Author: VTaylor

Are There Any Authorized Honda Body Shops In My Area?

Getting into an accident is a terrible experience, particularly when your precious Honda has been damaged. There are many shops out there who claim to be able to do the repairs, but are they a certified Honda collision center? You may be wondering, “Are there any authorized Honda body shops in my area?” The answer is yes, there are. Certified Honda body shops exist throughout the US, and they are also one of the best places to have your Honda repaired after an accident. Let’s discuss why Authorized Honda Body Shops are the ideal choice for collision repair, as well as how to find them in your region.

What is an Authorized Honda Body Shop?

Otherwise known as a Honda Certified Collision Repair Center, an authorized Honda Body Shop is a specialized repair center that has met specific criteria set by Honda. The criteria is designed to provide the facility and technicians working there with techniques and knowledge required to thoroughly repair Honda vehicles. In other words, an authorized Honda Body Shop is where you go when you want your Honda restored to its original condition after a collision or accident.

Here are some things to know about Honda Certified Collision Repair Centers:

Expertise. Honda Certified shops are required to maintain a high level of competence and expertise. Honda requires such facilities to earn an I-CAR Gold
Class Professional® ranking or Dekra verification. I-CAR Gold Class Professionals are recognized as having the highest level of training in the collision repair industry, ensuring that the technicians working on your vehicle are well-trained and knowledgeable.
Honda-Specific Knowledge. The technicians employed at an authorized Honda Body Shop must undergo specific training provided by Honda. This training gives the technicians the skills needed to fully repair a Honda vehicle, as well as up-to-date technology and repair techniques.
High Standard. Honda Certified shops are required to maintain a clean and professional workspace, both in the customer lounge area and the repair shop itself.
Annual Inspection. Honda conducts annual inspections of all Honda Certified shops through a third-party organization. The inspections are used to ensure that every shop is upholding Honda’s repair standards and has the proper equipment.

Why Should You Take Your Car to an Authorized Honda Body Shop?

Taking your car to an authorized Honda Body Shop, specifically a Honda OEM Certified Shop like Elmer’s Auto Body in Southern New Jersey, is essential for several important reasons, especially in the context of today’s advanced vehicles:

New Technology: Many modern vehicles—Hondas included—come with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to make driving safer. Lane assist, blindspot detection, backup cameras, and forward collision warnings are all very useful but also require skill to repair. If these systems are repaired incorrectly or with outdated methods, there may be unintended consequences that compromise the vehicle’s safety and functionality.
ADAS Calibration: ADAS systems require precise calibration and rewiring after certain types of repairs. Failing to do so correctly can impair the functionality of these safety features, putting you at risk on the road.
OEM Parts: OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer,” and using OEM parts is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s safety and performance. These parts are designed specifically for your car’s make and model, ensuring the highest quality and compatibility. Honda OEM Certified Shops use genuine Honda parts to ensure your vehicle’s integrity.
Manufacturer Guidelines: Honda, like other car manufacturers, releases specific repair guidelines and position statements for their vehicles. Honda Certified Collision Repair Centers adhere to these guidelines precisely, ensuring that your car is repaired to factory specifications.
Warranty and Resale Value: Having your Honda repaired at an authorized shop will preserve the factory warranties. If improper repairs take place, those warranties will be voided. Furthermore, going to a certified body shop helps retain the resale value of the vehicle, since the repairs will be undetectable.

How Do You Find an Authorized Honda Body Shop?

Did you know that out of all the body shops in the US, only 4% of those are a Honda Certified Collision Repair Center? So, you could attempt to search for an authorized body shop with Google. If you are in New Jersey, Elmer’s Auto Body is bound to pop up. However, if your search is not yielding any results for whatever reason, head on over to Honda’s website, My Garage, and search for collision repair. The website will use your current location to find authorized body shops within a set distance. From there, you simply need to schedule an appointment to have your Honda repaired.

Looking for an Authorized Honda Body Shop in South Jersey?

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Are there any authorized Honda body shops in my area?” the answer is yes. Honda has partnered with numerous body shops, making them authorized in Honda repairs. Choosing one of these Honda Certified Collision Repair Centers is essential for ensuring the proper repair of your beloved Honda, especially in today’s technologically advanced vehicles.

Does your Honda need repairs after an accident? Bring it to one of the three Elmer’s Auto Body locations in South Jersey. Our Honda-certified facility has achieved I-CAR Gold Class status and employs some of the most technicians around. Trust us to deliver expert, reliable service at an affordable price. Give us a call today or fill out the contact form to schedule your appointment.

Understanding the Importance of Certifications for Auto Body Shops in NJ

Knowing the difference between the different types of certifications will be very beneficial to you being able to make the correct choice on where to take your vehicle. In this article we will break down the different types of certification and help you choose where it is best to take your vehicle.

What Are The Different Types of Certifications?

Let’s take a look at the various certifications auto body repair shops can hold in New Jersey.

ASE Certifications

ASE, short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, is a trusted non-profit organization that sets the bar for excellence in vehicle repair. Their rigorous testing and certification methods ensure that auto professionals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide top-notch services to customers. When you see technicians with ASE certifications, you can rest assured that you are in good hands.

These certified professionals have gone through two years of training while working, or have completed a one-year automotive repair degree and one year of work experience. This means that they have a solid foundation and practical experience in the field. The process of becoming ASE certified involves technicians applying to take one or more of the 40+ certification tests available, covering a wide range of specializations such as collision repair, automobiles, trucks, and school buses, among others.

These tests are designed to assess the technician’s competence and proficiency in their chosen field. Thanks to ASE, consumers, auto shops, and technicians are protected from any guesswork in auto repair. So the next time you need professional auto services, look for the ASE certification and trust that your vehicle is in capable hands. Here at Elmer’s Auto Body, all our technicians proudly hold ASE certifications to serve you with the highest quality of workmanship.

I-Car Certifications

I-Car, an acronym for Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repairs, is a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safer auto repairs. With the rapid advancement of technology in the automotive industry, it is crucial for technicians to stay updated and well-trained on repair techniques. That’s where I-Car steps in, providing a range of specialized training programs and certifications for technicians and other professionals in the auto repair community.

From welding training to reparability technical support and an introduction to collision repair services, I-Car covers a wide variety of classes across different categories. These courses are regularly updated to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of the auto repair industry. Additionally, shops can earn their own I-Car programs, such as the prestigious Gold Class or Platinum Class certifications. These signify that all structural technicians must meet Gold class standards and at least 50% of estimators, refinishers, and non-structural technicians must also be trained to these standards. This means that the shop has made a commitment to excellence in training and delivering high-quality repairs to their customers. In order to maintain these standards, shop technicians must complete a number of additional training requirements every year.

This ensures that they are up to date with the latest repair techniques and equipped to handle any job that comes their way. Ultimately, I-Car sets the benchmark for excellence in auto repair training, and their certifications serve as a testament to a shop’s commitment to providing top-notch repairs and ensuring the safety of their customers on the road.

Dealer Certifications

It’s important to choose an auto body shop that has the proper certifications in place. These certifications show that the shop has been approved by the vehicle manufacturer to handle repairs on their specific cars. Being certified by the manufacturer means that the shop has met and surpassed high standards for quality and precision in repairs. To maintain this status, the shop must use specific tools and have technicians trained to the vehicle’s exact specifications. Additionally, dealerships often require the use of OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts for repairs, ensuring the best fit and quality for your vehicle. So, when searching for an auto collision repair shop, it’s crucial to pick one that has received the stamp of approval from your car’s brand. This not only guarantees top-notch repairs but also supports the longevity and performance of your vehicle.

Why is Certification Important?

Auto manufacturing and repair have evolved significantly. In the past, an auto body shop was successful solely based on its excellent customer service and reputation. However, times have changed, and customers have become more informed and demanding. They now understand the value of additional certifications when it comes to choosing the right shop for their vehicle.

While customer service and a good reputation remain crucial, these factors alone are not enough. Customers want to ensure that their car is in the best and most capable hands. This is where OEM certification shines. It assures customers that the technicians working on their vehicle are highly trained and qualified. Moreover, this certification also guarantees a superior repair, which ultimately leads to satisfied customers and a trustworthy reputation for the shop.

But why is certification so important? It’s simple. It demonstrates the shop’s commitment to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards.

This dedication translates into providing customers with the highest quality repairs and services. By going above and beyond to achieve OEM certification, a shop is not only gaining the trust of its customers but also securing their satisfaction and loyalty. So, in today’s competitive auto market, certification is the key to gaining a competitive edge and sustaining a successful business.

How Can Elmer’s Auto Body Help You Today?

Deciding on the best place to take your car for repairs can be a daunting task, but keeping an eye out for certifications can help. Be sure to look for auto body repair shops in NJ that have I-CAR and ASE certifications, as well as good ratings and reviews. With these helpful tools, you can confidently choose the right place to take your vehicle!

If you need any repairs to your vehicle call in at Elmer’s Auto Body today. The team at our auto body repair shop in South Jersey are ready to repair your car back to its original form using quality parts and skilled labor. Give one of our locations a call to schedule an appointment or send us a message using the contact form.

Why You Can Trust Hyundai Certified Technicians For Your Body Shop Needs

When the unexpected happens and your Hyundai ends up in a collision, you want to make sure that your vehicle receives the best repairs possible. That is why you should take you Hyundai to a Recognized Auto Body Shop, where the technicians have been certified to work on your vehicle. Hyundai launched a Certified Collision Repair Program back in 2015, and since then, they have been giving Hyundai owners throughout America a reason to smile. But if you are still wondering why you can trust Hyundai certified technicians for your body shop needs, this article will give you those reasons.

What is a Hyundai Recognized Auto Body Shop?

In the world of auto repairs and collision services, not all repair facilities are created equal. Hyundai Recognized Auto Body Shops are a select group of repair centers that have earned a distinctive endorsement from Hyundai. To achieve the coveted “Hyundai Recognized” status, these auto body shops must meet and exceed specific requirements. This includes adhering to Assured Performance Network’s CORE standards and fulfilling Hyundai’s unique criteria for quality and performance.

Furthermore, Hyundai Recognized Auto Body Shops have direct access to Hyundai’s comprehensive resources, which includes repair procedures, technical information, and the latest updates. This access ensures that repairs are executed precisely according to Hyundai’s stringent manufacturer specifications, preserving your vehicle’s integrity and safety.

In short, the technicians who undergo the training program return to the auto body shop fully equipped with specialty knowledge, ensuring that they can tackle whatever problem your Hyundai needs repaired.

Why You Can Trust a Hyundai Certified Technician

Now that you know what is required of a Hyundai Recognized Auto Body shop, let’s discuss in greater detail why the technicians are trustworthy.

Manufacturer Expertise

In order for technicians to pass the training program to become certified, they must gain an intimate knowledge of all Hyundai vehicles. This means that they understand the intricacies of old and new models, including the engineering involved. Thus, the technicians can guarantee that every repair made is done with precision and to manufacturer specifications.

Access to OEM Resources

Hyundai certified technicians and the Recognized Auto Body Shops they work in have direct access Hyundai’s repair procedures and technical information. Not only that, they will also repair your vehicle with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. This is crucial for maintaining the fit, finish, functionality, value, and safety of your Hyundai.

Exceptional Standards

Hyundai certified technicians are held to a higher standard than most. In order to achieve their status, they must also have qualifications. The facilities where these skilled technicians work must also hold the prestigious I-CAR Gold Class designation.

For those who are unaware, to achieve I-CAR Gold Class, a collision repair facility must demonstrate a high level of commitment to ongoing training and education for its technicians. The technicians must undergo ongoing training to stay current with the latest industry advancements, repair techniques, and vehicle technologies. This ensures that the repair work performed at these facilities is up-to-date and meets industry best practices.

Additionally, the Gold Class certification is a mark of excellence, indicating that a collision repair facility is dedicated to delivering high-quality repairs that prioritize safety, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

In other words, you can trust that the technicians will do everything they can to provide the best repairs and restore your car to its pre-accident condition.

Will Repairs From a Hyundai Certified Technician Help Retain Value?

Yes, your car will retain much of its resale value even after an accident if you take it to a Hyundai Recognized Auto Body Shop. There are a couple of reasons for this, including:

Proper Diagnostic Equipment: Certified Technicians have access to Hyundai’s diagnostic equipment and tools, which can accurately identify and address issues in your vehicle. This can lead to quicker and more precise repairs, reducing the risk of further damage and preserving the vehicle’s value.
Adherence to Manufacturer Specifications: Hyundai Certified Technicians follow manufacturer specifications and repair procedures. This ensures that repairs are carried out to the highest standards, maintaining the vehicle’s safety features, structural integrity, and performance characteristics.
Record-Keeping: Certified Technicians often keep detailed records of repairs and maintenance performed on your vehicle. Having a comprehensive service history can significantly boost the resale value of your Hyundai, as it provides proof of proper care and maintenance.
Warranty Preservation: If your Hyundai is still under warranty, having repairs performed by a Certified Technician ensures that your warranty remains intact. This can be a significant selling point when you decide to sell or trade in your vehicle.

Trust Your Local Hyundai Recognized Auto Body Shop With Repairs

Repairs carried out by a Hyundai Certified Technician on your vehicle is one of the best decisions you can make. With their relevant training, access to OEM parts, and ongoing education, the Hyundai Certified Technicians at your local Hyundai Recognized Auto Body Shop, like Elmer’s Auto Body, are more than capable of repairs. They will turn back the clock on the damage done to your vehicle, restoring it to how it was prior to the accident.

If your Hyundai car, truck, or SUV is in need of repairs, bring it into Elmer’s Auto Body. With our three convenient locations in South Jersey, we are your go-to for Hyundai repairs. Our team has been certified by Hyundai and also holds the prestigious I-CAR Gold Class designation. Give us a call today or fill out the contact form to set up your appointment. Let’s get your car back on the road.

The Importance of Choosing a Subaru-Certified Body Shop: Ensuring Quality Repairs

Getting into a collision with your Subaru is nerve-wracking from start to finish. Not only is your vehicle damaged, but now you have to find a reputable auto body shop in South Jersey to do those repairs. The good news is that you can take your Subaru to a Subaru-certified body shop to receive superior repairs that turn back the clock and make your car as it was before the accident. Let’s take a look at what a Subaru-certified body shop does and why choosing one is essential.

What is a Subaru-Certified Body Shop?

An auto body repair shop becomes a Subaru-certified body shop once the technicians have completed a special training program, known as the Certified Collision Care Center Program.

A shop that has completed Subaru’s program will guarantee top-quality repairs for your vehicle. Furthermore, the program ensures that collision repair centers throughout North America have all the necessary tools, equipment, training, and facilities to fix Subaru vehicles in accordance with the manufacturer’s standards.

These elements are essential for achieving the best finish, durability, functionality, and safety of your Subaru, while also providing you with great value for your money. No matter where you are in the United States, you can select a collision repair center that has been approved by Subaru and meets its strict requirements. This is crucial as the repair shop and its methods can greatly impact the overall appearance, performance, and structural integrity of your vehicle, as well as the effectiveness of its safety systems in protecting you and your passengers.

Reasons to Choose a Subaru-Certified Body Shop

Now that you know what a Subaru-certified body shop is and what they do, let’s look at some of the advantages to choosing one for your vehicle’s repairs:

Recalibrated Safety Systems

One of the key advantages of choosing a Subaru-approved repair center is the capability to recalibrate advanced safety systems such as the EyeSight driver assistance technology, in collaboration with a Subaru dealer. With the use of OEM Subaru parts, your vehicle will be restored to its original condition, ensuring the same level of safety and protection as before the accident occurred. Trusting a Subaru Certified Collision Care Center means ensuring your vehicle receives the highest quality repairs, keeping you and your passengers safe on the road.

Well-trained Technicians

At Subaru, safety of the customers and all vehicles is a serious matter. That’s why Subaru has strict standards for their Certified Collision Centers. Subaru holds every auto body repair shop to the highest standard, meaning they also have to have an I-CAR Gold certification, guaranteeing that your Subaru will be in the best hands. Don’t leave your repairs to just anyone in an unregulated industry. Trust that Subaru has qualified technicians to repair your vehicle with the industry’s top training and standards.

Up-to-Date Repair Procedures

Subaru Certified body shops are held to a high standard and are required to follow official Subaru Repair Procedures for every repair. These procedures are written by the engineers who helped build your Subaru and are continuously updated to provide the most accurate and comprehensive repair process.

While some collision centers and auto body shops rely on their own experience or aftermarket manuals, Subaru Certified Collision Centers have the advantage of using the expertise of the engineers who designed and built your car. This ensures that every repair is done according to the manufacturer’s exact specifications. So why is it so important to follow these procedures? Well, think of it like following a recipe for baking. Just like how missing a key ingredient can result in a less-than-perfect cake, not following the official repair procedures can lead to subpar repairs and potentially compromise the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Post-accident Inspection

Subaru certified collision centers perform a thorough multipoint safety inspection of every vehicle that leaves their facility. This inspection covers everything from the occupant safety systems to the structural integrity of the car, leaving no stone unturned to guarantee your safety. Unlike many collision centers that may skip this crucial step, Subaru makes it mandatory for every auto body repair, regardless of whether the insurance company covers it or not. After all, what could be more important than the safety of their drivers? And that is why Subaru gets our seal of approval for going above and beyond to prioritize safety.

Quality Tools and Equipment

When it comes to vehicle repairs, staying up-to-date with the latest technology and tools can be a challenge. However, Subaru Certified Collision Centers have made it their top priority to keep pace with the ever-evolving automotive industry.

With advancements in technology, modern vehicles have become more complex than ever. As a result, repairing them can be a daunting task for collision centers without the proper tools and equipment. That’s where Subaru Certified Collision Centers stand out: they are evaluated annually to ensure they have the necessary resources to effectively repair your vehicle. This not only guarantees that the latest technology is being employed to repair it vehicle, it also means that OEM tools and parts are being used.

Get Your Subaru Repaired at a Subaru-Certified Auto Body Shop Today

When your Subaru has been damaged, the first thing on your mind is to get it back to normal. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about subpar repairs from a regular body shop. Subaru has launched a program to ensure that there is a certified collision repair center near you. These locations make it easy to get your Subaru repaired with OEM parts, so you can have the vehicle you love returned to its pre-accident condition.

If you need any repairs to your vehicle call in at Elmer’s Auto Body today. The team at our auto body repair shop in South Jersey are ready to repair your car back to its original form using quality parts and skilled labor. Aside from having I-CAR Gold, we are a certified Subaru collision repair shop in NJ.

Should I Get Hail Damage Fixed on my Car?

Is your car suffering from the aftermath of a hailstorm? Don’t underestimate the impact of those seemingly harmless pea-sized hailstones. Neglecting hail damage can lead to a decrease in its value and potential financial losses. Let’s explore the reasons why you should get hail damage fixed on your car, as well as how long repairs take.

Why Should I Get Hail Damage Fixed on my Car?

One common misconception about small-sized hail is that it is not harmful. However, this is not the case. While the hail itself may appear small and harmless, it can actually cause significant damage to your car. Due to the high speed at which it falls and the impact of your car’s movement, it can create hundreds of small dents on the surface. So, if you encounter pea-sized hail while driving, it’s important to take precautionary measures to avoid potential damage to your vehicle.

Hail Damage That You Can Not See

Although a small dent on your car may seem insignificant, it is important to address it before it causes further damage. Even if it may not be visible to the naked eye, a trained professional can detect any underlying damage to the paint. This is especially important in cases of light hail storms, where the dents may not be noticeable without proper lighting. Ignoring these dents can lead to a decrease in your car’s value over time and potentially affect the amount of insurance coverage you receive. Make sure to have them repaired by a professional to maintain the integrity of your vehicle. After all, a car is a valuable investment and should be taken care of properly.

Maintain Your Car Value

If you’re a vehicle owner, it’s important to keep in mind that your car is an asset to your financial portfolio. Its value plays a crucial role in your future plans, whether it’s for selling or trading it in. Unfortunately, hail damage can significantly lower the value of your car and have a negative impact on your investments. In fact, skipping hail repair in an attempt to save money can actually end up costing you more in the long run. It’s best to prioritize repairing any hail damage to maintain the value of your vehicle and avoid potential financial losses.

How Long Does Hail Damage Take To Repair?

It’s a common misconception that severe hail damage car repairs will always take a long time. While it’s true that damage can be extensive, it doesn’t necessarily mean that repairs have to be lengthy. Traditional auto body shops may have longer wait times, especially during peak storm seasons, but choosing to work with a reputable auto hail repair specialty shop can expedite the repair process.

The repair shop will assess the damage and determine the most efficient repair method, which is typically paintless dent repair (PDR). This technique can be completed in a relatively short time, but if your vehicle requires additional paint repair or parts replacement, the repair time may be extended. It’s also important to consider that insurance companies can also affect the timeline of repairs as they process the claim. To learn more about the factors that can affect repair time for hail damage on cars, check back on our website in a few weeks for more information.

What Kind Of Budget Do I Need To Fix Hail Damage On My Vehicle?

Has your vehicle been caught in a storm in New Jersey? Although hail is not very common in NJ, there is always a chance of intense thunderstorms sometimes producing hail. These ice balls can range from small like peas to as large as baseballs. The size and duration of hail can cause significant damage to your car, truck, or SUV. This can result in anything from minor damage to a total loss that requires an insurance claim. Repair costs for automotive hail damage will vary depending on the severity, with some ranging from $750 to $10,000. If your car has been affected by hail, it’s important to get it checked and repaired as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.

Will The Damage Require Repainting The Vehicle?

The extent of damage caused by hail will determine whether a panel on your car can be fixed with paintless dent repair (PDR) or if it needs to be replaced or repainted. Moderate to average hail damage can usually be fixed with PDR, while more severe damage may require panel replacement and conventional body repair. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace a damaged hood rather than attempting to repair it with PDR. Additionally, if hail dents are too deep or large, PDR may not be a suitable option and the repair may need to be outsourced to a trusted body shop for conventional repair and refinishing. Rest assured, Dent Hero works closely with reputable body shops to ensure your car is restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Where Can I Take My Hail Damaged Car To Be Fixed?

In most cases, your insurance provider will refer you to a nearby body shop for your car’s repair. The body shop will handle your claim process and then contract a PDR company, such as Dent Hero, to take care of the dent repair. Since most body shops don’t have PDR technicians on their staff, they will also manage any part replacements, billing, and conventional repair and painting, if necessary.

Involving Your Insurance

If your vehicle has been damaged by hail, it is in your best interest to file an insurance claim to cover the repair costs. This will save you from having to pay a significant amount of money out of pocket. Typically, your deductible will be the only amount you need to pay, which is generally in the range of $100-1000. Let your insurance provider take care of the rest of the repair costs, making the process more affordable for you.

Get Your Hail Damage Repaired at Elmer’s Auto Body

Don’t let small dents lead to big regrets. Addressing hail damage promptly is essential. Even damage that’s not visible to the naked eye can affect your car’s integrity over time, so don’t ignore it. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help you restore your vehicle to its original condition. Your car deserves the best care, and we’re ready to provide it. Contact us today by calling one of our three locations or by filling out the contact form. Let us bring your vehicle back to life. Your car, your investment, and your peace of mind are worth it.

What Kind of Damages Can Your Car Suffer In A Front-End Collision?

Needless to say, there are many ways in which your car can suffer from a head-on collision. Those are some of the most dangerous auto accidents and they can easily result in injury or death for the occupants of the vehicle. However, we are going to focus on vehicle damage today, as this is much easier to fix. If you find yourself in this situation, it is very important to be prepared. Not only do you need to have some money set back for the repair costs, but you should also make sure that you have asked yourself the crucial question: “Who is the best auto body shop near me?”

Engine Damage

This is one of the most severe problems that can result from a collision, and it happens a lot. The engine is located in the front of the vehicle, so it will be one of the first components to suffer an impact. Sometimes, the parts that are situated in front of the engine (like the radiator and fan) can be shoved back into the engine itself, causing terrible damage.

The engine is like the beating heart of any vehicle, so it should always be the first repair priority. In most cases, an engine that has suffered serious collision damage will need to be removed and replaced. This is never easy or cheap, but it can be a lot easier and more affordable if you employ the right body shop.

Body And Frame Damage

As the name implies, a body shop specializes in repairing the outer shell of the car (commonly called the “body” of the car). It’s pretty much impossible to suffer a collision without some kind of body damage, and that is why body shops are so easy to find. Most body problems can be fixed, although there is a question of how much it will cost. Obviously, dents and scratches aren’t usually expensive to fix at all, but major body damage can be another story.

If your car has a “unibody” design (i.e., a body that is all one piece), that can make things a little more difficult. With these designs, you can’t just swap out a panel and fix common problems. Still, body problems don’t tend to be that bad.

Frame problems, on the other hand, represent a serious threat to the structural integrity of the car. That’s a fancy way of saying that your car won’t hold together without a whole frame. A hard collision can certainly break parts of the frame, especially the thinner parts around the windows. Bending and twisting, however, are both more common than flat-out breakage. These kinds of repairs are so crucial that you should only trust them to be the best.

Windshield Damage

Windshields are definitely some of the most fragile parts of any vehicle, and the reason is obvious: They have to be made of glass. Thankfully, this is not quite as dangerous as it may seem. Windshield glass is made with vinyl layers in which the glass is held. Thus, if the glass breaks, it will not fly into a million pieces. Thus, it will crack and “spiderweb” without shattering. That being said, an extremely sharp impact can be enough to overcome that technology. In any case, there is pretty much only one remedy for a damaged windshield and that is a replacement.

Wheels, Suspension, and Steering

These components are also very likely to suffer damage in the event of a collision. Your wheels are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, so they suffer a lot of wear and tear anyway. To put it simply, your wheels are more likely to suffer damage because they are carrying all the weight. Of course, the suspension system gives them a hand, and it is also more vulnerable to damage as a result.

When we talk about the wheels, we also need to talk about that which controls them. The steering system of your car is also located in the front compartment (although the exact location varies). Regardless of design, the steering system has to transfer force to the wheels and make them react.

Now, imagine what happens when your front end is struck at a high speed. Everything in the front is going to go backward, and the thinner pieces of the steering system make them unlikely to win that contest. If your front wheels are bent or twisted inwards, anything connected to them is also likely to be damaged.

Fire Damage

Before we even talk about this, we need to dispel a common Hollywood myth: Vehicles do not usually catch fire or explode after a collision, even a serious one. That being said, fires can occur in some cases. You have probably seen a vehicle fire at least once in your life. If not, just do a quick internet search and you’ll see that it does occasionally happen.

In most cases, this occurs because of ruptured fuel lines. Your fuel pump constantly pumps a stream of highly flammable liquid (gasoline, of course) into the engine. If the line carrying that gasoline is ruptured, gas will spray all over the place until the vehicle is shut off. If yours is one of those unlucky cases, you are probably looking at much more extensive repairs.

Conclusion

No matter which one of these problems you may have, you can count on the people at Elmer’s Auto Body to correct them. We have been doing this for over 70 years and there are very few problems we haven’t seen. Collision repair allows you to get your vehicle back on the road and get on with your life, but you need the right body shop if you expect to get good results. If you would like to employ our services or just know more about our business, feel free to call us at (856) 218-0202. We look forward to giving you the great service for which we are known.