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"Consumer Information on Choosing
a Body Shop"
Choosing a Body Shop
The next step involves choosing the right body
shop. This is where we really have a lot of experience. Take your time on this one, the
right choice can make a real difference. Not just for you, but for your car too. Today's
vehicles are highly sophisticated. The days of the backyard shop are rapidly coming to an
end.
Numero Uno:
In
most states, you have the right to have your vehicle repaired at the body shop of your
choice. Some Insurance Companies are becoming very aggressive in their attempt to have you
utilize their network of shops. This is fine if this is your choice. If it is not, insist
on your own body shop.
Numero Two:
There
are a number of ways to find out the best body shops in you area. One way is to ask the
following people, who will probably give you an honest answer:
--------------1.) Friends and
neighbors.
--------------2.) Your mechanic.
--------------3.) An automobile
damage appraiser.
Numero Three:
Once you have an idea of which shop go and visit it. Talk to the shop owner. Do not hit
him with the following:
--------------1.) "I am
getting estimates and you are number three".
--------------2.) "I've got
a $500.00 deductible, what can you do for me?"
Treat the man with respect and as a professional and you will probably get the same
treatment in return.
----------Do hit him with the following:
--------------1.) "So and
so referred me to you and said you do excellent work. Can you help me?
--------------You will be amazed
at the difference in the results!
Numero Four:
Take a good look at the shop. To properly repair todays sophisticated automobiles, the
shop should have the following:
---------------1.) A paint spray
booth.
---------------2.) A frame
machine for measuring and pulling the body of the car.
---------------3.) Look inside
the work area. If it is clean and organized it will give
-------------------an indication
of the type of work performed there.
---------------4.) Ask the shop
owner to show you around. If the facility reflects his
-------------------work, he will
be glad to.
---------------5.) Look around
the office. Do you see any photos of completed jobs? Are there any
certificates for special training?
Numero Five:
Now that you have chosen the shop, what to do to avoid being ripped off.
1.) If you ask
the shop to cover any part of your deductible, all bets are off. We have
been involved in many Motor Vehicle Department complaints against shops
by owners complaining of poor workmanship. If it is that the shop
'short cutted' repairs due to saving a deductible determined the complaint
is thrown out.
If you have a deductible pay it. I have seen body shops
leave off $1500.00 worth of parts to cover a $500.00 deductible.
2.) Obtain an
itemized estimate or appraisal to determine what work is being-done. If
there is insurance involved, get a copy of the appraisal. In most states you
have the right to retain the replaced parts. Ask the shop to save them if-you have
reason for concern.
3.) While your
car is being fixed, stop in unannounced and ask how things are-going. Look
at the car. If something does not look right, ask questions. |
Numero Six: Now
the car is done. Hopefully, the job came out to your satisfaction. If not, you do have
recourse. The options you have are listed in Where to Go for Help.
Topics to follow:
Filing Your Claim
Dealing with the Appraiser
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