Category: Collision Repair

8 Risks of Using a DRP Shop Exposed (and Where to Go Instead)

A DRP shop where the mechanic is in the background and a car's hood is open

After getting into an auto collision, you may find yourself faced with a choice: independent auto repair or your insurer’s “direct repair program” or DRP shop. While your first thought may be to select whoever your insurance company recommends, take caution. The majority of insurers out there are looking to make a profit, after all. In other words, it’s important to consider the risks of using a DRP shop, as well as reasons to make your own selection. Let’s take a look at some of the cons of direct repair programs so you can make an informed choice.

Key Takeaways

DRP shops work for insurance companies, not for vehicle owners.
Cost controls often lead to lower-quality parts and skipped repair procedures.
Insurance-driven repair limits can result in missed damage and reduced performance.
Communication is often directed toward insurers instead of customers.
Independent shops prioritize transparency, thorough inspections, and manufacturer-based repairs.

What is a DRP Shop?

Direct repair programs—or DRP, for short—are also called “preferred auto shops.” A DRP shop is an auto body repair shop that has agreed to collaborate with insurance companies. You may also hear them referred to as a “one-stop shop,” where someone with damages can drop off their vehicle and have it examined by an adjuster then repaired. In New Jersey, insurance companies push their DRP shops for a couple of reasons:

To get your vehicle repaired as quickly as possible, and
To have repairs done at a lower cost to the insurer.

As such, while a DRP shop may seem like a good, trustworthy choice, they are not looking out for you.

The 8 Risks of Using a Direct Repair Program Auto Shop

You want your vehicle returned to the condition it was before the accident. You want an auto body repair shop that is going to use the parts required to give you safety and performance. While a DRP shop can do that, it’s important to acknowledge that, due to the insurance company, they won’t.

Here is a look at the risk involved with choosing a direct repair program repair shop:

1. Narrow Scope of Work

Preferred auto shops have a narrow scope of work. In other words, rather than evaluating the damage and deciding what needs to be done, the shop defers to the insurance company. The mechanics receive their orders from the insurer than carry out the requested work. Unfortunately, this sometimes means the DRP shop will cut corners, making the vehicle look good as new just on the outside.

2. Low-Quality Parts

While DRP shops often receive more work than an independent body shop due to funneled policyholders, there’s a trade-off. The DRP shop makes less money. How do they balance out their profits? By cutting corners on parts. When you use a DRP shop, your vehicle may be repaired using secondhand, salvaged, or LKQ (of “like kind and quality”) parts—which are cheaper to purchase.

Such parts may function well, but they do not have the same safety ratings as “original equipment manufacturer” or OEM parts. There is no guarantee with functional secondhand parts. OEM parts, however, are developed by the manufacturer and have warranties to ensure your safety.

3. Less Experienced Auto Mechanics

In order for a shop to become a part of an insurance companies DRP network, they have to meet a set of criteria. Often, the shop must have accredited mechanics, the proper equipment for a range of repairs, and high customer service ratings. For example, the Select Service from State Farm requires at least one mechanic to have an advanced welding certification from I-CAR.

The issue is that, while the shops are vetted by insurance companies for certifications, there is no consideration of overall experience. Independent auto body shops often have mechanics who are not only certified but who have decades of experience under their belts. DRP shops will cut corners by hiring mechanics without much hands-on experience.

4. Reduced Performance After Repairs

Due to a need to cut corners to make up for lost profits, DRP shops will occasionally “miss” some problems. This may produce a vehicle that isn’t entirely roadworthy. When you drive away from the shop, you may notice issues that weren’t there before, such as rattling or strange noises when you hit the brakes.

5. For the Insurance Company, Not for You

Remember, the main problem with DRP shops is that they’re working for the insurance company, not for you. They listen to what the insurance company wants and fulfill those requests. The DRP shop won’t spend the same amount of time on repairs as an independent auto repair shop would because they’re trying to make ends meet. The turnaround may be quick, but the repairs will be shoddy.

It is better to wait for an independent auto repair shop that may be booked a few weeks out. You know the independent shop will take their time, order the correct OEM parts, and also guarantee their work.

6. Quality Compromises

We’ve touched on lower quality parts but now let’s focus on the overall quality compromise. DRP shops have constraints. To stay profitable, they must skip procedures that other independent shops would spend time on. Insurers may also insist on methods that go against OEM standards. The DRP shop can’t truly fight the insurance company on these methods due to the delays that may occur, so many give in and do a substandard repair instead.

7. Mechanics Are Under Pressure

There is a lot of administrative overhead in a DRP shop. The mechanics must document everything, follow certain procedures, and communicate with the insurer, resulting in additional steps that don’t necessarily benefit the customer. This means that the DRP shop staff is constantly burdened with additional tasks draws more time away from repairs. The mechanics are constantly under pressure, and that can lead to poor quality repairs.

8. Lack of Communication

While DRP shops do communicate often, they’re not focused on communicating with you. The staff is constantly sending over reports, evaluations, photos, and messages to the insurer. Since their focus is on appeasing the insurance company, they spend less time telling you what’s happening with your car. An independent auto body repair shop, on the other hand, maintain communication with customers to ensure satisfaction and transparency.

Choose an Independent Auto Body Repair Shop in New Jersey Instead

Ultimately, the choice comes down to you and what you want. However, there are a few key reasons why independent collision repair centers are the better option:.

Your interests come first. Independent shops like Elmer’s Auto Body work with you, not the insurance company. They have no obligation to follow DRP protocol and no need to cut corners.
Greater transparency. Independent collision repair centers openly explain what they’re doing and why. You are never left with unanswered questions.
Thorough damage inspections. Since independent shops aren’t limited by time or volume, they can conduct more thorough damage inspections to find the hidden issues that would go unnoticed by a DRP shop.
Repairs based on needs, not estimates. Independent auto body shops follow manufacturer guidelines and the actual condition. They focus less on the insurance appraisal.

FAQs About DRP Shops and Independent Collision Repair

Am I required to use my insurance company’s DRP shop?
No. New Jersey drivers have the legal right to choose their own auto body repair shop.

Do DRP shops always use lower-quality parts?
Not always, but insurer agreements often encourage the use of aftermarket, recycled, or LKQ parts to reduce costs.

Can a DRP shop miss hidden structural damage?
Yes. Time pressure and restricted repair scopes can result in overlooked frame, suspension, or safety-system issues.

Why are independent shops more transparent?
Independent shops answer directly to customers, allowing them to explain repair needs openly without insurer-driven limits.

Is it worth getting a second opinion?
Yes. A second inspection can uncover missed damage and help ensure repairs meet safety and manufacturer standards.

Contact Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey for Collision Repair

When you need auto repair in South Jersey, you’ll have plenty of choices from your insurance company. However, if you’re looking for top-quality repairs from a trustworthy shop that’s not beholden to an insurer, choose an independent shop like Elmer’s Auto Body. We’ve been in business since 1947 and have never operated as a DRP shop. Instead, we focus on you—and the safety of your vehicle.

Choose an Independent Auto Body Shop That Works for You

Don’t let insurance programs dictate the quality of your repairs. Elmer’s Auto Body puts your safety, your vehicle, and your long-term confidence first.

Get your vehicle inspected and repaired at one of our three South Jersey locations.

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

Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule an inspection.

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

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:

Notify your repair shop that you want OEM safety components installed.
Ask your insurer to amend the repair estimate to reflect OEM parts.
Request documentation showing the safety standards of any proposed aftermarket parts.
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.