Category: Collision Repair

Whenever your car suffers damage to the frame, it makes the whole car dangerous to drive. Even minor damage to the car frame can cost you several hundred dollars to fix. Many times, frame damage happens because of a car accident, and you may not always see visible signs of damage. Even if it starts small, frame damage can quickly become more costly to fix later. Let’s take a look at the most common signs that the frame of your car may have damage.

Uneven Tire Wear

Uneven tire wear can make it difficult to keep a safe grip on the pavement in snowy and rainy weather conditions. Especially if you rotate the tires every 5,000 miles and still experience uneven tire wear, you can often pinpoint the issue as being a damaged frame. You can damage the frame as well from hitting a bump or a pothole in some rare cases.

 

Car Makes Strange Noises

Sometimes the car makes strange noises when the frame underneath was bent. The strange noises coming from the engine can make it hard to tell the exact issue. However, it means that the engine sits crooked in the frame. Listen for sounds of metal rubbing against metal or the sounds of squealing. Strange noises from the car may seem harmless, but you may want to have them checked to deal with the repair before it gets more costly. As a side note, bent frames are super bad for your car, and in some cases, it can lead to them totaling the car.

 

Car Parts Don’t Fit Right

When your car parts don’t fit right, it can indicate that they have either too much or too little room for movement. Some of the most common areas that won’t fit right due to frame damage include:

• Doors
• Mounts
• Bolts
• Windows

Especially if the frame was bent, these areas will feel out of place. You may feel like it takes extra force to close the car door. Now, you need to check because many aftermarket parts will have this problem, too, but if you had an accident recently or hit a pothole and this seems to be the case, you may want to have it looked at by a professional like Elmer’s Auto Body.

 

Poor Wheel Tracking

You can tell that your wheels track poorly when you try to drive straight but the car veers diagonally. Driving in a straight line poses no challenge for a car with a good frame. A bent frame, on the other hand, causes a condition that auto body mechanics refer to as “crab walking.” Poor wheel tracking often means that you have invisible damage that you can’t see. Take it to an autobody shop to have them take a deeper look at it.

 

Car Has Poor Alignment

You can tell that your car has poor alignment because it will pull in one direction when you drive it. A car with poor alignment doesn’t always indicate frame damage, but it can be one of the signs. Take your car in to have it re-aligned, and if it still seems like it won’t drive straight, you may want to have a technician look at it. When you drive with bad alignment, your wheels will wear out sooner, and you may struggle to control the car at its worst. Other common signs of poor alignment include:

• Tires squealing
• Noisy steering
• Uneven tire wear
• Pulling to the left or right

Look under The Car For Signs Of Damage

Doing this with a Ford F-150 or a Dodge RAM poses no challenge, but you may struggle to do it as easily with a compact car like a Kia. When you go to look under the frame, check to see if you can spot the frame as being bent. That would be one of the most obvious signs that you need to take it into an auto body shop. Just Google, “Auto body shop near me,” and you should see results come up like our shop.

 

Cracks, Rust, and Creases to the Exterior

One of the obvious signs of frame damage but worth pointing out to new car owners, cracks, rust or creases can indicate an issue with the frame especially if you have other signs present. Beware of rust because it can quickly spread. You want to repair this issue before it has the chance to accumulate and cause further issues.

 

How Much Does It Cost To Repair The Frame

Minor damage will cost you about $500 to fix, but the cost to fix a car frame after an accident usually ranges anywhere from $600 to $10,000. In some cases, it even climbs past $10,000. You even have cases where they will total the car because the frame damage is too severe and too costly to repair.

 

Conclusion

Let’s say that you believe that you have a damaged car frame. Take the car to us to learn if it has damage to it and how much it would cost to repair. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we would be more than willing to help you repair any damage to your car frame. Call us today at (856) 218-0202. We have served South Jersey for over 70 years.

In most instances where collision repair is required, an insurance company will be involved. These kinds of accidents can greatly affect the value of a vehicle, so they have a vested interest in the results. That is where direct repair body shops come into play. These are simply shops that work directly with insurance companies, which is why they are usually recommended by those same insurance companies. Every insurance company maintains a network of approved shops that have earned their trust.

 

Why Do Direct Auto Body Shops Exist?

Insurance companies have to deal with repair shops on a very frequent basis. And so, it pays to build relationships with certain trusted shops. This saves time and money on the process of vetting and verifying shops for each individual claim. When you already have a list of approved shops, you can just direct the policyholder to the nearest one.

These programs also provide financial incentives for both the insurance companies and the auto shops with whom they are partnered. The repair shop wins because they will certainly get more business. In the case of body shops, direct repair jobs can sometimes make up the majority of their work. After all, a direct referral from your insurance company is a little more convincing than a TV or internet advertisement.

At the same time, the insurance companies gain from these programs by virtue of knowing that the repairs will be done correctly the first time. This saves them money on covered repairs in the long run. When a job isn’t done right the first time, it has to be corrected, and that will often double the costs.

 

Do I Have To Go With A Direct Auto Body Repair Shop?

No, you always have a choice in this matter. Under the laws of most states, your insurance company cannot force you to choose their approved repair shop. They will certainly try their best to convince you, but they have no right to force the matter.

That being said, it is often a good idea to go with one of those approved shops. When you do this, you know that you are getting someone that has already been properly vetted and certified. Also, there will be a greater likelihood of your insurance company covering the repairs. Still, you should bear in mind that some smaller shops fail to get approved only because they lack the equipment/capacity that the insurance company desires. So, if you know a smaller shop that does quality work, you might save some money that way.

OEM Vs Aftermarket Parts

In many cases, insurance companies have specific rules regarding the use of aftermarket parts. When you are just replacing a cosmetic outer piece (such as a door panel), generic/aftermarket parts will usually be allowed. When it comes to the functional components of the car, however, it is likely to be another story.

Of course, your insurance company cannot force you to choose OEM parts. However, they can refuse to cover those aftermarket parts, and they can also choose to raise your rates. In some cases, if the aftermarket parts are particularly expensive, they will cover a certain amount and send you a bill for the rest.

 

Direct Auto Body Repair Shops Are Very Convenient

We have already talked a little bit about how the use of a direct repair shop benefits the customer/policyholder. In general, this really is the most convenient way to find a repair shop. Without some kind of guidance or recommendation, you will probably end up choosing a shop at semi-random from those that are in your area. Doing it like this is always a crap shoot, and it can sometimes take a while to find the one you prefer. Going with a recommended auto body repair shop removes the need for all that calling and vetting.

When your vehicle is out of commission, it is always going to be a huge inconvenience. The sooner you can start the repair process, the sooner you can get back on the road. Apart from the peace of mind that you get from going with a direct repair shop, you also save time and trouble. The process of dealing with the results of an auto accident is bad enough already, so this little bit of convenience goes a long way.

 

Conclusion

Although it may not always be the right choice, a direct auto body repair shop is never a bad choice. It pays to stick with the shops and companies that have proven their trustworthiness and credentials. For most insurance companies, the approval process is pretty rigorous, so you know you are getting someone who has already proven their worth. If you find yourself asking: “Hey, where is the best auto body shop near me?”, then all you have to do is call Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202.

When you have suffered a vehicle accident, you are likely to be stressed already. And so, if you then get the news that your car has been totaled, it is likely to make things even worse. While this isn’t true for everyone, many people develop attachments to their particular vehicle. This is especially true for the mechanically inclined, as they may have spent many hours working on said vehicle. Either way, you don’t always have to get rid of a cherished vehicle once it has been totaled.

 

What Does It Mean When A Car Is “Totaled?”

Most people seem to think that a “totaled” car is one that can not be used or repaired. People often use this phrase when a car is deemed to be damaged beyond repair. However, when we’re talking about legal terms, it isn’t necessarily that simple. When your insurance company is deciding which repairs to cover and which repairs they won’t cover, your emotional attachment to the car won’t be a factor.

Instead, insurance companies make these decisions based on a simple equation. They take the estimated market value of the vehicle and compare it to the estimated cost of repairs. If the cost of the repairs is higher than the cost of replacing the car, the car is deemed to be totaled. It isn’t that the vehicle cannot be fixed: It’s just that the repairs have been deemed to be more trouble than the vehicle is worth. The bad news is that an insurance company will not pay to repair such a car. The good news is that you can still try to repair the vehicle yourself.

 

How Much Damage Does It Take?

Every state has a particular threshold for this sort of thing. For instance, in Texas, your car is legally considered to be “totaled” if the repairs equal or exceed 100% of the vehicle’s value. In most states, however, the threshold is more like 70-80%.

So, let’s consider a vehicle that is deemed to be worth $5,000. Let’s say you live in a state with a 75% threshold. If your vehicle is damaged, and the repairs are estimated to be $3,750 or more, your car would be totaled. However, let’s say you have a car that is only worth $2,000. In that case, it would only take $1,500 worth of damage to total the car. Some states, like New Jersey, use a “total loss formula” to calculate the matter on an individual basis.

 

Will My Insurance Pay For A Totaled Car?

You might be thinking that you have to junk your car before your insurance company will pay. However, this is not the case. Rather than covering the costs of a new car, they will simply pay you the value of the vehicle, minus whatever the vehicle would be expected to bring at a scrapyard. They will also deduct any money that you might happen to owe them for deductibles, etc. So yes, they will pay you for a “totaled” car, but don’t expect to get a whole lot.

 

Can You Drive A Totaled Car?

If your car has been designated as “totaled,” it probably isn’t in any condition to be driven. However, even if the car can still be driven, you cannot legally do so. First of all, you can’t get insurance and tags on a totaled vehicle, so that’s one big problem. Not only that, but it would also be highly unsafe to drive a vehicle in such poor condition. It could easily pose a hazard to you and to other drivers.

However, you can potentially drive the car again once repairs have been made. Whether you do them yourself or hire someone to do the repairs, you will be able to drive the vehicle when the repairs are complete. When you get insurance and registration for your repaired vehicle, there will certainly be an inspection involved at some point. You should definitely be honest with your insurance company and tell them that they are dealing with a refurbished vehicle. Chances are, they will be able to tell anyway.

 

Is It Worth Selling A Totaled Vehicle?

You might be thinking that you can sell your totaled vehicle after repairs have been made. If you are mechanically inclined enough to fix its problems, this might seem like a good way to make a quick buck. However, it’s not a good idea. When a car is totaled, there will be a record of that status. Even after it has been repaired, it will never have the same value because it is technically considered to be a salvaged vehicle. Thus, even if you do find a buyer, you probably won’t get enough money to make the whole thing worthwhile. When a car is labeled as a “salvage,” it loses about 20-40% of its value.

 

Conclusion

Although some people might consider it to be unwise, you may have good reason to keep your totaled vehicle. Maybe the car has sentimental value or maybe you just want a weekend project. No matter what your purpose might be, you might very well need some help in getting that vehicle back on the road. If so, you might be asking: “Where can I find the best auto body shop near me?” The answer to that question is Elmer’s Auto Body, and we can be reached at (856) 218-0202.

Unfortunately, accidents can happen. Even the safest drivers can experience a minor fender bender. However, accidents do not have to occur on the road. A runaway shopping cart or a slight bump in your garage can be responsible for bumper damage. While you may think it is only a tiny issue, minor bumper damage must be inspected and repaired. Repairing these problem areas might not be a big priority on your list, but there are plenty of reasons to fix any scratches and dents as soon as possible.

 

What Is Minor Bumper Damage?

When you look at your vehicle’s bumper, you might notice a few cracks, scratches, or dents. Those types of issues are considered minor damage. Most minor damage may look like a cosmetic issue, but underlying problems could be lurking beneath the surface. You should never ignore this type of damage. You need to get it fixed to avoid other issues. Here are a few reasons why you need to repair minor bumper damage.

 

Hidden Damage

As previously mentioned, minor bumper damage can hide more significant issues, such as alignment problems, a cracked frame, or other serious damage. In many cases, the driver might only know there is a problem if they have their car inspected by a reputable repair shop.

 

Drivability Issues

While small dents and bumps can look unsightly, they can also affect how the vehicle drives on the road. For example, a tiny dent can even impact how your headlights shine on the street, making it difficult to see in low-light conditions. Many modern vehicles also have complex safety sensors and advanced driver assistance systems. Damage to the bumper can affect how these systems recognize hazards or other cars on the road.

 

Corrosion and Rust

Minor scratches and dents can lead to corrosion and rust if you do not address them quickly. You might not think about it, but these problems can lead to long-term damage. Along with that, it can decrease the resale value of the vehicle. Once you allow rust and corrosion to settle in, those problems will spread and affect the vehicle’s frame, compromising the structural integrity.

 

Impact Absorption

Your bumper is there to protect you from any impact. Modern vehicles have a two-part design. The bumper absorber is located between the metal exterior and the bumper cover. It works to absorb and redirect force from the engine compartment, side panels, and trunk area. The bumper bar is another part of the vehicle’s safety system. It is made of metal and provides additional strength to the bumper region. All of these parts can be damaged by a minor fender bender.

Once compromised, you have limited safety features protecting you from another crash. Bumpers are designed to absorb those minor impacts and bumps to protect the rest of the vehicle. A crack or dent on the bumper will decrease the component’s ability to absorb shock, allowing the impact force to direct to other parts of the vehicle. If you are involved in another accident, your vehicle might experience more extensive damage. Plus, a cracked or dented bumper could mask some serious problems, like damage to the transmission or frame.

Devalues the Vehicle

While a minor ding might seem like a small problem, it can actually affect your resale value. Minor bumper damage might not affect the vehicle’s driving experience, but car buyers want to avoid buying a vehicle with damage to this area. If you trade the car to a dealership, you will often receive a less-than-expected price for the vehicle.

 

Insurance Claims

While minor bumper damage might not seem like a big deal, it could affect how your insurance company pays for future repairs. If you have bumper damage and don’t get it fixed, any other claims could be denied, especially if they find out that the bumper could have prevented additional damage. Sometimes, an insurance company could say that the damaged bumper led to “unnecessary repairs.” When the insurance company denies your claims, it will mean that you will have to pay out of pocket for any additional repairs.

 

Get Your Vehicle Inspected and Repaired

If you have a minor fender bender and see minimal damage to the surface, you might feel a bit of relief. However, any dents and dings are often responsible for internal damage that is not visible without a full inspection. You will want to schedule an appointment with a reliable auto body shop. Many people think that if the car can be driven, there are no issues with the vehicle. That is never the case. It is important to get the vehicle inspected and repaired. Finding a trusted auto body shop can help remove some of the hassles of the repair process.

 

Reach Out To Elmer’s Auto Body

When you notice any damage to your bumper, you need to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we will do everything to get your vehicle back on the road. Our technicians have the skills and knowledge to repair those minor damages to your car. We will get your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition, making repairs according to the manufacturer’s specifications and using OEM parts. When you schedule an inspection or repair, your vehicle is in the capable hands of our technicians. Our team will be happy to get your car, truck, or SUV back on the road. Schedule an appointment by calling (856) 218-0202.

For those who are not overly familiar with automobiles and their various parts, the term “OEM” might be a little bit confusing. People often throw this term around without explaining its meaning, especially on repair invoices and estimates. And so, in order to alleviate that confusion, let’s go ahead and tell you everything you need to know about OEM parts.

 

What Does “OEM” Mean?

This is an acronym that stands for “Original Engine Manufacturing.” This basically just means that they are “original” parts. When you go with an OEM part, you know that it has been built for your vehicle by the same company that built your vehicle. In some cases, the making of OEM parts may be outsourced, but those parts have to meet the same standards as those produced by the auto manufacturer.

This label is mainly put upon auto parts to distinguish them from aftermarket parts, which are not going to be identical to the vehicle’s original parts. Unless you are using aftermarket parts for a specific reason, it is always recommended that you stick with the original parts.

 

Why People Choose OEM Parts

OEM parts are favored because they offer the best possible reliability factor. Any machine will function better when it has the correct parts and when everything stays in accordance with the original design. This doesn’t just apply to vehicles, but it is particularly important with regard to vehicles. If you are like most people, you trust your life to a vehicle every day, and so you need a very high degree of reliability.

Yes, you can often save money by going with cheap aftermarket parts. However, think about all of the ways in which that could impact your car’s performance and safety. For instance, let’s say you replace your rear quarter panels and/or your rear bumper with the cheapest thing you can find on the internet. These parts will likely be made from substandard materials and with shoddy workmanship. As such, they will not give you the same degree of protection in the event of an accident.

In the end, you are always taking a gamble when you buy an auto part. No matter how hard they might try, auto part manufacturers cannot prevent the occasional defect from happening. However, using an OEM part will do a lot to minimize that risk. When you go with one of these, your chances of getting a bad part are pretty low.

 

Do Most Repair Shops Use OEM Parts?

The answer to this question is not a simple one. If you go to a dealership for repairs, they will unquestionably use OEM parts for any repairs they do. However, smaller repair shops are more likely to use secondhand parts from dubious sources, which are probably not going to meet OEM specs. This brings us to an important point: OEM parts are not always necessarily good. They wear out just like any other kind of auto part, so make sure you find out whether or not your repair shop uses new OEM parts. Unfortunately, there are all too many shops that do not.

 

A Word About CAPA Certification

When you are going with an original part, the OEM standard is what you want. However, if you are using an aftermarket part, there is a different standard. You should always look for aftermarket parts that have been certified by the Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA).

CAPA subjects aftermarket parts to a variety of rigorous tests in order to verify that they are equal to the standards of the original part. In some cases, aftermarket parts actually turn out to be better in terms of overall quality. Either way, an aftermarket part that hasn’t been verified by this organization should not be trusted.

 

A Word About Returns

Another little benefit to the use of OEM parts is the fact that they will probably be easier to return. If you should need to return an OEM part (either because it’s defective, the wrong part, etc.), you already know that there will be no problem. Any manufacturer that is OEM certified will be required to guarantee their work. And so, as long as you have a receipt, you should have no issues.

On the other hand, you never really know how the return process is going to go with an aftermarket manufacturer. They may not take returns at all, or they may only take them under certain conditions. Others may delay the process as long as possible. For these reasons, doing a return-and-refund deal on an aftermarket part can be difficult or even impossible.

 

Conclusion

OEM parts are the normal standard for several reasons, and it mostly comes down to the crucial issue of trust. You can trust that these parts have been made to the correct specifications and that they have been tested for quality. You can also trust that the manufacturer is properly qualified to make parts for your vehicle, and you can have a higher degree of confidence in their willingness to take returns. With a non-OEM part, you can’t guarantee any of those things. And so, if you now find yourself asking: “where can I find the best auto body shop near me?”, all you have to do is call Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202.