4 Collision Repair Myths

Dealing with the aftermath of a car or truck accident can be very stressful. Adding to the stress are many myths that might cause you more frustration and stress. Here are four of the most common collision repair myths. Knowing the truth about these myths will help you get your car back in shape with less stress and cost to you.

Myth #1 You Have to Choose the Collision Repair Shop That Your Insurance Company Recommends

This is simply a myth. Although your insurance company might have a list of suggested or recommended collision repair shops, you are free to choose whichever repair shop that you want. The insurance company is not allowed by law to tell you where to have your car or truck repaired after an accident. They are required to work with the shop of your choice. So, choose a shop that you trust to perform your collision repairs.

Myth #2 You Have to Get 3 Estimates or Your Insurance Will Not Pay

Having an accident is stressful enough without having to deal with visiting various body shops for quotes. You have probably missed multiple days of work because of the crash and have a list of things that you need to do. Fortunately, most states do not require that you get three estimates to repair your vehicle. Your insurance company might recommend that you get multiple estimates, but you are not required to by law. You can research repair shops online or ask friends and family members for recommendations rather than visiting various shops. Conducting online research and asking for recommendations can save you time and hassle after an accident.

Myth #3 Only Dealers Offer OEM Parts

Using Original Equipment Manufactured parts for your car or truck after an accident can help keep the resale value high. Dealers are not the only repair facilities that have access to OEM parts. Unfortunately, many insurance companies will only cover aftermarket parts. However, many body repair shops will get OEM parts even if your policy doesn?t cover it. So, always the body shop if they will cover OEM parts or if they will offer a discount on OEM parts if your policy doesn't cover them.

Myth #4 Your Frame Can Never Be Fixed Once Damaged

This is a myth. If your frame has not been permanently weakened, then it can be repaired. Many of today?s new cars and trucks feature a unibody frame. With a unibody frame, the body of the car is part of the frame. Unibody frame damage is much easier to repair in modern vehicles as the frames on modern cars come in pieces. If one part of the frame is damaged, it is just removed and replaced with a new section. Most experienced auto body technicians have extensive training in handling frame damage. They have the skills and resources needed to get your car back to its former condition. The right auto body shop can get your vehicle back to its previous condition.