Can You Demand OEM Safety Components After a Collision?

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

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

 

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

 

Key Takeaways

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

 

What Are OEM Safety Components?

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

 

Examples of OEM safety components include:

 

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

 

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

 

Why Do OEM Safety Components Matter?

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

 

OEM safety components ensure:

 

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

 

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

 

Can You Request OEM Safety Components From Your Insurance?

Yes, you can and should.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Can an Insurance Company Refuse Your Request?

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

 

You can do the following to challenge their refusal:

 

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

 

FAQs

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Schedule Your Estimate Today

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

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

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

 

Key Takeaways

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

 

Uneven Paint or Mismatched Colors

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

 

Strange Noises When Driving

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

 

Steering Feels Off

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

 

Warning Lights Stay On

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

 

Panel Gaps and Uneven Fit

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

 

Safety Features Unresponsive

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

 

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

 

Pro Tip

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

FAQs

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

Insurance totaled this blue Mazda, but the owner disagrees.

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

 

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

 

Key Takeaways

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

 

What Does It Mean When Insurance Totaled Your Car?

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

 

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

 

Why You Might Disagree with the Insurance Company

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

 

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

 

What You Can Do If You Disagree

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

 

1. Review the Valuation

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

 

2. Gather Your Evidence

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

 

3. Get an Independent Appraisal

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

 

4. Negotiate with Your Insurance Company

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

 

5. Consider Other Options

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

 

Pro Tip

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

 

If Insurance Totaled Your Car, Get Professional Repairs Done

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

 

FAQs

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

The Real Risks of Driving With Unrepaired Collision Damage

A car that shows that driving with unrepaired collision damage is dangerous

Even a minor fender bender can leave your car with damages. Though it may only look cosmetic, the risk of driving with unrepaired collision damage is too high. Don’t let overlooking repairs come back to haunt you. Whether you’re dealing with a dented bumper, cracked fender, or misaligned panels, there could be issues worsening underneath. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve seen what driving with unrepaired damages can do to a vehicle. That’s why we aim to help South Jersey drivers understand what’s truly at stake and why timely repairs make all the difference.

 

Key Takeaways

  • ✅ Minor-looking damage can hide major structural or safety problems.
  • ✅ Driving with unrepaired collision damage may disable ADAS systems like lane assist and braking.
  • ✅ Unaddressed issues can lead to more expensive repairs over time.
  • ✅ Your insurance company could deny future claims related to unrepaired damage.
  • ✅ South Jersey inspection rules may flag visible damage as a safety concern.

 

Hidden Safety Hazards

Here’s a reason why cosmetic damages aren’t always purely cosmetic: Surface damage can mask serious problems. A bent frame, damaged crumple zone, or misaligned suspension system may not be obvious. However, each of these problems can affect how your vehicle performs in future collisions. For example, a damaged side panel won’t crumple as well as it could had it been repaired, leading to more transference of momentum and greater damages. In other words, driving with unrepaired collision damage leaves you unprotected in an accident, putting everyone in the car at risk of injury.

 

Compromised Vehicle Systems

Did you know that even a minor collision can cause your ADAS systems to malfunction? The complex system made of sensors helps with things like lane assist, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Without recalibrated ADAS systems, they may not work correctly, increasing the chance of accidents while on the road.

 

Consider this: What if you didn’t have running headlights all of a sudden on a dark night? Your reduced visibility would limit your ability to respond in an emergency. For moments like that, you need to have your ADAS and safety systems checked.

 

Pro Tip from Elmer’s Auto Body

If you’re unsure whether damage is just cosmetic, don’t guess—have it inspected. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we provide thorough evaluations for South Jersey drivers in Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties, so you never have to wonder if your vehicle is safe to drive.

 

Worsening Damage Over Time

Delayed repairs turn into more expensive repairs down the road. Why? Because damage doesn’t stagnate; it grows. A small fender misalignment can cause uneven tire wear. A hairline crack in a panel may expand, leading to exposed metal that rusts. Small, manageable issues after an accident will quickly become more costly. Some vehicles may even be “totaled” by unrepaired damages.

 

Insurance and Liability Problems

If you’re in another accident while driving with unrepaired damage, your insurance company could deny coverage or reduce your payout. Worse, if it’s found that the previous damage contributed to the severity of a new collision, you could be held partially liable. Keeping your vehicle road-safe is part of your responsibility as a driver—and insurers expect you to address safety concerns promptly.

 

Legal and Inspection Concerns in South Jersey

In Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties, state inspections and police checkpoints may catch visible collision damage that affects safety equipment or emissions. A cracked bumper covering sensors or a loose body panel may prevent you from passing inspection, or lead to citations. Don’t let avoidable damage get in the way of compliance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it illegal to drive with collision damage in New Jersey?

A: It’s not always illegal, but if the damage affects safety equipment (like lights or mirrors) or poses a road hazard, you could face fines or fail state inspection.

Q: Can driving with minor body damage affect my vehicle’s resale value?

A: Absolutely. Buyers and dealerships will reduce the offer if they see visible or suspected structural damage.

Q: Will my insurance company still cover new damage if I haven’t repaired old damage?

A: Not always. If the old damage complicates the assessment or is found to contribute to a new accident, coverage could be reduced or denied.

Q: How can I tell if my car is still structurally safe?

A: You often can’t by just looking. Bring your vehicle to a professional collision center like Elmer’s Auto Body for a full post-collision evaluation.

Q: What is ADAS recalibration and do I need it?

A: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems must be recalibrated after a collision. If your car has lane assist, adaptive cruise control, or similar features, recalibration is a must for safety.

Q: How quickly should I get collision damage looked at?

A: The sooner the better. Damage can worsen over time, and quick action protects your vehicle and your insurance claim.

 

Driving With Unrepaired Collision Damage? Get It Fixed at Elmer’s Auto Body

Putting off repairs for financial reasons, convenience, or uncertainty is risky. Elmer’s Auto Body can help you move forward. We work directly with your insurance company, use manufacturer-approved repair procedures, and help drivers across South Jersey. From Sewell to Medford and Mt. Ephraim, we’ve got your back and can get you back on the road with peace of mind.

 

Don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Schedule your estimate today and let Elmer’s Auto Body restore your vehicle’s safety, performance, and appearance.

The Hidden Costs of Skipping a Post-Repair Inspection

An auto body technician conducts a post-repair inspection.

A second look can save you time and money after auto body repair. Getting your vehicle repaired is a critical step, but just because a car looks fixed doesn’t mean that everything under the surface has been. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve seen far too many South Jersey drivers deal with long-term issues simply because no one performed a thorough post-repair inspection. Skipping that final check can cost you—financially, functionally, and even in safety.

 

That’s why we’re discussing those hidden costs today, as well as what signs point to missed problems.

Key Takeaways

  • ✔ A post-repair inspection confirms your vehicle was repaired correctly and safely after an accident.
  • ✔ Skipping this step can result in hidden structural damage, misaligned suspension, or uncalibrated safety systems.
  • ✔ DRP (Direct Repair Program) shops may prioritize speed or cost over thoroughness—leaving you vulnerable.
  • ✔ Warning signs like poor handling, odd noises, or warning lights after a repair should not be ignored.
  • ✔ Elmer’s Auto Body offers comprehensive post-repair inspections at all three South Jersey locations: Sewell, Medford, and Mt. Ephraim.

 

What Is a Post-Repair Inspection?

A post-repair inspection isn’t mandatory, but it can save you from problems down the road. This kind of inspection happens after repairs are done, confirming that said repairs were done correctly, that all parts are functioning properly, and that your vehicle is safe to drive. It’s especially important if your repairs were completed at a Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop that works closely with insurance companies, where speed and cost-cutting may take priority.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we perform inspections on every vehicle we repair, both before and after. We also do post-repair inspections on vehicles that had work done elsewhere to help drivers like yourself find peace of mind again.

Pro Tip

If you’re unsure about a recent repair—especially one done at an insurance-recommended DRP shop—ask for a copy of the final repair order. Bring that to Elmer’s Auto Body for a second opinion. We’ll show you what was missed and explain what should be fixed to restore your vehicle’s safety and performance.

 

The Risk of Skipping a Post-Repair Inspection

You might think, “But my car drives fine! Why do I need another inspection?” Just because a vehicle seems OK after repairs doesn’t mean it is. Here’s why post-repair inspections are important:

 

1. Hidden Structural Damage

Sometimes repair shops don’t delve as deep as they should, focusing solely on cosmetic fixes. When they do that, however, they tend to overlook damages to the frame or unibody. Even small misalignments in these structures will affect how your car handles or responds in another accident.

 

Also, if you intend to sell your vehicle in the future, any discovered frame issues will result in a lower resale value.

 

2. Improper Suspension or Alignment Work

If your car pulls to one side, vibrates, or wears tires unevenly, it may not have been properly aligned during repair. This also leads to poor gas mileage and a rougher ride. Since suspension and alignment problems are costly to repair by themselves, you want to avoid these issues.

 

3. Missed Safety System Calibrations

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as lane departure warnings or automatic braking, often require recalibration after a crash—even a minor one. Without properly functioning ADAS, you may find safety features malfunction. This increases your risk of future accidents.

 

4. Low-Quality or Non-OEM Parts

A shop that uses aftermarket or salvaged parts do so because they are cheaper. Unfortunately, your vehicle may not perform the way it did before the accident. Always ask for OEM parts to ensure adequate performance and maintain your vehicle’s resale value.

 

Why Insurance Repairs Aren’t Always Enough

Some insurers pressure drivers to use DRP shops because they have cost-saving contracts in place. While not all DRP shops are bad, they work for the insurance company—not for you. If something was skipped, rushed, or done with low-grade parts, the insurance-approved estimate might not cover a full correction later.

 

A post-repair inspection ensures you’re not stuck paying out of pocket for someone else’s oversight.

 

Signs That You Should Get a Post-Repair Inspection

Now that you know why skipping a post-repair inspection comes with hidden costs, let’s discuss some signs that you should have an inspection:

 

  • Your vehicle still pulls, vibrates, or handles differently
  • Warning lights stay on or come back after repairs
  • ADAS features don’t function as they should
  • Body panels, doors, or bumpers are misaligned
  • You weren’t given a final walkthrough of the work done or any documentation

 

Post-Repair Inspection FAQ

1. Do I need a post-repair inspection if the shop gave me a warranty?
Yes. A warranty doesn’t always mean the work was done properly—just that the shop might fix it *if* you catch something. A second opinion ensures safety.

2. How long does a post-repair inspection take?
Most take 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the complexity of the damage and prior repairs.

3. Will a post-repair inspection cost me anything?
Elmer’s Auto Body offers affordable inspections. If the repair was subpar, your insurance may cover the cost to correct it.

4. Can Elmer’s inspect a car repaired at another shop?
Absolutely. We often inspect vehicles from other body shops—especially DRP shops—to ensure your car is truly road-ready.

5. What happens if you find something wrong during the inspection?
We’ll document everything, show you photos, and help coordinate with your insurance company to make sure it’s made right.

 

Elmer’s Auto Body Offers Post-Repair Inspections in South Jersey

After an accident, don’t skip the necessary post-repair inspection. Otherwise, you may end up paying unexpected fees. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we don’t believe in guesswork. We use computerized frame measuring, structural diagnostics, and ADAS recalibration tools to ensure everything checks out. Whether we did the original repair or not, we’re here to make sure your vehicle is safe, sound, and restored to pre-accident condition or better.

 

If your gut tells you something’s off—or if you just want peace of mind—we’re happy to take a look. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body in Medford, Sewell, or Mt. Ephraim for a full post-repair inspection. Call us or fill out our contact form online to schedule.

How to Read a Repair Estimate Like a Pro

An auto tech reviews the repair estimate before handing it to a client

So you’ve recently been in an accident. Chances are you’ve also been handed some documents, including a repair estimate that’s full of technical terms, abbreviations, and other confusing jargon. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we believe that our customers should know exactly what you’re paying for and why. Understanding your repair estimate is important as it helps you make informed decisions. That’s why we’re going to teach you the basics of repair estimates, as well as which questions to ask, and how to avoid surprises later on.

 

Here’s a breakdown of how to read a repair estimate like a pro.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • A repair estimate is a detailed breakdown of expected work and costs based on visible and potentially hidden damage. It includes labor, parts, materials, sublet work, and additional fees.
  • Understanding each section of the estimate—such as parts type, labor operations, and paint supplies—helps you make more informed decisions and avoid surprises later on.
  • It’s important to ask questions about OEM parts, frame alignment, ADAS recalibration, and potential changes if new damage is found during disassembly.
  • Estimates can vary between shops, often due to differences in parts quality or thoroughness. The lowest estimate isn’t always the best—choose a shop that’s honest and complete in their assessment.

 

What is a Repair Estimate?

A repair estimate is a written breakdown of the work a collision repair shop expects to perform on your vehicle, along with the associated costs. It’s usually created after a visual inspection or after disassembling damaged areas to assess the full extent of the collision damage.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we create detailed, honest estimates using industry-standard software so you know exactly what to expect. That means no vague charges or confusing codes.

 

Key Sections of a Repair Estimate

Understanding what’s included in the estimate is the first step. Most repair estimates include the following:

 

  • Customer and vehicle info, as well as contact information.
  • Labor operations, including body, paint, and mechanical labor.
  • Parts required, such as OEM, aftermarket, LKQ (like kind and quality), or reconditioned parts. It’s recommended to choose OEM parts when possible, as they are direct from the manufacturer.
  • Paint materials and supplies. Painting requires more than paint. It’s also primer, sealer, and blending agents. This cost is usually a flat fee on the estimate.
  • Sublet repairs. These are any tasks performed by a third party.
  • Additional fees, including diagnostic scans and waste disposal.
  • Totals and taxes.

 

Questions to Ask When Reviewing Your Repair Estimate

Even when estimates are laid out plainly, you may still have questions about what is or isn’t included. Here are some questions you may wish to ask the repair shop:

 

  1. Are you using OEM or aftermarket parts?
  2. What happens if more damage is found during disassembly?
  3. Will my vehicle frame need to be realigned?
  4. Is a structural scan necessary?
  5. Do you reset or recalibrate the ADAS systems?
  6. How long are repairs estimated to take?
  7. Is the estimate final, or could it change?

 

Why Repair Estimates from Different Shops May Vary

If you have multiple estimates—which is recommended if you don’t have a trusted auto body repair shop yet—you may notice that some are different. First and foremost, don’t choose the lowest bidder, particularly ones that are far lower than average. You should also avoid collision repair centers that leave out the key repairs to keep the price low or use lower quality parts.

 

In the end, the difference in estimates comes down to what’s included and what the repair shop is going to do. Always choose the comprehensive and transparent estimates, as you know you will get the best level of service.

 

Repair Estimate FAQ

1. Is the repair estimate the final cost?

It depends. Initial estimates are based mainly on visible damage. When a repair shop begins to disassemble the vehicle, they may stumble upon hidden damages that also need to be repaired. When this happens, you will be contacted, and the updated repairs will need to be approved.

 

2. Why does my insurance company’s estimate differ from the repair shop’s?

Insurance estimates are often created using standard guidelines and may leave out critical structural or safety repairs. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we build estimates based on manufacturer recommendations and a full repair plan—not just what’s visible.

 

3. What are OEM parts, and why do they matter?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by your vehicle’s manufacturer and are designed to fit and perform exactly like the original. Elmer’s Auto Body recommends OEM parts whenever possible to maintain your vehicle’s integrity and safety.

 

4. Can I choose which parts are used in the repair?

Yes, depending on your insurance policy and budget. The technician let you know what your policy covers, but if you prefer OEM or upgraded parts, you will be walked through your options and any cost differences.

 

5. How long does it take to receive an estimate?

Most estimates take 30–60 minutes, depending on the extent of the damage. If your vehicle needs to be disassembled for a more accurate quote, the auto body repair shop let you know and explain what to expect.

 

Get a Repair Estimate from Elmer’s Auto Body

You don’t have to be an auto repair expert to understand your estimate. You just need a team that’s willing to explain it clearly. Elmer’s Auto Body has been helping South Jersey drivers navigate the repair process with confidence for decades.

 

If you’ve received an estimate you don’t understand—or if you’d like a second opinion—bring it to us. We’ll break it down and make sure you know exactly what’s involved and why. Visit one of our locations in Sewell, Medford, or Mt. Ephraim, or contact us online to schedule an estimate. We’re here to make the repair process straightforward, every step of the way.