Auto body repairs after a collision are inevitable. When you live in New Jersey, there are congested roads, various weather conditions, and unpredictable drivers. While the upfront costs of repairs—like replacing a bumper or repainting a door—are often expected, there are several hidden expenses that can catch drivers off guard. Understanding these hidden costs is essential to budget appropriately and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Key Takeaways
- Repairs range from $50 for minor dents to over $7,500 for extensive paint or suspension issues.
- Insurance deductibles, hidden structural damage, and rental cars often add to costs.
- Supply chain issues can prolong repairs, especially for newer or luxury vehicles.
- Accident repairs often reduce a vehicle’s resale value, regardless of quality.
- Prompt repairs and choosing certified shops like Elmer’s minimize hidden costs.
Average Repair Costs for Common Auto Body Damage
Let’s first review some of the average auto body repair costs in 2024. Although the cost of repair depends largely on the severity of damage, vehicle make and model, and the materials used, there is also a general range. Here are some of the current estimates for typical repairs:
- Minor Dents and Scratches: Simple repairs for minor dents and scratches start around $50 but can climb to $1,000 if advanced paintwork or panel replacement is required.
- Bumper Damage: Repairing a minor bumper dent can cost $300 to $1,000, while replacing a severely damaged bumper could exceed $1,500.
- Windshield or Window Damage: Minor crack repairs can cost $250, whereas full glass replacement may range from $500 to $1,000.
- Suspension Issues: Repairs to components like ball joints or shock absorbers typically range between $100 and $600, but a complete suspension overhaul can exceed $5,000.
- Paint Damage: Minor touch-ups cost $500 or more, while a full repaint for severe damage can range from $3,000 to $7,500.
Overlooking Insurance Deductibles and Policy Gaps
For many drivers, auto insurance is a financial safety net for repair costs. However, deductibles and policy exclusions can leave you footing more of the bill than anticipated. In 2024, as insurance premiums rose nationwide, many drivers opted for higher deductibles to save on monthly costs. This may help you in the short-term, but when an accident occurs, paying that deductible upfront can strain your budget. Additionally, certain policies may not cover full OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts replacement, leaving you to cover the difference for higher-quality repairs.
Unseen Structural Damage
Sometimes you won’t know the total cost of an auto repair until the professional has gotten a chance to do a complete inspection. For example, a seemingly harmless fender bender could misalign your frame, affecting the car’s safety and performance. This means that what insurance provides may not cover everything that needs to be done, and you may need to contact your insurance provider to see if they will pay for more. Otherwise, these additional repairs will come at a significant cost to you.
Rental Car Expenses
While your vehicle is undergoing repairs, you may need a rental car to maintain your daily routine. Many insurance policies offer limited or no coverage for rental expenses, leaving drivers to pay out of pocket.
Increased Repair Times Due to Supply Chain Issues
Supply chain disruptions continue to impact the availability of auto parts, leading to longer repair times. This issue is especially prevalent for newer car models or luxury vehicles that require specialized parts. Also, depending on the season during your repairs, you may find that the weather will slow down the supply chain and lead to prolonged downtime.
Depreciation After Repairs
Another hidden cost comes after the repair is complete: depreciation. Even with expert repairs, a vehicle involved in an accident typically loses value. Potential buyers may hesitate to purchase a car with a repair history, regardless of its current condition. In 2024, the use of advanced vehicle history reporting tools has made it easier for buyers to access this information, further impacting resale value.
How to Minimize the Hidden Costs of Auto Body Repairs
Now, you may be wondering how to avoid hidden costs. Here are some tips:
- Understand Your Insurance Policy: Review your policy details and ask your provider about coverage for OEM parts, rental cars, and other potential expenses. Consider adjusting your coverage to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
- Choose a Certified Auto Body Shop: Working with a certified repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body ensures accurate diagnostics, high-quality parts, and expert craftsmanship. Certified shops can also help you navigate insurance claims efficiently.
- Schedule Prompt Repairs: Ignoring small dents or scratches can lead to rust, corrosion, or worsening damage that increases repair costs down the line. Addressing issues early can save you money in the long run.
- Maintain Documentation: Keep detailed records of repairs and inspections. This not only helps with insurance claims but also demonstrates the quality of repairs to future buyers, mitigating depreciation concerns.
- Plan for Rental Costs: If your insurance doesn’t cover a rental car, shop around for deals or consider using rideshare services temporarily to reduce costs.
Contact a South Jersey Auto Body Repair Shop Today
No one likes hidden costs that chip away at your bank account. Knowledge about where the hidden costs come from and how much they are can help you better prepare for auto body repairs. One of the best ways to have more transparent pricing is to go to a reputable auto body repair shop in South Jersey.
Elmer’s Auto Body has been a trusted name in New Jersey for decades. Our experienced technicians are trained to detect hidden damage and perform high-quality repairs that prioritize your safety and vehicle performance. We work directly with insurance companies to ensure your claims are handled efficiently and transparently. With multiple locations throughout South Jersey, we’re here to minimize your stress and get you back on the road quickly.
Auto body repairs can be more costly than they seem at first glance, but with the right preparation and a trusted repair shop, you can avoid many of the hidden expenses. Contact one of the three Elmer’s Auto Body locations today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our services.