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Collision Repair
Collision repair is the process of restoring a vehicle to its pre-accident condition after it has been damaged in a collision. This can include repairs to the body, frame, and mechanical systems of the vehicle.
Make sure the shop is certified by a major automaker or a reputable industry organization, such as the I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence).
Check if the shop will be using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts. OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer as the parts on your car when it was new, while aftermarket parts are made by other manufacturers. OEM parts will typically fit better and last longer than aftermarket parts.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and make sure you understand the repair process and what the shop will be doing to your car.
How to Find a Good Collision Repair Shop for Your Car
Choose a reputable and experienced shop. You can ask for recommendations from friends or family, or search for shops online and read customer reviews. It’s also a good idea to get multiple estimates from different shops to compare prices and services.Make sure the shop is certified by a major automaker or a reputable industry organization, such as the I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence).
Check if the shop will be using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts. OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer as the parts on your car when it was new, while aftermarket parts are made by other manufacturers. OEM parts will typically fit better and last longer than aftermarket parts.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and make sure you understand the repair process and what the shop will be doing to your car.
DIY Collision Repair: Pros and Cons
Doing the repairs yourself can save you money, as you will not have to pay for labor costs. It also gives you complete control over the parts and materials used, which can allow for more customization. Consider the disadvantages below before repairing your car DIY-style. If you have little to no experience in collision repair, it may be best to leave the work to professionals.- Lack of expertise: Unless you have experience and training in collision repair, you may not have the knowledge or skills to properly repair your vehicle.
- Time-consuming: DIY collision repair can take a lot of time and effort, especially if you are not familiar with the process.
- Safety risks: Incorrectly repairing a vehicle can lead to safety hazards while driving.
- Limited Warranty: Some manufacturers’ warranties are voided if any work is done by non-certified professionals.
- Difficulty in obtaining parts: sourcing the right parts and equipment can be difficult and time-consuming.
