Accidents happen, and when they do, you’ll need collision repair as a priority. The process can be overwhelming, whether you’re getting your vehicle back in shape after a fender bender or a major crash. Many car owners want their cars restored as quickly and affordably as possible, but mistakes can happen when they rush to get repairs done. These mistakes can cause bigger problems later on, both in terms of safety and cost.
In this article, we’ll cover common collision repair mistakes to avoid so your vehicle is repaired properly and safely.
1. Choosing the Wrong Repair Shop
Choosing the right repair shop is crucial for a successful collision repair. Not all repair shops offer the same quality of service, and making the wrong choice can lead to poor-quality work, delayed repairs, and even safety risks.
What to avoid:
- Choosing a shop based solely on price: While cost is a major factor, choosing the cheapest option may result in lower-quality parts and poor artistry. A low-cost repair could end up costing you more in the long run.
- Not checking certifications: Ensure the shop is certified by recognized organizations. These certifications ensure the technicians have proper training and expertise in collision repair.
- Ignoring reviews: Before selecting a shop, read reviews from other customers. This can give you insight into the shop’s quality of service, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
How to avoid it:
- Research local repair shops.
- Ask for recommendations.
- Check for certifications and reviews before making your decision.
2. Delaying Collision Repairs
Putting off repairs is tempting, especially if the damage seems minor or your car is still drivable. However, delaying repairs can lead to more serious problems over time.
What to avoid:
- Structural damage: Even if the damage appears cosmetic, underlying structural issues could go unnoticed. Delaying repairs could make these problems worse and more expensive to fix.
- Rust and corrosion: Small dents and scratches can expose your car’s metal to moisture, leading to rust. Rust can spread quickly and weaken your vehicle’s structure.
How to avoid it: Schedule repairs as soon as possible after an accident. Even if the damage seems minor, get a professional inspection to make sure there are no hidden issues.]
3. Not Getting a Detailed Estimate
Before any repairs begin, getting a detailed estimate outlining all the costs is important. Failing to do so can result in surprise charges and frustration.
What to avoid:
- Vague estimates: If a shop provides an estimate that doesn’t break down the costs of parts, labor, and other fees, you could pay more than expected.
- Not asking questions: Feel free to ask for clarification if something on the estimate doesn’t make sense. It’s important to understand exactly what you’re paying for.
How to avoid it:
- Request a detailed, itemized estimate from the repair shop and review it carefully.
- Make sure it includes all parts, labor, and any additional fees.
- If you have any doubts, ask for explanations before proceeding with the repairs.
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Using Non-OEM Parts
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When replacing parts after a collision, some shops may use non-OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, which are aftermarket parts that may not meet the same standards as the original parts used by your car’s manufacturer.
What to avoid:
- Aftermarket parts: While non-OEM parts are often cheaper, they may need to fit better or perform as reliably as original parts. This can cause problems with how the car works and may compromise the safety of your vehicle.
- Not knowing your insurance policy: Some insurance companies only cover the cost of non-OEM parts. If you prefer OEM parts, make sure your insurance policy covers them.
How to avoid it: Ask the repair shop what kind of parts they use and confirm whether they are OEM or aftermarket. If you prefer OEM parts, check with your insurance provider to see if they’re covered.
5. Skipping a Post-Repair Inspection
After your car is repaired, it’s important to perform a thorough inspection to ensure the repairs were completed correctly. Skipping this step can result in driving a car that hasn’t been fully restored to safe conditions.
What to avoid:
- Overlooking cosmetic issues: Sometimes, minor cosmetic details like paint mismatches or uneven surfaces can go unnoticed. These might not affect the car’s performance but can impact its resale value and appearance.
- Ignoring alignment and handling: If your car doesn’t handle the way it did before the accident, the alignment might still be off. This can affect your car’s safety and tire wear.
How to avoid it: After the repairs are completed, take the time to inspect your vehicle inside and out. Look for any issues with the paint, bodywork, and overall appearance. Take the car for a test drive to ensure it handles smoothly.
6. Neglecting to Get a Warranty
Reputable collision repair shops typically offer a warranty on their repairs. Failing to get a warranty can leave you vulnerable if something goes wrong with the repairs later on.
What to avoid:
- No warranty: It could be a red flag if the repair shop doesn’t offer a warranty. This could indicate a need for more confidence in the quality of their work.
- Misunderstanding the terms: Some warranties only cover certain aspects of the repair, such as parts, but not labor, or vice versa.
How to avoid it: Ask the repair shop if they offer a warranty on the repairs and what it covers. Ensure you get the warranty details in writing and keep them for future reference.
7. Not Communicating with Your Insurance Company
Navigating the collision repair process with your insurance company can be tricky, but keeping them in the loop is crucial to avoiding unnecessary costs and delays.
What to avoid:
- Failure to get approval: If your insurance company approves the repairs beforehand, they may refuse to cover the cost. Always communicate with your insurer before any work is done.
- Not understanding your coverage: Some insurance policies have limitations or exclusions regarding certain types of repairs or replacement parts.
How to avoid it: Contact your insurance company immediately after the accident and throughout the repair process. Ensure you understand what’s covered and get their approval before repairing.
8. Ignoring Safety Features and Sensors
Today’s cars have high-tech safety features and sensors, such as backup cameras, lane departure warnings, and automatic braking systems. After a collision, these systems may need recalibration.
What to avoid:
- Overlooking recalibration: Some repair shops may need the equipment to recalibrate these sensors, which can lead to malfunctioning safety systems.
- Assuming everything works: Just because your car appears fixed doesn’t mean all the systems function properly.
How to avoid it: Ensure the repair shop is equipped to recalibrate any safety systems or sensors affected during the collision. Ask if they check and recalibrate all features before returning the vehicle to you.
Conclusion
Collision repairs can be stressful, but avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and potential headaches. By choosing a reputable collision repair shop in Houston, staying informed about your repair process, and ensuring proper parts and inspections, you’ll be back on the road in a safe, reliable vehicle. Always remember that quality repairs are an investment in your car’s longevity and safety, so it’s worth taking the extra steps to get the job done right.
