Category: Collision Repair

Getting into a collision, no matter how small, can leave you reeling and unsure of what to do next. Although there are plenty of collision repair shops in South Jersey to help restore your vehicle and get you back on the road, only a handful are truly worth your trust. You want to ensure that you are entrusting your vehicle to the best business, the one that receives checks on the checklist for every single thing you need to look for. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a checklist of what to look for when selecting a collision repair shop in South Jersey.

 

Collision Repair Shop Checklist

There are six things to look for when searching for a top-rated collision repair shop in South Jersey:

 

• Experience
• Location
• Reviews and testimonials
• Certifications
• Warranties
• Up-to-date technology

 

Let’s look at each of these things in detail.

 

Experience

When evaluating a collision repair shop’s experience, consider factors such as how long they’ve been in business and their track record of success. A shop with years of experience has likely encountered a wide range of repair scenarios, honing their skills and expertise along the way. Look for evidence of their experience, such as testimonials from satisfied customers or examples of their past work. Experienced technicians are better equipped to handle complex repairs and can often provide more efficient and effective service.

 

Location

Convenience is a crucial consideration when selecting a collision repair shop. Choose a shop that is conveniently located near your home, workplace, or frequent commute routes. This will make it easier for you to drop off your vehicle for repairs and pick it up once the work is complete. A conveniently located shop can also save you time and hassle, reducing the inconvenience of being without your vehicle during the repair process.

 

For example, Elmer’s Auto Body has three convenient locations in South Jersey, putting us right where you need us most.

 

Reviews and Testimonials

Before entrusting your vehicle to a collision repair shop, take the time to research reviews and testimonials from past customers. Online review platforms and social media channels can provide valuable insights into the quality of a shop’s work and their level of customer service. Look for shops with predominantly positive reviews and satisfied customers. Pay attention to any recurring themes or common feedback, as this can help you gauge the shop’s reputation and reliability.

 

Certifications

Certifications are an important indicator of a collision repair shop’s commitment to excellence and professionalism. Look for shops that hold certifications from reputable organizations such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR). These certifications demonstrate that the shop’s technicians have undergone rigorous training and adhere to industry best practices. Additionally, certifications may be required by insurance companies or vehicle manufacturers for certain types of repairs or warranty coverage.

 

Warranties

A warranty provides peace of mind and assurance that the repair work is backed by the collision repair shop. When evaluating warranties, consider factors such as the length of coverage, what is included (parts, labor, etc.), and any exclusions or limitations. A reputable collision repair shop will offer comprehensive warranties on both parts and labor, providing protection in the event of any issues arising after the repair is complete. Be sure to carefully review the terms and conditions of the warranty before agreeing to any repairs.

 

Up-To-Date Technology

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced technology and features that require specialized tools and equipment for repairs. Choose a collision repair shop that invests in up-to-date technology and stays current with industry advancements. This includes equipment for diagnostics, frame straightening, paint matching, and more. A shop with the latest technology can ensure that repairs are performed accurately and efficiently, resulting in better outcomes for your vehicle. Additionally, shops that invest in technology demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality service and staying ahead of the curve in the collision repair industry.

 

Contact South Jersey’s Top-Rated Collision Repair Shop Today

The collision repair shop checklist is important to consider when choosing an auto body repair shop because it serves as a guide to ensure that you’re making an informed decision. Each aspect of the checklist plays a crucial role in determining the quality of service you’ll receive and the overall satisfaction with the repair experience. Keep it in the back of your mind as you conduct your search.

 

However, if you are looking for a top-rated collision repair shop in South Jersey, consider Elmer’s Auto Body. We have been family-owned and operated since 1947 (that’s over 75 years) and have three locations ready to serve you. With our experience and knowledgeable technicians, there is no repair we can’t handle. Get in touch with us today by filling out the online form or calling the shop closest to you. It’s time to get your vehicle back on the road.

The moment you sit in your vehicle and start to drive down the road, the risk of getting into a collision increases. Car accidents are never easy to handle, especially when you have to consider how common collisions are in New Jersey and the damages they can cause to your vehicle. As such, knowing the risks and the dangers and also what can happen as a result of common auto collisions in Washington Township, NJ can help you be more prepared and aware.

 

The Most Common Auto Collisions in Washington Township, NJ

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of auto collisions to happen in Washington Township, NJ.

 

1. Rear-End Collisions

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that 29% of crashes in the US are rear-end collisions. These occur when one vehicle strikes the rear of another. They often happen due to tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops. Rear-end collisions can result in whiplash injuries and damage to the rear of the vehicle.

 

2. Head-On Collisions

In head-on collisions, the front ends of two vehicles collide, and the results can be devastating. They typically occur at high speeds and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. In fact, in 2020, in head-on collisions were responsible for 3,631 deaths in the US. Factors contributing to head-on collisions may include impaired driving, distracted driving, or failure to yield.

 

3. Side-Impact Collision

Also known as T-bone collisions, these occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. They often happen at intersections or when one driver fails to yield the right of way. Side-impact collisions can cause significant damage to both vehicles and result in injuries to occupants.

 

4. Sideswipe

Sideswipe collisions involve two vehicles traveling parallel to each other making contact. They commonly occur when changing lanes without proper signaling or checking blind spots. While typically resulting in minor damages, sideswipe collisions can lead to loss of control and secondary collisions.

 

5. Rollover Accident

Rollover accidents involve a vehicle rolling onto its side or roof. They often occur during high-speed maneuvers, such as sharp turns or abrupt lane changes, as well as the impact from a front-end collision. This may also happen when an SUV is driving in wet or icy conditions, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Rollover accidents can cause extensive damage to the vehicle and result in serious injuries or fatalities.

 

6. Single-Vehicle Crash

Single-vehicle crashes involve only one vehicle and can occur for various reasons, including driver error, adverse weather conditions, or road hazards. These accidents can result in damage to the vehicle and injuries to the driver and passengers.

 

Damages Caused By Common Auto Collisions in Washington Township, NJ

Now that you have seen the common kinds of auto collisions that occur within Washington Township, NJ, it’s time to learn about the damage a vehicle may sustain.

 

Front-End Damage

In head-on collisions, front-end damage typically encompasses a range of issues. This includes visible damage to the front bumper, which may be crushed, cracked, or completely detached from the vehicle. The grille, often located in the front center of the vehicle, may sustain damage ranging from dents and scratches to complete deformation. Headlights, positioned on either side of the front end, are frequently shattered or dislodged upon impact, requiring replacement.

 

Additionally, the engine compartment, located behind the front bumper, is susceptible to damage. This may include bent or broken engine mounts, damaged radiators, and twisted or crushed engine components. Structural damage to the vehicle’s frame is also common in head-on collisions. This can lead to misalignment, buckling, or bending of the frame rails, requiring extensive repairs to restore the vehicle’s structural integrity.

 

Rear-End Damage

Rear-end collisions often result in damage to the rear of the vehicle. The rear bumper, designed to absorb impact and protect the vehicle’s body, may be dented, scratched, or completely crushed upon impact. Damage to the trunk, located behind the rear bumper, is common in rear-end collisions. This may include dents, scratches, or deformation of the trunk lid, hindering its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Rear-end collisions can also cause misalignment of the vehicle’s frame. You may notice visible signs of frame damage, such as uneven gaps between body panels or irregularities in the vehicle’s alignment.

 

Side Damage

Side-impact collisions can cause significant damage to the vehicle’s side panels. This includes dents, scratches, and deformation of the metal or composite materials used in the vehicle’s construction. Damage to the vehicle’s doors is common in side-impact collisions. This may include dents, scratches, or complete deformation of the door panels, hindering their functionality and compromising passenger safety. Broken windows are often a consequence of side-impact collisions. The force of the impact can shatter or dislodge windows, requiring replacement to ensure passenger safety and protection from the elements.

 

Roof Crush

Rollover accidents can lead to roof crush, where the vehicle’s roof collapses inward due to the forces exerted during the rollover. This results in extensive structural deformation and damage to the vehicle’s roof. The roof may exhibit visible signs of crush damage, including buckling, bending, or complete collapse in severe cases. The severity of roof crush damage depends on various factors, including the angle and speed of the rollover, as well as the strength and construction of the vehicle’s roof.

 

Scratches and Dents

Sideswipe collisions often result in minor damage to the vehicle’s exterior. This includes scratches, dents, and paint transfer along the side of the vehicle. Scratches may vary in severity, ranging from superficial surface marks to deep gouges that penetrate the vehicle’s paint layer. Dents can occur when the vehicle’s side panels are impacted by another vehicle or object, resulting in visible depressions or indentations in the vehicle’s body.

 

Contact a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey Today

Being aware of the common types of auto collisions and the damages they can cause is essential for drivers in Washington Township, NJ. Whether it’s a rear-end collision, head-on collision, side-impact collision, sideswipe, rollover accident, or single-vehicle crash, each scenario presents unique risks and potential damages to vehicles.

 

If you find yourself in need of collision repair services in Washington Township or South Jersey, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Our experienced team specializes in repairing a wide range of damages caused by auto collisions, ensuring that your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition safely and efficiently. Call one of our three South Jersey locations today or fill out our online form.

One of the unfortunate realities of driving and living in South Jersey is that there is a lot of traffic and a chance of getting into an auto collision. There is also the added stress and inconvenience of getting involved in an auto accident. Knowing the common types of collisions, the damages that may be caused, and how a collision repair center like Elmer’s Auto Body will repair those damages can provide you with some valuable peace of mind. So let’s jump right into the 5 common types of collisions.

 

The Common Types of Auto Collisions in South Jersey

There are many kinds of accidents that can happen on the roadway. With four-way stops, intersections, merge lanes, and highways, New Jersey drivers are no strangers to the mishaps that can occur at each. Here are some details about various collisions, including how they happen and the damage caused:

 

1. Rear-End Collisions

These are among the most prevalent types of accidents on South Jersey roads. They occur when a vehicle crashes into the one in front of it. Heavy traffic congestion, sudden stops, and driver distraction are often contributing factors. The impact typically results in damage to the rear end of the vehicle, including the bumper, trunk, and rear lights. While they are often perceived as minor accidents, rear-end collisions can cause significant damage and necessitate thorough repair.

 

2. T-Bone Collisions

Also referred to as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These collisions frequently occur at intersections, where drivers may fail to yield the right of way or run red lights. T-bone collisions pose a substantial risk of injury to drivers and passengers due to the limited protection offered by the side of a vehicle. Repairing the damage from such accidents involves addressing damage to the side panels, doors, and potentially the vehicle’s frame.

 

3. Single Vehicle Collisions

Despite the absence of another vehicle, single vehicle collisions are not uncommon in South Jersey. These accidents can stem from a variety of factors, including adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow, mechanical failures like tire blowouts, or driver error such as losing control of the vehicle. While the damage may be confined to one vehicle, it can still be significant, requiring repairs to the body, suspension, and mechanical components.

 

4. Multi-Vehicle Collisions

Multi-vehicle pileups are complex accidents involving several vehicles. These incidents often occur on highways, especially during inclement weather conditions or low visibility. Factors such as sudden braking, reduced traction, or driver error can trigger a chain reaction, resulting in extensive damage and potential injuries to multiple parties. These are often the most devastating of collisions in South Jersey.

 

5. Fender Benders

While seemingly minor, fender benders are a common occurrence on South Jersey roads, particularly in congested areas or parking lots. These low-speed collisions typically result in minor damage to the vehicle’s exterior, such as dents, scratches, or bumper scuffs. Although the damage may appear insignificant, prompt repair is essential to prevent further deterioration and maintain the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.

 

How a Auto Body Repair Shop Handles Collision Damage

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we take pride in our comprehensive approach to handling collision damage. Our team of skilled technicians is equipped with the expertise and state-of-the-art tools necessary to address a wide range of auto body repair needs. Here’s a detailed look at how we handle collision damage:

 

Body Damage

When your vehicle sustains body damage, whether it’s from dents, scratches, or panel damage, our expert technicians spring into action. We begin by conducting a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the damage. Using advanced techniques and precision tools, we  restore your vehicle’s exterior to its pre-accident condition. Our goal is not only to repair the damage but also to ensure a seamless finish that enhances the overall aesthetics of your vehicle.

 

Frame and Structural Damage

Structural integrity is paramount for vehicle safety, which is why we pay special attention to frame and structural damage. With our specialized equipment and years of experience, we  repair any structural issues your vehicle may have sustained in the collision. Our precise approach ensures that your vehicle maintains its safety and performance standards, providing you with peace of mind as you hit the road once again.

 

Paint and Finish Repair

Our skilled painters understand the importance of achieving a flawless finish when it comes to paint and finish repair. Using computerized color matching technology, we  match your vehicle’s paint color and finish, ensuring a seamless blend with the existing paintwork. Whether it’s a minor touch-up or a complete repaint, our goal is to restore your vehicle’s exterior to its original luster.

 

Mechanical Damage

In addition to addressing cosmetic damage, our technicians are well-equipped to handle a wide range of mechanical repairs. From engine issues to suspension problems, we have the knowledge and expertise to get your vehicle back on the road safely and efficiently. Our comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your vehicle are thoroughly inspected and repaired to the highest standards.

 

Safety Systems Repair

We understand the critical role that safety systems play in protecting you and your passengers on the road. That’s why our technicians undergo extensive training to repair and recalibrate safety features such as airbags, seat belts, and sensors. By ensuring that your vehicle’s safety systems are functioning optimally, we help provide you with the peace of mind you deserve knowing that you’re driving a vehicle that prioritizes safety above all else.

 

Contact a South Jersey Collision Repair Center Today

After a collision, returning to the road in a safe vehicle is priority. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the stress and inconvenience that comes with being involved in an accident. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing top-notch collision repair services to our community. If you have recently been in a collision in South Jersey and are looking to have your vehicle restored, give one of our three locations a call. You can also fill out our online form to request an appointment. It’s time to get back on the road.

Body technology and automotive safety technology has been rapidly changing in recent years. The same vehicle two years apart may look the same aesthetically but have completely different bodies underneath. When this happens, the collision repair process will be an entirely different procedure for each. In other words, the more technology involved with your vehicle, the more difficult it may be for a collision repair shop in Harrison Township, NJ to complete. Unless, of course, you take your vehicle to some place like Elmer’s Auto Body, where the technicians have more than experience, they have credentials that prove that they are staying up-to-date with this technology and know how to repair it correctly.

 

Current Automotive Safety Technology

Several automotive safety technologies have emerged in recent years, aiming to enhance the safety of vehicles and reduce the risk of accidents. Some of these advancements include:

 

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): AEB systems detect potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or other obstacles and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): This system adjusts a vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. It can automatically accelerate or decelerate to match the speed of traffic.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): LDW alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling, while LKA actively intervenes by steering the vehicle back into its lane.
• Blind Spot Detection (BSD): BSD systems use sensors to monitor the vehicle’s blind spots and alert the driver to the presence of vehicles in adjacent lanes, helping to prevent lane-change collisions.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): FCW systems use sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or objects in the vehicle’s path and provide a warning to the driver to take evasive action.
• Pedestrian Detection Systems: These systems use sensors and cameras to detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid hitting them.

 

There are even technologies designed to detect and recognize certain traffic signs and to monitor driver attentiveness in the works. You may start seeing these in vehicles soon.

 

Not surprisingly, each of these technologies requires sensors and cameras and electronic pieces to function that are interwoven into the vehicle’s structure. In the event of a collision, these fragile and sensitive systems will need to be repaired and recalibrated, adding a level of complexity to repair.

 

Post-Collision Repair Challenges

As mentioned earlier, the use of advanced safety technology such as lane departure warnings and blind spot detection means that a mirror is no longer just a mirror. In order to utilize this technology, the structure of vehicles have to change to accommodate the radar, sensors, camera, and computers needed to keep drivers out of trouble. The downside is that, while this technology can save drivers and their vehicles from collisions, it also adds to the intricacy of repairs when an accident does occur.

 

Now, instead of going to a mechanic to straighten a dent in a bumper, for example, you need to take your vehicle to a specialist who not only does the former correction but who can also recalibrate the damaged sensors in the bumper.

 

ADAS Diagnosis, Repair, and Recalibration

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles provide crucial safety features, but their maintenance and repair demand specialized procedures. Diagnosis involves the use of specialized tools to identify issues by retrieving fault codes and conducting system checks. Technicians inspect sensors for physical damage or misalignment, crucial for systems reliant on cameras, radar, lidar, and ultrasonic sensors. Software updates may resolve certain issues, enhancing performance or compatibility.

 

Repairing ADAS often necessitates component replacement, followed by calibration to ensure proper functionality. Alignment and adjustment may also be required to optimize sensor orientation. Recalibration involves dynamic or static methods, the former requiring specific driving conditions and the latter conducted in controlled environments using specialized equipment like calibration targets and laser alignment systems. Skilled technicians are essential, as improper diagnosis or calibration can compromise system functionality, potentially leading to safety risks. Staying current with training and equipment is crucial for automotive repair professionals given the evolving nature of ADAS technology.

 

New OEM Collision Repair Information

Any auto body shop with a reputation needs to have up-to-date OEM information. Car models these days can vastly differ year to year, requiring a constant refresh of OEM knowledge. It is crucial that collision repair shops in Harrison Township not only have access to OEM information but also the tools necessary to complete the repairs. Furthermore, using only OEM parts and materials ensures that the vehicle is returned to its pre-accident condition correctly, ensuring that any automotive safety technology continues to function optimally.

 

Contact an Auto Collision Repair Shop in Harrison Township, NJ Today

The landscape of automotive safety technology is rapidly evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for collision repair shops in Harrison Township, NJ, and beyond. As vehicles become increasingly equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the complexity of post-collision repair grows significantly. Technicians must stay abreast of the latest diagnostic, repair, and recalibration techniques to ensure these safety features function correctly after an accident.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, our team not only possesses the requisite experience but also maintains up-to-date credentials to navigate the intricacies of modern automotive technology. From autonomous emergency braking to pedestrian detection systems, we are equipped to handle the repair and recalibration of these vital safety components.

 

If your vehicle needs collision repair, call one of our three locations in South Jersey or fill out our online form today. Let’s get your vehicle back on the road.