The Future Of Auto Body Repair: Technology And Innovation

The Future Of Auto Body Repair: Technology And Innovation

The automotive industry in the last few years has witnessed a dramatic transformation. Still, we could hardly call it a surprise seeing all the new technologies like self-driving cars and electric cars rolling out. Less than a decade ago, those same technologies enjoyed far less popularity, and the general awareness of them was a shrug of the shoulders. To better understand the current landscape of auto body repair, let’s look at the new technology and innovation coming soon.

 

Future Auto Body Repair

In the future, collision repair will depend on professionals in the business to improve the lifespan of car parts. We need this improved lifespan to advance and create new opportunities. Collision repair professionals will continue to innovate. This innovation will let customers save more money. In doing this, they can own some of the newer and more technologically advanced vehicles.

What Does "Certified Auto Body Repair" Mean?

What Can We Expect for Changes?

Right now, the auto body repair industry struggles with the quality of key vehicle part repairs. Car owners will continue to seek more cost-effective solutions and look for ways to make the repairs last longer. Collision repair professionals who can meet this demand with open arms will excel in business. They will seek new ways to offer new products to customers and improve existing products.

Efficiency will continue to grow in importance if we wish to compete with our rivals. Collision repair professionals will need to make repairs in a timely fashion, and they will need to keep offering them at increasingly affordable prices, even if the price increases in other ways.

 

Newly Emerging Auto Body Techniques

New technology in this industry will continue to evolve, and one of the specific areas where we might see change relates to the use of aluminum in car design. In the past, only high-end supercars and performance cars would receive aluminum body panels. Rumors are already circulating that Ford plans to design all-new aluminum-bodied vehicles. The reasons behind it include the lightweight material lending itself well to better fuel economy and better ability to meet safety standards.

This shift will mean a change because most technicians only know how to work on steel cars. You can’t reshape a banged-up aluminum body in the same way as a steel car. You need welding equipment and aluminum riveting tools. That will mean that auto body repairs will cost more for some vehicles, but will receive a stronger car that lasts longer.

How to Choose The Right Auto Body Shop

Augmented Reality: How Will That Work?

Believe it or not, augmented reality will play a new role in the auto body shop. Google, “auto body shop near me,” and many of the ones that you see right now may change their strategy to include augmented reality. You might, for example, see auto body professionals put on Google Glass headsets to feed them visual information about the car. Volkswagen became the first automaker to float the possibility of this technology to people.

New cars have complicated and dangerous features like electronic and hybrid drivetrains. This augmented reality will save technicians the amount of time spent learning how new vehicles work, and it will make it safer for them to make the repairs.

 

3D Printing: Untapped Potential

In the 3D printing realm, we see a great deal of untapped potential. We can, for example, use 3D printers and computers to recreate objects. Especially with older cars where finding the parts can be notoriously difficult, this will make it easier. Just take out the one you broke, scan it and it will spit out a new auto part.

Right now, 3D printers remain out of reach for most people, but as technology advances, they will become more affordable. The difficulty of using a 3D printer will become less complicated in the future as well.

This isn’t a stretch either considering how automakers already use 3D printers to create prototypes. Insurance companies have sought ways to recreate classic cars. Still, the stakes with this will need to prove fail-safe. Imagine the high stakes when you 3D print a set of brake calipers.

 

Onboard Communication Systems

Most of us have heard about GM OnStar at one point or another, which has existed for over 25 years. When you activate it, it interacts verbally with you. It can offer you turn-by-turn directions and assistance in the event of a car accident. In the future, we may see an increasing number of companies offering similar technologies.

Most, if not all automakers, in the future, will likely offer similar services with their own insurance products. AI, in the same way, that it revolutionizes other industries, will revolutionize auto technology as well. We will likely see new standards rolling out as the technology comes out. While we can choose to resist the changes, it will allow us to compete better if we adopt them.

All of this happening has already begun, and the tidal wave is coming for us even now. We will need to adapt and change at an increasing rate as this technology rolls out.

 

Conclusion

If you’d like to speak more about the future of auto technology, feel free to contact Elmer’s Auto Body. We have run our family-owned and operated business in South Jersey for over 70 years. With that amount of experience, we have seen where auto body repair started and where it may end up. No one knows the future for sure, but this does give us some idea of where it may be headed. Call us today at (856) 218-0202.

What Are OEM Parts?

What Are OEM Parts?

At some point in your vehicle’s life, you will probably need to replace certain parts, whether they be small or significant. There are a few different paths for you to take, but your biggest choice will be between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. Not all parts are created equally though, so you should know what exactly you will be putting in your vehicle, and Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help you make this important decision for you and your family.

 

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM parts are automotive parts made by the manufacturer (OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer). There may be many reasons for you to want or avoid OEM parts, but the choice should be simple once you understand what OEM parts are, as well as the pros and cons of using them.

 

 

Advantages of OEM Parts

OEM parts come directly from the manufacturer and are made specifically for your make and model of vehicle. You can be assured that any OEM part you purchase will fit perfectly and perform exactly as if it had been there since the car was first put on the lot. Aftermarket (non-OEM) parts are usually designed to fit a wide variety of different vehicles, so the fit won’t always be as superior as with OEM parts. Most OEM parts will also come with a one-year warranty and can be replaced (within a year) if any issues arise, with no additional cost to the customer. You must also be aware of your vehicle’s existing warranty, as the use of aftermarket parts on your vehicle may void your vehicle’s current warranty coverage. Aftermarket parts may also come in numerous different levels of quality with different brands and prices, and OEM parts usually only have a single type, the perfect fit for your vehicle.

 

Besides the peace of mind you get from knowing your part will be an exact fit, as well as the safety net of the warranty, you can be assured that OEM parts are made from high-quality materials and you can rest easy knowing that you are getting exactly what you pay for. OEM parts usually will be acquired from a dealership as well, which will promise a level of quality that can be guaranteed, as opposed to a chain or independent body shop which may have varying levels of quality and care with your vehicle. One reason purchasing aftermarket parts may be cheaper is that quality is sacrificed, and often any savings the driver may have from avoiding OEM parts are negated by the lack of quality in the aftermarket parts.

 

Disadvantages of OEM Parts

An OEM part will usually be the best option for consumers, but sometimes the cons of OEM parts outweigh the pros, depending on each consumer’s specific situation. OEM parts will usually cost nearly sixty percent more than aftermarket parts (according to a study by the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America), and despite most OEM parts being of superior quality than their aftermarket counterparts, this is not always the case– as there may be aftermarket parts of equal or greater quality with a lower price (for those willing to hunt for them).

 

Because the OEM parts are so specifically made for your make and model, that means there will be fewer parts available which may cause some trouble finding OEM parts. OEM parts can be found online and may even be requested from a local mechanic, but it may take longer to get these parts, and it limits the number of places that you could acquire OEM parts from. Since aftermarket parts are manufactured to fit many different styles and types of cars universally, there will usually be an abundance of aftermarket parts to choose from (though this may lead to an overabundance of choices sometimes). This may lead to aftermarket parts fitting a more specific need, as you could sacrifice aesthetics for quality, comfort, or better overall performance.

 

So When Should I Request OEM Parts?

For repairs following a collision, OEM parts should be prioritized, as aftermarket body panels may not fit and may compromise the vehicle’s structural safety. Customers that lease a car may have additional issues to consider, as aftermarket parts will decrease the value of your vehicle, and may cost you all or part of your security deposit. Aftermarket parts may provide value in rare cases, but if you aren’t one to work on your own car, or if you are unfamiliar with all the different brands and levels of quality, OEM parts will provide a solid fool-proof fix with the previously stated peace of mind that a warranty and guaranteed quality and fit will provide.

 

Things to Consider About OEM Parts

Tom Torbjornsen, who was the host of America’s Car Show, has stated that the gap in pricing between OEM and aftermarket parts seems to be closing, as he claims that dealers have begun to compete with independent shops when it comes to parts. So the advantage of saving money may be less appealing than it previously has been. Additionally, in twenty-one states (as well as the District of Columbia), a body shop’s repair estimate doesn’t have to indicate whether or not an Aftermarket or OEM part is used. Your insurance company will probably prefer you to choose an aftermarket part because of cost, and some companies may add an additional fee if you do decide to choose OEM parts for your vehicle. Before purchasing parts, always check with your insurance provider to see what parts, if any, will be covered (as well as your vehicle’s lease agreement, if it is a lease).

 

Get Your Car Repaired With OEM Parts

So are you ready to make your decision between OEM and aftermarket?  Or do you still have questions on whether OEM or aftermarket parts may be right for you? Either way, our professionals at Elmer’s Auto Body will be available to assist you! Call (609)-714-4050 or contact us through our website today to book your free consultation, or to book an appointment now!

What To Do When You Get Involved In A Fender Bender Accident

What To Do When You Get Involved In A Fender Bender Accident

It’s time to talk about an unpleasant topic, and that topic is auto accidents. Specifically, we are talking about “fender benders”: Minor collisions that result in minor damage. Despite the name, a fender bender doesn’t necessarily involve fender damage. This term is generally applied to any minor collision between vehicles. So, what should you do if you happen to be involved in one of these? Let’s talk about the most important points.

 

Step 1: Get All Vehicles To A Safe Position

After the collision has occurred, your first priority is to get both vehicles to a safe position. This will usually mean pulling over to the roadside and waiting for the other driver to do the same. If such an area is not available, use a nearby driveway, a parking lot, or anything else that puts you in a safe location.

If possible, you should get their license plate number before this point, however. Most people will be responsible enough to pull over and exchange information, but some people might get scared and bolt, especially if they were clearly at fault. If necessary, you should direct the other driver to a good place. In most cases, these types of minor accidents will not disable a vehicle, giving you the opportunity to find a good place. The important thing is to get you and the other driver out of traffic where you might be hit again. If you cannot pull off the road, light some road flares around your vehicle.

 

Step 2: Exchange Information With The Other Driver

After you have removed yourself from immediate danger, you need to exchange information with the other driver. This should include:

  • Names
  • Insurance policy information
  • Telephone numbers
  • Driver’s license numbers
  • License plate numbers
  • Make and model of both vehicles

One little thing to remember at this point: Do not admit fault in any way. If you do, this can later be used against you. Make sure you never admit fault in any way, shape, or form. The question of fault should be decided by qualified investigators, so never automatically assume that you’re at fault and don’t allow the other driver to do so.

 

Step 3: Analyze And Document The Damage

It is very important to take pictures of both vehicles before even calling the police. If the matter should be disputed by either insurance company, it will be necessary to prove the extent of the damage. Obviously, you should focus your efforts on the areas that have suffered the most damage. Don’t hesitate to take multiple pictures of the same spot from multiple angles. Such pictures will be very valuable to insurance investigators and could prevent you from being held liable. If there are any witnesses involved, this is also the time to talk with them.

 

Step 4: Call The Police

Now that you have gathered all the necessary information and evidence, it is time to call the police and report the accident. When you’re talking about a fender bender, there is a natural temptation to blow it off and drive away. This should never be done because not all damage is obvious at first. For instance, many modern vehicles have front or rear fenders that are covered by panels. Thus, it may not always be possible to see when they have been bent or dented. You should always report an accident.

As before, make sure that you never admit fault when talking to the officer. Present your account of the incident in a truthful and straightforward manner. When we say “don’t admit fault,” we are not telling you to lie. We are just telling you to stick with the facts. Just tell the officer what happened and let things be decided in the proper way. Before the officer leaves, make sure that you ask for a police report number. This will enable you to get a copy of the accident report from the local police station.

 

Step 5: Call Your Insurance Company

Don’t assume that your insurance company will be informed about the accident. Either way, it is your responsibility to call them and make a report. The general contact number for your insurance company should be fine, so just call them up and tell them that you need to report an accident. When they connect you to the appropriate person, Simply tell them what happened. They will undoubtedly want to see all of the pictures from the scene of the accident. They will also want the police report number so that they can verify your story. The more information you can give them, the better.

 

Conclusion

Now that all the legal matters have been handled, it’s time to worry about getting your vehicle fixed. If the damage is very small, you might want to just drive to your preferred repair shop. If it’s a little worse, you’ll need to call a tow truck. Regardless, you will have to ask yourself: “what is the best auto body shop near me?” If you are located in South Jersey, the answer is Elmer’s Auto Body. We have been proudly serving this locality for over 70 years, and we have a well-earned reputation for excellence. If you need help with a fender bender, you can call us at (856) 218-0202.

Minimizing Vehicle Depreciation After An Accident

Minimizing Vehicle Depreciation After An Accident

When your vehicle has been involved in an accident, there is little doubt that its value will be reduced. Any accident that is serious enough to report will surely reduce the value to some extent. Even if you have it repaired and the shop does a flawless job, there will still be some reduction in your vehicle’s overall value. That being said, there are ways to reduce and minimize the depreciation of your vehicle’s value.

 

Don’t Try To Cover It Up

You might be thinking that you can simply refrain from reporting the accident to your insurance company or any other relevant parties. If you are talking about a very minor accident, concealing the accident might be possible, but it is hardly ethical. Besides, any reputable repair shop will make a record of the repairs. That record will become part of a Carfax report that anyone can obtain, and that isn’t the only way for a potential buyer to uncover your deception. A repair shop that doesn’t make such reports is likely not going to do a good job, so you really shouldn’t try to cover up a significant accident.

 

Get The Damage Repaired

The most obvious way to reduce the vehicle’s value loss is to get the issue fixed. More importantly, it needs to be fixed correctly. That means restoring your car to its pre-collision state. This is another good reason to avoid low-level repair shops. Yes, they will probably charge you less, but they cannot deliver the same quality of work. A competent repair job will not completely eliminate your car’s loss of value, but it will certainly reduce those losses significantly.

 

Make Sure They Use OEM Parts

As we said, you have to get your vehicle restored to its original state. Doing otherwise will probably reduce your car’s value, and will probably void the warranty. That means no aftermarket parts or used parts. Once again, remember that those service records can be checked by anyone who cares enough to look them up. Thus, if you use substandard parts or the wrong parts, you will be shooting yourself in the foot. You might save a few bucks in the short term, but you will greatly decrease the value of your car.

OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer,” and it is a label that is placed on machine parts of many sorts. Those three letters indicate that the part has been made by the manufacturer of the vehicle or someone they have licensed to produce parts. The OEM designation basically just means that you are getting a new part that is identical to the original one.

 

Consider Filing A Diminished Value Claim

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you might be able to file a diminished value claim with your insurance company. This means that you will be compensated financially for your losses. So, let’s say your car was worth $8,000 before the accident, and then its value was reduced by half due to the damage. You would be able to recover that $4000 as a direct cash payment, but only if your claim is approved. So, even if you can’t necessarily stop your vehicle from depreciating in value, you can at least recoup your losses.

 

Every State Has Different Laws

There are laws that relate to these claims, and they vary from state to state. And so, the first thing you should do is look up the relevant laws for your state. This website might be a good place to begin. However, there are certain universal requirements. So, when should you file for a diminished value claim? Here are some things to consider:

  • If you were judged to be at fault, you will not be able to file the claim
  • Every state has a statute of limitations, and the claim must be filed within this period to be considered
  • If your vehicle was damaged by a random mishap like a falling tree branch, you probably won’t be approved
  • If your vehicle already had a lot of wear and tear, its value might be so low that the claim isn’t worth the trouble
  • If the other driver did not have car insurance, it could make you ineligible for the claim

 

Research And Documentation

If you want your claim to be approved, it pays to have as much knowledge and documentation as possible. You will definitely want pictures of your vehicle, showing its condition both before and after the accident. For the “before” pictures, use the most recent pictures of your vehicle that you can find. A receipt from the purchase of your car will also be helpful, and you should also have your service records handy. This is why you should always keep service records, by the way. The rules vary, so call your insurance company and ask about the types of documentation that they require.

 

Conclusion

Unless you plan to drive your car until the wheels fall off, resale value matters. If you want your vehicle to maintain a good resale value, it pays to follow all of these steps after an auto accident. It is also highly essential to choose the right shop, so ask yourself: “Where can I find the best auto body shop near me?” If you live in southern New Jersey or the surrounding areas, we can give you the correct answer. Just call Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202.

Getting Your Car “Un-Totaled” So It Can Be Repaired

Getting Your Car "Un-Totaled" So It Can Be Repaired

After you have been in an accident, the insurance company could decide to total your vehicle. While you may think you cannot get it repaired, you could be able to persuade the insurance company to “un-total” your vehicle. Otherwise, you cannot get the car fixed at your local auto body shop with that designation. Here are a few tips to get that vehicle un-totaled from the insurance company.

 

What Is Considered a Totaled Car?

When a vehicle has a high cost of repair that exceeds its value, it is considered a total loss. The insurance company often decides it is not feasible to repair the vehicle.

For example, if your car was worth $3,000 before the accident, and the estimate is over that amount, the insurance company could “total” your vehicle, meaning it is a complete loss.

If you want to repair your vehicle, you could run into issues. The insurance company is often required to register it as a loss. You might be issued a salvage title or certificate. With that, it cannot be registered, sold, or driven without repairs. Even then, finding an auto body shop that will fix these vehicles will be challenging since it could be a liability for them.

 

What Happens After a Vehicle Is Declared a Total Loss?

After the insurance company has deemed the car a total loss, you will be sent a check for the remaining value of your vehicle. While some people will purchase a used or new car, some owners are not ready to get rid of their vehicle. In some cases, you could dispute the claim. However, the burden of proof is on the owner, who must show evidence that the vehicle has a higher value or that the repairs are not too costly. What can the owner do to un-total a car? There are several ways to get the insurance company to change its mind.

First, the vehicle owner should talk to an auto body mechanic. In many cases, they will take a look at the car and provide an estimate for the damage. They will break down the hourly labor price and the time involved in fixing the damaged parts. Many auto body specialists will tell you whether you can repair the vehicle or if it is ready for the scrap yard.

Unfortunately, the auto body shop cannot repair some vehicles to working condition. Remember that you can get a second estimate for your vehicle, especially if you feel the decision to total the vehicle is incorrect. If you can prove the vehicle has more value over the cost of repair, then the insurance company may change its decision.

When you talk to a reputable auto body mechanic, they can give you an opinion on the vehicle. Some body damage looks unfixable, but the auto body shop can restore the vehicle back to its pre-accident condition with the right mechanic and tools. If you successfully overturn the “total” decision, you will get the repairs completed like a regular insurance claim. Take the estimate and send it to a trusted repair shop for the work.

 

Keeping a Damage Vehicle

You can keep the car if you do not challenge the insurance company’s decision to total the vehicle. The insurance company will pay for the vehicle’s remaining value, but they could subtract the deductible and salvage value.

Even if you want to un-total your vehicle, remember that safety should be your top concern. Any reputable auto body shop will repair a vehicle that is in safe working order. Sometimes, the damage is too severe, and the vehicle needs to be scrapped. However, some insurance companies are known to be overzealous, totaling a car for minor repairs. If the damage is just cosmetic, you can fix the vehicle for a small repair cost.

Yes, there are times when you can un-total your vehicle, fix the damage, and get back on the road. Once the insurance company agrees to un-total your vehicle, make sure to take it to a professional and reputable auto body shop to complete those repairs.

 

Untotal Your Vehicle

Getting the insurance company to change its decision about your vehicle can be challenging. If you want to un-total the vehicle, you need to determine the damage to the car, the severity of the issues, the location of the damage, and the condition of your vehicle. Some vehicles have extensive damage, and fixing the cars may not be feasible. However, there are other times when the insurance company does not want to pay for a minor repair. You can get them to reverse their decisions with documentation and a professional auto body technician’s estimate.

 

Find an Auto Body Shop Near Me

If you need help to un-total your vehicle, you must talk to a reputable auto body repair shop. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our technicians have the experience to inspect your vehicle and determine the costs of the repairs. We will work with you to give you an accurate estimate so you can reach out to your insurance company. In some cases, we can send the estimate right to the insurance company, helping reduce some of the frustration of the process. When it comes time to get those repairs completed, make sure to contact our shop. We are a family-owned auto body shop that has been serving the community for the past 70 years. Schedule a consultation by calling (856) 218-0202.

Protect Your Honda With Certified Collision Repair

Protect Your Honda With Certified Collision Repair

Honda owners know that these vehicles are some of the most reliable cars on the road. They are long-lasting vehicles made for everyday driving. In many cases, it is not uncommon to have a Honda performing for years without any major issues. When you need a repair, you will want to protect your vehicle by taking it to a Honda-certified collision repair shop.

 

What You Need To Know About Honda-Certified Collision Repairs

Honda has made a recommendation that all its vehicles are repaired by auto body shops and technicians certified to perform Honda repairs. If you have been involved in an accident, it is crucial to take it to a reputable and certified repair shop. These vehicles have their own advanced safety systems, parts, and technology that only a certified technician should handle. When you choose a Certified Honda collision repair shop, these professionals know how to best repair your vehicle.

Honda is committed to safety and wants to ensure that all repairs are made according to its specifications. With the Honda ProFirst Collision Repair program, you are assured that every technician has the right equipment, skills, training, and tools to repair your vehicle safely. Honda offers ongoing training so that your auto body repair team stays up to date on the latest changes that could affect the performance and safety of the vehicle.

Some of the areas that technicians receive specialized training include:

  • On-board safety features
  • Advanced body materials
  • Collision avoidance systems

When you bring your Honda vehicle to a certified shop, you will have some peace of mind that they will only use Genuine Honda parts on your vehicle. With these qualified repairs, you can keep and maintain your original manufacturer’s warranty even after an accident.

There are many reasons why you should choose original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. These parts are guaranteed to meet Honda’s standards for appearance, safety, and fitment, meaning these parts will maintain the structural integrity of your Honda vehicle as designed by the company’s engineers.

Additionally, a Honda-certified collision repair shop offers technicians unlimited access to repair guidelines and information exclusively from the manufacturer. They can use all the proper tools and equipment to match the specifications of these vehicles. Plus, the technicians and shops must be I-CAR Gold Certified to complete a repair on your vehicle.

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Requirements of Honda’s Collision Repair Certification Program

Most vehicle manufacturers have strict requirements for repairs. With the ProFirst program, all shops and technicians must meet stringent standards to be certified to handle collision repair. With these standards, Honda can ensure that the repairs are completed to their specifications. First, any shop that wants to be certified will need to be an I-CAR Gold Class, Medallion, or VeriFact VQ shop.

Along with that, the technicians will take specific training that is designed and administered through the I-CAR program. These details are specific to the Honda line of vehicles. This training is required for anyone who takes on the roles of a structural technician, nonstructural technician, or estimator. Every shop must have one technician who completes these hands-on training programs.

All certified auto body shops will need to maintain the proper tools, equipment, and technology from Honda. With that, these professionals have committed to repairing your Honda vehicle to factory specifications by following the manufacturer’s safety and security protocols. Also, all auto body shops must use genuine parts and maintain the facility standards to Honda’s specifications.

Honda also wants to ensure that all shops meet their standards for customer service. With that, Honda requires the shop to have a full inspection by an independent third-party auditor. These auto body shops also need to maintain a customer contact program so that their customers know their certifications.

 

Get a Repair from a Honda-Certified Shop

When you have been in an accident, you want to avoid taking a chance with an unauthorized shop, especially if you want to maintain the appearance and warranty of your vehicle. A certified collision repair team has the skills and training to deliver the highest level of service to your vehicle. As a result, these technicians will only use authorized parts and tools to repair the car according to Honda’s standards.

 

Reach Out To Elmer’s Auto Body

You don’t want to leave your vehicle at any repair shop. These collision repairs must be handled by professionals who understand all of Honda’s safety features and systems, using only OEM parts and equipment.

With our experienced technicians, we will restore the vehicle back to its original factory finish. We understand that repairing a car is more than a cosmetic fix. You want your Honda repaired back to the vehicle’s pre-accident condition.

We stand behind our work and uphold our reputation as a Honda-certified collision repair shop. You can guarantee to have the highest quality repair work completed on your vehicle. Our shop will even help with your insurance claim, making the collision repair process easier for you.

Whether you have major collision damage or a small fender bender, you will want to get it fixed right the first time. Our auto body shop ensures your complete satisfaction with any repair. Hondas are durable vehicles that will last for many years. When it comes time to get your vehicle fixed, take it to a Honda-certified collision shop. Do you need an “auto body shop near me?” You can schedule a free estimate or repair by calling Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202.