How To Decide If It's Time To Work With An Auto Body Shop

The vast majority of us can't replace a car after relatively minor damage has occurred. When a car is totaled? Certainly, that can be a possibility. But hail damage, for example, can damage a car without totaling -- and sometimes, even a collision doesn't do enough to require the total replacement of the car. Fortunately, in this day and age there are plenty of car body shops that can repair a vehicle with damage that is more cosmetic or relatively minor versus catastrophic. However, some are still hesitant to do so, perhaps justifying driving around a damaged car, or even attempting to repair the damage themselves. Below, we'll look into why it's important to consider working with a professional body shop for things ranging from collision repairs to new paint jobs, as well as what you can do to find an auto body shop that will work for you.

When Is It Time To Go To An Auto Shop?

So, say your car has suffered hail damage. Hail damage, like many other types of vehicular damage, can often cause dents or paint chipping -- two types of vehicular damage that many people think they can repair on their own. This isn't necessarily the case, however. While you can potentially repair a dent on your own, it isn't going to be easy, and it can actually cause even more damage to your car if it's done incorrectly. Painting a car is similarly hard work, and you could very well end up with results that will make your car look worse than it did in the beginning. Whether you're looking for help repairing hail damage or a rear end collision, many auto body shops will provide a repair estimate for free. Therefore, you might as well at the very least look into having this type of damage repaired professionally. Keep in mind that a car is an investment, and you don't want to take away from the value of the car you invested in! That investment is worth protecting through professional repairs.

What Types Of Damage Can Auto Body Shops Repair?

Different auto body shops provide different types of service. Some do prefer to focus entirely on the cosmetic details of cars, like paint jobs. Others will go as far as to work on mechanical failures that can occur after collisions -- but for the most part, they will largely focus on the bodies of the cars themselves. This can actually go fairly in depth; windshield replacements can certainly be on the menu! Keep in mind that there are six different types of windshield breaks if that's what you're looking to have repaired. These include surface pits, combination breaks, half moons, bullseyes, cracks, and star breaks. An auto body repair shop can handle all of these different types of breaks, and for that matter can leave you with a car that is better off than what you had in the beginning!

Choosing An Auto Body Shop: What To Keep In Mind

So, you've decided to pursue work with an auto body shop. There may seem to be many options on the table, and you might find it difficult to decide which one is right for you. Again, you'll want to be careful if you're looking to get a paint job -- this is quite different from repairing a dent, for example. But once you have that out of the way, look for a shop with great reviews, and client testimonials that you can rely upon. You should also talk to the shop owners beforehand, and make sure that your expectations are in line with what they can provide and are willing to provide. Don't hesitate to ask any questions. A great shop won't hesitate to be open with you! Choose the shop that's right for you -- even if it takes you time to make that decision.