What Drivers Should Ask Before Approving Collision Repairs

After getting into a collision, you may end up with an estimate in hand. Most often, the insurance company will make it seem like this is the best offer you can get, while most people assume that the shop will “handle everything.” However, if you don’t know the parts being used, the repair procedures being utilized, or whether ADAS recalibration is required, you may feel left in the dark when it comes the repairs. That’s why it’s important to approve of the repairs being done by asking the correct questions.

Why Asking Questions Before Repairs Matters

Modern vehicles are more complicated to repair than those made fifteen years ago. In the past, vehicles didn’t have Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), radar sensors, aluminum and high-strength steel frames, structural adhesives, and electronic safety modules. Vehicles are safer than ever, but these components can be damaged in even minor accidents.

For example, an ADAS sensor may need to be recalibrated to function properly post-repairs. If those sensors are missed during the repairs, certain safety functions could be inaccurate.

As a driver, asking about the parts selection, OEM procedure compliance, and diagnostic scanning can help you understand the cost of the estimate, turnaround time, and the overall quality of the repairs.

Question 1: Are OEM Repair Procedures Being Followed?

OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer, is an important designation. Parts that are OEM come straight from the manufacturer and ensure that vehicles are repaired to factory standards. Furthermore, manufacturers publish information about structural repairs, welding requirements, sectioning locations, calibration instructions, and replacement rules. Auto repair technicians follow these procedures to restore the performance and safety of your vehicle.

An auto body repair shop that uses something other than OEM parts may not follow the same procedure or restore your vehicle from the same standard.

Question 2: Will OEM Parts, Aftermarket Parts, or LKQ Parts Be Used?

OEM parts are made by the vehicle manufacturer and are designed specifically for crash compatibility and fitment. As such, OEM parts are the golden standard.

Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers. Since the parts aren’t made according to the same standards as OEM parts, they may vary in thickness, fit accuracy, and material quality.

Lastly, LKQ (Like Kind and Quality) parts are typically salvaged from other vehicles. There is no guarantee that LKQ parts are going to alignment correctly. If ill-fitting LKQ parts are used, they can negatively impact sensor positioning and crash energy management.

Question 3: Will the Vehicle Receive Pre- and Post-Repair Diagnostic Scans?

Diagnostic scans are critical because fault codes may exist even when warning lights are off. This is especially true if certain sensors were affected by the collision. A pre-repair scan can assist the technician in identifying hidden damage, sensor failures, and safety system issues. Once the replacement parts are installed, a post-repair scan checks if the systems are functioning correctly. At facilities that use OEM parts, a post-repair is guaranteed since it is part of the approved repair procedure.

Question 4: Will ADAS Systems Be Recalibrated?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, such as lane departure warnings, forward collision warnings, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, rely on the precise positioning of cameras and sensors. During a collision the measurements that enable ADAS to function may be thrown off, resulting in reduced performance.

Any time a windshield, bumper, or suspension component is replaced, the entire ADAS needs to be recalibrated.

Question 5: Has Structural Damage Been Fully Measured?

Even if a vehicle is driving straight, there can be elements of its structure that are misaligned after a collision. That’s why measurements are necessary. Modern collision repair centers use computerized measuring systems approved by vehicle manufacturers. The systems compare suspension mounting points, frame rails, and structural dimensions against the factory specifications.

Question 6: Will Hidden Damage Be Rechecked During Disassembly?

Hidden damage is often missed during an insurance appraisal because only the visible surfaces are checked. Often, hidden issues are found during the initial inspection at the collision repair center—after the vehicle has been disassembled.

Common hidden damages include:

• Bent supports
• Hidden suspension damage
• Sensor damage
• Cracked brackets
• Structural movement

This may cause a change in the estimate. Shops like Elmer’s Auto Body will report the hidden damages to the insurance company to see if the amount provided by the appraiser can be altered.

Question 7: What Warranty Comes With the Repairs?

Ask the auto body repair shop in South Jersey about warranties, including a paint, labor, corrosion, and parts. A reliable shop will stand behind their work. Ask to receive a copy of the warranties that are included so that you can refer to the documents if anything goes wrong with your repairs.

Question 8: Who Is Making Repair Decisions—The Shop or the Insurance Company?

In New Jersey, drivers have the legal right to choose the repair shop. This means that the insurance company cannot decide for you. While they manage the cost of the claim, they are not experts of the automotive industry. As such, it is highly important to select an independent auto body repair shop that will inspect the vehicle to ensure a full scope of safe repairs. Choose an auto body shop that represents your best interests and will provide you with OEM parts.

Red Flags You Should Never Ignore

Now that you know which questions to ask, let’s discuss the red flag answers:

• “We don’t need to scan the vehicle.”Yes, they do, especially if your vehicle has any sensors or cameras.
• “Those warning lights will clear themselves.”Safety system faults should always be verified.
• “Aftermarket parts are the same as OEM parts.” Sometimes but not always. Fitment and crash performance can differ significantly.
• “The alignment is close enough.”Even a minor deviation can impact suspension and ADAS accuracy.
• “We can skip recalibration.” ADAS systems need to be recalibrated after repairs that could potentially alter the positioning of sensors and cameras.

If a collision repair shop says any of these things or cannot provide you with an adequate response, look elsewhere.

Choosing the Right Collision Repair Center Matters

At the end of the day, no driver should feel pressured to approve repairs that aren’t fully understood. Since collision repair can affect the structural integrity and overall performance of your vehicle, ensure you are choosing the correct collision repair center in South Jersey. Look for businesses has certified technicians, the proper measuring equipment, and also uses OEM procedures.

Elmer’s Auto Body has been a top choice for South Jersey drivers since 1947. Family-owned and operated, we’re a customer-focused collision repair shop that believes in transparency.