The Dangers of Auto Insurance DRP’s

So your car has been in an accident and it needs repairs. You’ve filed a claim with your insurance provider and followed all the correct steps. Your insurance provider offered you a Direct Repair Program or DRP body shop who they will deal with directly. It seems like a good choice right?

Not always. DRP body shops have often been known to cut corners when repairing your vehicle. This spares them expenses and time of your repair.

Direct Repair Program

DRP programs were developed by insurance providers to shrink their costs of collision and body repair. To make sure that a steady flow of work from referrals comes in, the shop usually accepts lower labor rates and shorter procedures and quality checks. As an example, they might agree to use lesser parts in order to make sure that the insurance company pays less for a repair. Additionally, other typical repair procedures may be left out by the shop so that the job can be completed faster and in a more inexpensive manner.

Going with a Repair shop that doesn’t cut corners

When you are deciding which body shop to go to based on estimates, think about this: Insurance DRP estimates are generally lower because they take shortcuts like not blending adjacent panels for a color match or using non manufacturer parts for all parts of the repair. Go with a shop that uses tried and true methods like fully color matching repaired auto body panels and using the highest quality auto parts available for repair. The estimate might be higher but the repair will be safe and help your vehicle last longer.

A good auto body repair shop is not focused on the “quicker is better” mantra. For example, to save time a DRP shop will often tape of moldings and emblems instead of taking them off the vehicle. This is faster but it can result in a raised paint line running over the length of the molding or handle. This is not the correct way to handle that repair. Insurance companies should want to reduce costs but not at the expense of your vehicles value and long-term life.

D&I Body Shop, your trusted source for high quality repairs

At D&I Auto Body, we will never compromise the value of your vehicle with inferior or dangerous repairs. By the time you turn your lease in or trade in your car, the dealer will recognize the difference between a good and bad repair. The price they offer you for your car will be reflected in it. So don’t accept inferior repairs and come to D&I body shop.

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.

1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

Restoring Classic Cars with Quality Paint & Body Work

Some people golf and others play tennis, but if you're a car lover, restoring a classic car to it's previous glory can be a huge, yet totally rewarding, undertaking.

While you may be an expert at getting that engine revving and lovingly restoring that leather interior, there are some things that are best left to the experts.

Hammering out dents and dings from years of service and getting a custom paint job can mean the difference between a beautiful, classic ride and a clunky old beater. So which jobs are better left to the pros?

Automotive Body Work

While you may consider yourself an expert at getting that old car beautiful again, there are just some dents and dings that you can't fix. They may have been long-standing problems that will require some sanding to get rid of rust, or they may be large enough where your home tools just won't do the job. Make a list of what needs looking at and visit your trusted professional auto body shop. They will be able to give you an estimate on the costs and go over with you exactly what needs to be done.

Restoring A Paint Job

If your classic car has seen its share of road time, chances are it may be suffering from fading, scratches or other elements that can take away from its original paint job. However, that doesn't mean you have to live with it. Getting a classic car a gorgeous new paint job can immediately make the car look showroom new. Additionally, why not think about some added details, such as pinstripes, flames or other elements that will really set your wheels apart from the others.

There's a saying that if you're going to do a job right, do it yourself. However, this isn't true when it comes to restoring a classic car to its former glory. Calling in the professionals to ensure you get the best look is never a bad idea. When you're planning a classic restoration job, be sure to leave room in your budget to consult with the pros. They may even have ideas and suggestions that you haven't even thought about.

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

4 Reasons You May Need Auto Body Repair

Is there anything sadder than a dent in your ride? There are many reasons why you may need to go visit your local auto body shop for a repair, with some more common than the other. Having a reliable auto body shop on your side is essential as a car owner. Not only can auto body work keep your car looking great, it can also offer preventative measures should you notice small scratches or spots of rust. What are some of the most common reasons you might need the services of an auto body shop?

1) You've been in a fender bender.

Probably the number one reason people seek out auto body repair is due to an accident they've had. This can either be serious, or just a minor ding. While it may be tempting to try to put off any repairs, even minor scratches from an accident can eventually turn in to larger scale problems, like rust or corrosion.

2) You've noticed some post-winter problems.

The winter can really take its toll on your car's paint job and body work. There's corrosion from salt and scratches from that essential gravel that's everywhere around. Getting your car a yearly check-up is important after a particularly tough winter, so take the time to look everywhere for potential problems. Failing to act on even a tiny scratch can be a serious rust repair later on down the road.

3) Your car just isn't what it used to be.

Have you fallen out of love with the look of your car? Have the dents, dings and fading paint made it difficult for you to want to give it the same love and attention you used to when you first bought it? Auto body repair shops can offer a whole range of solutions to rev up the look of your car, from buffering out scratches to a whole new paint job. Speak to your auto body repair shop to find out what's available, and what it can do to improve your car's looks.

4) You're restoring an old car.

Many people across the country love the look and style of old cars, and fixing up that old piece of junk has become a much-loved hobby. However, there are some elements to professional car restoration that should be left to a professional. Dents and dings in the body work, as well as other elements to the body of your car, will generally always come out better if left to the pros. After all, you want all that work to mean something, right?

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

5 Car Restoration Upgrades that Breathe Life Into Your Vehicle

Whether it’s that old beater that you just can’t seem to get rid of or a classic car that you still lovingly care for, an older vehicle requires a little extra TLC to keep it running smoothly and looking great. While some restoration projects are more expensive than others, they can extend your car’s looks and pep, thus keeping you in love with it a little longer. As buying a new car is usually more expensive than a few cosmetic and engine changes, restoring your car can actually help to keep more money in your pocket.

1) Paint Job

As cars age, their paintwork can fade, look rusty or even appear bleached by the sun. Alternatively, you may not have even liked the color to begin with, particularly if you bought the car used. A custom paint job can have your car glowing and looking like new in a matter of hours, and the cost is surprisingly affordable.

2) Seat Covers & Rugs

Few things see more wear and tear in your vehicle than the upholstery and rugs. Spills, stains, burns and just general wear can make you feel like you’re driving a garbage truck rather than a nice-looking car. There are many internet-based companies that can offer you replacement kits for your carpets and seat covers that are custom-fitted to specific makes and models.

3) Wheels & Tires

Anyone who’s ever watched one of the numerous car shows on television knows that the range of wheels and tires on the market is flashier and better than ever before. A new set of wheels can dramatically improve the look of your car, as well as make it look a lot more expensive. Getting a good set of tires can also increase your car’s drivability, giving you a smoother and oftentimes better ride.

4) Bolt-On Turbocharger

If you find yourself jealously watching other, newer vehicles overtake you on the highway, then improving your car’s engine is a must. While this is one of the more expensive restoration options, it can deliver in the speed and drivability stakes. A bolt-on turbocharger can add up to 90 horsepower or more to your sad, lacking car engine,. As this can be a major selling point for later on, be sure you keep the receipt as proof that the work was done. Turbochargers are also a good idea for those looking to get their classic cars restored.

5) Car Detailing

It’s a fact: a dirty car is an ugly car, and an ugly car is an embarrassing one. A professional detailing session can get your car shiny and smelling like new in no time at all, and usually for under $100, depending on what you want done. You can also easily do this yourself with just a quick visit to a car care store.

When you find yourself disliking your car’s looks and general performance, your first thought might be to go new. However, a great paint job and other cosmetic improvements can go a long way to getting you to fall in love with your car again. You don’t even have to bring it flowers afterwards.

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