Will a Collision Repair Shop Fix Your Totaled Car?

After an automobile accident, an insurance adjuster will review the damage to your car and make a determination what they will pay to have it repaired. If the cost of repairs will be more than the value of the car, the insurance company will “total” your car. This means that the adjuster has determined the car to be a total loss and they will offer you what they determine is the value of the car rather than pay to have it fixed. But what happens when you believe the car can be repaired? It may be possible to have the vehicle repaired but there are steps you need to take for that to happen.

 

Know the Value of Your Car

It may help if you can learn the value of your car before the insurance company makes its determination. You can usually find an estimated value for your car online through Kelley Blue Book or other sites that valuate cars. Knowing what your car might be worth before the insurance company determines whether it can be repaired may be helpful. Most insurance companies us a 60 percent repair to value ratio. In other words, if they determine your car is worth $2,000 and the repairs will be more than $1,200, they will total your vehicle. If you can prove that your car is actually worth $4,000, that means the repairs can be as much as $2,400 before the car will be totaled.

 

What Happens After Your Car is Totaled?

Once the insurance company determines that your car is a total loss, they normally send a check for the value of the car to you and the car heads to the junkyard. One thing to remember is that refuting a totaled claim is possible. It is your responsibility to prove that the vehicle is worth more than the insurance company’s value which means it could be repaired. If you have records showing extras like air conditioning, leather seats, performance packages or vehicle enhancements you added to the car that were not the factory standard, you may boost the value of the vehicle. You can also reach out to body shops and ask them to take a look at the vehicle for written estimates on what it would actually cost to repair the vehicle rather than the estimate created by the insurance company.

 

Can You Keep Your Vehicle Even if it is Totaled?

If you cannot negotiate with your insurance company and they insist on totaling your car, you still may have options. In many states, you can tell the insurance company you want to keep the car rather than have it sent to a junkyard as long as you own your car outright and do not have a lien on your title. If you do this, the insurance company pays the actual cash value of the car minus the deductible and any payment they would have received from the junkyard. You are free to use that money to repair your car on your own. If the damage is simply cosmetic and you can drive it, this may be the best option. If you can make the repairs yourself, you can do so, or you can take it to a trusted auto body shop.

 

Keep Hidden Damage in Mind

One thing to keep in mind when a car is totaled is that there may be hidden damage that you cannot see. This may include a cracked or broken frame which could make your vehicle unsafe to drive. There may also be damage to engine parts that could be expensive to replace. Insurance companies rarely declare a car totaled without valid reasons, but if you are experienced in car repairs or have a trusted mechanic who can confirm there are no hidden damages, keeping your car may be a better option for you. You also must keep in mind that there will be a notation on the title that it has a prior condition, such as salvage or reconstructed. This could impact your insurance rates and resale value in the future.

 

Finding a Body Shop

In most cases, a good collision shop will repair a car that the insurance company has totaled. The key is to find a shop that will offer detailed estimates after a thorough review of the vehicle. You want a shop that will review hidden areas of the car and look at all locations where damage exists to give you an accurate price on repairing the car. Once they have provided you with an estimate, you want to ask if they are using original equipment from the manufacturer (OEM), aftermarket or used parts on the vehicle. Often, after market parts may be of the same quality as OEM parts and insurance companies often prefer them to OEM parts. However, if you prefer OEM parts, you can request that the shop use those other than aftermarket parts when possible. If your car is an older model, it may be difficult to find OEM or aftermarket parts which means the shop may have to install used parts. Because the insurance company will not be paying for the repair when your vehicle is totaled, you can request the type of part you want but understand the age of your car may determine the type of part that will be used.

If your insurance company has determined your car is a total loss after an accident, contact Elmer’s Auto Body. We can provide you with a detailed estimate after a thorough review of your car to determine if it may be beneficial for you to keep your car and repair it rather than send it to a junkyard. With over 70 years of collision repair experience, you can trust Elmer’s Auto Body to make your repairs and send you out in a vehicle that is safe for you and your family. You can set up a no obligation appointment by calling 856-218-0202 in Washington Township, 856-456-7018 in W. Collingswood Heights or 609-714-4050 in Medford Township. You can also visit our website at www.elmersautobody.com and fill out the easy online form to schedule your appointment.

When Should A Bumper Be Repaired Versus Replaced

A bumper is more than just something that makes your vehicle look good, it’s a vital component for driver and passenger safety. If your bumper is damaged, you should consider having it repaired or replaced before something more serious happens. The good news, not all bumpers need to be replaced because many of them are repairable. Bumpers can become damaged in a number of ways, whether it’s a traffic accident, being rear-ended in a parking lot or you accidentally drive into an object yourself.

When it comes to filing an insurance claim for minor bumper repairs, depending on the extent of the damage, it isn’t always feasible and your rates can also be increased as a result. Therefore, it’s important to know when it makes more sense to repair a bumper or whether you should just replace it.

Below are three examples that explain when bumpers can be repaired and when they should be replaced.

 

Bumper Hooks are Broken or Damaged

If the bumper hooks are broken or damaged on your vehicle, you will need to replace your bumper. Bumpers are designed with hooks that adhere to the splash guard, grill, and valance panel. If your bumper hooks are broken or damaged, the integrity of your bumper will be compromised and could fall off without warning.

Simply repairing or replacing the broken or damaged hooks will not work because once hooks break, there’s no way to attach them. You will need a new bumper with the hooks already attached to ensure that your bumper stays on your vehicle.

 

Minor Paint Damage

Depending on the extent of the damage to the paint job, there are some options available for repair. If your bumper is full of deep scratches or is missing large sections of paint, you may want to consider replacing your bumper. Bodywork and repainting your bumper back to its factory condition can cost almost as much as a new bumper; therefore, it’s more feasible to buy a new one.

On the other hand, if your bumper has minor paint damage, you can easily have it repaired for a few hundred bucks by a professional auto body repair specialist. The best way to know which option is the best is to get an estimate for the damages.

 

Cracked Bumpers

Cracked bumpers are in the same category as paint damage. Depending on the size of the crack and length can determine whether or not you should repair or replace it. Since cracks in bumpers need to be filled with a body filler, sanded, primed, and painted, the size of the crack does matter.

Small cracks can generally be repaired without too many issues; however, large cracks can cause your bumper to lose its structural integrity and should be replaced as opposed to being repaired. For maximum vehicle and passenger safety, bumpers with large cracks should be replaced.

 

Finding a Trustworthy Auto Body Shop

Depending on where you live, there are several options for finding a trustworthy and professional body shop. Performing an online search with the key phrase “auto body shops near me” will result in the top auto body specialists in your immediate area being displayed on your web browser. You can also ask your friends and relatives if they know of one. Additionally, you may even know where some are located, simply stop in and have them access the damage to your bumper.

 

Getting a Professional Opinion

Taking your vehicle to a professional auto body and collision repair shop can help you to determine whether you need a new bumper or not. Most auto body repair shops are experienced with handling insurance claims, and they can get your vehicle back on the road in the fastest time, saving you both time and money. For more information about bumper repair or replacement, please fill out the contact form.

Can The Airbag Of A Car Be Fixed After An Accident?

Can The Airbag Of A Car Be Fixed After An Accident?

According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), you should replace airbags that have been inflated or deployed following a collision without delay. They also recommend that you should only use authorized service centers for installation and not to drive the vehicle until a new airbag is installed.

Airbag Use

Airbags are often unable to be repaired or fixed once an accident has occurred. They are designed for one-time use. Airbags from older model vehicles can be repaired in certain instances. With newer vehicles, full replacement is usually the only option. Mechanics must replace airbags every time inflation has occurred, whether the deployment of the airbag occurred through the steering wheel, the passenger area, side panels, or seat areas.

Repairs

When an air bag’s sensors are triggered, or the bag inflates, repairs will be needed, and driving will be at a standstill until they are completed. Protection is imperative; you or any passengers could be in danger as the triggering sensors will be impaired, and there will be no airbag inflation. There are repair steps to be followed to fix the airbags of a car. The following steps are typically what happens restoring airbag use.

Indicators

Even when an airbag did not inflate, its sensors may have been triggered, which indicates that a reset of the sensors may be necessary. A warning light in most cars will come on to indicate that there is a problem with an airbag or airbags. If you see that light, you’ll probably need to have the airbag light reset. Again, airbags will not inflate properly if an accident has occurred.

Resets

Once airbags have been inflated or deployed, resets may be possible with certain vehicle types and models. That possibility will depend on whether the bag suffered any damage during the accident. The reset process involves packing or stuffing the airbag into its compartment and resetting the light. If you have a newer vehicle, the airbags will not be able to reset. It’s best to contact a vehicle repair shop to find out whether or not you can reset your airbags.

Replacement

If airbags have become over-inflated and have been released, or your vehicle is one where an airbag can’t be rest, any airbags involved in an accident will need replacement. In either case, a full replacement of an airbag module will be necessary. In addition, a deployed steering wheel airbag may have caused enough damage to warrant the replacement of the steering wheel itself and its column. Once new airbags are installed, and in position, the sensor can be reset. This action confirms that the airbags are functioning as they should.

Authorized Technician

When you make arrangements to have your airbag or airbags replaced, you want to make sure you are utilizing an authorized repair center. Since your airbags are in place to prevent injuries and deaths in collisions, you’ll want to be assured of a proper airbag installation by a qualified technician. If you decide to use an unauthorized service center, you could wind up with either a faulty, reprocessed, or used airbag, or even a defective and recycled one from an auto salvage yard or a questionable used car lot. When you go the unauthorized route, you are asking for trouble, as well as placing yourself and others in jeopardy if another crash occurs.

Costs

The costs of airbag replacement will hinge on several factors, including the make, model, and year of the vehicle, the number of airbags that inflated, and their location in the vehicle. Other costs will include any parts necessary to replace the entire airbag module. The average price of a replacement can run anywhere from three to five thousand dollars. Costs could be higher if your insurer has determined your vehicle to be a total loss because of any deployed airbags.

Insurance Coverage

When you have an accident, and your airbags inflate, you will be required to repair the airbags before you can drive your vehicle. Your car insurance should cover the replacement of the airbags and any extended damage issues, but reimbursement will depend on the extent of the damage. When an airbag deploys or inflates, quite a bit of damage can occur. Any covering or casing of the airbag itself will need to be replaced, as will the sensor. Side and front window damage can also happen, as well as damage to other interior structures that can include the steering wheel, column area, dashboard, consoles, panels, seats, and other components in the vicinity of any airbags.

In certain accident situations, quite a bit of crushing damage can occur, which means that the damage could be widespread, and critical components affected. Not only would the whole interior front section of a vehicle be involved, but other exterior parts in the front portion of a vehicle could also be affected. Fenders, bumpers, hoods, grilles, radiators, air conditioning condensers, and other components could be in jeopardy and require replacement, not to mention any extensive bodywork. Repairs could get expensive, and a vehicle even determined to be a total loss. In this case, insurance coverage and any reimbursement would depend on the actual cash value of the vehicle before an accident and the costs of repairs. Whatever the case, insurance should cover airbag replacement.

Airbags in a car can usually be fixed after an accident, which includes both resetting and replacing any that have been subject to damage because of a collision. Depending on the make and model of a vehicle, a full replacement may be necessary. To determine where you stand with airbag repair or replacement, complete the online contact form, and an authorized service center expert will get back to you with the information you need to reset, repair, or replace your airbags in the right way.

What Does OEM Mean For A Repair Shop?

What Does OEM Mean for a Repair Shop?

Have you ever been told that your car needs an “OEM part” and wondered what that means? You’re not alone. Understanding OEM parts is crucial for making informed decisions about your vehicle’s repairs and maintenance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll demystify the concept of OEM, explore its benefits, and explain why choosing OEM parts can make a significant difference in your car’s performance and longevity.

What Does OEM Mean?

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. In the automotive world, OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original parts for your vehicle. These components are designed to meet the exact specifications of your car, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

  • OEM Parts: Produced by your vehicle’s manufacturer or an authorized partner, guaranteeing a perfect fit and function.
  • Aftermarket Parts: Made by third-party companies, often designed to fit multiple models, which can lead to compatibility issues.

Benefits of Choosing OEM Parts

Choosing OEM parts over aftermarket alternatives offers several significant advantages:

  1. Warranty Protection

Using OEM parts helps maintain your vehicle’s warranty. According to a study by the Automotive Service Association, approximately 80% of car warranties are voided due to the use of non-OEM parts.

  • Peace of Mind: Avoid costly repairs that aren’t covered because of voided warranties.
  • Manufacturer Assurance: OEM parts are backed by the vehicle manufacturer, ensuring quality and reliability.
  1. Value Retention

OEM parts help preserve your car’s resale value.

  • Consistent Quality: Original parts keep your vehicle as close to factory condition as possible.
  • Buyer Confidence: Potential buyers are more likely to purchase a car with OEM parts, knowing it has been maintained properly.
  1. Durability and Quality

OEM parts undergo rigorous testing to meet strict industry standards.

  • Longevity: They often last longer than aftermarket parts, saving you money over time.
  • Safety: High-quality components reduce the risk of malfunctions that could lead to accidents.
  1. Compatibility Assurance

With OEM parts, you can be confident they’ll fit and function correctly.

  • Exact Match: Designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model.
  • Efficient Repairs: Reduces the time your car spends in the shop due to fitment issues.

When to Consider Aftermarket Parts

While OEM parts are generally recommended, there are situations where aftermarket parts might be considered:

  1. Cost Savings

Aftermarket parts can be less expensive upfront.

  • Budget Constraints: If you’re on a tight budget, aftermarket parts may be more accessible.
  • Non-Critical Components: For parts that don’t affect performance or safety, aftermarket options might suffice.
  1. Customization Options

Aftermarket parts offer a wider range of customization.

  • Unique Modifications: For enthusiasts looking to personalize their vehicles.
  • Performance Enhancements: Some aftermarket parts are designed to boost performance beyond factory specs.
  1. Availability

Aftermarket parts are often readily available.

  • Immediate Repairs: If OEM parts are on backorder, aftermarket parts can reduce downtime.
  • Older Models: For discontinued vehicles, aftermarket parts might be the only option.

Comparing OEM and Aftermarket Parts

To make an informed decision, consider the following comparison:

Criteria OEM Parts Aftermarket Parts
Cost Higher upfront cost Lower initial cost
Warranty Coverage Maintains vehicle warranty May void warranty
Durability High durability due to rigorous testing Quality varies; may wear out faster
Compatibility Guaranteed perfect fit and function Potential compatibility issues
Availability Must be ordered through dealerships or authorized repair shops Widely available at various retailers
Customization Limited to original specifications Wide range of options for customization
Resale Value Impact Helps maintain or increase resale value May decrease resale value due to non-original parts

Common Questions About OEM Parts

Are OEM Parts Always Better Than Aftermarket Parts?

While OEM parts are generally more reliable due to guaranteed compatibility and quality, some high-quality aftermarket parts can perform just as well. However, the consistency and warranty protection offered by OEM parts often make them the safer choice.

Are OEM Parts Made by Car Manufacturers?

Not always. While OEM parts are designed to the manufacturer’s specifications, they are often produced by specialized companies contracted by the car maker. Regardless, they meet the exact standards required for your vehicle.

Why Choose Elmer’s Auto Body for OEM Repairs

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the importance of using the right parts for your vehicle. Here’s why South Jersey drivers trust us for OEM-certified repairs:

  1. Expertise
  • Certified Technicians: Our team is trained to perform repairs that meet or exceed manufacturer standards.
  • Decades of Experience: With over 75 years of service, we’ve handled vehicles of all makes and models.
  1. Trust
  • Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to quality has earned us a reputation for excellence.
  • Transparent Process: We keep you informed every step of the way.
  1. Convenience
  • Seamless Service: From sourcing OEM parts to delivering the finished repair, we handle it all.
  • Efficient Repairs: Our expertise ensures your vehicle is returned to you promptly and in optimal condition.

Don’t compromise on quality or safety. Ensure your car receives the best care possible.

📞 Call Elmer’s Auto Body today at (856) 218-0202 or visit ElmersAutoBody.com to schedule your appointment.

Tips for Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts

  1. Read Your Warranty
  • Understand Coverage: Check if your warranty requires OEM parts to remain valid.
  • Avoid Unnecessary Costs: Using the wrong parts could lead to out-of-pocket expenses for repairs.
  1. Consider Long-Term Costs
  • Value Over Price: While OEM parts may cost more initially, their durability can save you money over time.
  • Resale Value: Maintaining your car with OEM parts can result in a higher resale price.
  1. Consult a Professional
  • Expert Advice: Our technicians can recommend the best options based on your vehicle and needs.
  • Safety First: Professionals prioritize your safety and vehicle performance.

Conclusion

Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts is a decision that impacts your vehicle’s performance, safety, and value. While aftermarket parts may offer cost savings and customization, OEM parts provide unmatched reliability, compatibility, and warranty protection.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we prioritize your peace of mind and your car’s well-being.

👉 Don’t gamble with your car’s performance. Trust our experts for OEM-certified repairs that last.

📞 Call us today at (856) 218-0202 or schedule an appointment online at ElmersAutoBody.com.

Want to dive deeper into OEM parts and how they impact your car’s repair? Check out our latest podcast episode, where we break it all down—so you can make informed decisions for your vehicle’s health and longevity. Tune in now!

Key Takeaways

  • OEM parts are made to your car’s exact specifications, offering superior quality and compatibility.
  • Aftermarket parts may be cheaper but can lead to compatibility issues and voided warranties.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body provides expert OEM repairs, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable.
  • Consult professionals to make the best decision for your vehicle and maintain your peace of mind.

Secure your vehicle’s future with the best care possible.

📞 Contact Elmer’s Auto Body now at (856) 218-0202.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes and reflects general industry practices. For advice tailored to your specific situation, please consult a professional mechanic or your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Can A Car Accident Cause Transmission Problems?

Can A Car Accident Cause Transmission Problems?

When you take your car to the auto shop for repairs, the first step is always a diagnosis. At this stage, many people are holding their breath and nervously hoping that the problem isn’t the engine or the transmission. These are often the two most expensive and difficult parts of the car to repair, and that’s always a bad day for you.

To start, let’s answer the question posed by the title of this article: Yes, you absolutely can suffer transmission problems as a result of a car accident. Like any other part of your vehicle, a transmission can be ruined by a strong enough impact.

Impact Analysis Guide

After you have been in an accident, the first thing to check is your health. Once you know that you are not hurt, you should check the location of the impact. This will affect the likelihood of transmission damage. If you have a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the transmission will be located upfront. Thus, it will probably be safe if the car is struck from the rear. In rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, the transmission will be in the back. Thus, it will probably be safe if the car is struck from the front.

In most cases, you will be able to visually inspect the damage and see if your transmission has been struck. It is usually one of the biggest parts of the vehicle, so it isn’t hard to find. Here are some pictures of a typical transmission to get you started. As you can see, there are slight differences in appearance between an automatic transmission and a manual one. Still, it shouldn’t be hard to find a component this large. When you have located the transmission, see if it’s leaking any fluid.

Any time your transmission has been struck by a direct impact, you should get it inspected by a qualified professional because it is probably damaged. Even if the outer casing is not damaged, the impact can knock those gears out of alignment and cause all kinds of problems.

Less Obvious Problems

Not all transmission problems will show themselves right away. You might drive away from the accident, thinking that nothing is wrong, only to find that your car is slipping out of gear or shifting too hard from one gear to the next. This will be especially obvious if you drive a manual transmission because you will feel the gears grinding as they try (and fail) to align correctly.

In most instances, this is not something that you can fix yourself. You might as well make peace with the fact that you will have to fork out some serious money to get this thing fixed. Transmission repairs can be so expensive that you might want to consider buying a different vehicle. However, there is something you can do to give your mechanic a better idea of the problem. Since they charge by the hour, this is likely to save you money.

A Quick Diagnosis

First, you will need to start your car and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature. This will normally be the spot in the middle of the gauge, and you may want to step on the gas and rev the engine a little bit. This will speed up the process. Once you reach the right temperature, open the hood, and remove the transmission dipstick. If you don’t know where that is, try to find a parts diagram for your car. Your cars owner’s manual might also be of assistance here.

Keep the car running as you check the amount of fluid using the dipstick. If you are lucky, you might simply be low on fluid. In cases like this, you will be able to add the correct amount of fluid and call the problem fixed.

Next, close the hood and get in the car. Put the transmission in gear and see if it clunks or grinds. If it does, you have most likely found the problem. A clunking noise usually indicates that the gear mounts are failing. If it grinds, the gears might simply be misaligned due to impact.

Finally, give the car a short drive. Make sure that your vehicle shifts its gears enough for a proper test. If it slips in and out of gear, the problem is most likely in the clutch or the torque converter. Once again, you probably can’t fix those problems yourself, but you can save your mechanic some time.

Conclusion

Today’s article has been based on a simple question, and the answer is not a pleasant one. It would be nice if transmissions were better protected, but it won’t do us any good to lament that fact. All we can do is deal with the situation and get that crucial vehicle back on the road. By following the simple guidelines outlined here, you can probably take care of that process with a little less stress, uncertainty, and time. If you would like to thank us for that little bit of help, you can fill out the contact form below.

What Is the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act?

What Is the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act?

In New Jersey, most people have to take their vehicles in for repairs from time to time. The Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act is the name of several different bills that have been proposed by Congress and some state legislatures. This law would require car manufacturers to provide the same type of information to repair shops that they do to car dealerships.

Many independent automotive repair shops, such as Elmer’s Auto Body, have supported the various versions of the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act. Many dealerships and manufacturers have opposed this bill. At the federal level, this bill was first introduced in 2001. However, it was not adopted by any state or the federal government until 2012 when Massachusetts enacted its Right to Repair law. Massachusetts’s law came about after a binding ballot initiative passed with 86% support of the voters. In 2014, several groups, including the Coalition for Auto Repair Equality, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, the Association for Global Automakers, and the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, signed an agreement based on the law in Massachusetts that the manufacturers would follow the provisions of the law of Massachusetts in all of the states. This change would allow independent repair shops to have access to the same information that dealerships do so that consumers have a greater ability to take their vehicles for repairs where they want instead of being limited to dealerships.

Background of the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act

In 1990, amendments to the Clean Air Act mandated that all vehicles built after 1994 would include computer systems to monitor the vehicles’ emissions. Car manufacturers were also required to give independent repair shops the same types of emissions repair information as they gave to franchised new car dealers. California passed its law that required that the same types of emissions information and service tools would be provided to independent repair shops and to keep websites with the service information on a subscription basis.

Later, on-board computers advanced to the extent that they now control all of the vital systems of cars. These changes meant that automotive repair became highly technical and required the use of computer diagnostic tools.

State legislation

In 2012, Massachusetts passed the Right to Repair Initiative with 86% support by the voters. The first proposed bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives in 2001.

New Jersey is one of the states that have had similar bills introduced. In 2006, it was introduced in the State Assembly and passed overwhelmingly. However, the bill did not pass the state Senate before it adjourned. Similar bills have been introduced in many other states.

Opposition to the Right to Repair bills

Multiple groups that represent the repair industry support the Right to Repair bills at both the state and federal levels. Initially, vehicle manufacturers opposed the law based on the National Automotive Service Task Force or NASTF, claiming that the proposed bills were unnecessary.

The NASTF set up a website in 2001 to guide technicians on how to obtain service information and specialized service tools. During that same year, the manufacturers said that they were committed to fixing all gaps by the beginning of 2003. The major associations of manufacturers announced that they had reached an agreement to provide independent shops the same training and service information as they offered to dealerships. However, two major manufacturers’ associations were not a part of that agreement. Instead, they said that they were not required to follow the agreement because there wasn’t any law that made them do so.

In 2005, Consumer Reports published an article that said that consumers would be helped by the passage of a federal Right to Repair Act because it would allow independent service shops to compete with dealerships. In a 2005 survey, 59% of people who responded said that they had trouble getting information about how to repair their vehicles or to obtain the tools that they needed. Out of the respondents, 67% said that they had to send their vehicles back to the dealerships.

Consumers and individual repair shops alike derive benefits when independent repair shops like Elmer’s Auto Body can access the service information and tools that they need to complete repairs. Allowing independent shops the needed information and tools helps them to compete with dealer shops. Competition helps to keep prices more affordable. It will enable people to access information and repairs when they are needed instead of having to send their vehicles back to the dealerships.

Elmer’s Auto Body has provided auto body repair services to people in South Jersey for more than 70 years. We are dedicated to providing the highest-quality services to all of our customers. To learn more about the repairs that you need and how we can help you, contact us today by filling out our contact form or by calling us at one of our three locations.