Why Cutting Corners on Frame Repairs Puts Your Safety at Risk

A red vehicle that has had frame repairs at an auto body repair shop

When you get into a collision, much of the damage you see is on the surface. There are dents, dings, scratches, and cracks, but those aren’t your biggest concern. Underneath the panels is your vehicle’s foundation: the frame. You can also call it the structural backbone, one that absorbs energy from impacts and helps keep you safe during a collision. When frame repairs aren’t done properly, however, your vehicle’s ability to keep you safe is reduced.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Frame repairs restore your vehicle’s structural integrity after a collision and keep you safe in future impacts.
  • Rushed or incomplete frame repairs can cause misalignment, airbag issues, and weakened crash protection.
  • Computerized measuring systems ensure your frame meets factory specifications for proper handling and safety.
  • Certified technicians and specialized equipment are essential for accurate frame restoration.
  • If your car feels off after a repair, bring it to Elmer’s Auto Body for an inspection to ensure nothing was missed.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve seen a lot of vehicles where corners were cut on frame repairs. That’s why we’re going to talk about the importance of frame repairs and why shortcuts are dangerous.

 

Understanding the Importance of the Vehicle Frame

As mentioned previously, the frame is like the skeleton of your vehicle. It’s a supporting structure around the engine, transmission, suspension, and interior compartment. Aside from support, the frame absorbs and distributes impact energy to keep that force away from you and your passengers. When the frame is damaged, the repairs have to be precise to return your frame to factory standards.

 

Cutting corners can result in serious problems that affect how your car handles. In short, if you get into another collision with a frame that hasn’t been repaired properly, the risk of damages and injuries increases.

 

What Happens When Frame Repairs are Rushed or Incomplete

Some shops will rush through frame repairs due to lack of experience or improper equipment. Cutting corners leaves unseen damages. Rushing leads to inevitable problems.

 

Here is what happens when frame repairs aren’t taken seriously:

 

Misalignment

The frame needs to be straightened using a computerized measuring system. Without it, your frame could be a millimeter off. That may sound like a small deviation, but it can have huge consequences. A frame that isn’t straight can cause a misalignment, leading to your car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, and premature suspension damage. Misalignment also means you need to continuously correct the steering, leading to fatigue. That’s a dangerous combination when driving at high speeds.

 

Reduced Collision Protection

Your vehicle’s frame is designed to absorb and redirect crash energy away from passengers. When this structure is not properly restored, it can’t perform as intended in another collision. Instead of absorbing energy evenly, the frame may buckle or collapse in unintended areas, dramatically increasing the risk of injury. Even a small weakness in the frame can have serious consequences in a future accident.

 

Compromised Airbag Timing

Modern vehicles contain a network of sensors and crumple zones that are designed to exacting standards. When one sensor or crumple zone doesn’t work properly, those safety measures may not deploy correctly. For example, if your frame is off slightly, crash data may be misread, leading to lagging airbag deployment. Sometimes the airbags may fail entirely. Unfortunately, when that happens, it increases the likelihood of severe or fatal injury.

 

Noise and Vibration Issues

Poor frame repairs also need to less comfort and drivability. If components like suspension mounts, subframes, or body panels are reattached to a warped structure, you may hear persistent rattles, squeaks, or clunking sounds. These noises often mean that parts are under stress or misaligned, which can lead to further wear and tear on surrounding components over time.

 

Weakened Structural Integrity

Vehicles are made with aluminum and steel, two metals that need precise repair techniques to restore to normal. If a shop welds, heats, or reinforces these materials incorrectly, it can permanently weaken the metal. That means your vehicle’s frame may not have the same rigidity or crash resistance it once did, leaving you less protected in the event of another impact.

 

Why Precise Frame Repairs and Certified Technicians Matter

Leaving any kind of auto repair up to chance is never wise, as safety and performance can be negatively impacted. For South Jersey drivers, that can be all the difference between a vehicle that is able to swerve and take an impact and a horrible injury. As such, you need to choose an auto repair shop that is certified and experienced. Frame repairs need specialized machines and measuring systems to be restored to their original specifications.

 

We’re serious when it comes to repairs and protecting you in the event of a future crash. We don’t cut corners, and we never let you drive away with something left undone.

 

Signs Your Frame Repairs Weren’t Done Correctly

If you recently left an auto body repair shop in South Jersey and something felt “off,” don’t ignore it. You’re instincts are probably right. Let’s take a look at the signs of poorly done frame repairs, so you know whether you need to take your vehicle to us:

 

  • Your car pulls to one side even after an alignment.
  • Uneven gaps between panels or doors that won’t close smoothly.
  • New vibrations, creaks, or rattles while driving.
  • Steering or suspension that feels unstable or unpredictable.
  • Persistent warning lights for airbag or stability systems.

 

Notice any of these issues? Bring your vehicle to a trusted South Jersey collision center, like Elmer’s Auto Body. Our certified technicians will inspect your vehicle to see if any damage still remains.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do frame repairs take?
Depending on the extent of damage, frame repairs can take anywhere from a few days to over a week. Precision work requires time and proper equipment.

Can a car with frame damage be repaired safely?
Yes—if the repairs are performed by a certified collision repair facility using OEM-approved equipment and measuring systems.

Will my car drive the same after frame repairs?
When done correctly, frame repairs restore your vehicle to factory specifications, ensuring proper handling and performance.

 

Ensure Proper Frame Repairs with Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey

Say no to rushed frame repairs. There’s too much at stake to overlook something so vital. Instead, you need to ensure that frame repairs are done correctly. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have advanced equipment and certified technicians to restore your vehicle’s structural integrity. With us, you’ll be back on the road, driving with confidence, in no time.

Schedule a Frame Inspection with Elmer’s Auto Body

If you suspect that your vehicle’s frame wasn’t repaired properly or want to ensure your car is safe to drive, bring it to one of our South Jersey locations. Our team will inspect, measure, and restore your frame to factory standards.

Contact Elmer’s Auto Body Today

What Insurers Don’t Tell You About “Like Kind and Quality” Parts

A vehicle that has been repaired with like kind and quality parts. There's no difference...yet

When you get into an accident, you expect your insurance company to cover some if not all of the cost. You also expect to get the best quality parts for your car. Insurers, however, often authorize what’s known as “Like Kind and Quality” (LKQ) parts instead of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) ones. While this may seem fair on the surface, LKQ parts aren’t the same as OEM components, and that can be consequences for your vehicle’s performance and safety.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve seen the difference and know that OEM parts are best. That’s why that’s all that we use.

Key Takeaways

  • “Like Kind and Quality” parts are often used or aftermarket — not the same as OEM.
  • LKQ parts can cause alignment, durability, and ADAS performance issues.
  • OEM parts ensure safety and proper fit for your make and model.
  • You can request or negotiate for OEM replacements with your insurer.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body prioritizes your safety with OEM-approved repairs.

 

What “Like Kind and Quality” Actually Means

“Like Kind and Quality” may sound like they are on the same level as OEM components, but they aren’t. LKQ is an insurance term that stands for “used, recycled, or aftermarket parts that are comparable to OEM components.” That doesn’t mean they are the same or even approved by vehicle manufacturers. In many cases, LKQ parts come from salvaged vehicles or an unaffiliated third-party manufacturer.

 

Now here’s the issue with LKQ parts: there’s no guarantee that these pieces fit or function as they should. LKQ parts may not meet the same standards as OEM components or be made with the same materials.

 

Why LKQ Parts Can Be Risky

Like Kind and Quality parts can perform acceptably, but there is no telling which ones will do the job from those that will negatively impact your vehicle’s performance. Here are four reasons why LKQ parts can be risky:

 

  1. Fit and alignment issues: Even small dimensional differences can affect how panels, bumpers, or safety sensors align.
  2. Material variations: Non-OEM metal or plastic can be thinner, weaker, or more prone to corrosion.
  3. No warranty from the automaker: Most vehicle manufacturers will not honor warranties if non-OEM parts are installed.
  4. Possible ADAS interference: Many LKQ parts are not tested or certified for vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which can lead to calibration failures.

 

Why OEM Parts Are the Safer Choice

So why are OEM parts better than LKQ parts? Why should you ask for OEM over LKQ? Not are parts are created equal in the automobile world. OEM parts are made by the manufacturer of your vehicle. They are also designed, tested, and certified by said manufacturer, making OEM parts the standard. Therefore, if you want your vehicle returned to its pre-accident condition, OEM parts are the best choice, as they meet all safety standards and restore structural integrity.

 

OEM components are priceless when it comes to critical systems, like airbag sensors, bumpers, structural frames, and ADAS pieces. When you get these as OEM parts, you know you’re getting components made with your vehicle’s exact make and model in mind. No guesswork. No mistakes.

 

What To Do When Your Insurer Insists on Like Kind and Quality Parts

In New Jersey, you have the right to request OEM parts for your auto repair. Your insurer, however, may insist on LKQ parts. They tend to do this to bring the cost of the repairs down for themselves.

 

Keep the following in mind:

 

  • Ask for transparency. Request a detailed list of parts being used, including whether they’re OEM, aftermarket, or recycled.
  • Review your insurance policy. Some policies allow for OEM parts, especially if you purchased an OEM parts endorsement.
  • Request a supplement. If an LKQ part doesn’t fit properly, your repair shop can request insurer approval to replace it with an OEM part.
  • Document everything. Keep photos, estimates, and all correspondence with your insurer and repair shop.
  • Choose your repair facility. You are not required to use an insurer’s Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop. Elmer’s Auto Body works for you, not the insurance company, and we also only use OEM parts.

 

Pro Tip

Even if your insurer pushes for LKQ parts, you can often negotiate OEM replacements for critical safety components. Always ask your repair facility to identify any non-OEM parts before installation. Once they’re installed, it’s much harder to prove they’re causing problems.

 

FAQs

Are LKQ parts the same as OEM?
No. LKQ parts are used or aftermarket components meant to mimic OEM ones but may not meet the same standards.

Can I refuse LKQ parts?
Yes, though it depends on your policy. You can request OEM parts or add an OEM endorsement for future coverage.

Will OEM parts cost more?
Usually, yes — but they restore your vehicle to factory condition, protecting your safety and long-term value.

 

Avoid LKQ Parts By Choosing Elmer’s Auto Body

While Like Kind and Quality parts may function properly, you don’t want to take a risk when it comes to your vehicle’s performance and safety. Make sure you’re getting OEM parts for all auto body repairs. The first step is asking your insurance company. Next, choose a South Jersey collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body. We’ve been in business since 1947 and have always used OEM. We’re here for you, not the insurance companies.

 

Protect Your Vehicle with the Right Parts

Don’t settle for less than OEM-quality repairs. Elmer’s Auto Body ensures your vehicle is restored to factory standards — safely, precisely, and without compromise.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

Can You Demand OEM Safety Components After a Collision?

An image of a car engine with OEM safety components installed correctly

Not every replacement part is made equally. That may sound like an exaggeration, but it’s the truth. Insurance companies attempt to save money on repairing your vehicle by authorizing aftermarket or used parts and safety components. Unfortunately, those savings can also come at a cost to your safety. It’s not worth the risk. Critical components, like your airbags and ADAS sensors, shouldn’t come secondhand. That’s why you need to request OEM safety components when getting your vehicle repaired.

 

Let’s take a look at OEM safety components, why they are important, and what your rights are when dealing with your insurance company.

 

Key Takeaways

  • OEM safety components are made by your vehicle’s manufacturer to meet crash-tested standards.
  • Aftermarket or recycled parts may not provide the same fit, strength, or protection.
  • New Jersey drivers have the right to request OEM parts in repairs, especially for safety systems.
  • Insurance companies may default to cheaper alternatives, but you can challenge their estimate.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body ensures repairs meet OEM standards for safety, structure, and performance.

 

What Are OEM Safety Components?

OEM means “Original Equipment Manufacturer,” which refers to parts made by the manufacturer that made your vehicle. So if you have Toyota, you get OEM parts from Toyota. OEM parts are designed to match your vehicle’s specifications. Not only do they fit better, but they perform just as the manufacturer intended, meaning there’s no risk of a negative impact to performance or safety.

 

Examples of OEM safety components include:

 

  • Airbags and crash sensors
  • Seatbelts
  • ADAS sensors, including collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane assist
  • Steering and suspension components
  • Structural frame reinforcements
  • Crumple zones

 

In modern vehicles, these safety systems are designed to be all-encompassing. If one part isn’t performing as it should, the entire system is slowed down. Your car may react differently, or certain safety systems may not deploy accurately, should something other than OEM safety components be used.

 

Why Do OEM Safety Components Matter?

Aftermarket safety components may not seem like a big deal. However, in order to function properly, vehicles today need every piece calibrated properly. Minor variations in the fit of one piece could throw off how the entire vehicle behaves.

 

OEM safety components ensure:

 

  • Proper fit and function. OEM parts are designed by the manufacturer to fit the exact dimensions of your vehicle.
  • Crash-tested reliability. OEM parts are tested within the vehicle to ensure everything functions as it should. Aftermarket pieces are not.
  • Consistent sensor alignment. ADAS and electronic safety components need to be installed and calibrated to exacting standards. Without that, the systems may not work.
  • Full restoration of crash protection. Your vehicle is returned to pre-accident condition when OEM parts are installed.

 

Aftermarket parts may be cheaper, but they don’t always meet certain standards. Some parts may also rust faster or be ill-fitting, causing gaps that compromise your vehicle’s safety.

 

Can You Request OEM Safety Components From Your Insurance?

Yes, you can and should.

 

Here’s the thing, you have a right to request OEM parts as a New Jersey resident. For safety systems, OEM parts are vital to a correct repair. However, many insurance companies will write estimates using cheaper aftermarket or LKQ—like kind and quality—parts to save money on their end.

 

You don’t have to accept that. If you want OEM safety components for your auto repair, do the following:

 

  1. Notify your repair shop that you want OEM safety components installed.
  2. Ask your insurer to amend the repair estimate to reflect OEM parts.
  3. Request documentation showing the safety standards of any proposed aftermarket parts.
  4. Choose your repair shop—you’re not required to use the insurer’s preferred provider (DRP).

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we can help you negotiate for OEM parts, since that’s all that we use. We’re not a DRP. We’re an auto body repair shop that has been around since 1947.

 

Can an Insurance Company Refuse Your Request?

In some circumstances, an insurance company can refuse to provide your with OEM safety components. This may happen if your vehicle was totaled.

 

You can do the following to challenge their refusal:

 

  • Pay the difference. You can elect to pay out-of-pocket for OEM components.
  • Use manufacturer warranties. If your vehicle is still under warranty, OEM parts are required to maintain its validity. Mention this when negotiating with your insurance company.
  • File a dispute. You can formally challenge an insurer’s decision through New Jersey’s Department of Banking and Insurance or with your state’s consumer protection agency.
  • Document everything. While this one won’t necessarily prevent a disagreement, it can better essay your claim. Take photos of the damages and also have a reputable auto body repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body take photos, measurements, and estimates to support your case.

 

FAQs

Can I insist on OEM parts if my car is still under warranty?
Yes. Many vehicle warranties require that OEM parts be used for repairs to keep the warranty valid.

Will my insurance cover OEM safety components?
It depends on your policy. Some insurers only cover OEM parts for newer vehicles or when specified in your policy.

Do aftermarket safety parts pass crash testing?
Not always. Unlike OEM parts, most aftermarket components aren’t tested as part of the full vehicle system, which can reduce crash protection.

Can Elmer’s Auto Body help if my insurer denies OEM parts?
Yes. Our team works directly with insurers to advocate for OEM replacements and ensure all repairs meet safety standards.

 

Choose Elmer’s Auto Body for OEM Safety Components and Repairs

Now that you know that you can request OEM safety components for your vehicle during repairs, it’s time to find a repair shop to do just that. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have decades of experience advocating for our clients. We also know how to restore vehicles to their pre-accident condition. Our auto body repair shops in South Jersey are certified by multiple manufacturers, and we always use OEM parts for every project.

Schedule Your OEM-Safe Repair With Elmer’s Auto Body

When your vehicle’s safety is on the line, don’t settle for less than factory-quality repairs. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we use OEM safety components and advanced repair techniques to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition—safely and reliably.

Serving drivers across Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington Counties, our team is here to help you navigate your insurance claim and ensure your vehicle’s integrity from start to finish.

Schedule Your Estimate Today

Top 6 Signs Your Car Wasn’t Repaired Right (And What to Do About It)

This older car wasn't repaired right and is now back in the auto body repair shop

After an accident, you want to have your car back in one piece. Taking your vehicle to an auto body repair shop should bring about some peace of mind. Unfortunately, not every collision repair shop is equipped to do repairs the right way. If your car wasn’t repaired correctly the first time, you may be left with ongoing issues that deteriorate the safety and performance of your vehicle. Here are the 6 top signs your car wasn’t repaired right, as well as what to do about it.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Uneven paint or dull, mismatched colors often signal rushed prep or poor paint-matching.
  • Strange noises after repair can indicate loose fasteners, poor alignment, or unfinished work.
  • Steering pull or unstable handling suggests missed alignment or suspension corrections.
  • Persistent warning lights usually point to skipped diagnostics or improper ADAS recalibration.
  • Panel gaps, misaligned doors, or unresponsive safety features are strong signs of incomplete repairs.

 

Uneven Paint or Mismatched Colors

Quality repairs should leave your car looking like it was never damaged. Therefore, if you notice sections that look lighter or darker or duller, something is wrong. Usually, this is an indication that the shop didn’t use the right paint-matching techniques or equipment. You may even see overspray, bubbling, or rough textures, all of which are signs of poor application. While this may seem like a cosmetic problem, it can also reveal that the entire repair process was rushed.

 

Strange Noises When Driving

When your car makes unusual sounds after a repair, it’s a sign something isn’t right. Clunks, squeaks, or rattling noises may come from improperly tightened bolts, missing clips, or parts that weren’t correctly aligned during reassembly. Even subtle noises should never be ignored, as they often point to underlying issues such as suspension misalignment or loose structural components. Left unaddressed, these problems can worsen over time and compromise your vehicle’s safety.

 

Steering Feels Off

A vehicle feeling “off” after repairs is never a good sign. If you leave the auto body repair shop and notice that your car is pulling to one side or gets wobbly at higher speeds, something is wrong. Your vehicle may be misaligned or the suspension could be improperly installed. Poor steering is dangerous, since the damages causing the issue can stem from frame or structural components. In an emergency, even the slightest misalignment can change how your car responds.

 

Warning Lights Stay On

Modern vehicles rely on dozens of sensors that monitor everything from airbag readiness to ADAS systems. If you notice a check engine light, airbag warning, or other dashboard alerts that weren’t present before, it could mean your repair shop failed to reset or recalibrate the affected systems. Ignoring these warning lights not only puts your safety at risk but can also prevent critical features, such as airbags or braking assistance, from working properly when you need them most.

 

Panel Gaps and Uneven Fit

Another sign your car wasn’t repaired right? Body panels, doors, and bumpers that aren’t consistently spaced. Large or uneven gaps, crooked panels, and doors and trunks that don’t easily close point to poor repairs. Again, this is a problem that is more than cosmetic. Panels, doors, and bumpers that have gaps or fit unevenly are a sign that you have frame damage, which weakens the performance and safety of your vehicle.

 

Safety Features Unresponsive

Modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which includes lane departure warnings, forward collision alerts, and adaptive cruise control. If these features don’t work the way they did before the accident, it means the shop didn’t recalibrate the systems. Sensors and cameras may also be out of place.

 

You want these systems to be reliable, since they make driving safer. However, proper ADAS calibration requires specialized equipment and training, and it’s something every collision repair should include before returning your car to the road.

 

Pro Tip

Do a focused test drive within 24–48 hours of pickup: straight-line tracking, gentle/brisk braking, low-speed turns, highway speeds, and ADAS checks (cruise, lane assist, parking sensors).
If anything feels off, stop driving and document with photos/videos. Ask the shop for proof of procedures—alignment printout, pre/post scan reports, and ADAS calibration certificates.

 

What to Do if You Suspect That Your Car Wasn’t Repaired Right

If you notice any of the 6 signs, there are steps you can take to get the issues repaired for real. Do the following:

 

  • Document the problems. Take photos, videos, and notes of anything unusual.
  • Contact the repair shop. Reputable shops should address your concerns and offer to fix the problem.
  • Seek a second opinion. Another certified collision repair center, like Elmer’s Auto Body, can re-inspect your vehicle and verify whether the work was completed properly.
  • Don’t wait. Driving a car that wasn’t repaired right can put your safety at risk. Get the issue checked out as soon as possible.

 

FAQs

How soon should I bring the car back if something seems wrong?
Immediately. New noises, pulling, warning lights, or ADAS issues should be checked right away to protect safety and prevent additional damage.

Can a shop fix poor repairs done elsewhere?
Yes. A certified collision center can perform a post-repair inspection, document deficiencies, and create a corrective repair plan.

Do I have to pay again if the original shop made mistakes?
Many shops warranty their work—start there. If you switch shops, your insurer may cover corrective repairs if they’re related to the original claim and properly documented.

What proof should I request after collision repairs?
Alignment specs, pre/post diagnostic scan reports, ADAS calibration results, parts invoices (OEM vs. aftermarket), and a detailed final bill of materials/labor.

Is it safe to drive if warning lights are on after repair?
Not recommended. Airbag, ABS, or ADAS alerts can signal critical safety functions are offline. Get the vehicle scanned and inspected before continued use.

Will Elmer’s Auto Body provide a second opinion?
Absolutely. We offer post-repair inspections for South Jersey drivers and can supply written findings to support warranty claims or insurer reviews.

 

Car Wasn’t Repaired Right? Contact a Highly-Rated Auto Body Repair Shop in South Jersey Today

If you took your car to get repaired and there are signs that the job wasn’t done correctly, don’t stand for it. Uneven paint, gaps between panels, or sounds while driving are never acceptable. It’s also not safe. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we don’t just “patch up” vehicles—we restore them to factory standards. With advanced technology, certified technicians, and decades of experience serving South Jersey drivers, we ensure every repair is done the right way the first time. From structural straightening to ADAS recalibration, your safety is always the top priority.

 

If you need poor repairs from another auto body shop repaired, give Elmer’s Auto Body a call. We have three convenient locations in South Jersey. Fill out the contact form to request an appointment to have your vehicle evaluated.

Insurance Totaled Your Car—But You Disagree. Now What?

Insurance totaled this blue Mazda, but the owner disagrees.

You didn’t think the accident was that bad, but insurance totaled your car. Hearing that your vehicle is “totaled” may be a total shock. After all, if your vehicle still looks drivable, or if you’ve invested hours and a lot of money in its condition, then you may also think your car shouldn’t be considered a total loss. The good news is that you have options if you disagree with your insurance company.

 

Here’s what South Jersey drivers need to know about insurance total-loss decisions—and what you can do if you disagree.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Insurance companies may total your car if repairs exceed its actual cash value, even if it still looks drivable.
  • South Jersey drivers can dispute total-loss decisions by reviewing the valuation, gathering evidence, and negotiating.
  • Independent appraisals can strengthen your case when challenging an insurer’s payout.
  • You may choose to repair your car under a salvage title, but professional repairs are essential for safety.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body provides factory-standard repairs and guidance to help you make the best decision.

 

What Does It Mean When Insurance Totaled Your Car?

If insurance totaled your car, it means that the cost of repairs when added to the salvage value was greater than the actual cash value (ACV). Insurance companies calculate the ACV based on your car’s age, mileage, pre-accident condition, and current market value.

 

In other words, even if you think your car is repairable, the insurer totaled it because it’s not financially practical to fix it.

 

Why You Might Disagree with the Insurance Company

Hearing the insurance totaled your car may not seem fair. In fact, there are several reasons South Jersey drivers like yours may push back against a total-loss determination:

 

  • You recently invested in new tires, brakes, or major repairs that increase the vehicle’s value.
  • Your car is rare, customized, or in above-average condition.
  • The insurer’s valuation doesn’t reflect the true local market price for your vehicle.
  • You simply want your car repaired instead of replaced.

 

What You Can Do If You Disagree

If you disagree with the fact that insurance totaled your car, there are some steps you can take:

 

1. Review the Valuation

Obtain a copy of the valuation report. You can request one from your insurance provider. Look at how they determined your car’s value, including the mileage, condition, and comparable sales in your region.

 

2. Gather Your Evidence

Collect receipts, service records, and documentation of upgrades or recent repairs. Research local listings for similar vehicles to demonstrate fair market value. You will need to present this information to have the determination reconsidered.

 

3. Get an Independent Appraisal

Hiring an independent appraiser can give you a professional second opinion. This report may carry weight if you appeal the insurance company’s decision.

 

4. Negotiate with Your Insurance Company

Present your evidence and the independent appraisal to the insurance company and ask them to rethink the total-loss determination. Insurance companies may rethink their settlement if the documentation you provide is strong enough.

 

5. Consider Other Options

If insurance totaled your car and sticks with that determination, you may need to take another road. You can request to keep your vehicle under a “salvage title,” which will require you to pay for the repairs by yourself. If you choose this route, it’s important to have the repairs done by a professional auto collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body. That way, you know your vehicle will be safe and compliant with inspection requirements.

 

Pro Tip

If you’re negotiating with your insurance company, focus on providing hard evidence—like receipts, service records, and comparable South Jersey vehicle listings. The more documentation you present, the stronger your case will be.

 

If Insurance Totaled Your Car, Get Professional Repairs Done

Professional repairs are important, especially if insurance totaled your car. Structural repairs, frame straightening, and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) recalibrations require state-of-the-art tools and certified technicians. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we restore vehicles to factory standards so you can drive with confidence again.

 

FAQs

What does it mean if my car has a salvage title?
A salvage title means your vehicle was declared a total loss by insurance but has been repaired. It can be driven legally if it passes state inspections, though resale value is typically lower.

Can I keep my car if insurance totals it?
Yes. You can often buy back the vehicle from the insurance company and choose to repair it yourself.

Is it safe to repair a totaled car?
It depends on the damage. Repairs should always be handled by a trusted collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body to ensure safety and proper structural restoration.

 

Repair Your Car at an Auto Body Repair Shop Like Elmer’s Auto Body

If insurance totaled your car, that doesn’t always mean you have to accept it. In New Jersey, you have the right to review the decision, present evidence, and explore other repair options if your insurance company doesn’t change their mind.

 

If you decide to keep and repair your vehicle, trust a collision repair center that puts safety and precision first. Elmer’s Auto Body has proudly served South Jersey drivers for decades, helping families navigate tough repair and insurance decisions. Contact one of our three South Jersey locations today to discuss your options and get your vehicle evaluated by our team.

How Elmer’s Auto Body Ensures Your ADAS Is Recalibrated Properly

A woman in an SUV drives knowing that her ADAS was recalibrated

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are standard in most modern vehicles these days. Furthermore, ADAS do far more than you may realize. Features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control all rely on sensitive cameras, sensors, and radar. That’s why it’s so important to discuss ADAS recalibration with your trusted collision repair center. You need to know that the systems have been checked and recalibrated the right way.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we take ADAS recalibration seriously because your safety depends on it.

 

Key Takeaways

  • ADAS systems like lane assist and automatic braking rely on precise calibration to function correctly.
  • Collision damage—even minor—can misalign sensors, cameras, and radars, making recalibration critical.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body follows OEM guidelines for safe, accurate recalibration of all ADAS systems.
  • We serve South Jersey drivers in Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties with advanced diagnostic tools and certified equipment.
  • A recalibrated system helps ensure your vehicle’s safety features are dependable and fully functional post-repair.

 

What Is ADAS Recalibration?

ADAS recalibration is a process of realigning your vehicle’s cameras, sensors, and radars to manufacturer specifications. These components are typically located in:

 

  • Windshields (camera-based lane assist)
  • Front and rear bumpers (cruise and collision warnings)
  • Side mirrors (blind spot detection)
  • Grilles and emblems (adaptive braking systems)

 

Even a minor fender bender can knock these systems out of alignment. If they aren’t recalibrated properly, they may give false alerts—or worse, fail to activate when you need them most.

 

💡 Pro Tip

If your windshield, bumper, or suspension has been repaired or replaced, ask for an ADAS recalibration—even if your insurance company doesn’t mention it. Skipping it could disable key safety features without any warning lights.

 

Why ADAS Recalibration Is Crucial After a Collision

After a collision, no matter how minor, you should immediately seek to get your ADAS recalibrated. Here are some reasons to do so:

 

  • Structural shifts: Even minor frame misalignments can throw off radar and camera angles.
  • Windshield replacements: Many ADAS cameras are mounted behind the windshield. Replacing it requires recalibration.
  • Bumper repairs or replacements: Sensors embedded in bumpers can easily be knocked out of alignment or damaged.
  • Suspension work or wheel alignment: Even adjustments to your suspension can change the angle and reach of ADAS sensors.

 

Driving without recalibration could mean relying on safety systems that aren’t actually working, putting you and others on the road at risk.

 

How Elmer’s Auto Body Handles ADAS Recalibration

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have technicians who understand the importance of ADAS recalibration. We ensure that every system is precisely and thoroughly recalibrated during our manufacturer-approved repair procedures. You can expect the following from us:

 

ADAS Diagnostics

Before repairs begin, we carefully inspect your vehicle to identify any hidden damage, including faulty ADAS codes.

 

OEM Procedures

We only use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and guidelines during our repairs to ensure recalibration is done according to factory specs. No guesswork here.

 

Certified Equipment and Technicians

We’re equipped with the latest technology to recalibrate ADAS systems, whether it’s static (in-shop) or dynamic (road-tested calibration). Our technicians follow strict training protocols for accuracy.

 

Post-Repair Testing

After we’ve completed repairs and recalibration, we don’t wipe our hands of the project just yet. We run a second diagnostic check to test the systems in real-world conditions. Before you leave one of our three locations in South Jersey, we want to ensure you’re going to be safe.

 

Clear Documentation

We’re accustomed to working alongside insurance companies and providing documentation. When you come to pick up your vehicle, we give you documents that include OEM specs and scan reports. You’ll feel confident your systems are working as intended.

 

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About ADAS Recalibration

Do I need recalibration even after a minor accident?

Yes. Even a low-speed bump can misalign sensitive ADAS components like radar sensors or cameras. A diagnostic scan can confirm if recalibration is needed.

Will insurance cover the cost of ADAS recalibration?

In most cases, yes—if it’s related to a covered collision repair. Elmer’s Auto Body works with insurers to include this in the claim when required by OEM procedures.

What happens if I skip ADAS recalibration?

Your vehicle’s safety systems may fail silently—no warnings, no alerts—leaving you unprotected in an emergency.

How long does recalibration take?

Depending on your vehicle and system type, it may take a few hours to a full day. We’ll let you know in advance and update you during the process.

Can I drive my car before it’s recalibrated?

We recommend against it. Until recalibration is complete, your ADAS systems may give false readings—or not work at all.

What’s the difference between static and dynamic recalibration?

Static calibration is performed in-shop using special targets; dynamic calibration requires road testing. Some vehicles need both. We follow OEM guidelines for your exact model.

Does Elmer’s Auto Body recalibrate all vehicle makes?

Yes. Our technicians use manufacturer-approved tools and procedures for all major brands, including Ford, Toyota, Honda, GM, and luxury imports.

How can I be sure it was done right?

We provide post-repair diagnostic reports and real-time test results to confirm your ADAS systems are working as intended.

 

Safety First: Get Those ADAS Systems Recalibrated at Elmer’s Auto Body

If you’ve had an accident anywhere in South Jersey, don’t assume that a visual repair is enough. Without proper recalibration, even a “fully repaired” car can leave you vulnerable on the road.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we don’t just fix what’s visible. We go further to make sure your vehicle is safe to return to the road. If your vehicle’s been in a collision—even a small one—contact Elmer’s Auto Body for a full ADAS evaluation and recalibration. We’re here to help South Jersey drivers drive with confidence, not uncertainty. Schedule your appointment today by filling out our online form or by calling one of our three South Jersey locations.