Did you know that 77% of cars need repair or maintenance? Despite the high demand for repairs, this doesn’t mean that you should send your car to every auto body shop in town. When you need repairs you need to find the right collision center with loaner cars.
The quality and cost of repairs vary greatly from one shop to another. While one business might give you a estimate of $2,000, another may offer a 500 assessment. Pricing is an important aspect of choosing which auto body repair service companies to use. However, there are other factors.
You can save thousands on future repairs if you find the right one near you.
These are some important tips to help you find the perfect auto repair shop for you.
Evaluate the shop’s location and facilities
The location can have a significant impact on the hourly labor cost. For example, a business located in a high-end area may charge $90 an hour. For the same services, however, those in a more competitive area may only charge $60.
Prices for individual parts vary between shops. However, it is important to know the labor cost. Automobile owners end up working too many hours.
Consider the shop’s front and the reception area. Higher fees are usually charged for shops with large reception areas and many front-office staff. These fees are used to pay supervisors, foremen and front-desk staff.
Do not limit yourself to a single quote
Asking for estimates from multiple body shops is a great way to avoid paying more than necessary for car body repairs. As a bargaining tool, you may use the lowest estimate.
Let’s say you decide to have your vehicle repaired by a particular auto shop, but the cost is prohibitive. You might offer them lower pricing quotes from multiple stores and negotiate a better deal.
Be wary of shops that offer services at a low price. Although they may charge a lower rate for labor, it can lead to the omission of some tasks.
See What Other People Are Saying
Auto body shops can use banner ads, slogans, or other marketing strategies to increase their revenues. When choosing a store to shop at, you shouldn’t rely on these alone. Consider the opinions of customers and recommendations from family and friends when deciding on a store.
Word of mouth is powerful. Although a car body shop might not advertise, it can be well-known for providing car body repairs in the local area. Ask around. You might find a store that your neighbors or coworkers have used for many years.
You can also search for reviews about a store online. Both happy and sad customers will leave reviews, regardless of whether a store has a site or just a social media presence.
Do not blindly nod, learn to ask questions
When you request service quotations from potential auto body shops, don’t hesitate to ask important questions. These are the questions you should ask:
- What guarantee does your shop offer? What is the price difference based on what kind of work I did to my car?
- These warranties have limitations.
- Are you covered against fire and theft?
- What materials and components will you use, and whether you’ll be using after-market or new parts?
It does not always require the purchase of new parts to repair an automobile. Aftermarket parts can be just as effective as OEM parts for a fraction of their cost.
Trust your intuition
Your gut instinct is key when choosing an auto body shop. You should not feel uncomfortable in the shop. If the business is well-organized but the boss or workers seem untrustworthy and cranky, you can always find another one.
Be Prepared for Disappointments
These guidelines will help you choose the right auto body shop in your area. There are many shops in Chicago and other major cities. It’s important that you choose the right one for you and your car.