Category: Collision Repair

One of the unfortunate realities of driving and living in South Jersey is that there is a lot of traffic and a chance of getting into an auto collision. There is also the added stress and inconvenience of getting involved in an auto accident. Knowing the common types of collisions, the damages that may be caused, and how a collision repair center like Elmer’s Auto Body will repair those damages can provide you with some valuable peace of mind. So let’s jump right into the 5 common types of collisions.

 

The Common Types of Auto Collisions in South Jersey

There are many kinds of accidents that can happen on the roadway. With four-way stops, intersections, merge lanes, and highways, New Jersey drivers are no strangers to the mishaps that can occur at each. Here are some details about various collisions, including how they happen and the damage caused:

 

1. Rear-End Collisions

These are among the most prevalent types of accidents on South Jersey roads. They occur when a vehicle crashes into the one in front of it. Heavy traffic congestion, sudden stops, and driver distraction are often contributing factors. The impact typically results in damage to the rear end of the vehicle, including the bumper, trunk, and rear lights. While they are often perceived as minor accidents, rear-end collisions can cause significant damage and necessitate thorough repair.

 

2. T-Bone Collisions

Also referred to as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These collisions frequently occur at intersections, where drivers may fail to yield the right of way or run red lights. T-bone collisions pose a substantial risk of injury to drivers and passengers due to the limited protection offered by the side of a vehicle. Repairing the damage from such accidents involves addressing damage to the side panels, doors, and potentially the vehicle’s frame.

 

3. Single Vehicle Collisions

Despite the absence of another vehicle, single vehicle collisions are not uncommon in South Jersey. These accidents can stem from a variety of factors, including adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow, mechanical failures like tire blowouts, or driver error such as losing control of the vehicle. While the damage may be confined to one vehicle, it can still be significant, requiring repairs to the body, suspension, and mechanical components.

 

4. Multi-Vehicle Collisions

Multi-vehicle pileups are complex accidents involving several vehicles. These incidents often occur on highways, especially during inclement weather conditions or low visibility. Factors such as sudden braking, reduced traction, or driver error can trigger a chain reaction, resulting in extensive damage and potential injuries to multiple parties. These are often the most devastating of collisions in South Jersey.

 

5. Fender Benders

While seemingly minor, fender benders are a common occurrence on South Jersey roads, particularly in congested areas or parking lots. These low-speed collisions typically result in minor damage to the vehicle’s exterior, such as dents, scratches, or bumper scuffs. Although the damage may appear insignificant, prompt repair is essential to prevent further deterioration and maintain the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.

 

How a Auto Body Repair Shop Handles Collision Damage

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we take pride in our comprehensive approach to handling collision damage. Our team of skilled technicians is equipped with the expertise and state-of-the-art tools necessary to address a wide range of auto body repair needs. Here’s a detailed look at how we handle collision damage:

 

Body Damage

When your vehicle sustains body damage, whether it’s from dents, scratches, or panel damage, our expert technicians spring into action. We begin by conducting a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the damage. Using advanced techniques and precision tools, we  restore your vehicle’s exterior to its pre-accident condition. Our goal is not only to repair the damage but also to ensure a seamless finish that enhances the overall aesthetics of your vehicle.

 

Frame and Structural Damage

Structural integrity is paramount for vehicle safety, which is why we pay special attention to frame and structural damage. With our specialized equipment and years of experience, we  repair any structural issues your vehicle may have sustained in the collision. Our precise approach ensures that your vehicle maintains its safety and performance standards, providing you with peace of mind as you hit the road once again.

 

Paint and Finish Repair

Our skilled painters understand the importance of achieving a flawless finish when it comes to paint and finish repair. Using computerized color matching technology, we  match your vehicle’s paint color and finish, ensuring a seamless blend with the existing paintwork. Whether it’s a minor touch-up or a complete repaint, our goal is to restore your vehicle’s exterior to its original luster.

 

Mechanical Damage

In addition to addressing cosmetic damage, our technicians are well-equipped to handle a wide range of mechanical repairs. From engine issues to suspension problems, we have the knowledge and expertise to get your vehicle back on the road safely and efficiently. Our comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your vehicle are thoroughly inspected and repaired to the highest standards.

 

Safety Systems Repair

We understand the critical role that safety systems play in protecting you and your passengers on the road. That’s why our technicians undergo extensive training to repair and recalibrate safety features such as airbags, seat belts, and sensors. By ensuring that your vehicle’s safety systems are functioning optimally, we help provide you with the peace of mind you deserve knowing that you’re driving a vehicle that prioritizes safety above all else.

 

Contact a South Jersey Collision Repair Center Today

After a collision, returning to the road in a safe vehicle is priority. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the stress and inconvenience that comes with being involved in an accident. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing top-notch collision repair services to our community. If you have recently been in a collision in South Jersey and are looking to have your vehicle restored, give one of our three locations a call. You can also fill out our online form to request an appointment. It’s time to get back on the road.

Body technology and automotive safety technology has been rapidly changing in recent years. The same vehicle two years apart may look the same aesthetically but have completely different bodies underneath. When this happens, the collision repair process will be an entirely different procedure for each. In other words, the more technology involved with your vehicle, the more difficult it may be for a collision repair shop in Harrison Township, NJ to complete. Unless, of course, you take your vehicle to some place like Elmer’s Auto Body, where the technicians have more than experience, they have credentials that prove that they are staying up-to-date with this technology and know how to repair it correctly.

 

Current Automotive Safety Technology

Several automotive safety technologies have emerged in recent years, aiming to enhance the safety of vehicles and reduce the risk of accidents. Some of these advancements include:

 

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): AEB systems detect potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or other obstacles and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): This system adjusts a vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. It can automatically accelerate or decelerate to match the speed of traffic.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): LDW alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling, while LKA actively intervenes by steering the vehicle back into its lane.
• Blind Spot Detection (BSD): BSD systems use sensors to monitor the vehicle’s blind spots and alert the driver to the presence of vehicles in adjacent lanes, helping to prevent lane-change collisions.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): FCW systems use sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or objects in the vehicle’s path and provide a warning to the driver to take evasive action.
• Pedestrian Detection Systems: These systems use sensors and cameras to detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid hitting them.

 

There are even technologies designed to detect and recognize certain traffic signs and to monitor driver attentiveness in the works. You may start seeing these in vehicles soon.

 

Not surprisingly, each of these technologies requires sensors and cameras and electronic pieces to function that are interwoven into the vehicle’s structure. In the event of a collision, these fragile and sensitive systems will need to be repaired and recalibrated, adding a level of complexity to repair.

 

Post-Collision Repair Challenges

As mentioned earlier, the use of advanced safety technology such as lane departure warnings and blind spot detection means that a mirror is no longer just a mirror. In order to utilize this technology, the structure of vehicles have to change to accommodate the radar, sensors, camera, and computers needed to keep drivers out of trouble. The downside is that, while this technology can save drivers and their vehicles from collisions, it also adds to the intricacy of repairs when an accident does occur.

 

Now, instead of going to a mechanic to straighten a dent in a bumper, for example, you need to take your vehicle to a specialist who not only does the former correction but who can also recalibrate the damaged sensors in the bumper.

 

ADAS Diagnosis, Repair, and Recalibration

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles provide crucial safety features, but their maintenance and repair demand specialized procedures. Diagnosis involves the use of specialized tools to identify issues by retrieving fault codes and conducting system checks. Technicians inspect sensors for physical damage or misalignment, crucial for systems reliant on cameras, radar, lidar, and ultrasonic sensors. Software updates may resolve certain issues, enhancing performance or compatibility.

 

Repairing ADAS often necessitates component replacement, followed by calibration to ensure proper functionality. Alignment and adjustment may also be required to optimize sensor orientation. Recalibration involves dynamic or static methods, the former requiring specific driving conditions and the latter conducted in controlled environments using specialized equipment like calibration targets and laser alignment systems. Skilled technicians are essential, as improper diagnosis or calibration can compromise system functionality, potentially leading to safety risks. Staying current with training and equipment is crucial for automotive repair professionals given the evolving nature of ADAS technology.

 

New OEM Collision Repair Information

Any auto body shop with a reputation needs to have up-to-date OEM information. Car models these days can vastly differ year to year, requiring a constant refresh of OEM knowledge. It is crucial that collision repair shops in Harrison Township not only have access to OEM information but also the tools necessary to complete the repairs. Furthermore, using only OEM parts and materials ensures that the vehicle is returned to its pre-accident condition correctly, ensuring that any automotive safety technology continues to function optimally.

 

Contact an Auto Collision Repair Shop in Harrison Township, NJ Today

The landscape of automotive safety technology is rapidly evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for collision repair shops in Harrison Township, NJ, and beyond. As vehicles become increasingly equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the complexity of post-collision repair grows significantly. Technicians must stay abreast of the latest diagnostic, repair, and recalibration techniques to ensure these safety features function correctly after an accident.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, our team not only possesses the requisite experience but also maintains up-to-date credentials to navigate the intricacies of modern automotive technology. From autonomous emergency braking to pedestrian detection systems, we are equipped to handle the repair and recalibration of these vital safety components.

 

If your vehicle needs collision repair, call one of our three locations in South Jersey or fill out our online form today. Let’s get your vehicle back on the road.

Automotive technology is seeing growth. Due to this, collision repair shops in South Jersey and beyond face changes and challenges. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), repair shops must adapt to new joining methods, sectioning locations, and repair technologies to accommodate the added weight of electric drivetrains. Not only that, but as emerging manufacturers enter the market with EV and hybrid vehicles, technicians must adapt and learn new skills to stay consistent as collision repair technology evolves.

 

Let’s learn more about the evolution of collision repair technology and how it is changing auto repair even today.

 

What New Collision Repair Technologies are Being Used in South Jersey?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiatives in the 2010s mandated the inclusion of rear visibility technology and automatic emergency braking (AEB) in new vehicles, further driving the integration of safety systems. Consequently, diagnostic scan procedures have become commonplace in collision repair, with OEM recommendations and requirements mandating pre-repair and post-repair scans.

 

Here is a look at the technologies being incorporated into diagnostics and repair:

 

Advanced Diagnostic Scanning Tools

With the proliferation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles, collision repair shops are utilizing advanced diagnostic scanning tools to identify and diagnose issues with these complex safety systems. These tools allow technicians to conduct comprehensive scans of vehicle systems and identify any faults or errors that require attention.

 

3D Printing

Some collision repair shops in South Jersey are incorporating 3D printing technology into their repair processes. This technology allows for the rapid prototyping and production of custom parts and components, reducing lead times and improving efficiency in the repair process.

 

Computerized Frame Measuring Systems

Computerized frame measuring systems are becoming standard equipment in many collision repair shops in South Jersey. These systems use advanced laser and camera technology to accurately measure vehicle frames and chassis, ensuring precise alignment and structural repairs.

 

Waterborne Paint Systems

Many collision repair shops in South Jersey have transitioned to using waterborne paint systems, which offer several environmental and health benefits compared to traditional solvent-based paints. These systems reduce harmful emissions and comply with stringent environmental regulations while delivering high-quality paint finishes.

 

How is ADAS Changing Collision Repair Technology?

By 2035, an estimated 250 million ADAS-equipped vehicles will be on the roads, emphasizing the growing importance of electronic repair capabilities within the collision repair industry. Furthermore, as vehicles become increasingly interconnected and reliant on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), repair shops must prioritize technician certification and continuing education to navigate the complexities of electronic repairs and calibrations.

 

Here are some other ways ADAS is reshaping the industry:

 

Complexity of Repairs

ADAS systems incorporate a multitude of sensors, cameras, radar, lidar, and other components throughout the vehicle. Repairing a vehicle with ADAS requires a deep understanding of these systems and specialized training to diagnose and repair them accurately. Collision repair technicians must be proficient in handling these complex systems to ensure proper functionality after repairs.

 

Calibration Requirements

After repairs are completed, ADAS systems often require calibration to ensure proper alignment and functionality. This calibration process may involve adjusting sensors, cameras, and other components to precise specifications specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Calibration is critical for ensuring that ADAS systems function correctly and provide the intended safety benefits.

 

Investment in Equipment and Technology

Collision repair shops must invest in specialized equipment and technology to effectively repair ADAS-equipped vehicles. This includes diagnostic scanning tools, calibration equipment, and training resources to keep technicians up-to-date with the latest advancements in ADAS technology. Investing in the right equipment and technology is essential for providing high-quality repairs and maintaining customer satisfaction.

 

Documentation and Compliance

Repairing ADAS-equipped vehicles requires meticulous documentation and compliance with manufacturer guidelines and industry standards. Collision repair shops must keep detailed records of diagnostic scans, calibration procedures, and repair work to ensure compliance with warranty requirements and regulatory standards. Proper documentation is essential for verifying that repairs were performed correctly and that ADAS systems function as intended.

 

How Does the Collision Repair Technology Evolution Impact South Jersey Drivers?

Naturally, as a driver in New Jersey, you are probably wondering how this technological revolution impacts you. It comes with benefits, as well as some downsides. Let’s take a look:

 

• Improved Safety: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and other safety technologies incorporated into modern vehicles enhance driver safety by providing features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies can help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions, reducing the risk of injury or death for drivers and passengers.
• Increased Confidence: Knowing that their vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features can increase drivers’ confidence on the road. Features like blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras provide additional awareness and visibility, helping drivers navigate traffic more safely and effectively.
• Higher Repair Costs: While advanced safety technologies improve safety, they also increase the complexity and cost of collision repairs. Repairing vehicles with ADAS requires specialized equipment, training, and procedures, which can result in higher repair costs for drivers. Additionally, the need for recalibration and replacement of sensors and components adds to the overall cost of repairs.
• Longer Repair Times: The complexity of repairing vehicles with advanced safety technologies can lead to longer repair times for drivers. Diagnostic scans, calibration procedures, and the need for specialized parts can extend the time it takes to complete repairs, resulting in inconvenience and potential downtime for drivers.

 

Contact a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey Today

The evolution of collision repair technology is reshaping the automotive industry in South Jersey and beyond. With the rise of advanced safety features and ADAS in modern vehicles, collision repair shops must adapt to new technologies, procedures, and training to ensure the safety and satisfaction of drivers. That said, while advanced safety features enhance safety and confidence on the road, they also come with increased repair costs and longer repair times. The best way to balance these pros and cons is to choose a reputable collision repair center in South Jersey, such as Elmer’s Auto Body.

 

Our team of trained technicians is equipped with the latest technologies and expertise to handle repairs for all types of vehicles, including those equipped with ADAS. Don’t compromise on safety – trust Elmer’s Auto Body for all your collision repair needs. Schedule your appointment today by filling out our online form or calling one of our three South Jersey locations.

Accidents happen. It’s a phrase we hear a lot throughout our lives, so much that sometimes we ignore the fact that the best way to avoid them is to be prepared. Unfortunately, there may come a time when you do find yourself in the midst of an auto collision, possibly in a situation that is unsafe. What can you do to prevent further injury? How you can protect yourself and others? To answer that question, here is what every Camden County driver should have in their car in the event of a collision.

 

Why Should You Be Prepared for an Accident in South Jersey?

Camden County is a busy place. There are colleges, warehouses and other commercial buildings, and residential neighborhoods. The roadways are often congested around the clock, meaning that there is always a risk of someone bumping into the back of your car or running the red light and T-boning you. In other words, having the right tools and resources on hand can help mitigate the impact of an accident and ensure prompt assistance in case of emergencies.

 

Things to Consider When Preparing Your Vehicle Emergency Kit

While a car accident in Camden County, NJ is not like breaking down in the middle of nowhere during a snowstorm, there are certain things that you need to consider and prepare for in the event of a collision. For example, you want to make sure that you have gear in your car to stay warm, should you have to wait a while for the ambulance to come on a cold day.

 

Aside from ensuring comfort, you should also keep a tool kit and first aid kit on hand. Keep in mind that the size of your vehicle will dictate storage space and what can be kept in the car at all times. You want to find a place where your accident preparedness kit can be secured so that it doesn’t move, even in the event of jostling or rollover.

 

Basic Accident Preparedness

Let’s take a look at some things you should have prepared that will make a big difference in the event of an accident:

 

• Vehicle registration and proof of car insurance. These things should be kept in the glove compartment or somewhere else easily accessible in the vehicle.
• Emergency contact information. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including family members, roadside assistance services, and your insurance provider, readily accessible in your glove compartment or wallet.
• Phone charger. Ensure that your phone is always charged while on the road so that you can make calls when necessary.
• Basic tools. Equip your car with tools such as a flashlight, multipurpose utility knife, duct tape, and a wrench or socket set.

 

Emergency Preparedness

Aside from the basic items that will help you when you have had an accident, there are a couple extra items to have on hand. Keep in mind that, in a serious accident where someone may be injured, it is imperative that you stay calm and act quickly. Keeping the accident scene secure and alerting other drivers is crucial.

 

Here are some items to assist with an emergency:

 

• A flashlight. Keep one in the glove box or somewhere accessible. Make sure it is resilient enough to help break windows, if necessary.
• Flares for nighttime accidents.
• Small orange cones or reflective warning triangles to mark out your vehicle and keep traffic from getting too close.
• A small fire extinguisher. Be sure to routinely check for when it expires.

 

How to Prevent and Minimize Accidents

One of the best ways to ensure that you never have to use your emergency kit is to know how to prevent and minimize collisions. Although fender benders are still an accident, they are better than a head-on collision that could have been avoided. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you drive around Camden County, NJ:

 

• Maintain Your Vehicle: Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. Check tire pressure, brakes, lights, and fluid levels regularly.
• Observe Traffic Laws: Adhere to speed limits, signal your intentions, and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. Avoid distracted driving behaviors such as texting or using electronic devices while behind the wheel.
• Stay Alert: Remain vigilant and attentive while driving, especially in high-traffic areas or adverse weather conditions. Scan the road ahead for potential hazards and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
• Avoid Impaired Driving: Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that may impair your judgment or reaction time. Arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation if you’re unable to drive safely.
• Drive Defensively: Anticipate potential hazards and react proactively to avoid accidents. Stay focused on the road, minimize distractions, and adapt your driving behavior to prevailing conditions.

 

Contact a Camden County Auto Collision Repair Shop Today

Collisions can and will happen. Are you prepared? Having certain items on hand for when a collision happens can alleviate some of the stress, such as a cell phone charger and warning triangles. Hopefully, you never have to use your emergency kit—but it’s better to be safe than sorry. In the unfortunate event of an accident, trust Elmer’s Auto Body for prompt and professional collision repair services in Camden County and surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians will restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition with precision and care. Contact one of our three locations today or fill out the online form for expert assistance and peace of mind

When it comes to auto collision repair, there are naturally a number of questions that arise. Whether you have been in an accident before, taking your vehicle for repairs means that there are many steps to follow. The process can be long and confusing. That is why this article seeks to address some of the most frequently asked questions about auto collision repair in South Jersey, so you can gain some peace of mind and understand what happens every step of the way.

 

How Long Does It Take to Repair a Vehicle After an Auto Collision?

The time required for auto collision repairs hinges on various factors, notably the severity of the damage sustained. For minor dents or scratches, repairs might be completed within a few days, encompassing tasks like paint touch-ups or panel replacements. Conversely, extensive structural damage or complex repairs, such as frame realignment or major component replacements, may demand several weeks to ensure thorough and safe restoration. Throughout the repair process, diligent attention to detail is crucial to guaranteeing both cosmetic and functional integrity.

 

Will Insurance Cover the Cost of Auto Collision Repairs?

Auto insurance policies often include coverage for collision repairs, particularly if you possess comprehensive or collision insurance. However, the extent of coverage can fluctuate based on the specifics of your policy and the circumstances surrounding the accident. Deductibles, coverage limits, and policy clauses may impact the portion of expenses covered by insurance. It’s advisable to review your policy details or consult with your insurance provider to ascertain the extent of coverage available for collision repairs.

 

Are Multiple Estimates Required for Auto Collision Repair?

While some insurers may stipulate obtaining multiple estimates for auto collision repairs, this requirement isn’t universally mandated. The necessity for multiple estimates varies among insurance companies and policies. It’s prudent to familiarize yourself with your insurance provider’s protocols regarding repair estimates. In some instances, obtaining multiple estimates can provide valuable insights into the range of repair costs and help ensure competitive pricing and quality workmanship.

 

Can I Choose Where to Have My Vehicle Repaired in New Jersey?

Residents of New Jersey typically possess the liberty to select the auto body shop for their vehicle repairs, barring any specific provisions in their insurance policies. This freedom empowers vehicle owners to opt for a repair facility that aligns with their preferences, whether it’s proximity to their location, reputation for excellence, or specialization in certain vehicle models. Prioritize selecting a reputable auto body shop with certified technicians and a track record of delivering satisfactory outcomes to safeguard the quality and integrity of your vehicle’s repairs.

 

Will My Vehicle Retain Its Value After Repairs?

Diligently executed auto collision repairs can contribute to preserving or potentially enhancing the value of your vehicle. By restoring the vehicle to its pre-accident condition, including addressing both structural and cosmetic damage, you enhance its appeal and marketability. Choosing a reputable auto body shop equipped with skilled technicians and utilizing high-quality replacement parts and materials is paramount to ensuring the longevity and value retention of your vehicle post-repair.

 

Do Auto Collision Repairs Come With a Warranty?

Many reputable auto collision repair centers stand behind their workmanship and replacement parts by offering warranties to customers. These warranties typically cover a specified duration and encompass repairs performed and parts installed by the repair facility. Prior to commencing repairs, it’s advisable to inquire about the warranty coverage provided by the auto body shop to ascertain the extent of protection afforded and ensure peace of mind regarding the quality and durability of the repairs.

 

What if Additional Damage is Discovered During the Repair Process?

In the event that additional damage is uncovered during the course of the repair process, effective communication between the auto body shop and the vehicle owner is imperative. The auto body shop should promptly notify the vehicle owner of any newfound damage and provide a revised estimate detailing the necessary repairs and associated costs. Depending on the insurance coverage and policy terms, coordination with the insurance company may be required to address the additional expenses incurred due to the supplementary damage.

 

Can Auto Collision Repair Centers Match the Paint Color of a Vehicle?

Reputable auto collision repair centers employ advanced color-matching techniques and utilize high-quality paint products to achieve precise color matching for vehicle repairs. Through meticulous blending and application processes, skilled technicians adeptly match the paint color of repaired areas to seamlessly integrate with the existing finish of the vehicle. Leveraging state-of-the-art equipment and expertise, auto collision repair centers ensure that the restored areas exhibit uniform color consistency and aesthetic cohesion, thereby restoring the vehicle’s appearance to its pre-accident condition.

 

Contact Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey for Collision Repair Today

Hopefully, some of your questions have been answered. Now that you know a little more about South Jersey auto collision repair and the process, you can move forward with getting your car back on the road. Consider going to a reputable auto body shop like Elmer’s Auto Body. We have been in business for over 75 years, and we have certified technicians and state-of-the-art technology. Contact one of our three locations today or fill out the contact form to schedule your vehicle’s assessment.