You might feel confused if this is your first vehicle accident. Although many customers only care about the final result, and don’t really pay much attention to the details involved, it is important for all customers to be able to understand the basics of collision repair.
This knowledge will help you understand how to repair a damaged vehicle.
While the details may vary from one repair shop to another, there are some basic steps that all repair processes require. This blog will discuss those steps.
The Collision Repair Process: Steps
1) ESTIMATION:
The vehicle inspection will be the first step in the repair process. The inspection will be performed by estimators at the body shop, which will be used to repair the vehicle. After the paperwork is completed and the inspection results have been received, the estimator will take photographs of your vehicle. The estimator will then take photographs of your car and communicate all pertinent information to you, as well as to the insurance company.
2) DISASSEMBLING:
The insurance provider can request a vehicle teardown during the disassembly step. This is done to verify that all damage has been properly documented and to determine if the vehicle requires repair. Once you and your insurer have approved the repair, the body shop can place orders for all vehicle parts.
3) REPAIRING:
The car body shop will use a measuring device to analyze the vehicle and make sure that it is returned to the pre-accident condition. This is a vital step as it will ensure that your vehicle’s frame is in good condition. Suspension repairs, including wheel alignment, may be required. All mechanical repairs must be done in conjunction with the structural repairs.
4) PAINT PREPARATION
This step is essential in any vehicle refinishing project. Preparing the panels for painting will be done by the car body shop before they seal and prime. This helps improve adhesion when top colors are applied and the supplementary clear coat is applied.
5) REASSEMBLING:
Every final molding and detail piece of your vehicle is repaired during this part. The personnel will inspect the various components of your vehicle during reassembling. Once you reach this stage, your car will be almost repaired and ready for you to pick up.
6) QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTION
After the parts are reinstalled completely, your vehicle will get a thorough wash and interior cleaning. The vehicle’s surface will be cleaned and the body paint will be polished. The body shop personnel will be testing the car and taking it for a physical inspection. This test drive will ensure that there are no driving issues with newly repaired parts.
7) DELIVERY:
The final stage of the collision repair process is completed after the quality control assessment. The vehicle body shop will ask you to bring your vehicle to them. You will receive all paperwork and a detailed explanation about the billing at this time. After this, you will be able to drive your car home in the exact same condition it was before the accident.
Things to Consider When You Choose a Collision Repair Shop
Accidents are always traumatizing, no matter how severe they may be. Once you’ve recovered from your mental trauma, it is time to get your car fixed. You should now be familiar with the steps involved in car repair. You also need to ensure that the repair shop you choose will efficiently and effectively complete all of the above tasks.
1) CONSIDER THE CUSTOMERS
Before you make a decision on which shop to have your vehicle repaired, we recommend getting recommendations from friends and family. Ask people you know who have used certain shops for their vehicle repairs. You can also seek help online and read reviews about shops.
2) COMPARE CONSOLIDATORS WITH INDEPENDENT HOPS:
There are many shops around the corner that offer a wide range of products and services. Although cost is an important factor, it’s not the only thing you should consider. A consolidator, for example, has high overhead costs and is often committed to achieving their gross profit targets. They might only care about their profit and not give your vehicle the best treatment. They can get as many cars as possible, which allows them to pay their costs and still make a little profit. This is something you should remember when making a decision.
Independent shops often have their owner present. Because the owner is the main decision-maker, they can offer great deals, additional assistance, and many other benefits that shop workers in a consolidated shop may not be able offer.
3) GET MULTIPLE ESTIMATES:
A number of circumstances will allow you to receive a free estimate from a body shop. You should not make a decision based on a single estimate. Instead, try to get more. Learn more about the body shops you are considering. This includes the quality of their parts and how they work. Don’t base your decision on price alone. Instead, consider all factors to make a better decision.
4) DISCUSS WARRANTIES
Not all repair shops offer a warranty on the work they do. Before you start the repair process, ensure you check that your repair shop offers a work warranty. A shop that offers a lifetime warranty can assure you that they are confident in their work.
