After a car accident in California, it might be tempting to go for the preferred auto body shop that your auto insurance suggested, thinking you can save on costs or that they’re conveniently close to your home. Seems like the easiest option, right? But what if I told you that this seemingly smart decision could cost you more in the long run?
Then, can you choose my auto body shop after an accident? Yes, of course. And it will be one of the best decisions you can make for your vehicle.
Dealing with car repairs after a car accident in California is stressful enough. The last thing you need is to worry about subpar workmanship or hidden costs. That’s why we’re here to share our expert insight and guide you through the potential pitfalls of choosing preferred auto body shops.
In this blog, we’ll cover five compelling reasons why these shops might not be your best bet and show you how to make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and ensure you get your car back in top shape without any nasty surprises!
5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Choose Preferred Auto Body Shops
1. Quality of Repairs
Preferred auto body shops often prioritize speed and cost savings over the quality of repairs. They might use shortcuts to get the job done quickly, which can compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle.
For example, these shops often skip a thorough undercarriage damage assessment and repair, especially after an accident. This is because undercarriage damage isn’t always visible and can be costly and time-consuming to repair. If left unaddressed, it can lead to severe long-term problems, including safety risks, alignment issues, and even future breakdowns.
Poorly executed repairs can lead to more problems, including safety concerns and costly fixes in the future.
2. Lack of Certified Technicians
These body shops may not always employ certified technicians. Certification from organizations like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) ensures that the technicians working on your car have met rigorous industry standards. Without certified technicians, the quality of repairs can be inconsistent and unreliable.
3. Questionable Business Practices
Preferred shops often have agreements with insurance companies that can lead to questionable business practices. These arrangements prioritize the interests of the insurance companies over those of the customers. This could result in cheaper, less effective vehicle repair methods to save costs.
4. Poor Customer Service
Customer service is another area where preferred shops can fall short. Since these shops often have a steady stream of business from insurance referrals, they might not be as motivated to provide excellent customer service.
5. Use of Non-OEM Parts
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are designed to fit and function exactly like the parts they replace. Preferred auto body shops might use non-OEM parts to cut costs, which can affect the performance and longevity of your vehicle. Non-OEM parts do not meet the same standards as original ones, leading to fit, durability, and safety issues.
How To Choose An Honest Auto Repair Shop
Finding a trustworthy auto body shop doesn’t have to be daunting. Start doing a little research, check out reviews and ratings online, and don’t hesitate to ask friends and family for their recommendations. Look for shops that employ certified technicians and use OEM parts to ensure quality repairs.
But here’s the fun part: you can easily navigate our website and directory to find the perfect body shop! We’ve done the hard work for you, listing only the best shops with stellar reputations and top-notch service. Skip the guesswork and let us guide you to a shop that will treat your car carefully.
Call the one you like and visit the shop for a first-hand experience. Don’t be shy and ask questions about the vehicle repair process, costs, parts they use, and more! A reputable shop will be transparent and happy to explain everything.
With these expert tips and a handy directory, you’ll find an honest auto body shop in no time. Happy car repair!
