CHOOSING  THE  RIGHT  REPAIR  SHOP

	Burying the deductible Choosing the right collision repair shop
Service Checkpoints Tips Overview

Chances are, if you're looking for a body shop you're already in need of repairs. After all, who picks out a body shop just in case they get into an accident?

Choosing which shop to entrust your vehicle's repairs to is an important decision. Your vehicle represents a large investment. You'll want to protect your financial interests when choosing a collision repair facility. Don't feel obligated to have your vehicle repaired by a facility that doesn't meet your expectations. The suggestions that follow are provided to help you make an educated choice.

• The staff at Hargrave's will be happy to help you negotiate your claim with the insurance company. We are your advocate for quality repairs by the insurance company.
  
  
• Trust your first impression... this is important. Let it help you make the right choice. Repairing vehicles is dirty work. However, a professional facility will have a presentable front office and waiting area and should reflect an atmosphere of professionalism. The service representative should take the time to explain the repair process to you.
  
  
• Look for a written or computerized damage report. Don't settle for a "ball park" estimate. Look for a damage report with a complete listing of the parts and labor required to repair your vehicle. The damage report is the blueprint for restoring your vehicle to pre-crash condition.
  
  
• An accurate estimate may involve putting your vehicle on a lift or partially disassembling damaged areas. If so, this may require additional time.
  
  
• Beware of the "low ball" price. Not all shops are alike. Price isn't the only thing to consider. The odds are that an estimate that's much lower than others is an incomplete assessment of the damage. If you choose a shop simply because it has the cheapest estimate, chances are it will turn out to be a mistake.
  
  
• Your car is very likely to be the second largest investment you made.  Having your car repaired professionally preserves its value and also your safety.
  
  
• Check for professional affiliations. Belonging to professional organizations, such as trade associations and business groups, is the mark of progressive management.
  
  
• Tour the facility and look at the quality of work and cleanliness of the operation. Examine finished jobs and jobs in progress.
  
  
• Ask about equipment. Properly repairing today's vehicles requires sophisticated measuring equipment, state of the art tools and a dust-free environment to restore factory-type finishes. Don't be afraid to ask about the equipment the shop uses. Ask if they have a unibody frame repair machine and measuring equipment, MIG welders and a spray booth. These are basic equipment in a modern collision repair facility.
  
  
• Find out about parts. The parts used on your vehicle should be equal to those originally on it. There are three categories of parts:
  
  
  1. OEM (Original Equipment Manufactured) new parts
     
     
  2. Non-OEM new parts (imitation parts)
     
     
  3. Used parts

  The use of imitation parts could void portions of your warranty or devalue a newer vehicle. Ask about which category of parts the repair facility would use to repair your vehicle, and why.
  

• Check the warranty. Reliable and responsible repair facilities stand behind their work as a matter of every day business. Ask if the shop offers a warranty on the work they perform. Beware of a shop who does not offer a warranty. The shop should offer a Lifetime Warranty on it's body work and a minimum of 5 years on refinishing.
  
  
• Check with friends, co-workers, or mechanics for a recommendation on a repair facility.
  
  
• You should never drive a car that might be unsafe because of damages!
  
  
• Be wary of repair quotes that are significantly lower from that of a quality repair facility. What are they not doing in the repair process that will affect the safety, appearance, and value of your vehicle?
  
  
• Be sure to weigh all the facts before choosing your repair shop!

Securing a quality repair is simple if you follow the steps above. Remember, don't get an estimate from a shop you wouldn't have repair your vehicle.
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	Burying the deductible Choosing the right collision repair shop
Service Checkpoints Tips Overview