The automotive repair industry has evolved significantly in recent years. With changes in the technician workforce and an increasing demand for services, wait times for repairs have extended. It’s now common for vehicle owners to wait several weeks for an estimate appointment, and even longer to schedule the repair.
Navigating this new terrain can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure your vehicle receives the best care. Here are some tips to help you select the right body shop for your repairs.
1. Anticipate Extended Wait Times
Patience is crucial in today’s automotive repair climate. Be prepared for long waits and plan accordingly. Some shops may promise a quicker turnaround time to secure your business, but ensure they can deliver on this promise.
2. Seek Out an OEM-Certified Body Shop
Consider looking into an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)-Certified body shop. These shops meet advanced credentials that not every local dealer’s body shop can match. They are more likely to have specialized tools that make certain jobs or tasks easier, ensuring a more efficient and effective repair.
3. Insist on a Comprehensive Inspection
Before pre-ordering parts and scheduling repairs, ensure the shop conducts a thorough inspection of your vehicle with you. This helps avoid the frustration of discovering overlooked damage that could cause significant delays.
4. Look for I-Car Gold Status
The I-Car Gold industry designation is a significant achievement for shops. If you can’t find an OEM-Certified shop or other highly-rated alternative nearby, consider choosing an I-Car Gold Status shop.
5. Compare Multi-Shop Operators (MSO) to Locally Owned Businesses
Taking your vehicle to an MSO like Caliber, Crash Champions, CollisionRight, or ABRA provides certain protections. These MSOs have regional or territory managers you can turn to if your local shop staff isn’t meeting your expectations.
Expect to possibly lose the personal experience you’ll get with a more locally focused owner operator run shop.
There are great shops in both categories. Do your own comparisons.
6. Check the Shop’s Lot
A quick look at the shop’s lot can give you an idea of their current workload. If you see disassembled cars scattered around, it might indicate the shop is struggling to complete jobs in a timely manner.
7. Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts when choosing a body shop.
8. Review the Estimate
Insist on reviewing the estimate before work begins. This gives you a clear understanding of what repairs are needed and how much they will cost. Most of the time, the estimate goes back and forther between your shop and adjuster. But, you should stay informed about any changes to the estimate (called supplements)
9. Check Online Reviews
Online reviews can provide valuable insight into a shop’s reputation. Look for recent complaints that might indicate a decline in service quality. One or two is typical for any business, but many complaints is a clear sign that if you take your vehicle there…you’re going to have a bad time.
10. Consider an Independent Appraisal
After your repairs are completed, consider having them reviewed by an independent appraiser like Ryckman Appraisals. This can provide peace of mind that the work was done correctly.
Bonus Tip: Be Smart About Rental Cars
It is very unfortunate to run out of rental car coverage long before your repairs are complete. Don’t expect that your adjuster or your shop are just going to cover the rental overage; they likely won’t. Be prepared and you’ll be grateful you did.
Each state has different rules, but in many cases, you’re allowed to spend your rental car allowance as you see fit. You can rent a vehicle intermittently as needed to conserve funds. If you’re using your insurance policy to cover the rental, remember that there’s probably a maximum limit. You can stretch it out this way and save.
Choosing the right body shop for your vehicle repairs is crucial. By following these tips, you can navigate the process with confidence and ensure your vehicle gets the care it deserves. Remember, the right body shop will not only repair your vehicle but also provide you with peace of mind.
