How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop

As a vehicle owner, the likelihood of requiring the services of a collision repair and refinishing facility are greater than you might think. Whether it's from storm damage, rust and corrosion, acid rain and harsh sunlight, or a car accident outright, the risks are real. It's wise, then, to know just how to pick an auto body shop.

Many times when people are taking part in an accident they think "the insurance company will deal with it for me.'' The fact is, it's your duty to select who will do the repairs for you. This isn't a choice which should be taken lightly, as it can involve protecting a major investment. That is why Jungerman CARSTAR has put together this list of tips for you as you determine which auto body shop can meet your needs. They have years of experience dealing with all kinds of vehicles in St. Charles, O'Fallon, Lake St. Louis, and St. Peters, Missouri.

Preliminaries

• Begin looking for an auto body shop before you need one; you can make better decisions when you're not rushed or in a panic.
• Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. Even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is still valuable.
• Check with the local consumer organization regarding the reputation of the facility involved. Ask about the number of complaints were lodged against them, if any, and find out how the complaints were fixed.
• Always try to visit the auto body shop before making the decision on who will repair the car.

At the Shop

• Ask if the auto body shop typically handles your vehicle make and model. Ask just how long the auto body shop has been in business.
• Choose a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. Many vehicle manufacturers suggest specific auto body repair procedures and equipment for the repair of their vehicles. Ensure that the facility you choose is familiarized with these techniques and has the proper equipment.
• Professionally run facilities will have a courteous, helpful staff able to answer all your questions.
• Try to find signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, customer service awards.
• Many times you can see the vehicles being repaired by the auto body shop. Are you impressed by the type of vehicles the company is fixing and the way the vehicles are being taken care of?
• Also search for signals that the staff is technically competent, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work training from I-CAR.
• All policies, guarantees, and methods of payment ought to be posted or discussed to your satisfaction.

Being alert and attentive when you go to an auto body shop will tell you a lot about what to expect from your auto body repair. If you would like an estimate or have questions about auto body repair, feel free to contact Jungerman CARSTAR in St. Peters, MO.