Author: Peyton Klopp

Repairing Convertibles: What to Know About Getting a Convertible Fixed in New Jersey

There are few things in life that are as exhilarating as driving a convertible car down the road. Convertible vehicles are a symbol of freedom and fun, after all. However, when these sleek, sporty vehicles are involved in a collision, restoring them to their former glory requires specialized knowledge and equipment. In New Jersey, despite convertibles being abundant on the roadways, finding the right auto body shop that is equipped to handle such repairs can be difficult. To help you find repairs, here is everything you need to know about getting your convertible repaired at a collision repair shop in New Jersey.

Key Takeaways

After a collision, convertible tops can suffer fabric tears, structural damage, electrical/mechanical issues, water damage, liner insulation damage, and alignment issues.
Manual tops require frame alignment, while automatic tops involve complex repairs of electric motors, hydraulic systems, switches, sensors, and wiring.
Roll bars are critical in rollover accidents and may need inspection, repair, or replacement for compliance with safety regulations.
Trusted for decades, Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey offers hassle-free collision repair, ensuring convertibles are restored to pre-accident condition.

What is a Convertible Top?

A convertible top is a unique component that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. It consists of fabric stretched over a metal frame, allowing for easy folding and unfolding to transition between open-air and closed-roof driving. Additionally, the top incorporates various components such as foam, rubber backing, wiring for features like defrosters, and a liner for insulation.

Common Convertible Top Damages in a Collision

In the aftermath of a collision, convertible tops often bear the brunt of the impact, resulting in a range of damages that necessitate thorough inspection and expert repair. These damages can vary widely in severity, encompassing both visible exterior issues and internal structural concerns. Here’s a closer look at the common convertible top damages encountered in the wake of a collision:

Fabric Tears and Rips

One of the most apparent damages to convertible tops is tears or rips in the fabric. Whether caused by debris, contact with other vehicles, or the force of the impact itself, these tears can compromise the integrity of the top and need to be addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Structural Damage

Collisions can also cause structural damage to the convertible top frame. This may manifest as bent or warped metal components, which can affect the overall functionality and stability of the top. Repairing such damage requires precision and expertise to ensure proper alignment and structural integrity.

Electrical and Mechanical Components

In convertible tops equipped with automatic operation, such as electric motors, hydraulic systems, switches, sensors, wires, and hydraulic lines, are vulnerable to damage in a collision. Impact forces can cause malfunctions or complete failure of these components, impacting the ability to operate the convertible top smoothly.

Water Damage

Water ingress can occur as a result of damage to the convertible top fabric or its sealing mechanisms during a collision. This can lead to issues such as mold growth, electrical malfunctions, and interior damage if not addressed promptly.

Liner and Insulation Damage

The liner attached to the underside of the convertible top serves not only as a decorative element but also as a crucial component for sound and thermal insulation. Damage to the liner, whether from impact or subsequent exposure to elements, can compromise the vehicle’s comfort and acoustics.

Alignment Issues

Collisions can knock convertible top components out of alignment, resulting in issues with opening, closing, or latching the top properly. Addressing alignment issues is essential to ensure seamless operation and prevent further damage to the top or surrounding components.

Repairing an Automatic vs Manual Convertible Top

The complexity of repairing a convertible top depends on whether it is automatic or manual. Manual convertible tops, often found in smaller vehicles like the Mazda MX-5, present a more straightforward repair scenario compared to their automatic counterparts. In these manual systems, the primary focus is on ensuring the frame’s structural integrity and alignment to facilitate smooth operation. Repairing manual convertible tops typically involves meticulous frame straightening techniques to correct any misalignment caused by the impact.

Conversely, automatic convertible tops introduce an additional layer of complexity due to their integration of sophisticated electrical and hydraulic components. These systems, which include electric motors, hydraulic pumps, switches, sensors, and intricate wiring, are essential for the automated operation of the convertible top. In the event of a collision, damage to any of these components can impair the functionality of the automatic convertible top, necessitating thorough diagnosis and repair.

Repairing Roll Bars in New Jersey

Roll bars serve as crucial safety features in convertibles, providing enhanced protection to occupants in the event of a rollover accident. In modern convertibles, hidden roll bars are designed to deploy automatically when sensors detect an imminent rollover, mitigating the risk of injury to passengers. However, following a collision, these roll bars may require inspection, repair, or replacement to ensure their proper function and compliance with stringent safety regulations, particularly in states like New Jersey.

Looking for Hassle-Free Collision Repair in South Jersey?

If your convertible vehicle was damaged during a collision, there is good news. Depending on the extent of the damage, the convertible components may be repaired by an experienced auto technician. For convertible owners in New Jersey seeking a hassle-free collision repair experience, look no further than Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey. We have been in business for decades and have a team dedicated to your satisfaction. Make Elmer’s Auto Body your trusted partner in restoring your convertible to its pre-accident condition. Contact one of our three South Jersey locations today or fill out the online form to schedule a seamless repair experience. It’s time to return to the road with confidence.

Elmer’s Auto Body: Your Solution for Minor Dents in Harrison Township

Minor dents and dings on your car can be annoying and unsightly. They can ruin the appearance and value of your car, and make you feel embarrassed or frustrated. They can also expose the metal to moisture and oxygen, which can lead to rust and corrosion.

But you don’t have to live with minor dents and dings on your car. You can get them fixed quickly, easily, and affordably by Elmer’s Auto Body, your solution for minor dents in Harrison Township.

Why Choose Elmer’s Auto Body for Minor Dents?

Elmer’s Auto Body is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the Harrison Township community for over 40 years. We have a team of certified and experienced technicians who can handle any type of auto body repair, from minor dents and scratches to major collisions and frame damage. We use the latest technology, equipment, and techniques to ensure your car’s body is restored to its original condition, or even better.

But we don’t just fix your car. We also fix your worries. We know how stressful and inconvenient it can be to deal with a car accident, and we want to make it as easy and hassle-free as possible for you. That’s why we offer:

Free estimates. We will inspect your car and give you a fair and accurate estimate of the cost and time of the repairs. We will also explain the details of the estimate and answer any questions you might have.
Lifetime warranties. We stand behind our work and guarantee the quality and durability of our repairs. We will cover any defects or problems that might arise later, as long as you own the car.
24/7 towing services. We will tow your car to our shop at any time of the day or night, free of charge, if you choose us for your auto body repairs.
Insurance assistance. We will work with your insurance company and handle the claim process for you. We will also negotiate with them to get you the best coverage and the best parts for your car.
Rental car assistance. We will help you arrange a rental car while your car is being repaired, and we will cover the cost of the rental car if your insurance doesn’t.
Customer satisfaction. We treat our customers like family, and we strive to exceed their expectations every time. We will keep you updated on the progress of your repairs, and we will deliver your car on time and on budget. We will also follow up with you after the repairs to make sure you are happy with the results.

How Do We Fix Minor Dents?

One of the methods we use to fix minor dents is paintless dent repair. Paintless dent repair is a type of dent removal that uses a special method of massaging the metal from the inside, without damaging the paint. It can be done by using special rods and hammers, or by using a glue and tab system. Paintless dent repair can remove dents that are up to three inches in diameter, and can save time and money compared to conventional dent removal.

Another method we use to fix minor dents is conventional dent removal. Conventional dent removal is the process of removing small dents or dings from the car’s body, by affecting the paint. It can be done by using special tools and techniques, such as suction cups, glue, or heat. Conventional dent removal can improve the appearance and value of the car, and prevent rust and corrosion from forming on the dented areas.

What Are the Benefits of Fixing Minor Dents?

Fixing minor dents can have many benefits for your car and yourself. Here are some of them:

It improves the appearance and value of your car. Fixing minor dents can make your car look good, feel good, and run good. It can also increase the resale value of your car, as it shows that you take good care of your car and maintain it regularly.
It prevents further damage and deterioration. Fixing minor dents can prevent further damage and deterioration of your car’s body. It can also prevent rust and corrosion from forming on the metal, which can weaken the structure and performance of your car.
It boosts your confidence and comfort. Fixing minor dents can boost your confidence and comfort as a driver. You can drive with pride, knowing that your car is in perfect shape. You can also enjoy your ride, without worrying about what other people think of your car.

How to Contact Us for Minor Dents?

If you have minor dents on your car, and you want to get them fixed by the best auto body shop in Harrison Township, you should contact us today. You can call us at (856) 218-0202 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We are located on 1516 Glassboro Road, near the intersection with Route 322. You can also find us on Google Maps, or use our online directions tool to get the best route to our shop.

Don’t wait any longer. Contact us today and let us take care of your minor dents. We look forward to serving you.

5 Signs a Vehicle is Totaled After a Collision in South Jersey

After a collision, the fate of your vehicle may hang in the balance. Will it be repairable, or will it be declared “totaled” by your insurance company? Understanding what constitutes a totaled vehicle is crucial for South Jersey residents navigating post-collision scenarios. Contrary to popular belief, the decision isn’t solely based on visible damage. Let’s explore five signs indicating that your vehicle may be totaled after a collision in South Jersey.

Key Takeaways

A vehicle is declared “totaled” by insurance companies when the cost to repair it exceeds its actual cash value (ACV), not solely based on visible damage.
Seek prompt professional assistance for collision repairs.
Older vehicles with high mileage may have a lower ACV, making them more likely to be totaled.

What Does “Totaled” Mean?

Before looking at the signs that assessors look for when evaluating damage, let’s first learn what it means to total your vehicle. You may be surprised to learn that “totaled” does not always equate to the visible damage on your vehicle. Insurance companies will designate a car as unsalvageable or “totaled” when the cost to repair your vehicle exceeds the book value.

When your insurance company declares your car “totaled,” they will pay you the ACV—the actual cash value. This is based on how much your car would have cost prior to the accident. The ACV may be lower than anticipated due to vehicle depreciation, which is also factored into what you receive.

If you choose to keep and repair your totaled vehicle, your insurance company will likely issue a salvage title for it. A salvage title indicates that the vehicle has been significantly damaged and repaired, and it may affect the vehicle’s resale value and insurability in the future.

5 Signs a Vehicle is Totaled After a Collision in South Jersey

When the insurance company sends out a representative to assess the damage done to your vehicle, that individual typically looks at the following things:

1. Your Airbags Deployed

Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated safety features, including airbags designed to deploy upon impact. While their deployment is a testament to the effectiveness of your vehicle’s safety systems, it also signifies a significant collision. In many cases, the force required to trigger airbag deployment can cause extensive damage beyond what meets the eye. If your airbags deployed during the accident, it’s a strong indicator that your vehicle sustained substantial damage, potentially leading to a totaled status.

2. It Costs More to Repair Than Replace

One of the primary factors insurance companies consider when determining whether a vehicle is totaled is the cost of repairs compared to its actual cash value (ACV). In South Jersey, where labor and repair costs can vary, this evaluation becomes critical. If the estimated cost of repairing your vehicle exceeds its ACV, it’s likely to be deemed totaled. This decision is influenced by factors such as parts availability, labor expenses, and the extent of damage.

3. Extensive Structural Damage

While cosmetic damage can often be repaired, structural damage is a different story. South Jersey residents should pay close attention to any signs of structural damage, such as bent frames or compromised safety cages. Structural repairs are complex and costly, often involving specialized equipment and skilled technicians. If your vehicle sustained extensive structural damage in the collision, it significantly increases the likelihood of it being declared totaled.

4. Age and Mileage

The age and mileage of your vehicle play a significant role in determining its actual cash value. In South Jersey, where harsh weather conditions and road salt can accelerate vehicle deterioration, older vehicles may have a lower ACV. If your vehicle is older with high mileage, even moderate damage could push it into totaled territory. Insurance companies take these factors into account when assessing the overall value of your vehicle post-collision.

5. Frame Misalignment

A misaligned frame is a red flag indicating substantial collision damage. Even minor misalignments can lead to handling issues, uneven tire wear, and compromised safety. In South Jersey, where road conditions can be challenging, driving a vehicle with frame misalignment poses significant risks. Repairing frame damage is complex and often requires specialized equipment. If your vehicle’s frame is misaligned after a collision, it may be deemed beyond repair, leading to a totaled status.

Need Your Car Repaired in South Jersey?

Hopefully, should you get into a collision, your vehicle will still be usable and only need minor repairs. When that happens, it’s essential to seek professional assistance promptly. Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians specializes in collision repair, ensuring your vehicle receives the care it deserves. From minor dents to extensive damage, we’re equipped to handle it all. Contact us today at one of our three South Jersey locations to schedule an appointment and let us restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Minor Car Accident in Gloucester County, NJ

Even a minor car accident can be a stressful and scary experience. You might be shaken, confused, or angry at the other driver. However, it is important to stay calm and follow some basic steps to protect yourself and your rights. Here are the steps to take immediately after a minor car accident in Gloucester County, NJ.

Key takeaways

A minor car accident can be a stressful and scary experience, but you should stay calm and follow some basic steps to protect yourself and your rights.
You should check for injuries and call 911, move to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights, exchange information with the other driver, take pictures and gather witnesses, and contact your insurance company and a lawyer.
Elmers Auto Body can help you with your car repair, insurance claim, and legal case. We are the trusted auto body shop and legal team in Gloucester County, NJ.

Comparison table

Service	Elmers Auto Body	Other Auto Body Shops
Car Repair	Quality work, lifetime warranty, latest technology	Varies
Insurance Claim	Free consultation, no-win-no-fee agreement, 24/7 support	Varies
Legal Case	Experienced car accident lawyer, proven track record, loyal customer base	Varies

1. Check for injuries and call 911

The first thing to do after a minor car accident is to check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 and request medical assistance. Even if you think you are not injured, you should still call 911 and report the accident to the police. A police report can be a valuable piece of evidence for your insurance claim or legal case. The police will also help you exchange information with the other driver and document the scene of the accident.

2. Move to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights

If your car is drivable and blocking traffic, you should move it to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. If your car is not drivable, or if moving it would cause more damage, you should stay inside and turn on your hazard lights. This will alert other drivers and prevent further collisions. You should also put on your seat belt and wait for the police to arrive.

3. Exchange information with the other driver

While you are waiting for the police, you should exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident. You should get their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. You should also note the make, model, and color of their car. You should not admit fault, apologize, or argue with the other driver. Just be polite and cooperative, and let the police and the insurance companies determine who is liable.

4. Take pictures and gather witnesses

Another important step to take after a minor car accident is to take pictures of the scene and gather witnesses. You should use your phone or camera to take photos of the damage to your car and the other car, the position of the vehicles, the road conditions, the traffic signs, and any skid marks or debris. You should also look for any witnesses who saw the accident and get their names and contact information. These photos and witnesses can help you prove your case and support your claim.

5. Contact your insurance company and a lawyer

The final step to take after a minor car accident is to contact your insurance company and a lawyer. You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible and give them the details of the incident and the information of the other driver. You should also contact a lawyer who specializes in car accident cases and get their advice on how to proceed. A lawyer can help you protect your rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and get the compensation you deserve.

If you are looking for a reliable and experienced car accident lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ, you should contact Elmers Auto Body. We are the trusted auto body shop and legal team in the area, with over 40 years of experience in the industry. We can help you with your car repair, insurance claim, and legal case. We offer free consultations, no-win-no-fee agreements, and 24/7 support. Call us today at (856) 218-0202 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you.

Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop in Gloucester County

If you need auto body repair services in Gloucester County, you might be wondering how to choose the right auto body shop for your car. After all, you want to get the best quality work at a fair price, and avoid any hassle or disappointment.

But with so many auto body shops out there, how do you know which one to trust? How do you compare their services, prices, and reputation? And what should you look for when you visit their facilities?

Key takeaways

Choosing the right auto body shop in Gloucester County is important for your car’s quality and appearance.
You should ask for recommendations, check their credentials, compare their estimates, visit their facilities, and trust your instincts.
Elmers Auto Body is the trusted auto body shop in Gloucester County, with over 40 years of experience and quality services.

Comparison table

Criteria	Elmers Auto Body	Other Auto Body Shops
Certifications	AAA, I-CAR, ASE	Varies
Warranties	Lifetime	Varies
Estimates	Free	Varies
Towing	24/7	Varies
Experience	Over 40 years	Varies
Technology	Latest	Varies
Reputation	Excellent	Varies

To help you make an informed decision, we have prepared this essential guide to choosing the right auto body shop in Gloucester County. Here are the steps you should follow:

Ask for recommendations

One of the best ways to find a reliable auto body shop is to ask for recommendations from people you know and trust. Your friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers might have had a good experience with a certain auto body shop and can vouch for their work. You can also check online reviews and ratings from sites like Yelp ¹ , Google ² , or Facebook ³ to see what other customers have to say about their service.

Check their credentials

Another way to narrow down your options is to check their credentials and affiliations. Look for auto body shops that are certified by well-known and trusted automotive industry organizations, such as AAA ⁴, I-CAR, or ASE. These certifications indicate that the auto body shop meets high standards of quality, training, and equipment. You should also look for auto body shops that offer written warranties on their parts and labor, and have a valid license and insurance.

Compare their estimates

Once you have a shortlist of auto body shops, you should get estimates from at least three of them. This will help you compare their prices and services, and see if they are reasonable and transparent. You should also ask them how long it will take to complete the repairs, and what payment methods they accept.

However, don’t base your decision solely on the price. A low estimate might mean that the auto body shop is cutting corners, using inferior parts, or overlooking some damages. A high estimate might mean that the auto body shop is overcharging you, adding unnecessary work, or inflating their labor hours. You should look for an estimate that is fair, detailed, and accurate.

Visit their facilities

Before you choose an auto body shop, you should visit their facilities and inspect their work. You should look for a clean, organized, and well-equipped shop, with modern tools and technology. You should also look for a friendly, professional, and courteous staff, who can answer your questions and address your concerns. You should also check out their previous work, and see if they have experience with your car make and model.

Trust your instincts

Finally, you should trust your instincts and choose an auto body shop that you feel comfortable and confident with. You should choose an auto body shop that has a good reputation, a proven track record, and a loyal customer base. You should also choose an auto body shop that listens to your needs, respects your preferences, and exceeds your expectations.

If you are looking for an auto body shop that meets all these criteria, look no further than Elmers Auto Body. We are the trusted auto body shop in Gloucester County, with over 40 years of experience in the industry. We offer quality auto body repair services, including collision repair, dent removal, paintless dent repair, and more. We also offer free estimates, lifetime warranties, and 24/7 towing services.

At Elmers Auto Body, we care about your car as much as you do. That’s why we use the latest technology, equipment, and techniques to ensure your car’s body is in perfect shape. Whether you need a minor touch-up or a major overhaul, we can handle it. Call us today at (856) 218-0202 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you.

Top Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle’s Body Post-Repair

If you’ve recently had your vehicle repaired at Elmers Auto Body, you might be wondering how to keep it in tip-top shape. After all, you want to preserve the quality and appearance of your car’s body, and avoid any further damage or deterioration.

Here are some top tips for maintaining your vehicle’s body post-repair, so you can enjoy your ride for years to come.

1. Wash your car regularly

One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your vehicle’s body is to wash it regularly. Dirt, dust, salt, and other contaminants can accumulate on your car’s surface, causing corrosion, scratches, and fading. Washing your car removes these harmful substances and restores your car’s shine.

However, not all car washes are created equal. Some car washes use harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes that can damage your car’s paint or clear coat. To avoid this, use a gentle car wash soap and a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse your car thoroughly and dry it with a microfiber towel. Avoid washing your car in direct sunlight or when the body is hot, as this can cause water spots or streaks.

2. Wax your car periodically

Another way to protect your car’s body is to wax it periodically. Waxing your car creates a protective layer that repels water, dirt, and UV rays. It also enhances your car’s gloss and color, making it look brand new.

To wax your car, you’ll need a high-quality car wax and a foam applicator pad. Apply a thin layer of wax to one section of your car at a time, using circular motions. Let the wax dry until it becomes hazy, then buff it off with a clean microfiber cloth. Repeat the process for the rest of your car, and enjoy the results.

3. Park your car in a shaded area

Parking your car in a shaded area can also help you maintain your car’s body. Exposure to sunlight can cause your car’s paint to fade, crack, or peel over time. It can also increase the temperature inside your car, which can damage your upholstery, dashboard, and electronics.

To prevent this, park your car in a garage, carport, or under a tree whenever possible. If you can’t find a shaded spot, use a car cover or a windshield sunshade to block some of the sun’s rays. This will keep your car cooler and preserve its appearance.

4. Repair any dents or scratches as soon as possible

Even if you take good care of your car, accidents can happen. You might get a dent from a door ding, a scratch from a rock, or a chip from a pebble. These minor damages might not seem like a big deal, but they can worsen over time and affect your car’s body.

That’s why you should repair any dents or scratches as soon as possible. Depending on the size and severity of the damage, you can either fix it yourself or take it to a professional. For small dents, you can use a plunger, a vacuum cleaner, or a dent puller to pop them out. For small scratches, you can use a touch-up paint, a scratch remover, or a polishing compound to buff them out. For larger or deeper damages, you might need to take your car to Elmers Auto Body, where our experts can restore your car’s body to its original condition.

5. Call Elmers Auto Body for any body-related issues

If you have any questions or concerns about your car’s body, don’t hesitate to call Elmers Auto Body. We are the trusted auto body shop in South Jersey, with over 40 years of experience in the industry. We offer quality auto body repair services, including collision repair, dent removal, paintless dent repair, and more. We also offer free estimates, lifetime warranties, and 24/7 towing services.