Collision Repair: How to Know You're Paying a Fair Price

Unless you’re already a mechanic, chances are you’re a bit clueless when it comes to getting your car repaired after a collision. While you may be primarily concerned with the aesthetics, such as the dings, bumps and scratches in your paint job, damage to your car after an accident can go much deeper than that. After a collision, you’ll need to enlist the aid of a professional. However, if you don’t have the knowledge, how can you be sure you’re getting a fair price? By asking the right questions and requesting documentation, you can keep rip-off merchants at bay and get quality repairs to your car.

Get multiple estimates.
When you’re investing money in any service, particularly one that’s expensive, it’s important to get more than one estimate. As you get various estimates on the costs of repair, it will give you an idea of what the ballpark price should be. Additionally, getting several estimates allows you to negotiate with your mechanic by pointing out that the garage down the road offers the same service for less.

Get a full breakdown of their prices.
Some unscrupulous mechanics may try to pull the wool over your eyes by simply giving you a price for what the repairs will cost. By doing this, it becomes easy to artificially inflate prices. Ask for a full breakdown of what item and repair costs what. A reputable mechanic should provide you with this from the start.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
It’s difficult to ask questions if you don’t feel confident in understanding the answers, but when it comes to collision repair, it’s essential. Ask what each price means and what’s included. For example, is it just the cost of the part, or does it also estimate labor? It’s perfectly okay to ask that they explain something in layman’s terms. If they’re a good mechanic, they should be comfortable with doing that.

Do your research.
The internet can be your best weapon in ensuring that you get the fairest price for the repair work you need. Check online sites such as Yelp or Angie’s List for customer reviews and ratings. Doing so can reveal potential pitfalls before you even drive into the garage.

Ask for references.
Any mechanic worth his motor oil will be able to give you some references of customers that use their services regularly, or point you towards where you can get that information. Like any business, they know that a happy customer is their best advertising. Many auto body shops keep a file of customer letters to show to potential clients.

When you've already been through the trauma of an automobile accident, there’s nothing worse than then having to deal with getting your car repaired. Use caution when finding the right auto body shop and mechanic for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be sure to do your research. By doing so, you’ll save a lot of headaches down the line.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com