As a vehicle owner, your chances of needing the services of a collision repair facility are greater than you think. Whether you are at fault, or another is covering your damage, the risks are real. It's wise then to know how to select a body shop.

Often times when people are involved in an accident they think "the insurance company will take care of it for me." In fact, it is your responsibility to choose who will do the repairs for you. This is not a choice that should be taken lightly, as it will involve protecting a major investment.
 
Your first impression of a facility is significant. Make sure the facility you consider makes an initial impact that is positive.

Look for a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. In addition look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area: I-CAR or ASI certificates of course completion, customer thank you letters and community involvement.
 
Ask to take a tour of the facility, and while doing so, observe a repair similar to one needed on your vehicle. In addition, pay special attention to see that an honest effort toward cleanliness is evident. A clean environment makes for a quality repair.
 
Also look for signs that the staff is technically competent, such as trade school diploma's, certificates of advance course work and training from I-CAR (Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) and ASE certifications - a national standard of technician competence issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
 
Ask about the parts to be used to repair your vehicle. After-market or used parts may have been written versus original equipment manufacture's parts. We can answer all your questions in regards to this issue.
 
Paint match, hue, and gloss are the determining factors in appearance of your repaired vehicle. Today's modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. Without the most sophisticated techniques and training, hi-tech factory finishes cannot be duplicated. Make sure the shop you choose to repair your vehicle has made the commitment to both the finest painting equipment and the best technician training.
 
There is a belief that only the shop with the lowest estimate can be allowed to do the repair to your vehicle. When in reality many times a cheaper estimate may mean just that... a cheaper job.

You have the choice of getting a good job or a marginal job... for the same price. The amount you pay (usually your deductible) remains the same. Don't you deserve a good job? You have the right to choose the best repair facility.
 
Each insurance company has its own handling procedure. Make sure the shop you select deals successfully with each insurer. The best collision repairers provide a written warranty on each repair and repainting.