Many drivers are fearful that an auto body shop will try to take advantage of them by overcharging or charging for unnecessary repairs. In truth, most auto mechanics and body shops are honest and trustworthy, meaning that you are unlikely to get taken for a ride. However, dishonest auto body shops do exist. Keep these tips in mind to steer clear of these crooked collision centers, and you'll minimize your potential for paying inflated rates or receiving sub-par service:
Talk With Your Insurance Provider
Insurance providers typically offer their customers with a list of pre-approved auto body centers. Since you will likely be filing a claim for your auto damage anyway, a discussion with your insurance company is a convenient way to receive several recommendations for quality auto work. In order to receive pre-approval, auto body shops must meet certain criteria set forth by the insurance company. This minimizes much of the guesswork that comes with choosing a reliable auto body shop.
Get Recommendations From Friends and Family
Insurance-approved body shops are not always the best option for collision repair (discount agreements forged between the shop and the insurance agency may curb a mechanic from going above and beyond with a repair). For a second opinion, you might consider asking friends and family for recommendations on local body shops. Virtually everyone has dealt with a fender bender at one point or another. As such, someone close to you is likely to have firsthand experience with a quality collision center in your area. Better yet, if your friend personally knows someone at the auto shop, it may help net you a discount or special treatment.
Review the Credentials of the Auto Shop
Oftentimes, the most reliable auto body shops are certified by either the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (i-CAR) or the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). These two organizations hold mechanics and shops to certain levels of performance, which helps minimize the potential for poor business practices. You might also consider reviewing the track record of customer service for an auto body shop by using resources provided by the Better Business Bureau. Excessive complaints from previous customers may help uncover a dishonest auto shop.
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