from time to time. You need to keep your car tuned-up to prevent lousy gas mileage and help extend engine life.

Why are Baby Boomer women the target of so many auto scams? Do you remember, when ask "Why do you rob banks -- thats where the money is."

So how do you prevent yourself from being taken for a ride when your car needs repairs, and insure that you are getting the best customer service? Research is the best way to avoid auto scams and rip-offs. Finding yourself a good Mechanic, one that you can talk to and learn from, is an excellent way to begin

Here are some suggestions on how to find a good Mechanic! Please note before we start: Many will say that you could possibly be the best person to fix your car. All that you will need is a book that will show you how to do the repairs and a place to buy the parts needed. That sounds good, but if any of the following applies to you then you will need a mechanic.

If you cannot boil water without scorching it, you need a Mechanic.

If you make minor repairs around the house and have extra parts left from the repair kit, you need a Mechanic.

If you think that a hammer is the answer to all you mechanical problems, you Really need an auto Mechanic.

- Dealership are excellent Any work under warranty should go straight to the dealer. Best trained mechanics for complicated jobs such as electric, chassis, fuel injection and engine work. But you may find that many of the Baby Boomer Womens car are from 5 to 9 years old. Dealers charge more for premium factory parts and can charge anywhere from $10 to $20 an hour more for labor.

- Independent local mechanics can be an excellent way to go. A good mechanic is like a good Heart Surgeon he can save the life of you vehicle. You will want to keep a good mechanic on hand to help you maximize the life of your car. And remember that he is worth every penny. Independent shops may or may not know how to do more complicated operations. Vehicles have become more sophisticated and computerized within the last few years. If your car is a foreign make check out the specialty mechanics that focus on only one or two foreign types. Mechanics that run these shops have often times worked for the dealerships. These outfits are often as well or better trained than those at the dealership and usually charge quite a bit less.

How do I find a good mechanic?

-- Ask for recommendation from friends, family, and other Baby Boomer women that have had work done on their car. And really listen to what they do not say.

-- Check your local angie's list - A membership service that compiles consumer rating of local businesses

-- Check you craigslist - This can be a very valuable resource for the local area.

-- Your Local AAA Club is an excellent source. They will often have people of Boomer age answering the phones.

-- Talk with the local stores that sale auto parts.--Auto Zone -- Advanced Auto Parts -- CarQuest -- O'Reilly Auto Parts. These are the individuals that know which shops that use various auto parts, and often know the quality of the service.

-- Your Auto Insurance Man or Woman. Best resource when it comes to knowing who performs the best engine and body repairs.

-- Use the phone book to find a Vocation Technical School located in your area. You are looking for the Mechanical Repair Classes.

Special note: If you Baby Boomer Woman want to know about how much your auto repairs will be do the following: Find out just what items are needed to be replaced on your car. Make a list of needed item and go to Auto Zone and ask them to price the various of the same. Make sure that it is the best quality for you vehicle. Then add 33% for labor, not to include taxes, and that should give you a good ball park figure to work from. Then ask yourself is this car worth that much to you. Not the Kelly Blue Book value, but your value.

Know the car you drive, keep a history of just what has been done to your car. Keep a Journal on your cars repairs. If you not into journals, then take a Magic Marker and write on the inside of the hood when certain repairs were made, and by whom. There are a number of books published on how to fix your car, buy one and read it and know the basics if nothing else. Take a girl friend with you when you go to a repair shop, and compare note when leave the shop. Man friends are nice but you are here to learn not to be impressed by his knowledge.

If all that you have read seems to be as clear as mud go to http://www.2carpros.com. This is an excellent resource for your repair problems I would suggest that you Bookmark this website, is well worth the time. .

Thank you for your time..

How To Negotiate Car Repairs

Everything is negotiable, it just comes down to if you want to put forth the effort to negotiate. In my life I have owned no less than 15 cars , that means car repairs. When your car is in the shop for repairs it's a unique situation, you have no control or true knowledge of what REALLY is needed and what isn't. There have been several "special reports" on news programs with undercover cameras showing mechanics damaging or lying to customers about repairs that are needed. The fact that it is even possible creates a situation that should also be taken advantage of by the consumer. Chances are pretty good that your mechanic is over charging you for something, if you take a good look at your invoice after you have had a major repair it has to be somewhat of a surprise that the gizmo that controls your anti lock brakes is $1700.00. There has to be a huge mark-up on the price of an item that is a must have, and you can only get it from the dealer.

Car repairs can be negotiated just like anything else, more so even. Your mechanic or service manager at the dealer, knows for a fact that you are being over charged, that means that all you have to do is ask for a discount. If your mechanic is worth his salt he calls you before he does any work on your car, that is when the negotiation should start. When your mechanic tells you that you need a new "flex capacitor" and it cost around $800, your first reaction should be "Can you give me a better price?"
Or better yet "Can you do it for $700" . You need to make it clear from the very beginning that you want a discount. A ten percent discount is always a good starting point, you are only trying to get a small discount, which is better than nothing. The biggest mistake you can make is to wait until your car repair is finished. At that point he basically is holding your car hostage until you pay him, so that means he is in full control of the negotiation. The very little control we do have is before any work is done, because we still have the ability to say no thanks I'll take it somewhere else.

Most people want a discount, but most people don't like negotiating. Let's face it, it's not for everybody. The reason car repair is set up for negotiation is because your mechanic or service manager knows that he can give you a discount but he certainly is not going to offer it. You'll be surprised to see how easy they will give you 10% just for asking. The next time your you need a car repair follow these steps to get a 10% discount::

1. Make sure you tell the service manager or mechanic to call you BEFORE he does any work to your car.

2. Always ask for an estimate when he tells you what repairs you need.

3. What ever amount he says, ask for at least for a 10% discount. It's much better saying a specific price instead of 10%, so make sure you have your math ready.

That's it. No one said it was complicated, you just have to be willing to ask. Your'e going to be surprised how easy it is, and wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Now take your 10% and do something for yourself,.... you earned it.

http://www.ClickForInfo.net

5 Reasons To Invest In A Car Repair Manual

Car repair manuals on digital media are a worthwhile asset to both owners of existing cars and prospective buyers of used vehicles. Even if you never plan to turn a wrench on your American-made vehicle yourself, acquiring and keeping the repair manual specific to your model offers several advantages during ownership:

1) You're a do-it-yourselfer and wish to perform some repairs yourself. This needn't include major engine overhauls or extensive bodywork - even simple routine maintenance tasks have a right way and a wrong way to get the job done. Following the manufacturer's recommended procedure in a car repair manual can make the process easier and ensure a satisfactory result. Repair manuals also include diagrams, exploded views and up-close photography documenting the recommended procedure of a particular repair. Worth at least a thousand words during a complex task, diagrams and photos provide the DIY mechanic visual orientation to each step and illustrate the tools and techniques required.

2) You want to diagnose a mechanical problem yourself before taking it to a garage or professional mechanic for the actual work. Car repair manuals provide troubleshooting procedures and flow charts that list particular symptoms and offer potential causes and repairs. These procedures aid in isolating a malfunction to a particular component or system in the vehicle. This prepares the owner with advance knowledge of what he may encounter when the car is taken to the garage. Also, troubleshooting procedures familiarize the owner of the vehicle with technical terms or jargon his mechanic may use in explaining the malfunction. Clear communication between owner and mechanic is fostered and misunderstandings are minimized.

3) You wish to double-check a mechanic's repair estimate. Repair manuals offer a written version of manufacturer-recommended repair procedures and are helpful in determining whether a mechanic or garage is proposing a repair which varies significantly from the accepted procedure. If the manual describes a standard water pump replacement procedure without removal of the radiator, for example, yet the mechanic states that radiator removal is necessary, the vehicle owner may wish to obtain a second opinion to save potentially unnecessary labor costs. Conversely, consulting the repair manual can also provide reassurance that the mechanic is not cutting corners and omitting important steps to save time.

4) You need a single reference source for a wide range of vital statistics relating to your specific vehicle. Specifications, fluid capacities, weights and other facts and figures pertinent to vehicle ownership are typically listed in car repair manuals. Details such as recommended lubricants and tire pressure, replacement bulbs and service intervals are also included. Vehicle ownership requires access to accurate facts and figures which may not be available elsewhere, particularly if the vehicle is several years old.

5) You want to sell the vehicle and obtain maximum resale value. Providing the appropriate car repair manual on CD for a vehicle you are selling can be an important sales point. Prospective buyers are often interested in performing initial maintenance and repairs themselves and/or just becoming educated about the mechanics and design of their vehicle. If the vehicle you are selling has some existing mechanical issues that require repair, having the car repair manual available to clarify to prospective buyers what issues need to be addressed can ease buyer concerns and enhance the value of a used vehicle.

Google's Project Glass and Windshields

Rumors and whims of fully automated windshields have floated around car shows and the auto industry for awhile now. The conversation has been recently revived by Google's Project Glass, which is focused on creating interactive glasses to do things like video chat, find directions, text message friends, and post pictures to G+, among other bits.

Car companies like General Motors have been working on interactive windshields for years - about 23 to be exact, according to this article on Wired.com. BMW has worked on things like night vision, the Heads-Up Display and ConnectedDrive project for a while now. BMW's 3-series 2012 model has introduced the Heads-Up Display in color as an option for car buyers.

So is Project Glass coming to the windshield world?

If BMW's model is any indicator of the future of displays, windshield replacement shops and car insurance agencies don't have anything to worry about. The technology used is actually fairly simple - a reflection on the windshield from a screen behind the driver's side dashboard.

But ideas floating around the Project Glass windshield suggest using your hand to swipe through different options on your windshield, such as restaurant reviews, your Twitter feed, and anything else you can think of that's done on a computer. Windshield replacements, if this does come about, could get really expensive. The cost for a replacement could be curbed if there is some external hand/voice recognition system outside of the windshield itself and developers utilize BMW's system already in place.

What about insurance deductibles?

It's doubtful that car insurance agencies will hike up their comprehensive deductibles for every car owner, but those with the special windshield in need of a replacement are more likely to have a higher deductible depending on the windshields construction, how the images are projected, etc.

Overall, the details are still unknown and cloudy on expanding the windshield beyond the basics found in a driver's dash. But car makers have become regulars at the Consumer Electronics Association's yearly conference to show off their prototypes. They've said the technology is at least a few years out till it hits the everyday consumer in its full fledged glory, obviously. But the possibility is still there.

In addition, Google has just barely put the technology up for pre-order to U.S. developers at their i/o conference for $1,500. And who knows, this could be a total dud, so no need to get your panties in a bunch over hiked up deductibles quite yet. If the technology doesn't work with a simple pair of glasses, how will it work on a full-fledged windshield?

What about the legal stuff?

The obvious factor here is distracted driving. Focusing on the road while trying to check ratings, tweet about them, and make a reservation at the latest and greatest restaurant cause way more issues than simply texting while driving. The federal Dept. of Transportation has made suggestions to states to ban all in-car communications, including GPS.

But these are for handheld devices that take the driver's eyes away from their windshield. A crash of epic proportions will surely ensue if someone was trying to do all this on today's devices while driving. So what happens when you take it out of your hands and put it as a translucent image on the target, the windshield, that's already being looked through?

Will Paintless Dent Repair Work For My Car?

Auto body work can be pricey indeed but paintless dent repair can be a lower cost alternative. This method for repairing dings and dents in an automobile is also referred to by the initials PDA. It offers up an alternative to the lengthy process which is traditionally used to fix a bump in one's paint job. Hail damage, minor accidents or fender benders are some of the perfect candidates for this technique. Will it work for your car? Here are some things to think about:

- How large or small of a dent can be repaired with this method? PDA won't work on huge scrapes and indentations. The size capability is increasing all the time however. The current maximum space is around the size of a football. Check with your technician to be sure.

- How long will the car be in the shop? Depending on the schedule of the tech, the auto may be returned to its owner by later the same day or perhaps the following business day.

- What's the technique like? A special tool is used to pull the ding back into smoothness. This takes patience and finesse as well as skillful expertise. The mechanic who is performing the repair needs to have had training and experience to do it correctly. This is not a job for a novice.

- Does the age of the automobile matter? Yes, it does. The paint job must be flexible enough to withstand some maneuvering. Old surfaces are brittle and may crack during the process. Especially in vehicles manufactured more than ten years ago, brittleness can be a problem.

- Are there newer vehicles that this method is not appropriate for? If a car or truck has had previous body damage and repairs in the same location, the PDA technique will not be appropriate for their problem. The denting must be in a region previously undamaged or repainted.

- Is color matching an issue with paintless dent repair? Because no paint is used during this technique, there is no worry about achieving an exact color match. That's definitely one of the positives about this procedure.

- Will anyone be able to tell there's been a fender bender? One possible downside to this technique is that it's not perfect. The goal of this process is to improve the appearance of the vehicle. In order to achieve perfection, the entire car might need to undergo a makeover with a full paint job. That will be pricey, for sure. It all depends on a motorist's goal.

- Where can trained technicians be found? It's a wise idea to search via the internet or to ask clerks at the local auto supply store. Once a few names have come up, it would be wise to place a phone call to see if this is the tech for the job. Ask for references and check them out.

Paintless dent repair is a revolutionary way to fix auto-body problems. Check with your local technician to see if it will work for your car.

Painting Restoration Repair Ideas And Strategies

Painting restoration repair can be challenging, and definitely demands a good deal of time, determination and energy. Should you have a badly damaged artwork, then consider using the these restoration tips and strategies. If done properly, these strategies may also help bring back your painting to the finest condition.

Certainly, a painting repair expert's worst nightmare can be the badly flaking and scorching oil painting. These types of extremely ruined paintings could be a challenge for the most advanced restoration professional. When tackling a flaking and blistering oil painting, consider implementing these particular restoration guidelines and tactics.

Fixing artworks with holes and rips is best done through a process of "recanvassing." Essentially recanvassing includes buying a new canvas, and taking out the oil painting's original canvas. Much like any painting repair step, take careful attention with detaching the canvas from an old painting. More damage is done with an annual basis by people trying to restore paintings, than fire and burglary combined.

Do onions make you cry? Well if they do then you should get used to crying! Onions work great when repairing paintings. The exact same chemicals which make your tear ducts well up also work to get rid of persistent grit, dirt and grime from oil paintings. The process of painting repair has included onions for decades or even centuries. The secret is to slice the onion in half and carefully rub the onion in a circular fashion across the painting. Be sure to keep light pressure on the onion. Don't press down hard on the canvas, because the onion would likely make a hole or tear in the oil painting.

Other than onions, beeswax is yet another gift from nature that can also help to repair paintings. Restoring paintings by combining beeswax with damar is yet another age-old technique that has been used through the years. Mixing beeswax with damar is known as "Dutch Style" painting restoration. Covering a painting with beeswax and damar helps to prevent the oil from separating from the canvas. Again take extreme caution when applying the mixture. Use a light, circular rubbing method to avoid making more tears and holes. Usually a cotton ball is used to repair paintings in this manner.

Throughout the whole painting restoration process, always remember that different colors and shades will respond in a different way to the methods described in this post. More often than not (especially with regards to oil paintings) lighter colors will repair magnificently. The grime and dirt that's embedded in lighter colors tends to be taken off easily, which is always a excellent news for the painting restoration specialist. However darker colors can be much more stubborn. Take great patience when restoring paintings with lots of dark colors. It may take a little more time and effort so you can get those dark colors glowing like new.

In summary, keep in mind that a majority of amateur painting restorations lead to more harm than good. It's super easy to damage a painting, especially an old oil painting, using the mentioned techniques. Even so a full and remarkable painting restoration can happen from the hand of a skilled and patient professional. If you have a painting that is in desperate need of restoring, then feel free to apply these methods. Just make sure to keep a light hand and keen eye on the techniques you make use of for oil painting restoration repair.

Collision Body Repair - Tasks That Demand Experience and Expertise of a Professional

Auto collisions are one of the leading causes of vehicle damage. They are unfortunate incidents that damage outer auto body the most and also cause technical problems in automobiles. However you cannot stop all those unfortunate incidents to be happened, you can actually get your vehicle back in its shape and working condition with the help of some experts automobile collision repair services that are dedicated to help those who are seeking a professional help to take care of their damaged vehicles.

Collision body repair is not an easy task to do as it sounds; it is a complicated process that needs expert hands and a long experience to be done right. Automobiles are complex machines that are made up of various parts with every single part performing its own unique task making a machine fully functional to serve you in its best condition. There is also a big role of the outer body of the machine that has its own importance in making a machine successful on the roads. So, experience and expertise is all that is required to repair a vehicle after an incident of collision.

When it comes to repair a damaged vehicle after a collision, a professional Automobile collision repair service can help you to get your vehicle back in its full working condition. They help you fix auto body damage of all kinds ranging from door dings, fender benders, unibody and frame repair, bumper repairs, paint less dent repairs, hail damage repairs to all paint color matching and custom painting repair services. With the help of their latest tool and technology, they help you a lot to fix your vehicle the way it should be fixed and to your satisfaction. With the expertise to do auto body repair on foreign as well as domestic vehicles, they also offer you expert assistance in claiming insurance for your damages.

Professional collision repair services always give you satisfying results and your car a rejuvenating look that enhance the beauty of your vehicle forever! They straighten unibody and frame damage to factory specifications to help you feel relaxed knowing your vehicle will drive correctly after the repair. By offering paint less dent repair, towing scheduling, accident report assistance, insurance claim negotiations and many more, they help you to make your life easy even after an unfortunate incident and your vehicle in its previous condition to actually return the safety, structure and appearance of your vehicle to factory specifications to ensure your safety on the road.

Dent Removal and Bumper Repair Service For Lease Return Consumers

Although most manufacturers allow for a reasonable level of wear and tear, the small dings, dents, and scratches that make their way from golf balls, bicycles, shopping carts, and even other cars to the paint on your vehicle can quickly become your own financial burden. By paying a little money now to remove your dents and get any needed bumper repair, you can end up saving thousands of dollars in potential fees and lease repair costs.

Car Manufacturer Requirements

Overall, most manufacturers want their cars back in resalable condition. This means that they perform a comprehensive walk-around of the vehicle, noting any damage to the undercarriage, bumpers, and body. Even small dings, dents, and scratches will get noted, even if they are not visible to the average consumer.

All car manufacturers and leasing agents have different levels of acceptability when it comes to the body damage on a car. Most of the time, your policy will outline the exact nature of the types of damage you can leave unrepaired; in most cases, you are liable for any damage larger than 1.5 to 2 inches.

Paintless Dent and Plastic Bumper Repair for Lease Customers

Paintless dent repair is preferred over traditional body work in the event of a lease return because of the use of existing materials for repair. When auto paint or filler is used to fix a dent or scratch, there is always the possibility that the color won't be exact or that the filler will be evident to someone who knows what to look for. Paintless dent removal doesn't add any materials, so detection is virtually impossible.

Cost is also an important factor in choosing plastic bumper repair. The cost of bumper repair is minimal when compared to traditional body work. Your manufacturer may charge you the cost of the traditional repair; however, when left to your own devices, you could easily opt for the cheaper, easier choice without anyone ever being aware of it.

The Best Dent Removal Choice

While your best bet is to check the fine print on your lease policy to determine when it is time to consider paintless dent repair or plastic bumper repair, it is always a good idea to consult with a dent and bumper repair specialist like Dings Plus of San Jose, CA, prior to returning your leased vehicle. Using the same industry standards that lease return professionals and manufacturers use when identifying damage on a vehicle, this Bay Area company can help you ensure that your car in pristine condition before it is time to send it back.