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Winter Collisions and Total Loss: What You Need to Know if Your Car is Deemed Non-Repairable

Winter driving means a chance for collisions that are made more severe due to snow, ice, and salt. Sometimes, even with the best precautions, a winter collision is unavoidable. For instance, you need to slam on your brakes because someone pulls out right in front of you and your car slides into them. In some cases, the damage is severe enough for the car to be deemed a “total loss,” meaning it’s considered non-repairable. For many drivers, this can be a stressful and confusing situation. Here’s what you need to know about total loss declarations, how they’re determined, and what your options are if your car is deemed non-repairable.

Key Takeaways

A car is totaled when repair costs exceed 70-80% of its actual cash value (ACV), which is common with severe winter collision damage.
Insurers compare repair costs, ACV, and salvage value to decide if a vehicle is repairable or a total loss.
Common issues like frame and engine damage, extensive bodywork, and water intrusion from snow can make a car non-repairable.
Review the insurance settlement, decide whether to keep or surrender the vehicle, and consider gap insurance if you owe more than the ACV.

What Does Total Loss Mean?

A vehicle is considered a total loss when the cost to repair it exceeds a certain percentage of its actual cash value (ACV). This percentage, known as the total loss threshold, varies by insurance provider but typically falls between 70% and 80% of the vehicle’s ACV. If a car’s repair costs exceed this threshold, the insurance company may deem it more practical to declare the vehicle a total loss rather than pay for repairs.

During winter, the likelihood of a total loss increases due to the types of accidents that can happen on icy or snowy roads. Collisions that cause extensive damage to the frame, engine, or other critical components may lead to a total loss declaration. Additionally, the higher incidence of multi-car pileups in winter months can result in more severe damage, increasing the possibility of total loss determinations.

How Insurance Companies Determine Total Loss in Winter Collisions

There are various factors to determine when a car is repairable or non-repairable. The first thing the insurance company looks at is the vehicle’s Actual Cash Value (ACV). The ACV is the car’s market value right before the collision. This figure is based on the car’s make, model, age, mileage, and general condition. The ACV determines the financial baseline against which repair costs are compared.

The insurance company then compares the ACV to the cost of repairs. Repair shops and insurance adjusters estimate the cost of necessary repairs. If the cost is close to or exceeds the ACV threshold, the car is deemed a total loss.

Next, there’s the salvage value. This is the amount the car would be worth if sold for parts or scrap after being totaled. Salvage value also affects whether a vehicle is repairable since high salvage value could make it more cost-effective to replace rather than repair.

Common Winter Collision Damages That Can Lead to a Total Loss

Winter collisions in South Jersey often result in damages that are more extensive due to the environmental conditions of the season. Here are some damages that may justify a total loss declaration:

Frame and Structural Damage: Collisions on icy or snowy roads frequently impact the car’s frame. Structural damage is often difficult and costly to repair, and if the frame has bent or twisted, it may compromise vehicle safety.
Drivetrain and Engine Damage: Severe front-end collisions can damage the engine and drivetrain components, which are costly to repair or replace. If critical components are damaged in a winter crash, the repair costs can easily exceed the ACV.
Extensive Body Damage: Snow and ice can reduce visibility and increase the chances of rear-end collisions or side impacts. If the damage involves multiple panels or requires a full repaint, it could add significantly to repair costs, making a total loss more likely.
Flooding from Snow and Ice: Accumulated snow and ice may lead to water damage if it melts and seeps into the car’s interior or engine bay. If water damage is severe, it may be another reason for a total loss, as replacing electronics and upholstery can be prohibitively expensive.

What to Do If Your Car is Deemed a Total Loss

Let’s say you get into an accident this winter and your vehicle is deemed a total loss, what happens then? What can you do? Here are some steps you can take, depending on whether you decide to keep your car, salvage it, or something else:

Understand the Insurance Settlement: Your insurance provider will offer a settlement based on the ACV of your vehicle before the collision. This amount is meant to compensate you for your loss. Review this settlement carefully and compare it to local market values for similar vehicles to ensure it’s fair.
Keep or Surrender the Vehicle: In some cases, you may have the option to keep the totaled vehicle, which is called “retaining salvage.” However, this typically comes with certain restrictions, and the insurance payout may be reduced by the vehicle’s salvage value. If you choose to surrender it, the insurance company will take possession and handle its disposal.
Get a Replacement Vehicle: Use the insurance settlement to purchase a new vehicle. If you owe more on your loan than the ACV, consider gap insurance, which can help cover the difference in the event of a total loss.
Notify the DMV: In most states, you’ll need to submit documentation to the DMV to update the vehicle’s title and registration status. This process varies by state, so it’s best to check New Jersey’s DMV requirements if your vehicle is totaled.

Get Winter Collision Repair at Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey

If your vehicle has been involved in a winter collision, there is a chance that the damages lead to total loss. While the team at Elmer’s Auto Body can’t reverse a total loss declaration, we do aim to help drivers get back on the road as soon as possible. If your car can be repaired, we’ll do what we can. Our skilled technicians can restore your car’s safety and appearance with high-quality repairs, allowing you to get back on the road with confidence.

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a winter accident, let Elmer’s Auto Body handle the repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our South Jersey locations.

The Importance of Post-Collision Wheel Alignment Checks in Camden County, New Jersey

After a car accident, you are most likely focused on the more visible issues, like dents, scratches, and the broken fender. However, there is one element to the vehicle that often goes overlooked, particularly in minor collisions. Even a minor fender-bender can throw off the alignment of your vehicle, affecting how your car handles, tires wear, and the overall safety. Let’s explore the importance of post-collision wheel alignment checks for drivers in Camden County, New Jersey.

Key Takeaways

Post-collision wheel alignment checks prevent alignment issues that could make your car difficult to control, especially at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions.
Misalignment causes uneven tire wear, leading to premature replacement. Regular alignment checks can extend tire life and save money.
Misaligned wheels increase resistance, making your car work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. An alignment check helps restore optimal performance.
Watch for symptoms like pulling to one side, off-center steering wheels, uneven tire wear, vibration, and poor handling, all of which indicate misalignment after an accident.

What is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment refers to the angle at which your tires meet the road. Proper alignment ensures that your vehicle’s wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground, allowing for even tire wear, better handling, and improved fuel efficiency. When your vehicle is correctly aligned, it drives straight and true without pulling to one side.

A collision, even one that seems minor, can shift the position of your suspension components, steering, or wheels, causing misalignment. If left unchecked, misaligned wheels can lead to long-term damage, affecting your car’s overall performance and safety.

Why Do Post-Collision Wheel Alignment Checks Matter in Camden County?

As mentioned above, getting into a collision can easily throw off the position of your wheels, steering, and suspension. However, that is just one reason why a post-collision alignment check is important. Here are some other reasons to schedule an alignment check in Camden County, NJ today:

Safety Concerns

A misaligned vehicle can be difficult to control. It may pull to one side, require constant steering adjustments, or cause vibrations while driving. These issues can become particularly dangerous at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions. Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned after a collision can significantly reduce the risk of accidents due to poor handling.

Tire Lifespan

Misalignment places uneven stress on your tires, causing them to wear out unevenly or prematurely. If your wheels are out of alignment, one side of the tire may wear down faster than the other, leading to the need for early replacements. Routine wheel alignment checks following a collision can prevent unnecessary wear and save you money on tire replacements.

Fuel Efficiency

Imagine a strong wind blowing you sideways as you try to walk a straight line. It’s difficult and tiring, right? That is what happens when your car is misaligned. Your car must work harder to move forward. This increased resistance can cause your engine to use more fuel, reducing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. After a collision, an alignment check can help restore your car’s optimal fuel efficiency, saving you money at the pump over time.

Overall Vehicle Performance

Proper alignment ensures your car drives smoothly and that all components work together effectively. Misalignment affects not only your tires but also your suspension system, steering, and even braking. A wheel alignment check after a collision can restore your vehicle’s performance, allowing you to drive comfortably and confidently on the roads of Camden County.

Signs Your Wheel Alignment is Off After a Collision

Misaligned wheels are not always immediately apparent. Sometimes, a minor misalignment can be hard to diagnose—until time goes by and it gets worse. Recognizing the warning signs early will help you prevent further damage and ensure your car remains in good condition. Here are several indicators that you should take your vehicle to an auto body repair shop in Camden County as soon as possible:

Pulling to One Side

One of the most common signs of alignment issues is when your vehicle pulls to the left or right while you’re trying to drive straight. This can happen even after a seemingly minor fender-bender, and it indicates that the wheels are not aligned properly. Failing to address this issue can lead to reduced handling control, making your vehicle more difficult to steer, especially in emergency situations or on wet roads.

Steering Wheel Problems

If your steering wheel no longer sits centered when driving straight or feels unusually loose or off-balance, this can signal a misalignment. Sometimes, the steering wheel may tilt slightly in one direction, even though the tires are pointed straight ahead. This misalignment not only affects your driving experience but could also indicate underlying structural issues caused by the collision.

Uneven Tire Wear

Do this: Take a penny and see if Lincoln’s head is visible when you stick it in the tire tread. If one tire is worse than the others, you most likely have uneven wear. Misalignment forces your tires to wear down unevenly, reducing their lifespan and increasing the likelihood of blowouts or traction problems. Also, check for bald spots or areas where the tread appears worn more on one side than the other—this is often a direct result of poor alignment.

Vibration or Shaking

If your vehicle vibrates or the steering wheel shakes, particularly at higher speeds, alignment issues may be to blame. While vibration can be caused by other problems, such as unbalanced tires, it’s often a symptom of misalignment, which creates instability in the wheels and suspension system. This shaking can make it more difficult to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of further accidents.

Poor Handling

Alignment issues can lead to a noticeable decline in how well your vehicle handles. You might find that your car feels less responsive or more difficult to control, particularly when making turns or navigating tight spaces. This reduced responsiveness can be dangerous, as it diminishes your ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions or road obstacles.

Schedule Your Post-Collision Wheel Alignment Today in Camden County, NJ

If you’ve recently been in a collision in Camden County, don’t overlook the importance of a wheel alignment check. Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned will help protect your tires, improve fuel efficiency, and keep you safe on the road. Call an auto body repair shop in Camden County, NJ after your collision to get your wheel alignment checked.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the importance of post-collision wheel alignment checks. Our certified technicians use advanced equipment to assess and adjust your vehicle’s alignment to the manufacturer’s specifications. Whether you’ve experienced a minor fender-bender or a more significant accident, we’ll make sure your vehicle is safe to drive and performing at its best. Contact one of our three South Jersey locations today to get your vehicle seen.

What Size Hail Will Damage a Car?

When you think of all the terrible things that can happen to your car while traveling around New Jersey, one of things that you might forget about is hail. Although New Jersey does not get hail as often as some other states, there is always a chance. Understanding the size of hail that can cause damage to your car is crucial in preparing for and protecting your vehicle during severe weather. Today, you are going to learn what size hail will damage your vehicle, as well as how severe that damage can be.

What are the Different Sizes of Hail?

Do hailstones come in different sizes? The answer is yes! Hail can range from very tiny to large, and that is determined by the size and strength of the storm that forms it. Here are the common categories of hail sizes:

Pea-Sized Hail

These hailstones are around 0.25 inches in diameter, roughly the size of a pea. They are relatively small and usually do not cause significant damage to most structures, including vehicles. However, if accompanied by strong winds, they can still cause minor dents on car surfaces.

Marble-Sized Hail

Marble-sized hail is around 0.5 inches in diameter. While still relatively small, they can cause more noticeable dents and scratches on vehicle surfaces, especially if they are wind-driven.

Quarter-Sized Hail

Hailstones of this size are approximately 1 inch in diameter, roughly the size of a quarter coin. Hail around one inch in diameter has enough density and mass to cause damage to a vehicle’s aluminum or steel surface.

Golf Ball-Sized Hail

At 1.75 inches in diameter, this is a relatively large hailstone that can cause significant damage to vehicles, including dents, chipped paint, and cracked windshields.

Tennis Ball-Sized Hail

Hailstones of this size have a diameter of approximately 2.5 inches, comparable to a tennis ball. These large hailstones can cause severe damage to vehicles, breaking windows and causing extensive dents and scratches.

Baseball-Sized Hail

With a diameter of around 2.75 inches, these hailstones can cause significant damage to vehicles and other structures, often requiring extensive repairs.

Softball-Sized Hail

The largest hailstones can reach diameters of 4.5 inches or more, similar to a softball. Hail of this size can be extremely destructive, causing major damage to vehicles, buildings, and other structures.

What Size Hail Will Damage a Car?

The size of hail necessary to damage a car can vary based on several factors, including the vehicle’s material, wind conditions, and the angle of impact. As a general rule of thumb, hail around one inch in diameter or the size of a quarter has enough density and mass to cause damage to a vehicle’s aluminum or steel surface. Hail smaller than an inch, as long as it is not wind-driven, is less likely to cause significant damage.

However, it’s important to note that even hail smaller than an inch can cause damage if it is accompanied by strong winds or is very dense. When hailstones are propelled by wind, their impact force on the vehicle can increase, leading to dents and scratches on the surface.

How Fast Can Hail Move?

Hailstones are formed when updrafts carry raindrops into freezing levels of the atmosphere, causing them to freeze. Once the hailstones reach a size heavy enough to overcome the force of the updrafts, they fall to the ground. The speed at which hailstones fall depends on their size and the strength of the storm’s updrafts.

Now, why is this important? As mentioned earlier, the speed at which hail falls will also influence how much damage it can cause. Even smaller hailstones can cause damage when they collide with your vehicle at high speeds. Researchers at the National Severe Storms Laboratory estimate that small hailstones, less than 1 inch in diameter, can reach the ground at speeds between 9 and 25 mph. Larger hailstones, such as those greater than 2 inches in diameter, can reach speeds of up to 72 mph.

In the event of high winds and hail, your car is going to suffer damage. Try to get it out of the storm’s path before the hail begins.

How Much Damage Can Hail Cause?

As you have seen in a previous section, the damage caused by hail is relative to its size and speed. Smaller pieces of hail may not cause any damage at all to your car, especially when there is little to no wind. You may hear it pinging off the roof of the car, but it rarely causes damage. Even if smaller hail does ding your car, these dents are usually shallow enough that DIY repair methods work.

Hailstorms with hailstones reaching two inches or larger, combined with strong winds, can cause severe damage to vehicles. The larger and heavier hailstones, propelled by strong winds, can crack paint, break windshields, and even shatter side windows. In such cases, the repair costs can quickly escalate, and the vehicle may require extensive repairs or part replacements.

Additionally, hailstorms with hailstones larger than two inches can lead to what is known as a “wind-driven hail event.” These events can be extremely destructive, similar to tornadoes, as the large hailstones propelled by powerful winds become more like missiles, causing extensive damage to vehicles, buildings, and other structures.

How Do You Repair Hail Damage in New Jersey?

When your vehicle sustains hail damage, prompt assessment and repair are crucial to prevent further damage and maintain its value. For minor dents without chipped paint, paintless dent repair (PDR) is an effective and preferred method. PDR technicians use specialized tools to gently push the dents out from the inside, restoring the vehicle’s appearance without the need for paint or fillers.

For hail damage that includes cracked paint or more severe dents, traditional auto body repairs may be necessary. In such cases, parts may need to be replaced, and the affected areas will be sanded, primed, and repainted to restore the vehicle’s original condition. It’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician like those at Elmer’s Auto Body in New Jersey to determine the extent of the damage and the appropriate repair method.

Need Hail Damage Repair in NJ?

What size hail damages a car? Hailstones of any size can cause damage when driven by wind, but the most destruction begins at around 1 inch in diameter. The extent of hail damage will vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and the materials used in its construction. If your vehicle has been subjected to hail damage, don’t wait for those damages to get worse. Look for a reputable NJ body shop with traditional body repair or paintless dent repair (PDR), like Elmer’s Auto Body.

Whether you need collision repair in NJ or a few dents and dings removed, our team has your back. Call one of our four NJ locations today to set up an appointment or to learn more about our hail damage repair services.

Will Your Car Still Have Issues After An Expensive Collision Repair In South Jersey?

After you receive the repairs from a collision, you don’t want to take it back to the auto body shop. You paid hard-earned cash and have a right to expect that the repairs made will make a difference. You wonder if your car will still have issues after you took it in for expensive collision repairs. Where you take it in will make a difference because not all auto body shops perform at the same level.

How Bad was the Damage?

Most accident damage can be repaired. Insurance companies wait until about 70 percent damage to total the vehicle. After the auto body shop repairs the vehicle, you should inspect it closely. All respectable auto body shops will stand by their workmanship. You have a right to inspect the car before you pay for it or authorize your insurance to pay for it. In many cases like with prior severe damage, the auto body shop will recommend that you take it for a quick test drive to ensure that no damage remains.

You should check to see if the wheel alignment was corrected, and you should also check that the steering is normal and the headlights work right.

How to Inspect Your Car After the Repairs

First, if you have any issues, discuss them with the manager. For example, if you disliked how they fixed the damage, the painting or the quality of the parts, speak to who carried out the repairs. You want to point out the potential defects before you pay the bill.

Second, request a post-repair inspection. Not all auto body shops will perform this, but reputable auto body shops will do this to verify that they fixed the damage. This inspection provides you with a full assessment of the original damage to ensure that you can safely take the car on the road. Important to note, the post-repair inspection should be performed by a knowledgeable and independent third party. They can support or dismiss doubts that you might express about the repairs.

In some states, they will provide you with no-cost inspections for collision repairs. Let’s say that you can’t reach an agreement with the body shop about the repairs. You would then speak with your car insurance company. They will manage the dispute even if you used an auto body shop outside of their network.

File a Complaint if Required

Good auto body shops should be willing to address your complaints and ensure that the repairs get done right. Let’s say that you can’t come to a resolution. You might file a complaint with the state bureau of auto repair. This bureau exists to ensure that customers who seek car repairs receive fair treatment. A bureau of representatives will review the case, and if they find that the repairs don’t meet the standards of the industry, they will either negotiate further repair work, or they will transfer your repairs over to a more reputable auto body shop. They might also seek a refund or adjustment for the customer in some cases.

Only Work with Auto Body Shops That Offer a Guarantee

Great auto body shops will provide you with a guarantee that lasts for as long as the repairs were made. This is a lifetime warranty on all of the repairs and replacement parts. Going with an auto body shop that offers this guarantee shows that they will do quality work, and even if you experience problems, they will back you up.

When done right, your car won’t continue to have issues after the collision repairs. The one exception to this would be when you had extensive damage done to the frame or severe damage to an essential part of the car. Most often, the insurance company will total the car in those cases.

How Long Do You Have to Determine if There’s Hidden Damage

Each auto body shop will differ on this, which is why you would want to have an inspection done to find any hidden damage before it manifests itself. Some of the most common types of hidden damage after a car accident include:

Brake damage
Bumper damage
Trunk damage
Suspension system damage
Leaking fluids

Reputable auto body shops will do their best to catch hidden damage, but even great auto body shops will occasionally miss something because the issue can materialize more as you run the vehicle.

Interesting Statistic About Auto Body Repairs

In most cases when the repairs cost under $10,000, most customers feel satisfied with the repairs made. Once the repairs cross the $10,000 market, only an estimated 26.6 percent of all customers feel satisfied with the repairs.

When it comes to cars needing to go back to the auto body shop after repairs, they call these cars go-backs because they need to return to the auto body shop. An estimated 10.9 percent of all cars fixed at the auto body shop will be go-backs. That means that one out of every 10 cars will need to return to the shop. Unfortunately, car accidents can severely damage the essential components in a vehicle, and in some cases, they can be difficult to fully fix.

Final Thoughts

On the whole, auto body repairs will fix the car, but you do have cases where they can’t completely get rid of the issues. Some will also make the repairs better than others since this field requires skill. When looking at auto body shops in South Jersey, Elmer’s Auto Body is one example of a great company that has served South Jersey for over 75 years. This is the best body shop in NJ because they hire the best auto body and paint technicians to ensure that the repairs are done right. If you’d like to learn more, you can call us at (856) 218-0202.

What Does ADAS Calibration Mean On My Auto Body Repair Estimate?

Reading over your estimate from the auto body repair shop and wondering what in the world “ADAS calibration” means? You’re not the only one. ADAS calibration is not just some fancy lingo meant to increase the price of your repairs. Elmer’s Auto Body believes that, by demystifying repair procedures and steps, we can better serve our customers. That is why we are going to tell you everything you need to know about ADAS calibration, including what it means, why it is necessary, and what you can expect when it is done.

Let’s get started.

What is ADAS?

ADAS is short for “,” all of which are technologies incorporated into your vehicle that make it safer to drive. ADAS utilizes what is called a “human-machine interface” to improve your ability to react to whatever arises on the road, from dodging accidents to stopping on a dime. Most systems come standard in many modern-day vehicles, but there are aftermarket features that can be added to personalize your experience.

Some common ADAS technologies include:

Adaptive cruise control
Forward collision warnings
Anti-lock brakes
High beam safety system
Lane departure warnings
Traction control
Blindspot detection

How do ADAS work?

Most ADAS are controlled by a number of computer sensors placed throughout the vehicle. They also have multiple ways to receive data, including automotive imaging and LiDAR (light detection and ranging). This allows sensors to be able to survey a full 360-degree area, regardless of the weather conditions or visibility. Data can also be processed through things like vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X), WiFi, and other vehicles (V2V).

These systems are meant to decrease human error since the majority of road accidents are caused by the mistakes people make. ADAS improves driving ability overall, reduces the number of deaths, and improves awareness. However, like all technologies, ADAS can malfunction over time and need to be maintained and re-calibrated, especially after damages or accidents.

What is ADAS Calibration?

The states that ADAS calibration is “a process carried out to correctly align the cameras and sensors of a car so that its ADAS system can work as intended.” Such calibration can only be done using specialized tools that are wielded by trained technicians who have experience dealing with such systems. Every sensor has to be precisely positioned. Otherwise, the systems will fail.

ADAS calibration is not something you can easily neglect. Even if the position of the cameras and sensors are off by a hair, there is a significant influence on the effectiveness of the entire system. In other words, the sensors could end up focusing elsewhere, jeopardizing your safety—and the safety of every other person on the road.

Failing to re-calibrate your ADAS can cause other issues, including:

Steering wheel vibration
Harder steering
Steering wheel pull
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) stored in the system computer

When Does ADAS Need to be Calibrated?

Calibration is needed whenever the sensors of a vehicle have been disrupted. Fender benders, collisions, airbag deployment, or even mistakes made during maintenance can upset an ADAS. Some ADAS sensors can be affected by things like wheel alignment, suspension repairs, tire size changes, car roof repair, and windshield replacement. Calibration must also be done whenever a sensor or the mounting bracket is repaired.

How is an ADAS Re-calibrated?

As mentioned earlier, when an ADAS is displaced or damaged in an accident, you will need to have it re-calibrated. Usually, this requires a trip to the dealership, since every manufacturer is going to have their own measures for ADAS calibration. Generally, sensors are aimed at targets while the technician works to scan the ADAS through your vehicle’s OBD port. The process is time-consuming, and if full attention is not given, the entirety of your car’s ADAS can be decreased.

Because many auto body shops cover a broad range of auto makes and models, it is best to let a specialized dealership or auto body shop do the ADAS calibration. The vehicle will be returned to the auto repair shop once the calibration is complete so any further work can be finished.

Therefore, if you receive an estimate that has “ADAS Calibration” written on it, it is most likely because the technician or mechanic is assuming that the sensors have been disrupted for some reason (or simply want to double-check for safety purposes).

Who in New Jersey Can Perform an ADAS Calibration?

Looking for an “auto body shop near me” in New Jersey with knowledge about ADAS and ADAS re-calibration? Elmer’s Auto Body has a long history in auto repairs, and we have seen ADAS technology evolve throughout the years. Furthermore, we know that ADAS calibration takes time, the proper equipment, and highly specialized knowledge to complete. Each of our technicians has been trained for OEM parts, and our shop has I-CAR certification. You can trust our mechanics to have the highest level of training and skill.

Learn more about our services by giving us a call. You can also fill out the contact form to schedule a consultation or to receive a quote. We are more than happy to answer whatever questions you have.

Why Is It So Hard To Find A Trustworthy Auto Shop?

In a perfect world, you could trust those who service your vehicle to do the right thing. You expect nothing but your damaged car to be returned to you in perfect condition. What you don’t suspect is that the auto body shop may be going behind your back, covering up damages, and sticking you with a more expensive repair bill. There are plenty of auto body shops that upsell and behave unethically, but that does not mean every business acts this way.

You may be wondering why it is so hard to find a trustworthy auto body shop. Don’t worry. With some research, you can find a reputable auto body shop that will be transparent and honest about vehicle repairs. Just follow the tips we have outlined for you in this article.

Do Some Online Investigation

As with most things people purchase these days, the internet is a wonderful tool for gathering information. Rather than going right to your favorite internet search engine, check out their mapping services, since this will help you pinpoint local businesses. Or, you could access an online database compiled by your insurance company or AAA. Such resources help you seek out auto body shops based on their rating as well. You can then cross-check these ratings with other websites, such as Angie’s List or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Keep in mind that solely relying on online reviews is not always the best idea. There are some companies that will pay people to write 5-star reviews about them on their testimonial section, skewing their overall rating. Sometimes, companies will remove or conceal poor ratings from their site and others to hide the fact that they have had less than satisfied customers.

So, go to multiple sources—and not just online ones, either.

Listen to Your Friends and Family

Any organization worth it’s salt will have people talking about it. To find a quality auto body repair shop, first, turn to friends and family. These people will be able to give you recommendations based on their experiences. Use their advice and start doing some preliminary research on those auto body shops. Some may be too far for you, but you can still look at their services, their website, and their reviews to glean some information on what you should be looking for in a local auto body shop.

Though you can ask your insurance company, remember that they play a role in the quality of repairs. Avoid shops that may be partnered with insurance companies and adjusters, since they usually go for the lowest common denominator in repairs.

Get More Than One Estimate

Before selecting the auto body shop you want to work with, ask for each candidate to provide you with an estimate. Quotes may vary, but if there are any extremes, such as the one appearing too cheap or too expensive, cut them out. A trustworthy auto body shop is going to use standardized quoting. This means that every quote should be about the same when it comes to the cost of parts.

Here is another reason to do some research: you need to understand the estimate. Most will outline the steps required to make the repairs and the cost of each. If you don’t understand what is required, the auto body shop may take advantage and claim they found new damages to increase the cost.

Interview The Mechanic

Asking the wrong questions can get you duped quickly, no matter where you are. The same thing happens in auto body shops. You gloss over the critical questions that could tell you how the business operates, and you end up slammed with the bill you didn’t expect. Get the information you need with targeted questions.

Here are some examples:

What kind of warranty comes with your auto body repair work? If yes, how long does the warranty last, and what is covered?
Will I receive calls, texts, or emails about the status of my vehicle’s car status?
How long do you estimate my repair to take?
Will the paint match the rest of my vehicle?
Do you use OEM parts?
Does the auto body shop have certifications?
Will you put everything in writing (estimate, contract, and payment policy)?

These questions help you understand whether the auto body shop is qualified and professional. For instance, the minimum warranty that should be applied to their work is one year. Anything less disqualifies the auto body shop, and you should look elsewhere. Some auto body repair shops will have lifetime warranties on some aspects, like paint.

Establish Trust With Your Chosen Auto Body Shop

Even with all the research and questions you ask, there may be a kernel of uncertainty that remains—and that is okay. Just make sure you address it before you hand your vehicle over to the auto body repair shop. Go for an in-person visit. When you arrive, be sure to go straight to the mechanic with any remaining questions. This is one of the most important steps in finding a respectable auto body shop because you can now speak directly to the individual who will be responsible for your car while you are gone.

Trust your gut. If something does not feel right, it probably isn’t.

With your car at the shop, the technicians should be working to make you as comfortable as possible. A trustworthy auto body shop will have people keeping you informed, whether you are present or not. If you do not hear anything from the auto body shop within 1-2 hours of dropping off your car, you can give them a call to check on the progress. Also, do not be afraid to ask about seeing the repairs already completed. The mechanic should have no qualms about letting you see what they are working on or if they found any other damages when repairing your vehicle.

All of this will help establish trust. And remember, if at any time you feel you are not getting the best service, you can have your vehicle taken somewhere else. You do not have to accept any repairs you do not want or didn’t originally agree to. A good auto body shop will respect your wishes and consult with you should they find anything that would add to the original estimate.

Finding a Good Auto Body Shop is Possible

Yes, locating a trustworthy auto repair shop can be difficult, especially with the costs of repair, labor, and the presence of insurance companies breathing down the technicians’ necks. The best way to find a good auto body shop is to understand the process and stay alert. You can find shops that are committed to quality and do not balk at insurance companies, but you will have to call around and ask questions.

Elmer’s Auto Body is proud to say that we are an OEM certified shop with thousands of satisfied customers at every location in South Jersey. Give us a call or fill out the contact form to learn more about our services or request a consultation. We promise complete honesty and transparency.