How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop

As an automobile owner, your chances of requiring the services of a collision repair and refinishing facility are higher than you think. Whether it is from storm damage, rust and corrosion, acid rain and harsh sunlight, or an automobile accident outright, the risks are real. It's wise, then, to know how to pick an auto body shop.

Oftentimes when people are involved in an accident they assume "the insurance company will deal with it for me.'' In fact, it's your duty to decide on who will do the repairs for you. This isn't a choice which should be taken lightly, as it can involve protecting a significant investment. That is why CARSTAR Arnold has put together this list of tips for you as you decide which auto body shop can meet your needs. They have years of experience handling all types of vehicles in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, and St. Louis, MO.

Preliminaries

• Start looking for an auto body shop before you need one; you can make better decisions when you're not rushed or in a panic.
• Ask your friends and acquaintances for their recommendations. Even in this modern era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation continues to be valuable.
• Check with your local consumer organization regarding the reputation of the facility in question. Ask about the number of complaints, if any, and find out how the complaints were resolved.
• Always try to visit the auto body shop before you make the decision on who will fix your vehicle.

At the Shop

• Ask if the auto body shop generally handles your vehicle make and model. Ask how long the auto body shop has been in business.
• Look for a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. Many vehicle manufacturers suggest specific auto body repair procedures and equipment for the repair of their automobiles. Ensure that the facility you decide on is trained in these procedures and has the proper equipment.
• Professionally run facilities will have a polite, helpful staff ready to answer all your questions.
• Try to find signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, customer service awards.
• Oftentimes you can easily see the vehicles being fixed by the auto body shop. Are you impressed by the type of vehicles the company is fixing and the way the vehicles are being taken care of?
• Also search for indications that the staff is technically competent, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work training from I-CAR.
• All policies, guarantees, and methods of payment should be posted or explained to your satisfaction.

Being alert and attentive when you go to an auto body shop will tell you a lot about what to expect from your auto body repair. If you would like an estimate or have questions relating to auto body repair, please contact CARSTAR Arnold in Arnold, Missouri.