Signs of Pothole Damage

Signs of Pothole Damage

There are potholes on most roads and nowadays, they are very hard to avoid! Depending on the size of the pothole and at what speed your car hit it, a pothole does have the ability to damage your car and cause your car not to work in crucial ways. Knowing the signs of pothole damage will help you keep your vehicle safe when on the road.

 

What Is A Pothole?

Potholes are unplanned dips or holes that are in the road that has been created by erosion. Potholes can be very damaging to vehicles, especially if they are deep. A pothole is created when water enters a crack within the pavement, which then softens the tarmac. It is common for potholes to increase over the winter months due to ice, snow, and heavy weather conditions. It is always best to check your vehicle if it has hit a pothole suddenly and the car has felt the knock quite badly.

 

Signs Of Pothole Damage On Your Vehicle

  • Flat Tires
  • Structure Damage
  • Leaks
  • Scrapes
  • The Vehicle Pulls To One Side
  • Different Exhaust Noises
  • Bulging
  • The Rims Are Bent
  • The Car Can Not Stay Steady
  • The Wheel Begins To Shake

 

Flat Tires

The first sign that you have hit a pothole and you have caused damage to the vehicle will be the tires. The tires will show the damage as that is what hit the pothole and took most of the brute force. A tire may instantly go flat or it may take a while for the damage to truly show. It is best to park up after hitting a pothole and check your tires immediately. If you do need to purchase a replacement tire, contact one of our auto body repair shop in South Jersey.

 

Structure Damage

One of the most common parts of the car to be damaged after hitting a pothole is the steering and suspension systems. The suspension arm and tie rods could easily break after hitting a large pothole. The way to check if these parts are broken is to attempt a corner jounce test. Pay attention to how your car feels and if it feels slightly different then contact a professional to make sure your car is safe for the road.

 

Leaks

If you heard your vehicle being scrapped or heard a general scraping sound when you hit the pothole, this may mean that there is a leak to follow. If your car has been scraped underneath, this could allow water or salt to enter different areas causing large issues with the vehicle.

 

The Vehicle Pulls To One Side

Aim to try to drive the vehicle in one straight line after you have hit a pothole. If the vehicle pulls to one side while you are driving this could be a sign of a problem, that could even be linked to the break or steering. The pothole may have even affected the wheel alignment which could cause issues with your car and may even mean that your car is not safe to drive. If you believe that the wheel alignment has altered then call our auto body repair shop in South Jersey.

 

Different Exhaust Noises

The way your car feels when you are driving it is the biggest tell sign that there may be something wrong with your vehicle. Make sure that you pay attention to the way your car feels but also the noises it makes. If you hear exhaust noises that sound strange or different, this could mean that hitting a pothole has caused a problem with the exhaust system.

 

Bulging

Once you have hit a pothole, aim to pull the car over and park so that you can exit the vehicle safely and inspect the tires. If the tires are starting to bulge at the sidewalls this is a sign of damage. Any kind of bulging in the sidewalls should be seen and repaired before you drive further. If your tire is bulging, it is a sign that the air in the tire is escaping.

 

The Rims Are Bent

One of the easiest ways to tell if a pothole has caused damage to your car is if the rims are bent. Most rims on modern-day cars are made with a metal called aluminum. Aluminum is a type of metal that can bend if it is forced. Bent rims are more of a cosmetic issue than a safety issue but it may suggest that you might have further damage to the vehicle caused by the pothole.

 

The Car Can Not Stay Steady

If the car starts to bounce while you are driving, this could be a sign that it is damaged and you will need to pull the vehicle over. If the vehicle is making swaying or bouncing movements it may be a sign there is a problem with the suspension.

 

The Wheel Begins To Shake

If the steering wheel is shaking or vibrating, this is a sign that the pothole you hit may have caused damage. If you do find that your steering wheel is affected after hitting a pothole, it could mean that a component within the steering has now stopped working. If you would like a consultation, call our auto body repair shop in South Jersey.

 

Contact Elmer’s Auto Body To Repair Pothole Damage

If you have noticed a change in your car after hitting a pothole call in at Elmer’s Auto Body today. Our teams in South Jersey are ready to repair your vehicle and get it back to its original form. Schedule your consultation by calling (856) 218-0202 or filling out the contact form.

Collision Repair Estimates And What To Expect

Collision Repair Estimates And What To Expect

There is no need to tell you that a vehicle collision is a serious problem. Even a minor collision can result in a large repair bill, so it’s important to drive carefully. Still, it isn’t always possible to avoid an accident, particularly if it results from someone else’s mistake. When that happens, collision repair is the next step. Let’s talk about collision repair estimate costs and what you can expect when it’s time to get one.

 

1. Don’t Bother With Online Estimators

There are places on the internet which claim to accurately predict collision repair costs. Unfortunately, these tools are not the most reliable. The problem is that you never really know the full extent of the damage until an expert gets in there and takes a close look. Your initial impressions could be wrong, and that will cause the estimate to be wrong as well. In the end, these tools don’t do anything except give you unrealistic expectations.

 

2. Understand That Labor Rates Vary

It is relatively easy to estimate the cost of a replacement part. You simply check the average price of the item and factor that into the cost. However, labor costs are another story. These costs are assessed at an hourly rate, and that hourly rate will vary from one shop to another. This is another thing that makes estimation difficult.

If you have collision coverage, this will also affect labor rates. You will be utilizing a shop that is recommended by your insurance company, and the rates will likely be lower. This is because insurance companies have good business relationships with these repair shops, allowing them to negotiate better labor rates. So, if your insurance is paying, the labor costs will probably be significantly lower.

 

3. Understand The Abbreviations

When you are given a copy of the repair estimate, you should make sure you understand all the items on that list. There will likely be some abbreviations, so don’t hesitate to ask about those. For instance, some shops will use the abbreviation “R & I.” There’s nothing complex about this one, as it just stands for “replacing and installing.”

 

4. OEM Parts Are Always More Expensive

If you have ever had your car repaired at a dealership, you know that they tend to be more expensive. This is because you are enlisting the help of specialized mechanics who are certified to deal with every aspect of your particular vehicle. Specialized labor is always more expensive, but it also tends to be better.

Have you ever wondered why dealership repairs are more expensive? One of the main reasons is the use of OEM (original engine manufacturer) parts. As the name implies, these are original parts that come straight from the factory. And so, if you see a lot of OEM parts on your estimate, you might be able to negotiate a lower price by suggesting the use of secondhand parts. Aftermarket parts are commonly abbreviated as “LKQ”, which means “like kind quality.”

 

5. Try To Get More Than One Estimate

As with any goods or services, it is important to compare prices before you make a firm decision. However, when you compare different estimates, you need to bear several things in mind.

First, a lot of shops will promise you a lower cost. That doesn’t mean they will actually deliver. They are not legally obligated to stick with the estimate, so the final bill can end up being a lot larger. Secondly, a lower repair cost won’t do you any good if the work isn’t done correctly. Thus, you should not just go with the lowest estimate. It is far better to go with a shop that has earned your trust through prior dealings.

 

6. Understand The Seriousness Of Frame Damage

If the underlying frame of your car has been damaged in a collision, that is a much more serious kind of job. The frame of your vehicle is the foundation of its structural integrity. In fact, the only part of your car that is more crucial would be the engine. In a collision, a weak frame can turn a vehicle into a deathtrap, and repair shops are fully aware of this fact. Thus, if you have damage to your frame, understand that it might be better to replace the vehicle. These repairs will be more expensive due to the potential liability issues involved.

 

7. Be Prepared For Some Waiting Time

Finally, you need to understand that collision repairs can take time. Even though you may have important commitments, the shop is not going to turn the vehicle loose until it is deemed safe. Despite the inconveniences this can cause, you want your repair shop to be thorough and complete. Rush jobs are rarely thorough and complete, so give them enough time to do things correctly.

 

Conclusion

If there is one common theme in all of this, it is the fact that estimates are seldom 100% accurate. Their purpose is to give you some idea of what you will need to spend, so take them for what they are. When you need a collision repair estimate, the first question to ask is: “Where can I find the best auto body shop near me?” If you are located in South Jersey, the answer is Elmer’s Auto Body. With 75 years of collision repair experience, we can offer you the best service and the most accurate estimates that are possible. If you would like to learn more, you can call us at (856) 218-0202.

How Long Do I Have To Repair My Car After An Accident?

How Long Do I Have To Repair My Car After An Accident

Whether you’re dealing with damage to your vehicle by yourself or need to file an insurance claim, you need to stick to a strict deadline. Whatever you do, make sure to bring the vehicle into a repair shop for an inspection. You never want to drive a damaged car down the road. After that, you should work to get your vehicle repaired in a timely manner. Let’s look at a few things you should know about fixing your vehicle after an accident.

 

The Deadline To Fix a Damaged Car

This answer will depend on your insurance company. Companies will have guidelines regarding reporting and using the policy coverage after an accident. In most cases, you must contact your insurance company immediately after an accident. The sooner you start the process, the better the results. With that, your vehicle will be repaired and back on the road. Plus, you can also remember all those details of the crash. Once the insurance company has been contacted, a claims adjuster will walk you through the rest of the process, including explaining any deadlines for using your insurance coverage.

 

What To Do With the Insurance Money?

If you have minor damage, you might be tempted to forgo those repairs and use the insurance money for other things. Whether you own the vehicle or not, you might be able to keep the money legally. For anyone making payments on the car, the lender is technically the owner of the vehicle. Those companies have a vested interest in retaining the vehicle’s value. In most cases, you must have it repaired after an accident. However, if you outright own your vehicle, then you are free to use the insurance money for other purposes. Most people will want to repair their vehicle and take the insurance money to get it fixed.

 

Can I Drive My Car After an Accident?

If your car is still operational after an accident, you may want to continue to drive it. While minor dents and dings will not affect the safety features, you must bring the car to a reputable shop. Some types of damage will affect the safety components, making driving your vehicle illegal. These types of damages include:

 

Timeline To Repair a Vehicle

Many factors will determine the timeline to fix a car. The location of the damage, the severity of the impact, and the vehicle’s make and model play a part in this timeline. Sometimes, a broken windshield can be replaced in a day, while extensive frame damage could take weeks to months to repair. Plus, if the parts are not easily accessible, it can take longer for the shop to fix your vehicle. When you work with a reputable repair shop, they will take the time to give you an accurate estimate. With that, you can have a general guideline for the repairs. Remember that there is always the chance for a complication that can add to the project’s timeline.

 

Should I DIY Those Repairs?

After watching a few videos, you might think you are ready to tackle those simple car repairs. However, resist the urge to save a few dollars and take the vehicle to a reliable, trained auto body shop. These technicians use specialized equipment and understand the latest manufacturer-recommended standards to repair your car.

The technicians understand how to fix most types of damage. It is not uncommon for the shop to find additional damage after inspecting the car. When you leave your vehicle at the shop, you can have confidence that they will complete the proper repairs without any problems.

 

The Timeline for Work

Remember that different insurance companies will have their own requirements and policies regarding the timeline to fix your vehicle. You should never wait to repair the car. Damaged cars are just unsafe on the road. If you happen to be involved in another accident, you could compromise those safety components. In some situations, waiting can cause additional damage to your vehicle and cost you more money in repairs.

After an accident, always report it to the insurance company and file a claim. Once a claims adjuster has been assigned to your case, you can determine the exact deadline to get your car fixed. Ultimately, you just want to get your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition.

 

Contact a Professional Auto Body Shop

After an accident, you want to choose the right body shop to repair your vehicle. Elmer’s Auto Body is one of the most trusted shops in South Jersey. Our team of certified technicians will inspect your vehicle and provide you with a detailed estimate. Along with that, we have a working relationship with the top insurance companies in the state. We will help you through the entire claims process. Our team wants to get your vehicle back on the road as conveniently and quickly as possible.

It is a frustrating process after an accident, but you don’t want to delay. With those pressing questions, you can turn to us. Trust our experienced team at Elmer’s Auto Body. We will work to restore your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. Your satisfaction is our top priority. Schedule an appointment by calling us at (856) 218-0202.

How Much Does it Cost to Fix Curb Rash?

How Much Does it Cost to Fix Curb Rash?

Even with the most careful driving, you can experience curb rash. This accident can happen when maneuvering the car into a parking spot. When you hear that scraping sound, you probably already know it is the dreaded curb rash. Unfortunately, this type of vehicle damage is common, and it can happen to almost any driver.

While the scuffs and scrapes are minor, they can become an eyesore for owners. If you lease the car, you will want to get that curb rash fixed. Otherwise, you have to pay extra fees for damages at the end of the contract. Whether you have minor or major damage, you want to know the costs of a curb rash repair. Here are the basic expenses associated with this repair.

 

What Is Curb Rash?

Most auto body repair shops will use the term “curb rash” to describe any damage to the vehicle’s wheels and hubcaps. This type of damage is caused when the car rubs against the curb. In some situations, curb rash happens when the vehicle hits a big pothole or another type of obstruction in the road.

There are several types of curb rash damage. Some of the most common ones include:

  • Bends
  • Cracks
  • Dents
  • Gouges
  • Scratches
  • Scuffs

Fortunately, these types of damage can be easily fixed when you take the vehicle to a reputable auto body repair shop.

 

The Dangers of Curb Rash

While curb rash might seem like a minor problem, it can throw your car’s suspension out of alignment. When the vehicle is not aligned correctly, it can lead to uneven tire wear. Keep in mind that curb rash could have caused damage to the sidewalls of the tires, which can lead to a possible dangerous blowout.

Whenever you hit the curb with your wheel, there are no guarantees that the tire is not damaged. In many cases, the tire will take the full impact of the collision. If your rims are badly damaged, there is a good chance that the tire also suffered some damage.

Remember, the sidewall of the tire is the weakest part of the vehicle. After the accident, you will always want to look at the sidewall. If bubbles are developing, it could signify that the steel cords have separated, compromising the protective layer. Even an accident at 5 MPH can cause significant damage to the tire, affecting its performance and safety.

Curb rash might have left minimal visible damage, but it is always a good idea to take the vehicle to an experienced curb rash repair shop for a further inspection.

 

How Much Is Curb Rash Repair?

If you want to know the exact cost to fix curb rash, there is no single price. The final price will be determined by the material, type of damage, labor costs, and the area that needs to be repaired. However, you can estimate the average cost of curb rash repairs by looking at the wheel’s material.

An auto body shop can repair steel wheels for about $50. You might have to pay over $150 to replace the wheel if there is more extensive damage.

Any scuffs and scratches to a chrome wheel will cost around $200 to $500. If the entire wheel is cracked, it must be completely replaced.

Aluminum wheels with minor scuffs and scratches will cost you around $200 to $500. If the damage is more severe, expect to pay for a new replacement wheel.

Finally, plastic chad wheels are almost impossible to repair. In nearly all cases, you will need new rims, which are inexpensive to replace.

 

Repair or Replace the Wheel?

 

For many vehicle owners, you want to know whether you should repair or replace the wheel. In many situations, it does come down to costs. Most wheel repairs are relatively inexpensive, but you should always weigh your options.

First, you will want to get an estimate at a reliable and certified auto body repair shop. At these shops, a trained technician will inspect your vehicle, including the tires. Once you get an estimate, you can decide whether you want to pay out-of-pocket or go through your insurance company. If the cost is not high, paying out-of-pocket for a quick turnaround on those repairs may be better. Any expensive repairs should be submitted to your insurance company.

 

Repairing Curb Rash

Curb rash can cause extensive damage, such as cracking or bending the wheel rim. In those cases, you will have to replace it. When you bring in your vehicle, the technician will assess both the structural integrity and appearance of your car, including a complete examination of your wheel and axle. Once the inspection is completed, you can schedule the repairs. It should not take long to fix the damaged areas and get you back on the road.

 

Get Your Curb Rash Repaired Today!

Whether you have a major gouge or minor scuff, you will want to bring your vehicle in for an inspection by a reliable shop. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have experience fixing all types of vehicle damage, including curb rash. After an accident, you will want to bring in your vehicle for a full inspection. Our team of qualified technicians has the expertise to repair your car and get it back to its pre-damaged condition. If you need to fix any type of damage to your vehicle, reach out to us. You can schedule an initial consultation by calling us at (856) 218-0202.

What to Do After You’ve Been Rear-Ended

What to Do After You’ve Been Rear-Ended

Being rear-ended by another car is a constant danger on the highways of the world. There are always vehicles behind you, and there is always the chance that one of them could fail to stop in time. Luckily, these kinds of collisions tend to be a lot less damaging than head-on collisions, but that isn’t saying much. A rear-end collision can still cause significant damage, especially if the impact occurred at a high rate of speed. If you should find yourself in that situation, here are a few things that you should remember. This will explain what to do when you have been rear-ended.

 

1. Get Off The Road And Make Contact

Your first priority should be getting off the road. At the same time, observe the car that hit you. They should be doing the same. If it looks like they aren’t going to pull over, make sure you get a good look at their license plate. Repeat that combination of letters and numbers to yourself until you can find a way to write it down. If nothing else, you can use the “notes” feature on your phone. If they try to drive off, they are guilty of a serious crime.

Once off the road, make contact with the other driver. This might not be a friendly situation, but it has to be done. Try not to get hostile, even if it was completely the other driver’s fault: Even if you might be justified, no good will come of that. Just try to remember that they have already pulled over and taken responsibility for their mistake. Obviously, if you or the other driver have been injured, you need to call 911 immediately.

 

2. Call The Police

Either you or the other driver will need to call the police so that a properly certified accident report can be made. This is very important because your insurance company will want a copy of that police report later. Make sure to ask the officer where, when, and how you can obtain a copy of that police report.

When you tell the officer what happened, just be completely truthful and make sure the other driver does the same. Some people will try to lie their way out of culpability, so don’t let anyone get away with that. If nothing else, there might be camera footage that can be pulled in the event of a dispute. The important thing is to make sure you are nothing but truthful at all times. Anything else will simply discredit you.

 

3. Take Plenty Of Pictures

Everyone carries a smartphone these days and tends to have high-quality cameras. Therefore, there is no excuse for not taking plenty of pictures. You particularly need pictures of the damage that occurred from the accident. Get pictures of all involved vehicles from as many angles as you can, focusing on the areas that suffered the impact. This is likely to help you later on, should a dispute about blame arise.

As for when you should take these pictures, it would probably be best to take them immediately after calling the police. You are going to be waiting for at least a few minutes anyway, so you might as well put that time to good use. Besides, it gives you something to do and takes away from the awkwardness of the situation.

 

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

At the earliest possible opportunity, you should call your insurance company and let them know what has happened. Bear in mind that the call will surely be recorded and that it will surely be reviewed later. So, make sure there are no inconsistencies between what you told the officer and what you tell your insurance company. Again, the important thing is to be completely and consistently truthful. Even if the whole thing is your fault, it will be easier on you in the long run.

It would probably be best to contact your insurance company immediately after the police officer has left. If the accident occurred after-hours, call them early the next morning.

 

Avoiding Rear-End Collisions

You might remember a concept from your old driving manual called “the space cushion.” This is a certain amount of space that must be maintained at all times. Basically, it just means that you should avoid getting too close to other vehicles as much as possible. That way, you will have more time to stop if necessary. Since it is hard to judge exact distances while driving, it is best to maintain a space that is about the same size as your vehicle. Maintaining this space in the front and back will help you to avoid rear-end collisions.

Awareness is also very important. Brake lights and turn signals exist for a reason, so keep your eye on them. This includes keeping an eye on your own brake lights/turn signals and making sure they work properly. When the car in front of you is braking, you probably need to do the same. When you do so, you should brake as gradually as possible. If you slam on the brakes and stop very quickly, the car behind you might not react quickly enough.

 

Conclusion

If you have been paying attention, you should now know what to do if you are rear-ended. However, there is one aspect that has not been discussed, and that is auto repair. You will probably need the services of a good auto body shop, and that’s where Elmer’s Auto Body can be of help. If you need post-collision auto repair or any other kind of automotive work, you can call our team at (856) 218-0202.

How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Car Door?

How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Car Door?

Door damage is, unfortunately, very common. As the main point of access, doors represent one of the weaker parts of an automobile. However, they are certainly much easier (and cheaper) to repair than critical running parts like an engine or transmission.

 

The Damage Matters A Lot

When we come to the subject of cost, the biggest determining factor (by far) will be the extent of the damage. If you’re just talking about a dent or two, you will get off relatively cheap. If entire components of the door need replacing, you’re talking about a much higher bill. In the end, it’s a lot like any other auto repair: The cost is determined by the time and materials required.

 

Average Figures

Although costs will vary a lot, most sources give an average figure of $500-$2500. This isn’t a bad place to begin, but we need to get a little more specific here. Since the majority of door damage will take the form of dents and dings, let’s look at average costs for the repair of such damage. So, how much will your car door dent repair cost?

Let’s start with these estimates from Chase Bank. They use these kinds of estimates for insurance and liability purposes, so they are likely to be pretty accurate. Like our previous source, they give us a maximum figure of $2500. However, their minimum figure is much smaller, at $50. Thus, if you’re only talking about a tiny little ding, the cost will be minimal.

This article from CarRoar gives us a different kind of estimate. This one says that the baseline cost will be anywhere from $100-$500. However, that range only applies to a 1-inch dent. The cost will go up by roughly $30 per inch.

This brings us to another important point: Many repair shops charge by the inch. A larger dent simply takes more time and effort to repair. It may also require specialized tools that are not cheap. So, the larger the dent, the more money you will have to pay.

We can see that these estimates vary a lot, but it is safe to say that $100 is a minimum figure for a small dent. If the dent isn’t larger than an inch, $500 would probably be a good maximum figure. For larger dents, $500-$2500 would be the norm. Needless to say, the higher end of that range would be reserved for cases with particularly large dents and/or multiple dents.

 

Will Your Insurance Cover The Cost Of Car Door Dent Repair?

That depends on your insurance policy. If you simply have a basic, bare-minimum kind of policy, these repairs are not likely to be covered. If you have full coverage (technically known as comprehensive and collision insurance), these repairs will probably be covered.

Of course, you should look at your policy before assuming this to be true. In many cases, insurance policies will have specific qualifications. For instance, most insurance companies will cover damage from falling objects, since that is clearly not the fault of the driver. On the other hand, damage that is considered to be the fault of the driver may not be covered.

 

Paint Costs

In many cases, a car door dent will also damage the paint job. However, there is a process known as “paintless” dent repair. Using specialized tools, it is usually possible to repair a dent without damaging the paint. However, dents that are particularly large and deep will probably have serious damage. Once the paint starts to flake off, it has to be repainted. This will often mean repainting the entire door, which will definitely add to the repair bill. This article estimates the cost of a complete door repainting job as $300-$1000.

That being said, it may be possible to “spot-paint”, meaning that the whole door will not have to be repainted. However, it is very difficult to match colors and finishes in such a way as to be exact. However, if you are on a tight budget, this is one option to consider. It probably won’t be perfect, but it is definitely going to be a lot cheaper.

 

How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Car Door?

Some of you might be wondering: “What if my car door has more serious damage? What if it isn’t just dents and dings?” When that is the case, you might want to consider replacing the entire door. Sometimes, that can actually be cheaper than repair. Once again, it all depends on the extent of the damage.

So, how much does it cost (on average) to replace a car door? About $500-$2500. As you can see, it has the exact same range as the cost of repair. Thus, it all depends on where your needs fall within that spectrum. Sometimes, you can save money by replacing the whole thing.

 

Conclusion

How much does it cost to repair a door ding? Anywhere from $50-$500, depending on the severity of the damage. How much does it cost to repair more extensive damage? Again, depending on the severity, those repairs will range from about $500-$2500. If you have any questions, or if you need a more exact estimate, feel free to call Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202. We offer the finest service in South Jersey, just as we have done for over 70 years.