Body Shop's are not just for accidents

Body shops don't just come in handy when you have an accident repair. They also do custom work on vehicles!

When selecting a body shop you can't just go with the first one you found in a search. Not all shops are created equal. Some shops specialize in working with insurance companies while others are more customer focussed.

Here's a breakdown of other common services they offer:

1. Paint Jobs: Vehicle body shops can provide full or partial paint jobs to vehicles, whether to address fading, scratches, or to change the color of the car completely.
2. Rust Removal and Repair: Over time, cars can develop rust, which can weaken the structure. Body shops can remove rust and repair the affected areas.
3. Dent Removal: Not all dents come from accidents. Small dings and dents can occur from parking lot incidents, hail, or other minor impacts. Body shops can fix these without needing to repaint the entire panel in many cases.
4. Customization: Some body shops specialize in vehicle customization, including adding spoilers, body kits, custom lighting, and other aesthetic modifications.
5. Restoration: For classic cars or vehicles that have seen better days, body shops can perform restorations to bring them back to their original glory or customize them to the owner's preferences.
6. Window Tinting: Although not available at all body shops, some offer window tinting services to enhance a vehicle's appearance and reduce heat and glare inside the car.
7. Wheel Repairs: Damage to alloy wheels, such as scuffs and scratches, can often be repaired at body shops.
8. Headlight Restoration: Over time, headlights can become cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility. Many body shops offer restoration services to improve the clarity of the headlights.

These services can improve a vehicle's appearance, maintain its value, and in some cases, improve safety. It's always a good idea to check with your local body shop to see the full range of services they offer, as capabilities can vary.

Selecting a good vehicle body shop is crucial for ensuring quality repairs, fair pricing, and satisfactory customer service. Here are some tips to help you choose a reliable body shop:

1. Look for Certifications: Reputable body shops often have certifications from industry organizations or from car manufacturers themselves. Certifications indicate that the shop has met certain standards of training and quality in their work.
2. Check Reviews and References: Look up online reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google, and specialized automotive forums. Personal recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues can also be invaluable. Pay attention to comments about the quality of repairs, customer service, and whether the job was completed on time and within the quoted price.
3. Ask About Warranties: A good body shop will stand behind its work with a warranty. Inquire about what the warranty covers and for how long. Warranties on body work and paint can vary significantly from shop to shop.
4. Get Multiple Estimates: Shopping around can give you a better idea of what the repairs will cost and help you identify any outliers. However, the cheapest estimate isn’t always the best. Consider the thoroughness of the estimate and the quality of the parts they plan to use.
5. Inquire About Equipment and Techniques: A well-equipped shop with up-to-date tools and technologies is more likely to provide high-quality repairs. Ask if they use factory or aftermarket parts and whether they have experience with your vehicle's make and model.
6. Assess the Facility: The appearance and organization of the shop can be a reflection of the work they do. A clean, well-organized facility is often a good sign. It's also worth noting if they seem to have a steady flow of customers, which can indicate a trustworthy business.
7. Check for a Professional Attitude: Customer service matters. Pay attention to how they handle your questions and concerns. A reputable shop should be willing to explain their process, provide a detailed estimate, and communicate effectively throughout the repair process.
8. Look for a Shop that Specializes in Your Type of Vehicle: Some body shops specialize in certain makes or types of vehicles. Choosing a shop that knows your vehicle well can lead to better results.
9. Consider Location and Convenience: While not the most important factor, the location of the shop can affect convenience and, sometimes, the cost of repairs. Shops in more expensive areas may have higher rates.
10. Insurance Company Recommendations: Insurance companies often have a list of preferred providers. While these recommendations can be a good starting point, you’re not obligated to use them and should still conduct your own research.

Doing your homework before choosing a body shop can save you time and ensure that you get the best possible service and results for your vehicle repairs.