The Car Collision Repair Process Explained
If you've been involved in a car accident, you need to schedule collision repairs to restore the functionality and appearance of the vehicle.
Here's a lowdown on what to expect during the auto collision repair process.
Collision Damage Assessment
Not all auto body damage is visible after a car accident. The first step in the collision repair process is to thoroughly inspect your vehicle to identify both visible and hidden damage.
Once the repair shop understands the nature and extent of the damage, they'll provide you with a free cost estimate, which typically includes the cost of materials and parts and labor time for both bodywork and paint. This allows you to see what you should expect to pay for collision repairs.
Collision Repair Scheduling
If you approve your collision repair estimate, the repair shop will schedule a timeframe for the repairs to be done. This allows you to know when the repairs will be completed.
Collision Damage Repairs
The repair shop may dismantle the damaged area of the vehicle to begin repairing it. For example, a smashed car door or hood will need to be removed before it can be hammered back into shape.
Typically, a combination of different auto body repairs is necessary to fix collision damage. These can include dent removal, panel replacement, bumper replacement, paintwork, and more.
Collision repairs aim to return your vehicle to its pre-accident condition in terms of both functionality and appearance.
Vehicle Reassembly And Testing
After completing the repairs, the dismantled parts are put back together and tested to ensure everything is working well.
Final Vehicle Inspection
Before the repair shop contacts you to pick up your vehicle, they do a final inspection to ensure all repairs were done according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications. They'll also make any necessary touch-ups or adjustments during this time.
Collision Repair Billing
The final step in the collision repair process is getting your bill from the repair shop and making payment. Once full payment is made, you can pick up your car from the repair shop or have it delivered to you. Remember, having the repaired vehicle delivered to you may attract additional fees.
The collision repair process for your car can vary depending on the type and extent of the damage and the specific auto body repair shop you choose. If you have any questions or concerns about collision repair services, contact a local auto body repair shop.