Vehicle Advice
5 Questions you must ask when seeking a professional collision repair facility.
- Is the warranty offered a Lifetime National Warranty and is it registered with an independent third party consumer satisfaction measurement service?
- Does the shop use an independent third party to survey every repair customer and display feedback from recent customer's repair experiences?
- Can the shop provide you with a detailed list of satisfied and unsatisfied customers?
- Does the shop display any certificates of affiliations with industry organizations such as Automotive Service Association (ASA), I-CAR, Collision Industry Conference (CIC) or the Automotive Customer Relations Bureau (ACRB)?
- Are the shop's technicians trained, experienced and equipped to properly handle a repair for your type of vehicle?
If a shop cannot provide these, be skeptical of their ability to provide a quality repair. A quality repair means a safe vehicle.
As you are aware an auto accident is upsetting, maddening and sometimes unavoidable. We have developed this handy guide to remind you of the steps you should follow in case you have another unfortunate accident.
Warn Other Drivers
If possible, move your car out of traffic, turn on your flashers or put out warning triangles, and stand a safe distance away while you wait for help.
Call For Help
Contact the police, especially if you're dealing with substantial damage or anyone is injured. Ask for the investigating officer's name and contact information.
Call Your Body Shop Of Choice
Contact your shop of choice directly from the accident scene, anytime, 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Exchange Information
Get the following info from the other driver:
- Name
- Address
- Phone Number
- Driver's License Number
- License Plate Number
- Insurance Information
Get the names of witnesses and anyone with injuries.
Take Detailed Notes
Draw a diagram showing the cars' positions, or if you have a camera, take photos. And when you get home, contact your body shop of choice, they will suggest what's BEST FOR YOU!
Even the finest automotive finishes do not stand a chance against the numerous damaging elements that exist today. Acid rain, salts, silt abrasion, catalytic converter residue (hydrochloric and sulfuric acids), road tar, bug acid, bird droppings, fading from ultraviolet exposure, and the harsh affects of an automatic car wash will all take their toll on your automobile's finish and exterior trim.
In order to combat these elements, it is necessary to create a barrier of protection that will not only endure the damaging effects, but will also enhance the beauty of your vehicle. This barrier is wax.
Wax will not last forever. Its purpose is to absorb the damage and give its own life to protect the finish of your vehicle. It is for these reasons that you should wax at least twice a year.
Remember that you cannot see wax dissipate. When you start to notice a difference in the way your finish looks, you are seeing "new" damage to the paint. There is also no such thing as a wax, polish, or a paint shield that will provide effective protection for more than 6 months.
The effectiveness of a coat of wax is determined directly by the condition of the surface it is applied to. If wax is applied to a dull, oxidized, faded or "gritty" surface the results will be nothing more than wasted time and effort.
It's a Matter of Safety
Imitation Parts = Unknown Collision Performance
Your vehicle was designed to meet all Federal Safety Standards. This design incorporates collision performance requirements that are important to your safety. Imitation parts may not be tested or certified by their makers, sellers or the insurance companies who want you to use them. Imitation parts cannot guarantee your vehicle will meet the specifications of the original manufacturer or the testing standards of the U.S. Government. Insist on original factory sheet metal.
It's a Matter of Quality
You paid for quality when you bought your vehicle. Tell your insurance adjuster you want to keep it that way!
Your insurance company may tell you that the imitation parts they want to use to repair your vehicle are of "like kind and quality". Ask for a copy of the standards used to make these parts. Industry tests have revealed serious fit, finish, function and corrosion protection problems with imitation parts. Protect your investment.
It's a Matter of Choice
The choice is yours! Be certain your car is as good after it has been repaired as it was before your accident. Using imitation parts may void your new vehicle warranty for that part. Many states have passed laws which regulate the use of imitation collision parts. Some states give you the right of consent. Ask your body shop or car dealer about the laws in your state. If your insurance policy requires the use of imitation parts, but you would rather have original manufactured parts, then you have the choice to pay the difference.
How large of a dent can be repaired with PDR?
The most important aspect of paintless dent removal is not the diameter but the depth. Often, very large, shallow dents can be removed.
What dings & dents can't be repaired?
Most dings and dents can be made to look "better". However, there are some problem repairs. Here is a list of some problem areas:
- Deep Dents - On very deep dings and dents, the metal is often pushed too deep for a complete repair.
- Dents Near the Edge of Panels - Dents found near the edge of body panels, or right on a seam, make access impossible.
- Dings and Dents with Deep Creases - Usually, only a skilled dent repair technician can repair creased dents, depending on the severity of the crease. In many cases a 100% repair is not possible.
It's a Matter of Choice
The choice is yours! Be certain your car is as good after it has been repaired as it was before your accident. Using imitation parts may void your new vehicle warranty for that part. Many states have passed laws which regulate the use of imitation collision parts. Some states give you the right of consent. Ask your body shop or car dealer about the laws in your state. If your insurance policy requires the use of imitation parts, but you would rather have original manufactured parts, then you have the choice to pay the difference.
Vehicle Valuation Assistance:
Do any of us really know what our vehicles are worth? The vehicle's fair market value can depend on the time of year, supply and demand, condition of the vehicle, mileage, plus many other variables. The value may even change depending on who you talk to.
So who, or what, do you trust? We have put together some resources to help assist you in determining the value of your vehicle.
Valuation Websites:
National Auto Dealers Association offers a guide online. Simply choose the consumer section and fill in the requested information regarding your vehicle and it will provide a value range depending upon your vehicle's condition. Most cars are considered average and sell at average retail.
Kelly Blue Book offers a similar guide where you choose the appropriate used or new car section and then find the value range based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Loan Value:
Call your lending institution and they will give you the loan value of your vehicle.
Valuation Considerations:
There are several factors to keep in mind when searching to determine value, such as the vehicle's condition and any aftermarket accessories that may have been installed. Receipts for these items or photographs displaying them on the vehicle may be required to secure the value you feel is appropriate. The insurance company's obligation is to return the vehicle to its same shape and form. They may claim that a 100% replacement value is not warranted and therefore include a "betterment" deduction. You may want to consult an expert to assist in negotiating any betterment related items.
Depending on the age of the vehicle or extent of the damage, you may be allowed to keep your vehicle. Consult your policy or state law for specific details.