When your vehicle has been damaged by a collision or hail damage, finding the right auto repair shop is critical. There are many options available in Burlington County, NJ, but how do you know which shop is going to provide you with the best service? Obviously, you want to choose the shop that is manned by reliable and experienced technicians, one that uses OEM parts and can help you with insurance. Let’s discuss how you can select the right auto body repair shop in Burlington County, NJ today to get you off on the right foot.
1. Ask About Certifications and Experience
One of the first things to look for when choosing an auto body shop is certification. Reputable shops often have certifications from recognized industry organizations, like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR). These certifications show that the technicians are trained to handle a wide variety of repairs and are up-to-date with the latest techniques and equipment.
You may also want to look for a collision repair center that is certified by the maker of your vehicle. For example, Elmer’s Auto Body holds certifications from Kia, Honda, and GM—just to name a few—meaning that our technicians were trained to uphold a particular standard.
2. Check Reviews and Recommendations
Word of mouth and online reviews can tell you a lot about an auto body shop’s reputation. Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations based on their experiences. You can also check online review platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to get a sense of customer satisfaction. The key things to look for in these reviews include consistently high ratings between 4 and 5 stars, the mention of positive experiences and names, timeliness, and friendliness.
3. Request a Detailed Estimate
A good auto body shop will be upfront about their pricing and provide you with a detailed written estimate. This estimate should break down the cost of labor, parts, and any other fees associated with your repair. Compare estimates from multiple shops, but be cautious of prices that seem too low—this could be a sign of subpar workmanship or the use of low-quality parts.
In other words, you should never select a shop based on a low price. Quality of work is important, especially if you want your vehicle to be safe.
4. Consider the Shop’s Warranty Policies
You want to do business with an auto body shop that is going to stand by their work and offer warranties if that work doesn’t live up to your expectations. The warranty can vary in length and scope, so it’s important to ask the shop what their warranty covers. A solid warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that if something goes wrong with the repairs, you’re covered for additional work.
Make sure the shop’s warranty covers both parts and labor, and ask how long the warranty is valid. A longer warranty often indicates confidence in the quality of the repairs.
5. Look for a Clean and Organized Shop
The cleanliness and organization of a shop can speak volumes about how they run their business. A shop that takes pride in maintaining a clean and well-organized facility is likely to be more diligent in their work. Look for signs that the shop is tidy, has well-maintained equipment, and treats vehicles with care. You can do this either by looking at social media posts or by visiting the shop in-person.
6. Ask About Insurance Claims Assistance
Dealing with insurance claims after an accident can be stressful. Some auto body shops offer assistance with the insurance claim process, working directly with your provider to streamline repairs. This can save you time and help ensure that your repairs are covered properly. Keep in mind that certain shops do have agreements with insurance companies, particularly those your insurer recommends. Try to find a shop that doesn’t truckle to insurance company demands and will use OEM parts.
7. Evaluate Customer Service
Good customer service is an essential part of choosing an auto body shop. From the moment you call or walk into the shop, the staff should be friendly, attentive, and willing to answer your questions. You should feel confident that your vehicle is in good hands and that the shop values your business. Also, ask yourself if the staff is transparent, helpful, and willing to explain the repair process in detail? Good communication is key to a positive experience.
8. Ensure the Shop Uses High-Quality Parts
The quality of the parts used in your repair is crucial to the long-term performance and safety of your vehicle. Reputable auto body shops will use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts whenever possible. These parts are made by the vehicle’s manufacturer and are designed to fit and function perfectly in your vehicle. While aftermarket parts are sometimes cheaper, they may not offer the same level of quality or reliability.
9. Look for Longevity and Local Reputation
Auto body shops that have been in business for many years have likely earned the trust of the community and built a solid reputation. In Burlington County, a local shop with deep roots in the area will be more likely to provide personalized service and high-quality repairs because they rely on their reputation for repeat business.
Elmer’s Auto Body has a long-standing history of serving South Jersey since 1947, and our values haven’t changed! We believe in delivering only the best repairs. Our longevity serves as an indication of our commitment to the community, as well as our customers’ overall satisfaction.
Looking for an Auto Body Repair Shop in Burlington County, NJ?
Choosing the right auto body shop in Burlington County doesn’t have to be difficult. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality repairs, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to getting you back on the road safely. Our certified technicians use the latest equipment and techniques to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. We offer detailed estimates, work with insurance companies, and back our work with warranties, so you can feel confident in your choice.
If you need collision repairs in Burlington County, New Jersey, contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule an appointment at one of our three convenient South Jersey locations. Let us help you get back on the road with peace of mind!