Category: Collision Repair

If you’ve never gone through a vehicle collision estimate, you’ve probably wondered how much time an estimate takes. Any collision estimate will take as much time as the damage done to your vehicle warrants. So, it will depend on just how severe or minor the damage is and what systems in a vehicle may require repair. Before you rush to the closest repair shop for an estimate, there are a few preliminary steps to follow.

 

Talk with your Insurance Carrier First

You want to talk with your vehicle insurance carrier before you get any estimates. Make sure you understand your carrier’s requirements with estimates. They will provide you with approved repair shops and will also specify their instructions to any of those approved collision or body shops.

You don’t necessarily have to use your insurance company’s recommendations, but your carrier will inform you of their requirements in the repair process. Once an accident has occurred, your insurance company will send out a claims adjuster who will estimate the damage and will provide an estimate for overall damages. An estimate through your insurance carrier could take from two to five days, which could create setbacks with repairs. You may want to move on with an estimate through a collision shop when time is of the essence.

 

Average Time for Collision Estimate

When you’re unable to repair any damage on your own and are also unable to get a timely estimate through your insurance company, you’ll need to find a reputable collision/body shop through your own online research and recommendations from others. Just remember that when you do go to various body shops for estimates, you’ll want to ask lots of questions before you commit to and sign off on any estimates you are given.

If your vehicle has incurred significant mechanical and exterior damage, an estimate could be anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, or longer. When the damage is minimal and mechanical issues don’t exist, an estimate usually takes 15-20 minutes. Less involved damage usually means dents, scratches, scuffs, scrapes and dings that don’t hinder a vehicle’s performance. If the damage is severe, and a vehicle isn’t drivable, a tow truck will be brought in and the vehicle taken to a repair facility. An estimate in that kind of situation will likely take longer, which could mean an hour to a couple of days.

 

What an Estimate Entails

An estimate will first entail a detailed inspection. A skilled professional will perform the inspection and provide an estimate. They will go over every inch of a vehicle and document all the areas, seen or unseen, that show damage. From there, every detail noted will be passed on to the vehicle owner. An inspector will even go to the extent of removing side panels and going over other crucial spots on a vehicle to determine if any underlying damage exists on the frame or other areas beneath the surface. Any excessive damage will take longer to assess. Every repair that needs to be made to a severely damaged vehicle from the repairs and parts and on to the paint and finish work will be explained, written out and recorded on an inspection and estimation form.

 

Cost Calculations

Once the inspection phase is complete and all the details of damage are noted, the repair costs will be calculated. An estimator will figure the number of hours of labor that will go into the repair process. Any needed parts will be included, as will the entire cost of repairs. They will provide you with an official estimate. If you choose the shop that did the inspection, you can give them the go-ahead to order any parts and they will assign a mechanic/technician to work on your vehicle. The body shop will let you know the arrival date of your parts and will find the best time to start your repair work and approximately how long it will take to finish the repairs.

An experienced estimator will be able to provide an accurate quote for you after they have assessed the total damage; however, there may be times when hidden damages don’t show up until after repair work has started. When that happens, a repair adjustment and supplement will be included in any final repair costs.

 

Follow the Procedures for Estimates

Any accident that involves major repairs or even minor repairs to a vehicle can be stressful but when you know the procedures involved in getting an estimate and the time that it takes, you don’t have to carry the worry, particularly when you find a collision shop that is reputable and provides you with a fair, concise and accurate estimate.

With the process in mind, you can assure yourself that your repairs will be done quickly, efficiently and to your specifications with no hidden surprises. If you haven’t found the answers given here in relation to estimates and the time involved, or have further concerns with getting an estimate, complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with the information you need concerning the estimate process.

It’s one of the oldest and most frustrating problems a car owner can face: A small dent or scratch requires you to get a whole new paint job. Paint jobs aren’t exactly cheap, and it feels silly to repaint the whole thing over one scratch. If you’ve thought this, you might be glad to know that your instincts were right. It is more than possible to repair a dent without damaging the paint. Not surprisingly, this process is referred to as “paintless dent repair,” or sometimes just “PDR.”

 

How Does PDR Work?

Paintless dent repair works by using movement and pressure to push the dent outward. If this is done carefully, and if the paint is not damaged in the collision itself, the dent can be neatly popped out. In many cases, you won’t even be able to tell that any damage was done.

There are a wide variety of special tools that PDR specialists use to effect these sorts of repairs. This is very much a specialized skill that requires training and experience, so you can’t expect the same level of quality from a DIY job. In most cases, PDR works by applying outward pressure.

There are two ways to apply this pressure and pop the dent away. As common sense might tell you, you can either push from the inside or pull from the outside. All methods of PDR fall into one of these two categories.
Pulling From The Outside

As an example of pull-method dent removal, a person might use a little bit of hot glue to affix a small handle-like tab to the area where the dent is located. Obviously, you have to be careful not to use an adhesive that will damage the paint, so hot glue is the most common choice.

An even better method is to use a powerful suction cup. There are numerous devices that use suction cups combined with plates and/or rods. Because they do not use any sort of adhesive, you don’t have to worry about scraping away any residue. That’s good because you can easily scratch your finish while scraping away the hot glue if you aren’t careful.

This method seems to be the best choice for DIY users. The pull method requires less skill and knowledge to do it right. You will have to buy some sort of pulling device, but these are usually pretty easy to use. Many of them resemble stapleguns or other hand-held tools, and there are many different varieties. Still, you should be fine as long as you follow the instructions.

 

Pushing From The Inside

This method seems to be the one preferred by professionals. You definitely need to have a little more expertise to do it this way, but it poses a lot less risk of collateral damage. This method usually involves the use of long probes that are inserted into small gaps in the vehicle body. By applying the right leverage in the right place, they pop the dent outward without ever touching the paint job.

For example, you might insert one of these dent-removal tools into the gap between the window and the door. You will have to roll down the window and gently peel back the rubber seal around the base of the window. You might also remove a tail-light so that you can insert the tool through the gap and gain access to the rear panel.

 

Is PDR Always Possible?

Obviously, there are times when this type of repair cannot be done. If the paint was damaged in the collision itself, PDR methods will not reverse that damage. Of course, such methods can still be helpful for removing the dents, but you will still need to repaint the vehicle.

Several factors will determine whether or not paintless dent repair is possible. These include:

• The flexibility of your vehicles’ paint
• The size and severity of the dent
• The angle and depth of the dent
• The thickness of the metal surface

Most automotive paint is flexible enough for PDR, but older vehicles with older paint jobs might have some issues. As for size and severity, PDR doesn’t work on massive dents. For the most part, its techniques are meant to deal with relatively small dents. Shallow dents are also better candidates for PDR, as there is less stretching and deformation of the metal involved. Finally, the thickness of the metal will make the dent easier (or more difficult) to “pop” back into place.

It should be noted that you can spot-paint a vehicle, doing just one spot. It often won’t come out perfect, but it can be very close if you choose the right paint and blend the edges well. Of course, that’s a separate topic, but it’s a good thing to know.

 

Conclusion

At Elmer’s auto body, we specialize in many different techniques. Luckily for you, paintless dent repair is one of them. While these methods are mainly suited for minor damage, you’d be surprised at what a professional can do with them. When it comes to paintless dent repair cost shouldn’t be an issue, as these jobs can normally be completed with minimal time, trouble, and expense. That’s the difference you get when you call the best.

With over 70 years of experience under our belt, you should expect nothing less than the best. If you have a dent that needs to be pulled, and you want it done in the most effective and efficient manner, fill out our easy online contact form or call one of our three convenient locations and ask us: Where can I get paintless dent repair near me?

You saw it on the news or in a consumer-related report that a recall was in the works or you may know a friend or relative who received a recall notice for one of their vehicles. Besides recalls for cars, trucks, SUV’s and other vehicle related items, there are recalls for things like baby carriers, food products, toys and hundreds of other products that affect consumers worldwide.

 

Recall Awareness

Most anyone is pretty much aware of all the recalls that occur on a fairly regular basis. Usually the focus is on consumables, but vehicles are as much of a concern, especially when newer ones seem to experience ongoing problems. Maybe you’re wondering just what happens with vehicle recalls. If you have, here is a rundown on how vehicle recalls came about and how they work.

 

Vehicle Recall History

In the initial stages, recalls were associated with safety issues. In 1966, the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act established standards concerning vehicle safety. Vehicle related recalls quickly became an ongoing occurrence. Within a few years, the auto industry issued recalls for millions of vehicles. Fifty-plus years later, recalls continue to soar into the billions.

Today, issuing of recalls is usually through the automaker or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Vehicle  manufacturers are the ones issuing recalls, but  the NHTSA will intervene. Issuing recalls by car manufacturers is the preferred action as it allows them to resolve any vehicle recall related problems in a more immediate and direct fashion. If an auto manufacturer and the NHTSA aren’t able to come to terms on a recall, court decisions will determine any outcomes. The recall process can also come through individuals who work on vehicles or own their own that display noticeable defects. Consumers can contact the NHTSA themselves and report their concerns directly to the agency.

What is a Vehicle Recall

A recall means that a federal safety violation or a major defect was found with a vehicle that could cause a critical safety situation, faulty equipment operation or a related problem. It could be anything from a stuck gas pedal to an easily triggered airbag. Anything that causes a major dysfunction and safety concern with a vehicle could be a reason for a recall. Whatever the issue, any recall effort requires thorough investigation, testing and collection of data to determine whether a true problem exists.

 

Notification of a Recall

Should your vehicle be a part of a recall, the notification process will come as a letter through your vehicle’s manufacturer. It will arrive within a 60-day period from the filing of the recall with the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA). The letter will provide the following information:

• Description of the defect
• Risks, warnings and problems if the defect is not unresolved
• Manufacturer’s plan to fix the defect
• Time frame for the repair of the defect
• Guidelines to follow that assure the repair process
• Other followup instructions

If you fail to receive the letter, you can still go through the repair process. To determine eligibility, search the recall database listed on the NHTSA internet site. Regularly check the site for updates on vehicle recalls to determine whether yours is on the list. Check this listing at least once during a 6-month’s period.

 

Your Options with a Recall Notification

If you receive a recall notification for your vehicle, your options include:

• Repairing of issue through a dealership that represents the car manufacturer
• Replacing the vehicle with a comparable model
• Refunding of the vehicle’s price minus any depreciation

Repairing a recall issue will be the least costly and most appropriate for the situation. They will only use the other two options should the problem go beyond the repairable stage.

 

Payment Process

If your vehicle is on a recall list, they will repair any recall related defects or damages free; however, any recall work will go through an authorized automobile dealer for the manufacturer. To avoid problems, make sure you bring your recall notification letter to the dealership. If charges happen, speak with the dealership’s management, verify your letter and provide other pertinent information. Should problems continue, contact the manufacturer through the number provided in the recall notification letter. If that action fails, call or write the NHTSA directly and report your issue to them. They should be able to resolve any problems and provide you with detailed information regarding car recalls.

If you are unsure whether your vehicle is on a recall list and want to know more about the general process, complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with the information you need concerning how vehicle recalls work.

There are many reasons why your car may incur collision damage, from an auto accident to a tree limb that blows down in a storm. The type of damage makes a difference in how repairs are performed. Understanding the different types of collision damage can help you understand what repairs may be necessary.

 

Weather Damage

There is the potential for weather damage in all four seasons of the year. During the summer when the sun is at its strongest, your car can sustain damage to the paint due to fading and wearing. In addition, tires can become dry and cracked when the weather is overly hot. During the winter, salt applied to roads to avoid ice can lead to erosion in your vehicle while the fluctuating temperatures that can occur in some areas could lead to cracked windshields. In all seasons, there is a risk of high winds that can cause limbs to fall or hail that can lead to dents.

 

Failure to Maintain Your Car

If you don’t maintain your car, failing mechanical systems could lead to collision damage. Tires that have too little tread can blow out or your steering and brakes could fail, leading to an accident. Not only does neglecting the maintenance on your car lead to accidents, it can actually cause engine, exterior and interior damage. You should never ignore warning lights and have your car serviced at least once each year.

 

Car Accidents

Of course, the most common reason for collisions is car accidents. You could have a major accident that leads to shattered windshields, engine damage or destruction of several areas of the exterior of the car. Even minor fender benders can lead to damage that is more significant than it appears. Sometimes, minor collisions can cause damage to areas of the car that cannot be seen except by a trained professional.

 

Common Types of Damage

There are some types of damage that are more common than others. Dents can be tiny impressions to large craters in your car. Small scratches may be buffed out but if the scratches are significant, digging deep below the surface of the paint, they may require more extensive repair. Damage to the suspension is also a common type of collision damage along with a cracked windshield. Bumper damage is also common.

 

Collision Repairs

If the panel has a deep dent, it will need to be replaced as it more than likely cannot be repaired. Dents may be repaired using a hammer and dolly method, a stud welder or a dent puller. There is also paintless dent repair that uses new technology that does not require sanding, filler or painting. Deep scratches may require filler, sanding and painting to cover them properly. If suspension damage is significant, the auto shop may also need to remove and replace the shock absorber or ball joint. A small crack or chip in the windshield can be filled with resin to prevent it from spreading but if the crack is through both panes of glass or more than one inch long, the entire windshield needs to be replaced. If the bumper of your vehicle is damaged, it is possible it can be repaired easily, similar to other dents. However, if the damage to your bumper is significant, you may have hidden damage inside the vehicle that cannot be seen.

 

Choosing a Repair Shop

When your vehicle needs repair after a collision, be sure to ask about experience, payment policies, warranties and certifications. That way you know that your vehicle is being repaired by a qualified repair shop. If you will be filing an insurance claim, your insurance company will require you to get more than one estimate for repairs. Most require at least three, but you are free to get as many as you choose. The insurance company cannot require you to go to a specific shop and you can work with them if you suspect the amount they have offered for the repair is too low.

If your car has been involved in a collision, contact Elmer’s Auto Body. With more than 70 years’ experience, you know you are getting high quality service and that the car you drive away in is safe for your family. We repair your car as if it were owned by our own family because that is how we think of our customers. You can schedule an appointment by calling today or fill out the easy online form.