A collision repair shop near me is an establishment that specializes in repairs relating to the body of your car. These shops can work on cosmetic damage like dents, scratches and paint damage as well as repairing or replacing damaged parts, like bumpers, doors, and hoods. They also carry out more involved restorations on older cars or classic vehicles, customizing and painting as well as detailing. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between an auto body shop and mechanic, so that you can decide which service is best for your needs.
When Does Your Vehicle Need Body Work?
Most car owners will need body work at some point in their lives. Unlike regular maintenance tasks, these jobs are usually initiated by a car accident or other event that leads to damage. This is why it’s important to make a note of any incident that may leave your car with visible damage. Whether the damage is minor or severe, it’s essential to take your car to a professional to have it repaired in a timely manner.
Depending on the severity of your collision, you’ll need to choose between an auto body repair shop and a mechanic. An auto body repair shop focuses on mechanical repairs that affect your car’s performance and drivability. Hence, it’s more suited to work on mechanical issues and components such as engine parts.
On the other hand, a mechanic focuses on bodywork, which is why it’s best to visit one when your car needs cosmetic or structural repairs after an accident. This is because physical damage to your car goes beyond a bad appearance; it can compromise the integrity of your vehicle’s structure, leaving you and your family unsafe on the road.
Once you’ve settled on a shop, the first thing they will do is disassemble your vehicle and check for damages. They will then use laser frame diagnostic systems to correct the frame of your vehicle to its original state. This process could take days if not weeks. Once the frame and mechanical repairs are done, your car will be ready for painting. Surfaces will be prepped for painting, which can be a messy job, and then taped as needed before being sanded down, primed, and painted.
After a thorough inspection, the head technician and production manager will give their final approval of the job. They will do visual inspections and even test drive your vehicle to ensure that the quality of work is top-notch. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings with your insurance company and settle on an agreed amount for the auto collision repair.
If you’re looking for an auto body repair shop in Seattle, be sure to read reviews and look at their certifications. Look for a certification such as ASE or I-Car Gold Class to ensure that you’re dealing with a reputable shop that follows the industry’s standards. You can also ask for quotes from multiple auto body shops before making your decision. However, don’t go overboard – it’s better to find one that you can trust than to keep moving between different shops.