After an accident, the last thing most of us want to deal with is finding a collision repair shop we can count on to do quality repairs, work with the insurance company, and cooperate with the customer during a stressful time. No matter how badly your car was damaged, getting it repaired does not have to be a nightmare! We’ve put together a list of ways to find a great collision repair shop.
Request Recommendations
If you have a repair shop that you tend to work with when your car needs maintenance, you may already have a relationship with a technician you trust.
Even if they don’t normally do the kinds of repairs that you need, they may be able to provide you with references to a collision shop that they know and trust.
You can also ask friends, family, or other members of your community for reliable recommendations. There may be suggestions or reviews posted online on Yelp or a similar website.
Ask Questions
A quality, professional collision repair shop will be staffed with helpful customer service personnel who can answer questions you might have about the way the shop runs, how they work with your insurance, and other policies. Don’t be afraid to go inside and ask questions, even before you bring your car in for an estimate.
• What needs to be repaired?
• How long will it take?
• What can be repaired, and what needs to be replaced?
• What will the parts and labor cost?
Consider Your Needs and Costs
Many shops will provide free estimates, but these estimates can vary widely, depending on numerous factors.
Collision repair shops in downtown areas may have a higher overhead cost to cover, but they may also be closer to public transportation if you need to get around while your car is being repaired.
Larger body shops may have higher prices to cover the cost of more employees, but they may also have enough space and employees to fix your car faster. Be sure to ask what their policies and estimates are.
Compare Your Options
Where you choose to have your car repaired post collision is up to you. Although your insurance company may have a list of reliable shops they have worked with in the past, they can’t choose your shop for you. If you have time, get several estimates so that you understand what you need to have done and how much it will cost. Again – don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Lastly, and most importantly – check for online reviews!
