About Steve's CARSTAR

About Our Company

Heath Harris,
Owner

Steve's CARSTAR has been servicing the collision repair needs of Arnold and Jefferson County for more than 30 years and recently received a 99.12% customer satisfaction rating! Steve's technicians are I-CAR and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified and our equipment is all specially designed to bring your vehicle back to pre-accident condition. Owner Heath Harris continues to improve on their business through ongoing education and awareness of the latest collision repair techniques in an effort to give their customers the best service possible. Steve's CARSTAR has a talented and service-driven staff of 13 people.

CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with more than 400 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR is committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989.

Giving Back To The Community

Participating St. Louis locations and other CARSTAR locations across the country are making a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® for every car they repair and nationally, CARSTAR auctioned off a specially recreated 1967 Super'Stang Mustang in January, 2009 with net proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation®!

The Metro St. Louis CARSTAR collision service group continues its support of the local Make-A-Wish Foundation with a commitment to help grant a wish to Matt, a South County resident in remission from Hodgkin's disease. His wish is to have his S-10 truck repaired and tricked out, complete with a hot new paint job! For more information about this Wish and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri chapter, visit www.mo.wish.org or call 1-800-548-5058.

The CARSTAR Super'Stang is a recreation of a unique 1967 Mustang created by the Ford Motor Company, but never made available to the general public. The Super'Stang is in the midst of an 18-month nationwide 'Muscle Tour' to highlight the minimum $150,000 commitment that CARSTAR has made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation nationally and the $20,000+ commitment that the St. Louis CARSTAR group has made locally.

For information about the national Make-A-Wish Foundation, please visit www.wish.org.

Local Partners

Recognizing the importance of quality training in the auto body repair field, the Metro St. Louis CARSTAR Group has formed a partnership with Ranken Technical College, donating $35,000 to the school's automotive collision repair program. The majority of CARSTAR's donation will be allocated to stocking and furnishing an auto collision repair classroom. The new CARSTAR classroom will be equipped with smartboards and other essential 21st century learning tools, enhancing the traditional learning aspects of the program.

For more information please contact our website at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair.

Choosing An Auto Body Shop

You should choose a body shop that provides a complete written estimate, follows a structured repair process for every vehicle and features trained, certified repair experts. A national affiliation usually reflects higher quality repair standards, as does a nationwide warranty. Look for a body shop that uses the highest-quality parts and products to restore your vehicle, who will keep you informed throughout the repair process, provides excellent customer service, delivers your vehicle on time, and conducts a thorough inspection of all repairs before putting you back on the road.

Auto Body Repair Process

The repair process begins with you bringing your vehicle in for an estimate with a trained estimator. If you choose that shop, they will work with your insurance agent to process the repair claim. A quality shop will conduct a thorough evaluation of all damaged areas of the vehicle to determine any structural or mechanical damage. They will order the needed parts for your vehicle and then complete the repair. Once the repair is complete, they will conduct a detailed inspection of the interior and exterior of your vehicle to ensure a quality repair.

The Estimate

Your estimate should include a thorough inspection of the work to be done on your vehicle, a description of the repair parts to be used, what items your insurance will and will not cover and the expected amount of the repair. One of the reasons estimates may differ from another shop is thoroughness of the appraisal process. Some estimates may leave necessary repairs out of the initial estimate, causing the amount to be different from another facility. At Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair we are thorough to identify the steps necessary for a quality and safe repair for your vehicle.

Ensure A Quality Repair

A quality repair begins with a comprehensive inspection to fully assess the damage and repairs needed to the vehicle. A structured repair process should be used to ensure the repair meets the vehicle manufacturer’s standards. A thorough repair should be performed by experts with I-CAR and ASA certifications, and training in the latest vehicle materials and technology and uses the highest quality parts and products should be used to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition. Before the vehicle is returned to you, a thorough interior and exterior inspection, a test drive and a complete detail should be completed to ensure the repair meets your standards.

Warranty Information

Read the fine print to understand if their warranty is available nationwide and how long your vehicle will be covered. If your vehicle is still under a manufacturer’s warranty, it doesn’t mean it has to be repaired at a dealership. Most dealerships do not have their own collision repair facility and outsource their vehicles for repairs. Your vehicle's warranty is with your vehicle's manufacturer, not with the dealership. When choosing a collision repair facility, look for a body shop that offers a nationwide warranty that will be honored at any of their locations.

Please visit our website for more information at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair.

DARE TO REPAIR

DARE TO REPAIR

What Will the Vehicle You Buy Cost to Repair If You Have an Car Accident?

ARNOLD, MO (July 2010) – When you purchase a new car, the last thing you are thinking about is what it will cost to repair. But the expense of repairing bumpers, door panels and hoods can vary widely by automobile model, and often the cost of the repair doesn’t correspond to the value.
Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts, which completes the repair of a damaged vehicle every :30 seconds, carefully monitors the cost of vehicle repairs on all makes and models of vehicles. These costs not only contribute to the repair bill, it also drives the cost to insure the vehicle.
“When you’re analyzing what car to buy, it’s important to factor in what it will cost to insure and repair the vehicle should you be in an auto accident,” said Dan Young, Senior Vice President, Insurance, for CARSTAR. “We want to help educate car owners about what to expect when they have to make repairs so they make a smart decision on their car purchase and avoid sticker shock at the body shop.”
A few alarming numbers to consider when replacing damaged parts with OEM equipment are:

• The running board on a Lincoln Navigator is $2200
  
• The fender on a Chrysler 300 is less than $100 but the molding is $90
  
• The rear door lock on a 2008 Lexus 460 is over $900, the door trim panel is over $2,000 and the rear door belt molding is over $1,000.
  
• The quarter panel on 2000-2007 Ford Taurus is $1,397.45
  

So what four door passenger type automobiles are the most affordable and most expensive to repair when considering the “collision” coverage loss experience, which is the total cost paid out to repair or replace the damages sustained to the car?
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety loss data shows the Honda Accord as the top performer, while Mitsubishi Galant is the bottom of the list when looking at four door passenger type cars. Judged on a scale where 100 is average and lower scores represent more affordable repairs, the results are as follows.
The 2006-2008 Honda Accord has a relative loss experience rating of 78, which was 23 percent better than the average result of 100. The remaining top nine performers and their relative scores were:

• Saturn Aura (83)
  
• Chevrolet Malibu (new model) (84)
  
• Mercury Milan 4WD (90)
  
• Hyundai Sonata (92)
  
• Chrysler Sebring (93)
  
• Ford Fusion (98)
  
• Mercury Milan (100)
  
• Toyota Camry Hybrid (101)
  
• Subaru Legacy 4WD (102)
  

The worst performing vehicle model during the 2006-2008 years was the Mitsubishi Galant at 132. Rounding out the most expensive vehicles to repair (from a loss cost standpoint) were:

• Nissan Maxima (131)
  
• Pontiac G6 (124)
  
• Nissan Altima Hybrid (123)
  
• Nissan Altima (123)
  
• Volvo S40 (122)
  
• Acura TSX (122)
  
• Mazda 6 Hatchback (121)
  
• Mazda 6 (119)
  
• Chevrolet Malibu (old model) (117)
  

“It’s important to think through the total cost of owning the vehicle, whether you’re buying a new or pre-owned vehicle,” said Young. “Because we repair so many vehicles, we can truly assess which ones are more cost-efficient to repair relative to the value of the car. The more you know about the car you are buying, the better decision you can make.”
If the unfortunate vehicle accident does occur, Young recommended having a collision plan in place so you aren’t stranded on the roadside waiting for assistance. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offer high-quality, reliable repair service in Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, St. Louis MO. For information and store locations visit www.stlcarstar.com
About CARSTAR CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with over 400 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR is committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989. Our technicians and front office staff receive ongoing training to ensure they are qualified to work on any car. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority as we consistently lead the industry in customer satisfaction ratings.

OH DEER!

OH DEER!
Avoid the Bucks to Save Big Bucks on Collision Repairs
ARNOLD, MO (September 16, 2013) – You’re driving down the highway at the end of the day, when all of a sudden you say “Oh Dear?” as a giant head of antlers smashes into your front fender.
You can avoid an automobile accident with a buck – and spending lots of bucks on the damage – by following some smart driving tips this fall and winter. Every year, some 1.5 million drivers hit a deer, and the cold weather months are peak season for deer-vehicle collisions.
Deer crashes result in at least $1.1 billion a year in automobile damage, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. On average, the accidents cost $2,800 per insurance claim, and up to $10,000 if there is injury to the driver or a passenger, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
The Risks Are not Just in Rural Areas
The top states for deer-related accidents range throughout the country, and no longer are these accidents relegated to rural areas. The top 10 deer danger states are:

1. Pennsylvania
   
2. Michigan
   
3. Illinois
   
4. Ohio
   
5. Georgia
   
6. Minnesota
   
7. Virginia
   
8. Indiana
   
9. Texas
   
10. Wisconsin
    

As migration and mating season hit full swing, the dangers rise, making October through December the most treacherous months on the road where deer are concerned.
Drive Defensively to Avoid Deer Dangers
Early morning and sundown are the worst times for deer accidents, as visibility is limited and deer are often on the move. It is important to drive defensively and anticipate the potential for deer in the road so you can safely stop and avoid the accident.
The auto experts at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair, who repair thousands of automobiles each year from deer-related accidents, offer the following tips to reduce the deer danger:

1. Use extra caution at dawn and sunset, and around golf courses, fields and wooded areas.
   
2. Remember that deer travel in packs – if you spot one, there are likely more behind it.
   
3. Don't swerve to avoid striking a deer, as that increases the risk of hitting another vehicle or losing control of your car.
   
4. If there is no opposing traffic, use high beams at night to better illuminate deer.
   
5. Don't rely on devices such as deer whistles, which are attached to the outside of a car, to try to scare off deer with an ultrasonic or high-frequency sound. They have not been proved to reduce deer-vehicle collisions.
   
6. If a deer remains on the highway after you hit it, report the incident to the game commission or a local law enforcement agency, as the deer poses a danger to other drivers. If the deer might still be alive, don't go near it because a wild animal with sharp hooves can inflict injuries.
   

Preparation is Smart Protection
If an accident with a deer does occur, it pays to be protected. Many drivers do not realize that carrying only collision coverage does not cover damage from a deer accident, leaving them with a damaged vehicle and a large repair bill.
To fully cover any potential damage, drivers should carry comprehensive insurance that covers such crashes. For those driving an older vehicle who feel their cars aren’t worth the cost of the insurance, it is smart to keep an “accident fund” if something does occur.
If a driver ends up stranded in the woods with a damaged vehicle and a buck decorating their hood, they can always call 1-800-CARSTAR. They will send the tow truck, call their insurance company and help them get back on the road.
For more tips on dealing with a car accident or having your car repaired after a collision, visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offers high-quality and reliable repair for more information and store locations, visit www.stlcarstar.com.
About CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with over 400 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR Auto Body Experts are committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989. Our technicians and front office staff receive ongoing training to ensure they are qualified to work on any vehicle. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority as we consistently lead the industry in customer satisfaction ratings.

RAINY DAY TIPS FOR YOUR CAR AND PERSONAL SAFETY

Everybody likes to conserve money when they can, especially when it comes to vehicle upkeep. Driving on a rainy day can be a costly and dangerous proposition unless you and your vehicle are very well prepared.

Many drivers overlook the impact rainy weather can have until its too late, but a few smart driving tips from the experts at Steve’s CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, part of the nation’s largest chain of collision repair shops, can keep you out of trouble. Knowing how to drive defensively in the rain is a good investment in you and your car or truck.

Here are a few tips from Steve’s CARSTAR Auto Body Repair, also serving Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus and St. Louis that make both sense and cents.

• Before it starts to rain, change out old or damaged wiper blades.
  
• Check all of the vehicle’s light bulbs to make sure they are working.
  
• Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in outside lanes.
  
• Maintain proper following distance (3 second rule). This needs to be multiplied in wet weather.
  
• Drive in the tracks of a car or truck ahead of you.
  
• Don’t follow large trucks too closely, because the spra
  y created by their large tires can reduce vision.
  
• Be more alert watching for brake lights in front of you.
  
• Keep Away From using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
  
• Turn your headlights on anytime you feel a need to use your wipers, in a light rain and in gloomy, foggy, or overcast conditions to help you see the road and help other drivers see you.
  
• Do not use cruise control on rain soaked roadways – you’ll have better control in wet weather without it.
  
• Never drive through moving water if you can’t see the ground through it; your vehicle could be swept off the road.
  
• Watch out for places where floodwater collects, particularly low-lying roads adjacent to streams, and dips under rail or highway bridges.
  
• Avoid driving through deep water, because it can cause serious damage to a modern vehicle’s electrical system.
  
• If possible, stay off the road during heavy thunderstorms. Large flashes of lightning can temporarily blind and disorient drivers, and the accompanying high winds and heavy rain can create deadly driving conditions.
  
• When you need to stop or slow, do not brake hard or lock the wheels and risk a skid. Maintain gentle pressure on the brake pedal.
  

Steve’s CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold also knows a most unwelcome situation – hydroplaning – may develop when conditions are wet. Vehicle speed, tire tread depth and water depth all factor into hydroplaning.

As speed increases, wet traction is considerably reduced. Maintaining proper treading on tires and replacing them when necessary can help prevent hydroplaning. The deeper the water, the sooner you will lose traction, although even thin water layers can cause a loss of traction, including at low speeds.

If you find yourself hydroplaning or skidding, Steve’s CARSTAR Auto Body Repair offers the following advice:

• Do not brake or turn suddenly.
  
• Ease your foot off the gas until the vehicle slows and you can feel traction on the road again.
  
• Turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid. As you regain control, gradually straighten the wheels.
  
• If you need to brake, do it gently with light pumping action. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, then brake normally because the car or truck’s computer will imitate a pumping action.
  

HIGH WATERS LEAVE HIGH AUTO REPAIR BILLS IN THEIR WAKE

Water is welcome in many forms, but when Mother Nature will not turn her faucet off the damage cost can be seen in many different circumstances – including damage to your automobile.

Among the most regularly damaged items in some flooding scenarios are cars and trucks. Even a little bit of water goes a long way in causing serious destruction both inside and out. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO can help you understand what shape your car or truck is in and ensure you do not get sunk by buying a water-damaged vehicle.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO, part of the nation’s largest family of auto body experts, knows the warning signs of an excessive soaking. Here are some key points to consider.

• Examine upholstery and carpeting closely; if it doesn't match the interior or fits loosely, it may have been replaced. Discolored, faded or stained materials could reveal water damage.
• Smell for musty odors – this could mean mildew.
• Check the trunk, glove compartment, the dashboard and beneath the seats for signs of water damage such as silt, dirt or rust.
• Turn the ignition key and make sure that accessory and warning lights and gauges come on and work properly. Make sure the airbag and ABS lights come on.
• Test lights (interior and exterior), windshield wipers, turn signals, cigarette lighter, radio, heater and air conditioner several times to make sure they work.
• Bend some of the wires underneath the dashboard. Wet wires will become weak upon drying and may crack
• Look for rust in the wheel wells, under the hood and under the rear of the car.
• Go to a trustworthy mechanic for an inspection. Always get your cars and trucks checked BEFORE handing over any money.

And just because a driver may not live near any major bodies of water, auto industry experts caution that the risk of buying a water-damaged car or truck is not limited to storm and flood-ravaged places. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO, also serving Oakville, Imperial, Festus, St. Louis MO, can help you find automotive peace of mind.

Damaged cars are often restored cosmetically and relocated to nearby states or other areas of the country where many are sold to unsuspecting customers. These flood-waters can cause damage to a vehicle's computer and electrical systems, as well as potentially causing anti-lock braking and airbag systems to fail.

Headlight Hazing a Major Hazard for Drivers: Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold MO help you!

Headlight Hazing a Major Hazard for Drivers:

Headlight Restoration Service from Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Gives Vehicles an Easy Facelift and Improve Visibility and Safety on the Road

Many Arnold, MO drivers are on the road with a safety problem they do not see. Hazed or cloudy headlights can reduce visibility and make it extremely hard to see obstacles and other vehicles. These hazed headlights also give the automobile an aged appearance and decrease its worth.

Plastic headlights help reduce the weight of automobiles and withstand impact, oxidation and sunlight can dull the surface, discolor or leave it cloudy and hazy. This means the light from the headlights is diffused and not focused correctly on the roadway, which limits visibility in dark, rainy or foggy conditions. Not only can the driver of the vehicle not see the roadway, the vehicle also is less visible to other cars.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair has partnered with 3M, together we can offer a reliable solution that delivers excellent results and improved vehicle safety - at a very affordable price.

For more tips on dealing with an accident or having your car repaired after a collision, visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offers high-quality, reliable repair service in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. Visit www.stlcarstar.com when you need a vehicle repair and they will send the tow truck, contact your insurance company, arrange for a rental car and repair your car.