7 Things you need to know about Collision Repair

Most of us desire to control life, so we prepare - for job interviews, the birth of a child, buying health insurance, and so on. It's the smart thing to do. However, are we prepared for an auto body collision? 

Here are seven things to know about car collision repair. 

1. Know your insurance policy and your rights

An essential aspect of collision repair is knowing your policy and the laws regarding your collision rights. Being in car collisions can be overwhelming and confusing. Therefore, to avoid stress, this research should be done before the event of a crash or at least be prepared to know where to look. 

2. You don't have to use the body shops suggested by the insurer

Do not feel pressured into choosing an auto body shop as suggested by your insurer. It is wise to back your choice by reviewing the best shops available in your area or close to. Speaking to other car owners who have gone through a similar experience will help gauge finer details on value for money. 

3. Skilled appraisers required for a thorough estimate 

When deciding on an auto body shop, pick one that provides free estimation or consultation. Any shop worth their salt should offer this. It is a rough preliminary estimate that may change once internal damage is closely assessed. Request estimates from a few shops before you decide on one. Remember, when it comes to collision repair, the cheapest option is not always the best option. A thorough assessment by a skilled appraiser should provide you with an estimate that should be close to the final cost.

4. Frame damage does not equal totaled car

A common misconception of car collisions is that if your car's frame is bent or broken, then your vehicle is totaled. This may not always be the case if given to the right shop for repair. However, once a skilled appraiser assesses the car, you will know for sure. In California, insurers use the Total Loss Formula. Total loss is determined when the cost of repairs and salvage value is greater than the vehicle's actual cash value.

5. Quality repair for damage that may be more than skin deep 

There is a temptation to assume minimal damage, if not visible externally. The impact of a collision can be felt through the entire vehicle. The complex design of cars these days necessitates detailed and specialized repairs. Qualified and certified technicians, equipped with appropriate technology, can meet these evolving car designs' demands to restore the cars to their original shape. Apart from ASE and I-CAR certifications, authorized manufacturer certifications are some all good auto body shops must-have.  

6. Aftermarket versus OEM Parts

This choice is up to you. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts are identical to the manufacturer. While they are a 100% replacement, they are limited in availability and are expensive. It is advantageous to use OEM parts over aftermarket parts for a replacement unique to your car model. It comes with a warranty guarantee. Aftermarket parts are made apart from the car manufacturer. They are less expensive and more available, but there is a variation in quality.

7. Repainting the entire car is unnecessary

With the increasing use of modern technology, color matching is utilized to ascertain exact coloring for focused work. A Superior Collision Shop in Campbell takes great pride in providing expert refinishing, leaving your car looking restored.