As of 2018, about 270 million vehicles are on the streets of America, approximately 1.88 vehicles per household. Most people consider buying a vehicle as an investment. Like all investments, cars need maintenance to last longer. Even though most vehicles spend 95% of their lifetime parked, they require auto bodywork from time to time.
Unfortunately, due to a surge in demand for car body repairs, auto repair shops are popping up everywhere. So, how do you find the best auto body shop? Here are 7 things to look for.
1. Location
The location of a car body shop can affect the cost of their services. It is best to look for a repair shop close to you. Not only does this allow you to monitor progress better, but it will be easier to take the car back in case you experience technical issues once the repairs have been done.
2. Cost
Before settling for a car body repair shop, evaluate the pricing from different service providers. Some auto body workshops are arguably expensive because of their reputation and shop size. Others only target certain clients or prefer to work with high-end cars, making their services for all other models expensive.
This doesn't mean you should opt for the cheapest car body repair shops. In most cases, you get what you pay for. They could be offering low-cost service in exchange for low-quality work and parts.
On the other hand, an auto body workshop may be expensive because they only use OEM parts and paints. Since such quality products are expensive, they will have to charge you a bit more. Always try and go for the shop that offers the best value for your money.
3. Certification
Since your vehicle is an investment, confirm that the auto body shop is certified to do car bodywork and maintenance. You can ask the technicians doing the auto body work
to produce their qualifications or a manufacturer's certificate that proves they are skilled to work on your vehicle. Some of the most important certifications include an ASE Certification and an I-CAR Gold Class and Platinum Certification.
4. Specialized Technicians for Foreign Vehicles
If you own a foreign vehicle, look for an auto collision shop that specializes in working on the brand of your vehicle. They will have the right equipment, tools, and parts to repair your specific make and model. The technicians will also be fully educated with in-depth knowledge about your foreign vehicle.
5. Warranty
Should your vehicle develop additional problems resulting from auto body repairs, a warranty will cover all expenses. This is why you need to confirm that the auto body shop offers a warranty. Some shops will even offer you a lifetime workmanship guarantee.
6. Quality of Materials Used
You also want to confirm the quality of materials the car shop uses when undertaking car body repairs. Do they source their products from the manufacturer? Some repair shops also use aftermarket products that are almost equivalent to original parts from the manufacturer. Either way, be sure to ask about the quality of the parts to be used.
7. Recommendations and Reviews
When you recommend a service to your friends and family, it's because you had a good experience. The same applies when looking for a car body workshop. Most reputable car repair shops have high ratings, and in most cases, someone you know has heard about them. Ask around or visit the company's website to read customer reviews.
If a car body shop meets the above criteria, you can trust them with your car. At City Side Auto Body, we ensure 100% customer satisfaction, offer auto body work, as well as precise auto detailing. Visit us today and watch us return your car to its pre-accident condition.
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