Automotive Repair: Tips On Choosing A Good Body Shop
Even if you are the most careful driver on the planet
, accidents may be unavoidable. It may not be your fault. It could be another driver or unexpected weather or road conditions. When you do need to have work done on the body of your automobile, finding the best body shop is an important consideration. The right shop means the work will be done so well there will be no clue three was ever a problem. Below are a few tips on how to find the best body shop in your area.Finding a body shop for a vehicle that you are still able to drive:
Your first step is to get an estimate on cost. You can get a number of estimates simply by driving to some of the most reputable body shops in the area. If your insurance company is paying for the repair, they will ask for three separate estimates. Even if you are paying for the repairs or upgrades yourself, get at least three estimates so you can compare the costs and repair time as well as the service that you got from the shop. The body shops will not charge you to provide an estimate.
This is the real start of your search for the best body shop. You can begin by comparing the quality and type of quoted materials in each estimate. You may find that an estimate that is a lot cheaper actually lists materials that are of a lower quality. This is a poor choice of both estimate and body shop. Make sure you know where the replacement parts are coming from as some shops will use junk-yard parts instead of new factory-made parts.
Finding a body shop for a vehicle that you are not able to drive:
When this is the case you most likely have an insurance quote and a repairs list. You can simply take your list to local body shops for a quote, or even fax the list to a number of body shops.
Always check with the body shop as to whether they will source their parts from the junk-yard or straight from the manufacturer. If your vehicle needs to be repainted, ensure you ask whether the estimate includes repainting just a spot or the entire panel. You may also need to consider whether it is possible to match pain colors.
Before making your decision:
Repairs to your vehicle's bodywork can be expensive, especially if the damage is extensive. This makes it even more important to choose the right body shop. Make sure to call the Better Business Bureau and or the local Chamber of Commerce before making your final decision. If you find that there are complaints about the body shop you've chosen, you may wish to reconsider.
Price is not the sole factor in choosing the best body shop to repair your vehicle. It is about their reputation for quality work, delivery time and quality of parts used. By finding a body shop that provides quality workmanship at a reasonable price with a reasonable repair time, you can be assured that you have chosen the best body shop.
by: Peter Joseph..