When
evaluating a collision repair facility, make sure they can provide these
10
ESSENTIALS:
The
facility should have an excellent reputation
What has your prior experience with the repair facility been? Do
you have positive referrals from friends or relatives that have had their
vehicles repaired by the facility? Ask a local auto dealer where he or she
would recommend having their own car repaired.
The
facility should be well-organized and well run Ask to walk through the facility. Are the offices,
reception area, and customer waiting areas clean and neat? Is the shop area
(where actual work will be done on your car) an organized and safe working
environment? Take notice of other cars being repaired in the facility—does
it look like the workers are paying attention to details by masking off
areas and protecting those areas not damaged in the collision?
Rental
or loaner cars should be available
so that you have use of a vehicle while yours is being repaired. We
use Enterprise Rent-a-Car services. They offer free pickup and
delivery for our customers.
24
Hour Towing services should be availableIf Towed after
hours, your vehicle should be protected in an indoor facility until it
is delivered to the body shop. For your towing needs please call
All Pro Towing at (858) 277-5102
The
estimates for repair should be computerized and very detailed providing specifics on every new component needed,
the types of repair and/or replacement required, with itemization of all
labor and materials. Someone at the repair facility should review every line
item of the estimate with you and they should encourage you to ask questions
if you don't understand something. Be wary of a repair facility that does
not take the time to answer your questions completely.
The
repair facility should have digital photography equipment and a modem link
to communicate electronically
with insurance companies and adjusters. This speeds up the claim process
considerably and provides a complete record for all parties.
All
frame, unibody, and alignment equipment should be computerized
and you should be provided with an accurate printout of tolerance
readings—both before and after repairs.
A
heated, downdraft paint booth is absolutely crucial
The paint colors on many vehicles manufactured after 1990 can not
be matched to factory color specifications without being cured in a paint
booth capable of maintaining a 160-degree cycle for 20-60 minutes.
A reputable collision repair
facility includes a written guarantee
for all repairs.
Click
here to read
Carrillo's Auto Body Guarantee.
A reputable collision repair
facility makes every effort to accommodate
you including complimentary pick up and
delivery service for your vehicle.