Larry's Auto Body - Choosing the Right Shop

Choosing the Right Repair Shop

Chances are, if you're looking for a body shop you're already in need of repairs. After all, who picks out a body shop just in case they get into an accident?

Choosing which shop to entrust your vehicle's repairs to is an important decision. Your vehicle represents a large investment, and you'll want to protect your financial interests when choosing a collision repair facility. Don't feel obligated to have your vehicle repaired by a facility that doesn't meet your expectations.

Probably the most reliable way to find out about the quality of a shop's repairs is to ask your friends, relatives, neighbors, and co-workers. Their experiences can go a long way in forming your decision. Did the paint match? Was the car clean when it was returned? Were they treated courteously? Have the repairs held up? If they had a complaint about the repair, was it resolved to their satisfaction? You might also want to look at vehicles that a shop has repaired.

Larry's Auto Body Shop

The collision repair shop of choice should have professional staff that is courteous, but more important, knowledgeable about the entire repair process. The staff should be able to answer your questions, provide you with an accurate estimate of costs to repair your vehicle, and offer a written warranty on the repairs made to your vehicle.

Trust your first impression

This is important. Let it help you make the right choice. Repairing vehicles is dirty work. However, a professional facility will have a presentable front office and waiting area and should reflect an atmosphere of professionalism. The service representative should take the time to explain the repair to you.

Look for a written or computerized damage report.

Don't settle for a "ball park" estimate. Look for a damage report with a complete listing of the parts and labor required to repair your vehicle. The damage report is the blueprint for restoring your vehicle to pre-accident condition.

Check for professional affiliations.

Belonging to professional organizations, such as trade associations and business groups is the mark of progressive management.

Watch for certificates from technical training courses. Repairing today's complex vehicles requires skilled, highly trained technicians. On-going training is the rule rather than the exception.

I-CAR technical training is recognized throughout the United States and Canada. When a repair facility has met I-CAR criteria for technical training it is recognized as an "I-CAR Gold Class Shop". Also watch for certificates indicating painters and other technicians have completed training courses. Paint companies offer comprehensive training in properly refinishing vehicles in today's multistage paints. Paint company certificates of training are a good indication that the facility has qualified refinish technicians. ASE certification (a national standard of technician competence issued by the National Institute for Automotive Excellence) is also a good indication that the shop requires that its technicians maintain high standards.

Ask about equipment. Properly repairing today's vehicles requires sophisticated measuring equipment, state of the art tools and a dust-free environment to restore factory-type finishes. Don't be afaid to ask about the equipment the shop uses. Ask if they have a unibody frame repair machine and measuring equipment, MIG welders, and a spray booth capable of baking at 155°.

Check the warranty. Reliable and responsible repair facilities stand behind their work as a matter of every day business. Ask if the shop offers a warranty on the work they perofrm. Beware of a shop that does not offer a warranty.

Securing a quality repair is easy if you follow the steps above.