Our Top 7 Tips on Getting the Best Tempe Collision Repair(Service) for You and Your Car

Tempe drivers should start thinking about collision repair and collision repair coverage, a long time before the collision ever occurs. If you wait to inform yourself about your insurance coverage and your local collision repair shop, you will have a lot of leg work to do before you can get your car repaired, and that might delay your car repair for an unnecessary long period of time.

1.Get the car insurance coverage that works for you.

That includes liability coverage, a deductible that makes sense and that you can afford if the worst should come to pass. A higher deductible might lower your monthly payments, but can end up costing you more in the end if you end up having to fork out a large amount. Sure, it can save you a nice sum over time, but keep in mind that if you are in a collision, the higher deductible has to be paid.

2. Be in charge!

This means that not only do you not have to pick the collision repair center your insurance agents refers you to,but you also can go ahead and get more than one estimate. Both will ensure that you get the best service, the best prices and that you will work with an auto body repair mechanic that makes you feel at ease. You probably didn’t buy your car from the first person/dealership either; shopping around and collection additional information is always a prudent choice.

3. Know your part(s).

Oftentimes, insurers “encourage” the repair shops to use the cheapest parts possible, which often are salvage parts or at best, generic parts. Sometimes you can (especially if you weren’t the cause of the collision) make the collision shop use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts which are much higher in quality and are made specifically for your vehicle.

4. Check your Shop.

You want a manufacturer certified collision repair center that not only knows its stuff, but has an excellent reputation. After all, you stake your safety and that of your family on a properly repaired car. A good place to start is getting referrals from friends and neighbors, check the BBB for any complaints and unresolved cases. If the auto-body shop feels shady, it probably is. Move on and find one that makes you feel good about your choice and who takes the time to explain everything in detail to you.

5. Does the collision center have what it takes?

…to repair your car. Newer cars and European models often are made with aluminum components which require special training, special equipment and a clean room to repair aluminum without being compromised by other metals. Ask your local body shop about it and also check on certifications for specialty repair work.

6. Do you have/need rental car coverage?

And if so, what kind of car do they cover, a teeny compact when you have a family of 5 and a golden retriever? Make sure you have adequate coverage and won’t get stuck without a car. Ask your insurer what kind of car you can expect to get, what period of time they will pay for and if the coverage is not adequate, adjust it accordingly.

7. Get involved.

Getting great autobody repair From the first interaction with your Tempe auto body shop and insurance, make sure that they know that you will check on things. If you spot anything unauthorized or substitution of parts for others, speak up. This is especially important if you cause the accident and have to pay for the repairs yourself.

What it comes down to really is to get involved and be informed, even before a collision occurs. You don’t want to be caught in the rain without the coverage that you need. If you have any questions about insurance coverage and claims, Excel Collision and Glass Centers will gladly assist you with the process. We are proud of the quality work we perform, because we never take short cuts. We have the equipment and the experience to work on almost any make and model. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a free, no-obligations estimate.

Published By:

Excel Collision and Glass Centers – Tim Stone