It’s already stressful if your car has been in an accident. As a result, finding the appropriate auto body repair shop seems like a next-level challenge! It need not be so. In this article, we’ll offer some tips and best practices to keep in mind while shopping around for a body shop.
Ask For a Written Estimate
Any reputable collision repair shop will be more than willing to give you a written estimate. Most will even stand by that number. If in case they end up having to work more than expected, a good shop will discuss that with you before they do anything.
Ask to See Their Credentials
Don’t be shy! It is your right to know these facts. Professional body shops will usually have all their credentials displayed in a prominent spot in their shop, and most certainly they will be listed on their website. The certifications that carry weight in the industry are provided below.
- I-CAR Gold Class: You will have peace of mind when you see they have this designation. It is the highest in collision repair services, which means the mechanics are highly trained. This certification requires mechanics to undergo ongoing training to remain apprised of current technologies.
- S/P2: This is required by the EPA and OSHA to ensure the body shop itself is compliant to safety standards, keeping the technicians safe from harm and hazards.
- AAA Approved: When you see this designation, it means AAA (usually read Triple-A) has vetted this body shop and that it meets the strict guidelines AAA requires. Quite often that means this shop will have the two above credentials, but you should check.
- ASE Certified: This means the mechanics have gone through a rigorous testing process, above and beyond their normal training. In order to keep the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certificate current, participants will need to take the exam every five years.
Ask About Their Written Warranties
This is critical to know, as this shows the collision repair shop is willing to stand by its work. You need to get this in writing and explicitly ask them to list what work is covered and how long does the warranty last.
Ask Whether They Use OEM Parts
Another vital question is to ask whether they are using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. If the shop wants to push aftermarket parts, be aware of what they’re offering and do your due diligence before accepting.
Ask Whether They Have Experience in Your Particular Model of Vehicle
This becomes an important concern if you have a high-end or specialized vehicle, for example an EV (electric vehicle) or a European luxury model. It’s okay if they don’t because not everyone works on all types of cars! Look for another shop.
Ask Whether They Can Color-Match
You definitely want your car to get back its factory-finished look! If the body shop works in conjunction with BASF, that means the paint job and finish will be factory-quality. BASF is a multinational chemical company. One of their products is high-quality, specialized paints.
Ask How They’ll Communicate With You
Modern shops will create an account for you on their website, where you can communicate freely with the head mechanic. Some of them even have video cameras on their work floor. You can go online and watch your car being worked on! Even if the shop is not that fancy, you should be able to talk to someone as needed. A good body shop will provide regular updates via text or email.
Ask How Long the Repairs Will Take
Ask for this in writing. Although, be willing to work with them as repairs take time and issues may develop.
Some More Questions to Ask
Here are some additional questions you can ask as you see fit.
- Do they offer loaner vehicles?
- What type of payments or payment plans do they offer?
- What is their own insurance policy, and is your car covered while it’s in their possession?
- Are they willing to work with your insurance company?
- Do they do post-repair checks, such as test drives?
- Could they show you examples of their past work?
Making Your Decision
Choosing an auto body repair shop is a 
crucial decision. Do your due diligence and be willing to walk away if something doesn’t seem right. This certainly concerns the well-being of your car, but ultimately it is about your peace of mind. With that in mind, call us or make an appointment to visit us at Ames Collision. We are in Texas, with occasions in Addison, Flower Mound, Irving, Highland Park, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Lewisville, University Park, and Dallas.