Category: Auto Body Repair

Why Independent Shops Provide More Transparency Than DRP Programs

A technician from one of many independent shops in South Jersey working on a car repair

When you’re involved in an auto collision, you may find yourself feeling confused, rushed, and unprepared through the entire thing. This is especially true if your insurance company urges you to use a Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop. DRPs are built on an agreement between a shop and the insurer, unlike independent shops that aren’t. While a DRP may seem convenient, they also come with limitations that you may not know about.

Today, we’re going to discuss one huge benefit: transparency. Independent shops are always going to value you—the customer—over the insurance company and want to give you the full story.

Key Takeaways

Independent shops offer direct communication without insurer influence.
They provide clearer parts choices, including OEM options that protect vehicle safety.
Independent shops take time to uncover hidden or structural damage.
They can challenge insurance decisions that underestimate necessary repairs.
Transparency is built into every step, ensuring your car is restored properly.

Why DRP Shops Are Not Always in Your Best Interest

Direct Repair Program (DRP) shops exist through a contract with insurance companies. In other words, these shops sign up to be referred work in exchange for following guidance from insurers. This means that they focus largely on reducing the overall cost of repairs for the insurance company and having a quick turnaround time. You may already see the downsides of this agreement.

Due to the condensed time of repairs and quality of parts used, DRP programs may want to divulge all that they’ve done (or didn’t do). Here are some of the limitations of using a DRP shop:

Restricted parts choice, often using aftermarket or LKQ parts
Pressure to shorten repair times, affecting thoroughness
Less direct communication since updates go through insurer, not you
Limited ability to challenge the insurance company’s decisions

These things can leave you feeling lost and in the dark about your vehicle’s repairs and what has or hasn’t been completed.

The Benefits of Choosing an Independent Shop

Choosing independent shops means choosing quality and customer care over quicker repairs. At an independent shop like Elmer’s Auto Body, the team is their for you. Their recommendations, guidelines, and repair strategies are based on manufacturers, not insurance companies.

Here are some of the reasons to choose an independent shop, especially if you want transparency:

Direct Communication

You speak directly with the team rather than receiving updates filtered through the insurance company. Independent shops also take time to explain the repairs, including what was damage, how it will be repaired, and various options. There’s never any pressure to shorten a conversation or to push you to specific outcome or product.

Clear Parts Options

Independent shops openly discuss the differences between OEM, aftermarket, and LKQ parts. Instead of being required to use lower-cost components, they help you weigh performance, safety, and longevity so you understand exactly what will be going on your vehicle.

More Detailed Inspections

Independent repair shops take time to ensure they are doing the right thing. Unlike DRP shops, independent collision centers aren’t evaluated on their speed. In many DRP shops, structural issues, frame distortion, and sloppy welding are often overlooked.

Freedom to Challenge Insurance Decisions

One of the overlooked benefits of choosing an independent shop is the fact that they can challenge when an adjuster underestimates the cost of the damages. With documentation, photos, and measurements backed by an experienced team, the independent repair shop ensures the insurance company works for you, not for themselves. After all, you deserve a car that’s been repaired completely and correctly.

Why Does Transparency from Independent Shops Matter?

Collision damage is more than surface issues. Beneath the scratches and dings may be more complex problems including frame misalignment, compromised welds, and suspension mount problems. Any step that is overlooked, rushed, or skipped completely will lead to a vehicle that neither performs nor protects you like it should.

An independent repair shop that isn’t affiliated with any insurance company will do the job right. Your car will be returned to you as close to its pre-collision condition as possible. Furthermore, independent collision repair centers will never pull wool over your eyes. They will tell you what needs to be done, communicate any changes, and also advocate for you.

FAQs About Independent Shops vs. DRP Programs

Does my insurance company have the right to force me into a DRP shop?
No. In New Jersey, you always have the right to choose your own collision repair center.

Are independent shops more expensive?
Not necessarily. Independent shops simply recommend the repairs your vehicle needs, not the cheaper shortcuts that DRP shops may be required to use.

Can an independent shop still work with my insurance?
Yes. Independent shops work with all insurance companies and can help handle the claim while advocating for proper repairs.

Do independent shops offer better transparency?
Yes. They communicate directly with you and provide documentation, photos, and detailed explanations of the repair process.

Go to a Trusted Collision Repair Center in South Jersey Today

Whether you decide to go with a DRP center or an independent shop, it’s important to focus on transparency. Get the repairs done right and with OEM parts. However, if you want a repair experience where your safety and satisfaction takes the steering wheel, choosing an independent shop is the smartest move.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve built transparency into every step. We walk you through what needs to be done, provide you with documentation, and explain it all in plain language. We never pressure you to do anything, and we never take shortcuts. Our team is focused on restoring your vehicle with OEM parts so you and your family stay protected.

Get Your Vehicle Repaired with Transparency and Care

Choose an independent collision repair shop that puts your safety first.
Elmer’s Auto Body proudly serves South Jersey with three convenient locations:

Mt. Ephraim – (856) 456-7018

Sewell – (856) 218-0202

Medford – (609) 714-4050

Ready to schedule your repair or inspection?
Contact us today.

How to Spot Sloppy Welding or Hidden Rust After a Collision

An auto repair technician showing good welding as opposed to sloppy welding

After getting in an accident, the last thing you want to worry about is whether the repair work done is actually done right. Unfortunately, some repair shops may leave you with sloppy welding and hidden rust. When these problems go unnoticed, your vehicle’s structure may grow weaker with time, leaving your vulnerable in the event of another collision. Even if a repair looks fine of the surface, there may be problems beneath the panels, so learn the signs.

Key Takeaways

Sloppy welding can weaken your vehicle’s structural integrity after a collision.
Poor prep work and rushed welds often create hidden rust that spreads over time.
Uneven welds, excessive grinding, and misaligned panels are signs of improper repairs.
Hidden rust forms when weld seams aren’t sealed or when bare metal is left exposed.
Second opinions help ensure your vehicle is truly repaired to safe, road-ready condition.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we believe in more than repairs. We believe in the people behind the wheel, which is why we aim to educate and prevent more issues from occurring.

Why Sloppy Welding Is a Serious Safety Issue

Structural panels often get dented during collisions, which is part of the design. However, when these panels are repaired poorly, the vehicle isn’t returned to its pre-accident condition. Further, it won’t perform the way the manufacturer intended.

A few minutes of rushed welding may lead to serious consequences down the late. Uneven welds, weakened bonds, and poor prep reduce the strength of the repaired area. If you get into another collision, those weak spots aren’t going to do their job.

Clear Signs of Poor Welding After a Collision

You don’t need to be a collision repair technician to be able to spot poor repairs. The common indicators are easy to spot. If anything looks uneven, inconsistent, or unfinished, there’s a good chance it wasn’t repaired correctly.

Here are some signs that point to sloppy welding:

Uneven or inconsistent weld beads. A proper weld looks smooth and uniform. Gaps or stop-and-go welds may not be as structurally sound.
Burned or overly heated metal. Melted edges and distortion point to too much heat during the weld.
Excessive grinding marks. Grinding smooths welds but shouldn’t erase them. If a seam is thin or heavily sanded, it may have been done to hide a defect.
Misaligned body parts. Poor alignment, such as uneven panels or gaps, reveals structural issues.

How Sloppy Welding Leads to Hidden Rust

You may be wondering how welding can lead to rust. When welding is done without the correct prep work or technique, the metal is left vulnerable. Furthermore, poor welds create an environment that promotes rust development.

Here is how sloppy welding leads to hidden rust:

Poor surface prep traps contaminants. Before a weld, rust and contaminants have to be removed. Otherwise, the tech welds over existing rust or components that contribute to rust.
Sloppy welds leave gaps for moisture to get in. Proper welds seal seams to prevent moisture from seeping underneath. If moisture does get in, rust is accelerated.
Excessive heat damages protective coatings. Too much heat during welding breaks down corrosion protection and leads to almost immediate rust formation.
Grinding down welds to hide mistakes exposes bare metal. Every pass of the grinder removes more of the protective metal, leaving raw steel exposed to oxygen and moisture.
Untreated weld seams fail quickly. If the weld isn’t sealed with primer, seam sealer, and rustproofing, corrosion attacks the joint first.

All of this leads to more rust in places it shouldn’t be.

FAQs About Welding and Rust After Collision Repairs

Are welds supposed to be visible?
Some welds will be visible depending on the repair area. What matters is that they look consistent and secure.

Should I worry if the panel gaps look uneven?
Yes. Uneven gaps often point to deeper structural alignment problems.

How quickly does rust spread?
Rust can develop immediately after metal is exposed. If trapped under paint, it may spread unnoticed for months.

Is it worth getting a second opinion?
Absolutely. Structural defects can affect safety and long-term vehicle value.

Get Your Vehicle Repaired by a Trusted Collision Repair Center in South Jersey

When your vehicle is returned to you with sloppy welding, it may look perfect on the outside but have hidden damages under those welds. Poor welds set off a chain reaction that leads to rust. Therefore, if you suspect that something is amiss with your repairs or want to take your vehicle somewhere highly rated, give Elmer’s Auto Body a call.

We’re a collision repair center in South Jersey with certifications from multiple manufacturers, highly experienced technicians, and knowledgeable staff who can help you navigate your insurance claims.

Schedule a Structural Repair Inspection

Get your vehicle inspected and repaired at one of our three South Jersey locations.
Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to ensure your repairs are done right.

Mt. Ephraim: (856) 456-7018
Sewell: (856) 218-0202
Medford: (609) 714-4050

What Happens If Your Airbags Weren’t Reinstalled Correctly?

A Mercedes with reinstalled airbags after an accident.

You expect your repairs to be completed the correct way so that you can get back on the road. Unfortunately, not every repair shop in South Jersey is going to follow manufacturer procedures—particularly when reinstalling airbags. Incorrect airbag reinstallation isn’t a trivial problem. When your airbags aren’t properly installed after an accident, your driving a vehicle that may not perform as required when you’re in danger.

Key Takeaways

Airbags must be reinstalled following precise manufacturer guidelines.
Improper airbag reinstallation can cause failure or unexpected deployment.
Warning lights or electrical issues after repairs often indicate airbag system faults.
Always verify that OEM parts were used and systems recalibrated.
Elmer’s Auto Body ensures your airbag system is properly reinstalled and fully tested.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we pay attention to manufacturer directions when reinstalling airbags, because we want you to be safe when driving your car. Here’s what happens when your airbags aren’t reinstalled correctly, and some steps you can take when you suspect something’s wrong.

The Role of Airbags in Collision Safety

Airbags haven’t been around for a long time, but they have saved countless lives. First developed in the 1950s and made common in the 1990s, airbags are a safety feature that creates a protective cushion around the driver and passengers in the vehicle. This makes them a crucial feature in all modern vehicles. Airbags work in conjunction with seatbelts, frame structure, and crash sensors.

It doesn’t matter if the airbags deployed during a collision or not. Most of the time, airbags need to be replaced and reinstalled. Furthermore, the process needs to be handled by a technician whose been trained to use manufacturer-approved parts and processes. That way, everything will function as intended.

What Can Go Wrong When Airbags Aren’t Reinstalled Correctly

As mentioned previously, the reinstallation process for airbags needs to be handled by professionals. Any mistake during the reinstallation can have serious consequences.

1. Airbags Fail to Deploy in a Crash

In order for an airbag to deploy, various sensors and electrical components also have to work. If those modules aren’t properly attached, your airbags may not deploy when you need them. Imagine if that were to happen during a high-speed crash on Route 55…failure to deploy could be the difference between minor injuries and life-threatening ones.

2. Airbags Deploy Unexpectedly

On one end of the spectrum, your airbags may not deploy at all. Now, what happens if those airbags go off at the wrong time? Incorrect wiring during reinstallation may cause even a bump in the road to trigger airbag deployment. Should that happen when you least expect it, you may lose control of your vehicle, causing a collision.

3. Faulty or Non-OEM Components

Some low-cost repair shops use non-OEM or recycled airbags to save money. These parts may have unknown histories, missing inflators, or damaged wiring, leading to unpredictable behavior during deployment.

4. Dashboard Warning Lights Ignored

When you received your vehicle, was there a warning light on the dashboard? Warning lights don’t happen out of the blue and for no reason. They’re a sign that something is amiss. Don’t overlook those lights, because it means that your airbag may not protect you in a collision.

5. Improper Sensor Placement or Calibration

Airbag systems rely on precise measurements from sensors mounted on the frame and within the cabin. If a frame is even slightly misaligned or a sensor isn’t calibrated correctly, airbags may deploy too late—or too early—to offer protection.

Signs Your Airbags Weren’t Reinstalled Correctly

Now that you know about the issues and consequences underlying an incorrect airbag reinstallation, let’s discuss the signs. Knowing what to look and listen for can help you recognize issues before they worsen.

Here are red flags that may indicate a problem with your airbags:

The airbag warning light stays on or flashes.
You notice new rattling or clicking sounds near the steering wheel or dashboard.
The horn or steering wheel buttons don’t work properly.
You were in another minor accident and your airbags didn’t deploy.
You weren’t informed of airbag replacement or reinstallation details after repairs.

Notice any of these symptoms of a poor airbag reinstallation? Don’t wait to let an auto body repair shop know. Get your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

Why Airbag Reinstallation Requires Certified Auto Technicians

Airbag systems are tightly integrated with your vehicle’s structure, sensors, and electrical systems. That’s why manufacturers provide specific procedures for reinstallation that must be followed precisely. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our certified technicians use OEM parts and manufacturer-approved procedures to ensure your airbag system is fully restored. We verify sensor alignment, recalibrate your vehicle’s ADAS systems, and test all safety components before your vehicle leaves the shop.

You can trust that when we say your car is ready, it truly meets safety standards.

FAQs About Airbag Reinstallation

Q: Can I drive if my airbag warning light is on?
No. That light means the system is malfunctioning or incomplete. Your airbags may not deploy in a crash, so it’s important to have the vehicle checked immediately.

Q: Are aftermarket airbags safe?
Aftermarket or recycled airbags are not recommended. OEM airbags are tested to meet the specific safety requirements of your vehicle.

Q: How do I know if my airbag system was reinstalled correctly?
Ask your repair shop for proof of sensor recalibration, module testing, and parts used. Certified collision centers, like Elmer’s Auto Body, can provide full documentation.

Q: What if my airbag didn’t deploy in a recent accident?
Stop driving the car and schedule an inspection. This could be due to sensor misalignment, wiring issues, or improper installation.

Get Your Airbags Properly Reinstalled at Elmer’s Auto Body

Airbags are lifesavers, but they need to be reinstalled correctly after a collision. Make sure you are choosing safety and selecting a trusted collision repair shop in South Jersey. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we take repairs seriously and never cut corners. Our technicians are certified by numerous manufacturers and will follow repair guidelines. We want you to be safe, which is why we check and double check every sensor and safety component.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

Get your vehicle inspected and repaired at one of our three South Jersey locations.
Contact us today
to schedule an appointment.

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:

Fit and alignment issues: Even small dimensional differences can affect how panels, bumpers, or safety sensors align.
Material variations: Non-OEM metal or plastic can be thinner, weaker, or more prone to corrosion.
No warranty from the automaker: Most vehicle manufacturers will not honor warranties if non-OEM parts are installed.
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

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.