Statistics show that a person will need the services of a body shop only once in every seven (7) years. When an accident happens regardless if it is a minor fender bender or a major wreck it is important to choose a trustworthy shop. It is just as important to get yourself into the hands of the right auto collision repair shop as it is to check out a contractor's credentials when you need home repair.
Choose a Trustworthy Collision Repair Shop
Check out the shop’s qualifications by asking about advanced technician training from a national organization such as the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) or National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Most body shops will employ technicians with these qualifications. Trustworthy shops will also require their technicians to attend ongoing training to stay up to date on their certifications. Ask friends and relatives for recommendations on shops that have performed quality work for them in the past. Inquire with your insurance agent about shops. Most local insurance agents know the quality shops in your area and will give you recommendations based on experience from their customers who have needed prior repairs.
Look for a Commitment of Customer Satisfaction
Ask if the shop is a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and verify their information with the BBB to see if they maintain a good reputation. Inquire about how they plan to communicate with both you and the insurance company during the repair process. A shop dedicated to Customer Satisfaction will keep you updated throughout the repair process to avoid any surprises in the number of days your vehicle will be in the shop. The collision repair shop should also work with your insurance adjuster on your behalf if there are any additional damages found after the initial inspection of your vehicle.
Rental Car Arrangements: Most reputable body shops will help you with arranging a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop.
Don’t shop by price alone. The lowest estimate could indicate that the shop’s estimator has improperly assessed the vehicle’s damage or that the shop specializes in “quickie” repair jobs and poor quality. If you get a quote that is significantly different from another shop, ask the estimator to explain why the quote is so different before you make a decision about where to have the car repaired.
Ask to see a copy of their warranty. Shops that are committed to quality repairs will back up their repairs with a guarantee of workmanship including paint, structural, metal, and plastic repairs. Many of the best collision repair shops will guarantee their work for as long as you own your car.
Schaefer Autobody Centers originally opened in 1985 at their current location in Webster Groves. Other locations include Crestwood, Ellisville, Fenton, O’Fallon and Creve Coeur. Business growth has been the result of their focus on excellent customer service and good relationships with most major insurance companies.
Most people know Schaefer Autobody Centers for their auto body repair services. However, Schaefer Autobody Centers provides additional services including dent repair, auto glass windshield replacement, auto towing, truck and commercial vehicle repairs, bumper repairs and Professional Detailing Services. Check our Auto Collision Repair Services for additional information.