What to Ask When Seeking Auto Body Repair

In your daily life, you probably don’t have much reason to think about the work of auto body repair shops. Usually, you only think about such businesses if you need them. This sometimes means that, when faced with a need for such work, you may not be sure how to find a reputable body shop that you can trust. If you’re looking, here’s what you should ask.

Is the auto body shop reputable?

First, find out if the body shop is licensed. Are its technicians certified? You’ll want to find out the level of experience of the people who will actually be working on it. Look for wall plaques denoting technical expertise and involvement in the community. Talk to the body shop’s customer service reps. Ask around and check local review sites as well.

Is the body shop familiar with your vehicle’s make and model, and the type of work it needs done?

Do the technicians have a level of expertise when it comes to your specific needs? Remember that some body shops may be less knowledgeable when it comes to European and other foreign cars. Also, some may have more experience doing certain types of repairs. Ask your the representatives from body shop how comfortable they feel doing the work on your vehicle. Can the shop provide you with a paper trail, including a warranty?

Find out if the auto body shop will write you out an estimate and itemize your bill. Also, know how long the warranty for the repairs lasts - a year should be minimum - and what it covers. Make sure you understand the fine points of such a guarantee. Read it over to ensure it’s not so restrictive as to be useless in practice. Get everything laid out for you in writing so you can discover any discrepancies.

What types of parts are being used for replacing damaged ones?

Find out what paint will be used, if needed, and how many coats. Ask about whether the body shop will be using new parts, used parts, OEM parts, or aftermarket parts. You may prefer original equipment manufacturer parts, which can offer better accountability and quality and fit your car best. Aftermarket parts are less expensive, created by third parties, but can be suitable depending on the repair.

Does the body shop offer rental cars or loaner vehicles?

If you need one, ask. Some body shops will have arrangements with car rental companies nearby, or they’ll have rental cars that you can use in the meantime. Also, make sure you understand how insurance works with loaners. Find out what other accommodations the body shop may make for your convenience, especially if the repair takes longer than estimated and you need wheels. This is not an unheard-of occurrence.

If this was the body shop recommended by your insurance company, note that this doesn’t mean you have to use it. Also, this does not necessarily mean the auto body shop is better than others. An improperly repaired car can be dangerous, or lead to other mechanical problems down the line, so make sure you shop around. You should be comfortable with the people who are fixing your car.

How to Avoid Aftermarket Body Parts

Following a collision, your car may need replacement parts in order to be restored by an auto body shop to working order. If your car is relatively new, you'll want OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. This is because OEM parts, made by the original manufacturer or a subcontractor, are designed to work in your vehicle. They will work exactly as well as the part being replaced, and are often warrantied. Aftermarket parts are not made by the car's manufacturer or its subcontractors, so quality is variable at best. But how can you make sure you get the OEM parts?

Don't Go By Price Alone 

When choosing the auto body shop to repair damage to your vehicle, you may be tempted to simply choose the company that can fix your car for the least amount of money. However, don't make this your only criteria. The cheapest estimates are sometimes so cheap because shops don't use quality parts or they have ways of getting around the regular expenses of buying OEM parts. In choosing an auto body shop, going with company that you can trust - one that has good word-of-mouth and that has been in service for a long time - can be infinitely better than depending on the projected amount of the bill. See how D&I autobody shop makes sure to quote you fair, competitve rates to assure you are satisfied with their services.

Ask Questions About Your Estimate 

In most states, repair facilities are required by law to disclose in their estimates that they will use aftermarket parts. If that is not true of your state, you should ask questions and make sure you are satisfied with the answers. Find out exactly what parts will be used, if they are new or used, and if the parts have been previously repaired. Also, be alert for the terminology that the body shop uses. For example, aftermarket parts can also be "imitation," "third party," or "white box" brands.

 

Advocate For Yourself 

Most importantly, make sure to use your own judgment and don't get sidetracked by a body shop's promises that you'll pay reduced rates, get guaranteed insurance coverage, or save your deductible. This usually means that they have other ways of cutting costs. Don't stick to auto body shops "preferred" by your insurance company, because these two often work out deals that result in corner-cutting for consumers. Use the same strategies you would use in choosing any business over another, and don't let your lack of knowledge make you easily manipulated. You may not always need OEM parts, but the ones provided by the manufacturer or a licensed agent may be the most dependable and long-lasting regardless of the age and condition of the vehicle. Protect yourself and make sure you know how to get what you want. D&I Auto Body has a variety of services ranging from paint touch-ups to full body repair. Check out their services and rest assured that they will ethically take care of all your restorative needs.


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

Do gravel truck companies have to pay for your chipped windshield?


If you’re driving down the road and your windshield gets damaged by a rock flying off a gravel truck, you may very well wonder who is going to pay to repair of your car.

The short answer is that gravel truck companies are normally not obligated to pay for unintentional damage.



Who Is Responsible?


This type of incident is usually considered an unintentional road hazard, or collateral damage, especially if it occurs inside a construction zone. It isn’t normally classified as an accident, as with a hit-and-run.

Therefore, the other party is not responsible for damage to your car or other property unless you can prove some type of negligence or malicious purpose on the part of the company or the driver. For example, if you can show that the gravel was not tied down properly, that would imply that someone was responsible.



Insurance Issues


You should check first with your insurance company. If you have comprehensive coverage on your vehicle, your windshield repair may very well be covered already. This sort of damage would not be paid for under liability coverage because no one is considered to be at fault. If you have a deductible, however, you may have to pay that first.Your agent may actually advise you against taking any action against the gravel truck company, and just go ahead and file a claim with your insurance company.

Whether or not this raises your rate often depends on the conditions of your insurance contract, but some companies do not penalize you for this type of damage. If it does, you may want to pay for it yourself out-of-pocket to avoid additional fees.



To Pursue A Claim


If you do have proof that the gravel truck company or its driver was negligent, like a phone image of a load that wasn’t well secured, you should contact the company first. Its representatives may know of existing issues and be prepared to pay. You’ll need to know the identity, such as a license plate number, of the vehicle in question.

Also, having a police report in hand helps. If the company does not express a willingness to settle, you may be forced to take your issue to small claims court if you want relief. Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that this route will give you the result you desire.



So, in general, gravel truck companies are not liable for your windshield repair. It probably is not worth the trouble, money, and time to pursue a claim unless you have the means to prove there was recklessness or malice intended.

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.

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

Had an accident? Ways to tell you need serious auto repair

Having to pay for serious auto repair after an accident can be a huge loss to those who can’t afford the deductible or are without insurance.

While driving your car after an accident without getting it repaired can seem like a good idea, there may be underlying problems that your car could have sustained in the accident. Here are a few ways to tell your car may need serious auto repair after an accident:

Your car drives different

Whether you were in a minor fender bender, or a pile up accident; if your car drives differently than it did before the accident, then you may need serious auto repair. If your car looks like the bumper may have been dented, but after the accident you hear weird sounds or your car is driving different than before, then you should get your car checked out with an auto body specialist. The accident that you think is minor could have been major for your car, so save yourself a few bucks in the long run and get your car checked out before it turns into something serious.

Your car is making sounds

If your car is making a sound that you don’t recognize after an accident, then you should get it checked out by an Atlanta Auto Body Expert. When a car makes unusual sounds that is the car’s way of telling you that you need to get something checked out. While that fender bender may seem like it did minimal damage, it could have actually done more damage than you think. When you ignore small car problems and sounds that your car makes, in the long-run it could turn into something worse so you should always get it checked out immediately. You want your car to last as long as it possibly can and one way to do that is to get problems fixed as soon as they occur.

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

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

3 ways you can cheat yourself when choosing an auto body shop for collision repair

“Bury the deductible” Some car owners try to save money on the deduction portion of the collision repair by asking the repair shop to hide the deductible. Your insurance policy is a contract with you and your insurance carrier. In that policy it states that if you have a collision loss you are responsible for some of the repairs and that is why you are required to pay a deductible. By trying to hide your deductible, you are conspiring to insurance fraud and it is against the law. If you are found guilty you could go to jail and pay hefty fines. If an auto body shop agrees to hide the portion you pay for repairs, then don’t trust that auto body shop for your collision repair. They could also be doing a second rate job on fixing your vehicle correctly which also may require you to pay extra money.

 “Approved auto body shops” When you get into an accident, some insurance adjusters will give you a list of approved auto body shops that they recommend that you go to. It is illegal for an insurance company to require that you take your vehicle to a certain auto body shop. They can recommend, but if the insurance adjuster is requiring you to use a specific repair facility, it may be because that shop is cheaper than other shops. You shouldn’t choose an auto body shop because it is cheaper, because they may do a second rate job and that’s why they are cheaper. You should go to someone you trust who has high reviews and great customer service to handle your car. If your insurance adjuster will not let you choose an auto body shop that suits your needs, then report them to the state insurance commissioner.

“Demand OEM parts” When you go to the auto body shop to get your vehicle repaired, you can demand only new factory OEM parts but you should review your insurance policy to see if you signed off on the use of aftermarket parts. Some insurance companies call them “Quality Replacement Parts” but they are aftermarket parts which are copies of the real factory parts made in a different plant overseas. Sometimes these parts don’t fit as well as the original factory parts so make sure that in your insurance policy you are requesting new OEM parts because if they don’t fit, you will be charged to redo the repairs and have to pay for it out of pocket.

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

Repairing your old car VS Replacing your old car

Repairing an old car can become very pricey. It can be expensive trying to keep up with the maintenance on an old vehicle. Sometimes simple oil changes can rack up hundreds of dollars because of the numerous other things that mechanics have found while changing your oil. After repeatedly paying these high repair bills, you start to think that you should just purchase a new car instead of pouring money into an older model car. But would you come out cheaper with a newer car, or will it be worth it to continue fixing your old car? Here are a few things you should ask yourself: 

Age and Mileage: What is the age and mileage of the older car? This is important because the age of the car and the mileage on the car would help determine how much and how often the car would need to be repaired.

Vehicle Maintenance: Have you kept the vehicle well-maintained? Have you kept up with oil changes, tune-ups, and replacing car parts as needed? This will also help determine your vehicle repairs.

Reliability of Make and Model: What is the make and model of the vehicle that you have? Some vehicles are more reliable than others and are able to reach 200,000 miles with no problem. A little research on the make and model of your vehicle and its reliability will help you determine whether you should purchase a car that will stand the test of time.

Repairs VS Market value: The repairs that are needed on your vehicle, do they exceed the market value for the car or does it make sense to get the repairs fixed on a vehicle that is worth the trouble.

Using these factors to determine whether you will repair your old car or buy a new one will help you get the most out of your money and your car.

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