After A Collision Will My Car Ever Be The Same?

Following a collision, especially a major one, it's common for vehicle owners to wonder if their car will ever return to its original state. Just like any business, the collision repair industry varies widely in terms of quality. Ensuring your vehicle returns to its pre-accident condition begins with finding a reliable auto body repair shop with a solid reputation. Collaborating with skilled professionals who prioritize quality will significantly improve the likelihood of achieving a successful repair.

 

Finding the Right Collision Repair Center

• Conduct thorough research by checking reviews across multiple platforms such as Google, Yelp, Car Wise, and third-party review sites.
• Is the facility certified? The most prestigious and nationally recognized certification is I-Car Gold Class. A repair center cannot achieve any other certification without first obtaining I-Car Gold. This certification requires annual recertification, ensuring technicians stay updated on the latest repair techniques for modern vehicles.
• Look for a warranty: A trustworthy collision repair shop will typically offer a limited lifetime warranty on workmanship for as long as the customer owns the vehicle. Parts and refinish products are subject to the manufacturer’s warranty.
• How long has the repair facility been in business, and do they have a strong track record? While some shops may have been around for decades, it’s crucial to ensure they’ve kept pace with advancements in training and technology to handle newer vehicle models effectively.
• What reputation does the facility have? Are they known for delivering high-quality repairs or prioritizing speed? Think of the difference between a fast-food chain and a gourmet restaurant—each has its own standards and expectations.

Will My Car Be the Same?

• A top-notch auto body shop will perform a comprehensive repair, addressing all collision damage, from the bodywork to the mechanical and electrical systems. It’s important to remember that cars today are vastly different from those 15 years ago. Modern collision repair technicians aren’t simply “pounding out dents.” They also need to account for the complex onboard computers, sensors, and wiring affected by the impact.

 

Key Steps in Collision Repair

• Pre-diagnostic scanning provides technicians and estimators with a full understanding of non-functioning components like onboard computers, sensors, wiring, and safety features.
• Full disassembly of the impacted area involves removing exterior panels to examine underlying parts for additional damage.
• A detailed repair plan is created, far more extensive than a simple estimate.
• Repair planners research and provide technicians with industry or manufacturer-specific repair procedures based on the vehicle’s year, make, and model.
• Post-diagnostic scanning ensures all components function correctly after repair.
• Calibrations may be required depending on the repairs performed.
• A final quality control check and a test drive are conducted before delivery.

 

A reputable collision repair center focuses on the entire repair process, from aesthetics to mechanics and electronics. While this approach takes time and incurs costs, cheaper, faster repair options often lead to subpar results and added stress for the vehicle owner down the line.

 

Parts Used

At Airpark Collision Center, we prefer using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, which are identical to those originally installed on your vehicle when it was new. However, many insurance companies push for aftermarket or salvaged parts instead. This is a broader discussion, but you can learn more about it here.

 

Even if insurance mandates non-OEM parts, choosing a quality-focused repair shop still matters. Although we can't compel insurers to cover OEM parts, there are ways to advocate for better alternatives.

• Salvaged parts are OEM but used or recycled. They can be acceptable if the repair shop inspects them thoroughly. Many times, these parts are in excellent condition, and any issues are promptly rejected by a diligent repair facility.
• Aftermarket parts come from manufacturers other than the original or those not explicitly approved by the manufacturer. While not inherently bad, careful inspection is critical. If a part doesn’t fit correctly, we can document it with photos and argue for an OEM replacement. Although this process takes time, the insurance policy language often dictates what parts are covered.

 

Is It Okay to Buy a Vehicle That Was in an Accident?

Consider the following factors before purchasing:

• What is the extent of the damage?
• Does it have a salvage title? Salvage titles can complicate insurance coverage.
• Who made the repairs? A reputable collision repair shop is essential.
• Can you arrange for an independent collision damage inspector to assess the vehicle?

 

Can a Total Loss Be Repaired?

A vehicle declared a total loss isn't always beyond repair. Here are some reasons a vehicle might be labeled as such:

• Repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value.
• Replacement parts are unavailable or on backorder indefinitely.
• Damage is too severe for standard collision repair.

 

Diminished Value

Even after a quality repair, your vehicle may look and function perfectly, but potential concerns could arise regarding its Carfax report. While Airpark Collision Center does not report to Carfax, other entities such as the police, city departments, or towing companies might. Diminished value questions should be directed to an attorney or insurance provider. Beyond providing a detailed invoice for the repair, including parts and labor, the collision repair facility generally has no direct involvement in diminished value issues.

Airpark Collision Center opened in 2006 with a commitment to quality repairs and honest, friendly service. Over the years, we’ve witnessed significant changes in vehicle design and the collision repair industry. We continue to invest in advanced training and cutting-edge tools to maintain our north Scottsdale facility’s high standards. Visit us for a free estimate or click here to schedule one.