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austin body shop

Looking for a Car Body Shop Near Me: Factors to Keep in Mind

car body shop near me in Austin

If you’re ever in the unfortunate situation of being in a car accident, you’ll need to find a reputable car body shop near me to fix your vehicle. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one to choose? Here are some important factors to keep in mind when looking for a car body shop near me.

Location – you’ll want to find a body shop that’s close to where you live or work

When car troubles arise, the last thing you want to worry about is traveling a long distance just to get repairs done. A good car body shop in Austin should be close to where you live or work so time and money can be saved. Finding one near you is easy, with online searches and apps that help you locate car body shops in your area at the click of a button. A simple “car body shop near me” will reveal many options that provide car repairs. With the right location, car repairs can be convenient and efficient – keeping your car back on the road quickly!

Services offered – some shops specialize in certain types of repair, so make sure they can handle what you need

If you’re in need of car repair, finding the right car body shop is essential. Taking your car to a shop that specializes in certain types of repair lets you know that they can handle what you need – whether it be tire alignment, body work, or other car service needs. Doing a google search for “car body shop near me” can help you narrow down your options based on location and specialties. Make sure to do your research ahead of time to find car body shops that can provide the services you require.

Reviews – read online reviews to get an idea of the quality of the work and customer service

When looking for car body shops near you, the best way to choose which one to go with is to read reviews about them online. Reviews will give you an insight into the quality of work they do, customer satisfaction levels and overall reliability. Doing research using online reviews of a car body shop can save you time, energy and money in the long run while also ensuring that your car repairs or upgrades are done correctly. Make sure to take into account all reviews – both positive and negative – so that you get a well-rounded idea of what they provide.

Insurance – find out if the shop is approved by your insurance company

If you’re looking for car repair or body shop services, it’s important to double check that your insurance company will give the shop their approval. Do a quick search online for car body shops near you and ask them if they are approved by your insurance company. It might not seem necessary at first, but it can pay off in the long run: shops with approval from your insurer often have lower car repair bills on account of negotiated discount prices.

Contact Us to Learn More About Our Car Body Repair Shop in Austin

If you’re in need of car body repair in Austin, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a shop. First, consider the location and whether it’s convenient for you. Second, take a look at the services offered and make sure they can handle your specific needs. And finally, read online reviews to get an idea of what others have experienced with the quality of work and customer service. Once you’ve considered all of these factors, give us a call at (512) 476-4101 and we’ll be happy to help you with your car body repair needs.

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austin body shop

Towing, Insurance Claims, Repairs, & Rentals: 4 Reasons to Choose Our Collision Center in Austin

car accident in Austin Texas, they need a collision center they can trust

At some point, most of us will experience a car accident. When it happens, it can be a confusing and stressful time. There are so many things to think about and decisions to make. One of the most important decisions is which collision center in Austin to trust with your car repairs, insurance claims, and rental needs. We’re here to tell you why you should choose us.

Towing Services in Austin 24/7

Whether your car broke down at 2 in the morning or 3 in the afternoon, or you have been in an accident, our towing service in Austin is here to help! Our collision center in Austin offers 24/7 towing services to give you peace of mind that if something goes wrong with your vehicle, you can count on us to be there to get it back up and running. No matter what time it is, we’ll be by your side so you don’t have to worry about being stranded out there.

Filing Repair Claims with Your Insurance: Another Service our Collision Center in Austin Provides

Worried about accident claims? Don’t be! Our collision center in Austin is here to help. Our team of experts offers comprehensive assistance with filing insurance repair claims. From research to paperwork, we have you covered every step of the way so that you can focus on getting your car back in ship-shape as fast as possible. With our assistance, navigating accident claims just got easier!

Certified with Various Manufacturers for Body Damage Repairs in Austin

Here at our collision center in Austin, factory certified repairs are the standard. Our team is certified with various manufacturers to help you repair any body damage your car might have suffered, no matter what make or model. We don’t take any shortcuts when it comes to repairing vehicles, and we’re serious about making sure our services promote the best possible results for drivers. You can trust us to deliver factory certified repairs that provide long-lasting strength and integrity for your vehicle.

Rental Car Services in Austin

Are you in the Austin area and need a rental car? Look no further! Our collision center in Austin has rental car services on site, eliminating all of your transportation worries. Rental car services come in all shapes and sizes, from economy to premium, so you can find the perfect rental for all your needs. With our on-site rental cars, you’ll have the freedom to explore everything Austin has to offer with ease.

Contact Us to Schedule Your One-Stop Post-Accident Repairs

If you find yourself in need of a tow or body damage repairs, give our collision center in Austin a call at (512) 476-4101. We offer towing services 24/7 and can assist you with filing repair claims with your insurance. Our team is certified with various manufacturers for body damage repairs, so you can rest assured that your car is in good hands. Plus, we have rental car services on site to help minimize the inconvenience caused by an accident.

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austin body shop

Austin Body Shop: Auto Body Repair Terms

auto repair

Have you ever tried talking to your body shop in Austin mechanic only to find yourself nodding to terminologies that make no sense? You are not alone. Like every other profession, auto repair has its own set of jargon and terminologies, which can be very confusing to someone with no experience in the field.

So, if you are planning to visit a body shop in Austin, keep reading to learn the fourteen terms that will help you navigate your way through the auto body repair process.

1. Aftermarket Vehicle Body Parts

Not made by the vehicle manufacturer, aftermarket vehicle body parts are a more affordable replacement for vehicle malfunctions. They are the second-best option if one of the vehicle’s components is damaged. Even though the aftermarket vehicle body parts fit and function the same way as the original parts, they aren’t as reliable.

2. Bumper Repair

Bumpers play an integral role in protecting your vehicle from collision. Located in the back and front of the cars, they are manufactured to absorb shock during an accident. As the name suggests, bumper repair and replacement is the process of fixing minor and major damages to the rear and front bumper.

3. Chipping

If the stones and debris have damaged the paint of your vehicle, there’s a high chance that the body shop in Austin will recommend you a chipping procedure. While chipping, the body shop in Austin mechanic will buff out and refill chipped areas applying a fine layer of the matching paint color.

4. Direct Repair Program

Commonly known as “DRP,” a dent repair program is a contractual agreement between the body shop in Austin and the insurance company. DRP shops fix collision damage following standardized procedures and rules, including billing practices, warranty coverage, parts and materials, and repair techniques. They partner with insurance companies with the condition that they will bring in more customers.

5. Dent Repair

Dent repair is the method of removing abnormalities in the structure of the dent by hammering them out from the side or pushing them.

6. Enamel Auto Paint

Enamel auto paint can be described as colored or clear topcoat auto paint with a shiny finish. Unlike traditional vehicle paints, enamel auto paints have a semi-glossy or glossy finish, making the vehicle more appealing. Some popular brands of enamel auto paint include DupliColor, Maxx 2K, DuPont, and PPG.

7. Edge-to-Edge Repair

Edge-to-edge repair can be described as the complete body repair for vans, minivans, cars, and trucks. Unlike a vehicle touch-up or spot repair, during an edge-to-edge repair, the body shop in Austin mechanic will remove and restore or replace the entire vehicle panel.

8. Fender Repair

Located on the side of the vehicle, fenders serve aesthetic and practical functionalities. Fender repair is the process of fixing the fender-bender of the vehicle after a collision.

9. Like Kind and Quality

In the auto repair industry, it is a common practice to salvage parts of other cars and use them to repair different vehicles. While it might seem like a wise approach, it isn’t. Therefore, if your body shop in Austin mechanic says the repair part is the same and of great quality, ask them to thoroughly inspect the part and ensure that it is indeed the best fit for your vehicle’s make and model.

10. Masking

Masking is the process of covering the areas of the vehicle that aren’t supposed to be painted during the repair and maintenance process.

11. OEM

You will often hear your body shop in Austin mechanic asking whether you want OEM parts or not. OEM is an abbreviation for the term “Original Equipment Manufacturer.” These are parts manufactured by the same company that built your car. Replacing the damaged part with OEM parts ensures the top functionality of the vehicle and keeps your car in pristine condition.

12. Putty

Also known as body filler, putty is a polyester product that can be used to fill in various types of minor vehicle damages. It helps in successfully leveling out any irregularities. 

13. Sealer

In order to improve the adhesion of the final paint coat, the mechanic at the body shop in Austin will apply a layer of the sealant. This will prevent the surface from corrosion and damage.

14. Sanding

Sanding is an abrasive process that smoothens the topcoat of the paint. It is also known as grit sanding, disc sanding, refinishing, automotive sanding, and paint sanding. 

Contact Us If You are Looking for a Body Shop in Austin

Knowing the terminologies mentioned above will improve your communication with body shop in Austin mechanics, ensuring that you understand everything they say. This will ultimately be good for your vehicle as you will get the best services.

However, note that these are just some of the more common terms. So, if your body shop in Austin mechanic says something you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to ask them to explain it to you.

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austin body shop

Hail Damage Repair: 3 Things to Keep in Mind

vehicle repair

Golf-ball-sized hail results in destroying several cars every year. You can take preventive measures if you are informed beforehand, such as covering your car or keeping it in a garage. In most cases, hail storms could come out of nowhere and leave your car vulnerable to the whims of nature, leaving you with no option but to take your car to a nearby auto shop for hail damage repair.

1.    Get Repairs Done Right Away

One of the biggest mistakes that people make is that they wait too long to get hail damage repair services. So, if you are one of those people thinking that you will wait until the end of hail season to fix the damages, you are making a costly mistake.

However, finding a reliable hail damage repair auto shop isn’t as easy as you think. When looking for a reliable auto shop, make sure that it provides the best hail damage repair services in your area. An easy way to know this is to check the online reviews of the garage. You should also check if your insurance company has ever worked with the auto body shop in the past and if they are backing you up or not. Also, check if the professional has any reservations about working with insurance companies. You can also ask the professional about the type of services that they offer and opt for the one that matches your budget needs the best. Here are three things that you should keep in mind when dealing with hail damage repair.

Therefore, do not waste a single minute and bring your vehicle in for hail damage repair as soon as possible. This way, you will not only be saving on the repair cost, but you will also be keeping your vehicle in pristine condition.

Keep in mind that every day that you drive, wait for the repairs, and every mile that you drive your damaged car, you are making your vehicle vulnerable to potential monetary loss. In fact, vehicles with minimum hail damage can decrease the value of your car by $5000 to $8000. Therefore, instead of ignoring the minor dent or bump, go through the hassle of getting the hail damage fixed. While you might have to pay some amount to get your vehicle repaired, ignoring the hail damage will only cost you big in the future. 

2.    Paintless Dent Repair Is the Best Solution

When it comes to hail damage repair, Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is the perfect solution. It is an effective auto repair process during which a professional will use specialized tools, equipment, and techniques to carefully remove the hail damage without causing any damage to the paint. The professional will push out the dent, restoring your vehicle to its original state. This will save you time and money.

However, considering the fact that not every auto repair shop is equipped to provide paintless dent repair services efficiently and effectively, make sure that the hail damage repair company you are signing up for has professional experience using this technique.

Although doing thorough research about the service provider might seem like a hectic task, it will only save you hundreds of dollars, ensuring that you get the best services possible.

3.    Don’t Forget to File an Insurance Claim

It’s a common misconception that making a claim to your insurance provider would result in a higher premium. However, because hail damage is regarded as a “no-fault” claim and is covered by your comprehensive coverage, making a claim for hail damage with your insurance carrier won’t increase your premium, at least not in the way you might anticipate. Therefore, since your vehicle insurance is already covering hail damage repair, we recommend filing a claim and getting your car fixed as soon as possible.

When partnering with the insurance company, make sure that they don’t drive your decision-making. Even though they are professional, an insurance company will do what suits them the best and not you. Therefore, the wise approach here is to sit with your insurance provider and ask them about their hail damage repair options. Considering the fact that hail damage can decrease the value of your car, working with your insurance company will help you in getting the best deal possible.

Contact Us to Learn More about our Hail Damage Repair Services

If you are worried about out-of-pocket costs and thinking about repairing the damage yourself, think again. While it might seem doable, trying to repair it yourself will only make the situation worse. Therefore, make sure to contact your mechanic to get the best hail damage repair services. In case you are given different hail damage repair options, we recommend opting for paintless dent repair (PDR) as it’s the most effective and efficient method. Last but not least, don’t forget to file an insurance claim.

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austin body shop

Dent Repair Options

vehicle repair

Whether you are in love with your car because of its sleek paint finish or because it has been taking you from one place to another for years, you want the exterior of your car to be presentable, clean, and attractive. However, there will be times when your car gets into an unfortunate accident, and so no matter how major or minor the dent is, it can destroy the resale value of your car. This is where dent repair in Round Rock comes in.

The good news here is that there are many ways to fix dings and dents on your car. While you can perform some repairs yourself, you will need to enlist the help of dent repair in Round Rock professional for major repairs. Keep reading to learn about the four dent repair techniques.

1.    Traditional Filling Method

When we hear the term “dent repair,” the first thing that comes to our mind is the method of filling the dent in order to naturally push it outwards. Although the filling method is a very popular dent repair technique, most people don’t know that it doesn’t actually fix the damage but creates an illusion that makes the car’s frame uniform.

The dent repair in Round Rock professional will start by scraping off paint from the damaged area. They will then fill in the material and repaint it to match the existing color of your car. 

Note that the traditional filling method is an imperfect and unreliable paint repair technique that delivers inferior results and doesn’t last long. It also costs a great deal of money, time, supplies, and labor.

2.    Paintless Dent Removal

Paintless dent removal is an innovative solution to fixing structural dents. The dent repair in Round Rock professional will use specialized tools and techniques to pull, push, and massage the dent out of the vehicle’s body. This dent repair technique involves patiently reshaping the metal to remove the dent.

The technique is known as “paintless dent removal” because it doesn’t require you to repaint the body of the vehicle. And since the procedure takes place underneath the surface of the dent, the exterior appearance and paint of your car don’t get damaged. Simply put, paintless dent removal involves restructuring the current body of your car. Some benefits of paintless dent removal include the following:

  • Reduced costs
  • Quick turnaround times
  • No impact on the vehicle’s resale value
  • Avoidance of incidental paint damage
  • Restoration of the vehicle’s original appearance

3.    DIY Dent Repair Kits

If you are someone who likes to do everything themselves, DIY dent repair kits are the perfect solution. While the plunger method can help you in pulling out the dent, it can cause the affected area to recoil to the damaged state. This is why we recommend using Do-It-Yourself dent repair kits, as they come with an adhesive that you can attach to the pulling instrument and fix the dent permanently. Compared to the plunger or heating and cooling techniques, the results of DIY kits last longer.

However, we advise always bringing your car to a dent repair in Round Rock collision center as every dent is different, and only professionals can provide you with the right care.

4.    Removal and Replacement

So far, we have talked about dings and dents that can either be fixed with a DIY kit or with the help of a dent repair in Round Rock professional. However, some accidents can cause massive dents, because of which you will need to remove, replace, and restore the entire damaged area of the car’s body.

After a major accident, determine whether your car is safe to drive or not. If it isn’t, contact the dent repair in Round Rock professionals, and they will help you in taking your vehicle to the garage. Once the car’s in the auto repair shop, the professional will carefully extract the damaged section of the body and replace it with another one. Once the replacement fender is installed, the professionals will apply paint to eliminate any discrepancies between the surrounding surface and the new section.

Our advice? Never do this on your own; as easy as the task might seem, this job should be handled by professionals only.

Contact Us for a Consult on Your Dent Repair

While all the above-mentioned paint removal techniques work amazingly in their own places, we recommend opting for paintless dent removal as it maintains the valuable factory finish of your car and saves your time and money. In fact, paintless dent removal can fix 80 to 90 percent of dents and dings, making your car look as good as new.

Our collision repair professionals treat every customer like family, ensuring that we provide the highest quality of work and the highest level of services.

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austin body shop

What a Good Collision Center Looks Like

car body work

If you live in Austin and have a car, you have to come to terms with the fact that this city has some of the worst drivers on the road. Regardless of the reason behind this, it always makes one glad when they find a great collision center in Austin. This can be tough since many places claim to be great, but not all of them deliver.

Before choosing an auto body shop, you should consider a few things regarding what makes a good one.

How to Look for a Good Collision Center in Austin

Here’s what the best collision centers in Austin have:

State-of-the-Art Equipment

The best collision center in Austin will have the latest technology and tools to work with. For example, they should be able to use computerized measuring devices that can more accurately determine the damage to your vehicle. They should also use paint-matching equipment to apply custom colors and finishes to your car so it looks just like it did before the accident.

Flexible Scheduling Options

A good collision center in Austin should be able to provide you with flexible scheduling options. For example, if you are in the middle of a busy day and need your car fixed as quickly as possible, then they should be able to accommodate this request by getting your car into their shop within an hour or so. However, if you need to keep your car for an extended period due to complications or delays, they should also be able to work with you on that.

It is important for them to have flexible scheduling options because this will allow them to work on all sorts of situations without having problems. They do not want to leave any customers behind just because they are too busy, nor do they want any customers to feel like they have been forgotten about because the collision center was too crowded at the time. This can happen when a business does not have good scheduling options available, but when it does, it will allow them to handle everything smoothly every time.

Open Communication With Customers

A good collision center in Austin will always make sure that they have open communication with their customers. This means that when you have questions about your car or the repair process, you should be able to contact them at any time during the day or night and get answers from them quickly.

This is also important because it lets you stay up-to-date on what is going on with your car and helps you feel confident that you are getting the best service possible from your technician.

Expert Training and Certifications

When you go to a good collision center in Austin, you can expect that the technicians working on your car will be well-trained and certified. They should have at least some experience working in this field, but if not, they should undergo training or certification to provide the best possible service for their customers.

The technicians should also be trained in all aspects of repairing cars, including bodywork and paint jobs, as well as fixing dents and scratches to return your car to its original condition. In addition, they should also be able to handle any repair job that might come up — whether it is minor or major — so that you do not have to worry about whether or not they can handle your situation.

One-Stop Shop for Services

The best collision center in Austin will be able to do more than just repair your car after an accident. They might also offer towing services or even pick up your car if it is too damaged to drive safely.

They could also help you find a rental car if you need one while yours is being repaired, or they could help with other aspects of the process, such as filing claims with the insurance company or dealing with any paperwork that needs to be done.

These are all things that can make the process easier on you and less stressful overall. So if you are looking for a good place to go when your vehicle needs repairs due to an accident, it pays to call around and see what options are available in your area.

Warranty on Work

If you are going to pay for repairs on your car, you should ensure that the shop is offering some warranty on their work. A good collision center in Austin will offer a warranty on their work. This means that if something goes wrong with the repairs they made, they will fix it at no cost to you.

This is especially important with bodywork because sometimes there can be issues with paint jobs and other cosmetic repairs. Although this is rare, it does happen from time to time, and it is nice to know that if it happens, you would not have to pay anything extra out-of-pocket to get everything fixed right.

Choose Wisely

The world of auto body repair might at first appear to be a little overwhelming, but it is ultimately about finding quality work and local businesses. With the right information and a little effort, finding those businesses will become easier than you think. We hope the above will be helpful in your search and help you narrow down your choices for a good collision center in Austin.

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austin body shop

Paintless Dent Repair vs. Traditional Dent Repair

car with dent

Does your car, SUV, or truck have a fresh dent? If yes, you can either opt for traditional dent repair or paintless dent repair, depending upon the extent of the damage. During its life, almost every vehicle takes a few dings and dents, which, if not fixed in time, can end up decreasing the car’s resale value.

While some people prefer traditional dent repair, insurance companies prioritize paintless dent repair. This brings us to the ultimate question, “which one should you opt for?” Here is what the professionals at the dent repair in Austin have to say about the differences between paintless dent repair and traditional dent repair.

Paintless Dent Repair

The term “paintless” comes from how experts don’t need to sand off, apply a bond, and repaint after fixing the minor dents and dings using the PDR (paintless dent repair) technique. However, unlike the conventional dent-fixing technique, paintless dent repair can only be performed on dents and dings that are accessible and aren’t too deep. Moreover, the paint should be intact before and after the dent repair.

When performing the paintless dent repair, the experts will use specialized tools and equipment to maneuver behind the dent and gradually push and pull it out. Paintless dent repair brings your vehicle back into its original condition without the added expense of sanding, replacing body panels, priming, and repainting. Even though paintless dent repair is a simple process, you should never do it on your own.

Pros:

  • More affordable.
  • Doesn’t damage the paint job.
  • Lasts just as long as the traditional dent repair.
  • The process is quicker and takes less than a day.

Cons:

  • Only fixes minor dings and dents.

Traditional Dent Repair

Also known as conventional dent repair, traditional dent repair is a more extensive process and is primarily used to fix deeper and sharper dents. During a traditional dent repair, an expert will start by sanding off the existing paint in order to determine whether your car needs a filler or not. They will then align the filler perfectly with the vehicle’s surface and will use sanding paper to smoothen it.

In order to ensure that the damaged surface matches the car’s exterior color, the experts at the dent repair in Austin will apply lots of coats of paint and primer. Once the painting process is complete, the expert will apply a final clear coat of paint to seal off the dent. Some pros and cons of traditional dent repair are listed below:

Pros:

  • The best method to repair deep dents.
  • Fixes the paint job.

Cons:

  • Takes longer.
  • Can only be done by a professional.
  • More expensive.

Factors to Determine Which Dent Repair Technique Should Be Used

If your car has hail damage or minor dents, paintless dent repair is always the preferred choice. It saves time and is cost-efficient. During a paintless dent repair service, the professionals make sure to remove all signs of damage, revamping your car in its original state.

However, if the vehicle damage is too extreme, has stretched the metal, and destroyed the paint, it is recommended to go for traditional dent repair.

The decision also depends upon the location of the dent. Sometimes even a portion of a centimeter can be the deciding factor in whether you should choose traditional dent repair or paintless dent repair.

Overview: Paintless Dent Repair vs. Traditional Dent Repair

Which dent repair system you should select entirely depends on the shape and size of the dent in your vehicle. While paintless dent repair is more affordable and can repair both small and big dents alike, if your car has a sharp and more obscure dent, traditional dent repair is the perfect method for the job.

 Paintless Dent RepairTraditional Dent Repair
CostCheaper than conventional dent repair.Less expensive than repairing the panel.
TimeMinor Damages: A few hours. Door Ding: 1 day or less. Hail Damage: 2 to 3 days.Minor Damages: 3 to 5 days. Door Ding: 3 to 7 days. Hail Damage: 2 to 3 weeks.
ProcedureUsing special tools to push and pull out the dent.Prepare the dent, apply a layer of bonding sand, and repaint.
Best forDings and minor dents.Deeper hard-to-reach dents.

Contact Us If You Need Dent Repair in Austin Today!

Consider how much money and time you will save by hiring the best professionals for dent repair in Austin. With extensive years of experience, these professionals know how to do the job right in the most time-efficient way. They will keenly analyze your vehicle’s damaged surface and recommend a traditional dent repair or a paintless dent repair, keeping in mind your best interest. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us to learn more about dent repair services in Austin.

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austin body shop

4 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Collision Center

body shop

Being in an accident can be a traumatic and frightening experience. Even if there may have been substantial damage to your car, bringing it to a collision center is just the beginning. From police reports to insurance claims, frequent doctor appointments, and medical expenses, every step will require your time and attention to ensure that you are able to achieve a positive outcome.

During this time, one of the most important decisions that you will make is to choose a reliable and trusted collision center. Even though it might sound simple, finding the right collision center in Round Rock can have long-lasting implications. To make your search easier, we have compiled a list of four factors that you should consider in order to find the best collision center in Round Rock.

1.    Consolidators vs. Independent Shops

There is a big difference between the shops that have only a few locations and the auto repair shops that you see in every nook and corner of the city.

Compared to independent auto repair shops, consolidators charge more as the only thing that they care about is making profits. Although their business plan benefits them, in most cases, it is not always in the best interest of your vehicle. Unlike an independent shop, where there are limited technicians, and each has ownership, consolidators only care about fixing as many vehicles in a day as possible.

Simply put, the professionals at an independent collision center will invest their experience, knowledge, and time in providing you with the best services. On the other hand, even with the best equipment, the consolidators’ primary goal is to make money which can result in low-quality services.

In an independent shop, it is usually uncommon for the business owner to be available at the collision center throughout the day. Because of this, decision-making power is given to the management of the auto repair shop, including finalizing deals and helping customers. This ultimately saves you time and gets the job done efficiently.

2.    Warranty and Estimates

Not every collision center in Round Rock will offer a warranty on their work. Therefore, make sure that you ask the professionals at the auto repair shop beforehand whether they back their services with a warranty or not. Opt for a collision center in Round Rock that offers lifetime warranties on both paint and bodywork.

While you are on the call with the experts asking about their warranty, don’t forget to get a free estimate of the auto repair services you are planning to get. Make a list of all the services and costs offered by the auto body repair shop and compare them to find the one that suits your budget and needs.

Although it can be tempting to go for a collision center that offers cheap services, compromising on the quality of parts can result in damaging your vehicle and reducing its resale value. Also, ensure that the professionals have sufficient experience and are certified to provide the necessary services.

3.    OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts for Auto Body Repair

Whether the collision center in Round Rock uses OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket parts to repair can have a huge impact on the quality and life of your car. Unlike aftermarket parts which are locally produced, OEM parts are manufactured by the vehicle owner; they are 100% original, high quality, and offer the ability to provide seamless repairs.

OEM parts are patent, so they cannot be easily duplicated. Although aftermarket parts are somewhat similar and cheaper, they are unreliable and can cause malfunctions in the long run. Therefore, in order to ensure the protection of you and your loved ones, opt for an auto repair shop that only uses OEM parts to fix vehicles.

4.    Read Online Reviews

When a person is searching for an auto repair shop, the first thing that they do is ask a friend or family member for a recommendation. Past customers can help you in figuring out whether or not a collision center will provide you with the services that you are looking for and what to expect at the collision center in Round Rock. The easiest way to do this is to check the shop’s online reviews and ratings. Once you have finalized an auto repair shop, visit their website or give the experts a call to learn more about their services.

Contact Us Today with Your Questions

The best auto repair shops are the ones that have not only been in business for a long time, but they also prioritize customer service, use high-quality materials, and have affordable rates. Use the above-mentioned factors to find the most reliable and efficient collision center in Round Rock.

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austin body shop

How to Increase Vehicle Value After an Accident

car collision

Wondering if the value of a vehicle reduces after being in an accident? The one-word answer to the question is “Yes”. However, the depreciation of the vehicle’s value depends upon the collision’s severity. While in some cases, your car can be easily repaired, in case of a major car collision, the damage could be irreparable, resulting in diminishing the value of your vehicle significantly. In either case, it isn’t the end of the world. Here are five things that you can do to increase your vehicle’s value post-collision:

1.    Make All Necessary Repairs

The first and foremost important thing you should do to increase your vehicle’s value is to take it to a skilled collision professional to repair all the damages. These include cosmetic and functional repairs. Doing so is important because after a car collision, an adjuster from the insurance company will most probably be visiting you for an inspection, and they need to know that you are taking care of your vehicle. Therefore, it is advised to get all the minor and major repairs made as soon as possible.

Tip: Work closely with your mechanic and start with the most-needed repairs, working your way backward. This will help you determine the amount of work you need to retain the most value for your vehicle.

2.    Use OEM Parts to Replace the Defected Ones

No matter how pocket-friendly and tempting it may seem to use discounted or remanufactured parts to fix your car, don’t. Even though by opting for discounted parts, you will be saving money on reparation temporarily. In the long run, you will end up paying double.

A trusted mechanic understands the difference between quality and cheap parts. Therefore, they will save your time and money by making sure to use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts to repair your vehicle, making it as good as new. Investing in the right parts will not only enhance the curb appeal of your car but will boost its resale value.

3.    Get a New Coat of Paint

Even something as basic as re-painting might increase your vehicle’s value post-collision. Most accidents can damage your car’s paintwork. When it comes to minor damage, all you need to do is apply the same paint color over the affected area. Whereas, in case of major paint damage, you have to get the whole car re-painted.

While applying the new coat of paint on the car’s body, a professional will ensure that everything matches precisely, and any old paint scratches or chips are covered. This will boost the car’s resale value as almost all prospective purchasers will notice when a vehicle has been freshly painted.

4.    Consider a Diminished Value Claim

The diminished value claim helps you recover the value of your car post-collision. The amount of the value primarily depends on the terms of your insurance policy and the local laws of the area where the accident took place. Therefore, if the accident wasn’t your fault and your insurance policy includes complete auto coverage, talk to your insurer to help you in reimbursing the value of your car after an accident.

5.    Keep Up with the Regular Maintenance

Keeping up with regular maintenance is one of the most undermined yet easiest solutions for how to increase vehicle value after an accident. Once all necessary repairs are made, and your vehicle has been repainted, it is time to focus on its maintenance and service. Remember that no one wants to invest in a vehicle requiring major repairs. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to check and change the fluids whenever needed and take the car out for routine servicing. Moreover, you can even talk to your mechanic about installing new upgrades in your car, as it will elevate the value of the vehicle in the long run.

Note that the insurance company will not be paying for any upgrades in most cases. Therefore, if you plan to add new performance parts or decals, you will have to pay for it out of pocket. However, modifications can increase your vehicle’s value even after it has been an accident.

Contact Us to Learn More

If your car has recently been involved in an accident, you need to do everything in your power to get as much value for your vehicle as possible. Investing in repairs and repainting is one of the best ways to increase your vehicle’s value. Take your car to a trusted professional to get the most out of your vehicle even after a collision. From using high-quality OEM parts to making all the necessary repairs, the best vehicle professionals will work closely with you to ensure that all the damages are taken care of. Whether you have a major or minor accident, make sure to follow the aforementioned tips and tricks in mind to boost its value.

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My Car Received Pothole Damage | Now What?

vehicle pothole damage solution

Even if you react in time to partially avoid them, those deep dents on the roads, known as “potholes,” end up causing damage to your car one way or another. Being a common road hazard, pothole damage is difficult to avoid. Primarily because most potholes are not always visible. That is, until the damage is done!

In case your vehicle strikes a deep, dreaded divot in the road, anything from a full-on tire rupture, a misaligned steering system, to bent rims can follow. In all cases, whether the harm is evident or not, the damage must be fixed sooner rather than later. This means that whenever your car receives a sudden jolt from hitting a pothole, it must be inspected as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might risk causing more costly damage and stress to other, more expensive vehicle components. During a full vehicle check, the trained auto care professionals will conduct a complete inspection and fix your ride right. Keep on reading to learn more about the vehicle pothole damage solutions.

1.    Wheels

Crashing into a pothole can directly damage the aluminium alloy wheel rims resulting in bending, cracking, or chipping. A pothole basically creates a huge amount of force that hits the core of your wheel and causes the wheel to lose its balance or vibrate. The bearing within the wheel is small steel balls within the wheels that contain a metal ring called a race. They play a significant role in turning the wheel side by side while making sure that the wheels rotate efficiently and reducing friction.

So, suppose the pothole damage has caused your vehicle to lose its balance. In that case, we recommend taking it to an auto care professional so that they can repair the wheel or replace it before it compromises the safety of you and your passengers.

2.    Suspension and Steering

Pothole damage isn’t only limited to the car’s wheels or tires but can harm the suspension and steering system significantly. This can damage the ball joints, struts, shocks, and alignment of your vehicle. The suspension works as a connector between the tires and the body of your car. Therefore, if you have recently noticed that your vehicle pulls to one side of the road or the steering vibrates, there is a probable chance that the suspension system is impaired. Because your car’s steering and suspension system comprises a complex mechanism, we recommend taking it to an auto care professional rather than trying to fix it on your own. The professionals will inspect the damage and either realign the system entirely or replace the defective components with new ones, whatever the vehicle pothole damage solution requires.

3.    Body

Though it’s rare that a pothole can damage your vehicle’s body, but it is not impossible. When your vehicle hits a deep pothole, there is a chance that the sides or bumpers of your car could get chipped or scratched. Even though the damage is mostly cosmetic, the repair could end up burning a hole in your pocket if neglected.

Therefore, when your car hits a pothole, pull it to the side and check for signs of damage. An auto care professional can evaluate the damage and replace the parking sensors or fog lights if needed. They will also fix the dent and apply a coat of paint over the damaged area of the car.

4.    Exhaust

Attached to the underside of your vehicle, the muffler, catalytic converter, and exhaust pipes can be threatened by potholes. Some obvious signs of pothole damage to the exhaust include loud dragging or knocking noises from the exhaust pipe.

In such cases, contact an auto care professional instantly and schedule a pothole repair. Note that any damage to your vehicle’s exhaust system can lead to the emission of poisonous gases inside your car. The auto care professional will analyze the damage and replace or repair the exhaust system accordingly.

5.    Tires

Acting as the first line of defense, the tires are the place where your car meets the surface of the road. The pothole’s harsh and uneven edges push the tire against the wheel, causing the tires to slice through or even blow out. Thereby, check the tires for obvious signs of damage, such as sidewall bulges, flat tires, and tread separation, as soon as you can after hitting a pothole. An auto care professional will check the tires for pothole damage and provide immediate attention.

Contact Us to Schedule an Inspection Today

Has your car hit a pothole recently? If yes, that is bad news as you might need to spend some time at an automotive shop. Irrespecive of the type of damage, an immediate remedy is vital to minimize the chances of minor damage turning into a major issue. Note that if not dealt with in time, pothole damage can be costly in terms of your pocket and your life.

However, the ultimate vehicle pothole damage solution here is that if you cannot avoid the pothole, step on the brakes and slow down as much as possible just before falling into it. This will prevent damage to your vehicle while keeping its components in excellent condition.