A quick guide to collision repairs
As we slide into winter — otherwise known as collision season — some of us will make our first trip to a body shop. Knowing what’s involved can help reduce a lot of the grief, and hopefully save you a few dollars.
TIME IS MONEY
First consider the entire time frame. If you’re unfortunate enough to experience a reportable collision — you do know what that is in your jurisdiction, right? — during a major storm in a large urban area, you’re in for a wait. Body shops will likely be swamped. And if your vehicle was towed to an impound yard, that can add two or more days of delay before the shop can even see the damage.
It’s hard to estimate the type of repairs required, but if more than two major panels — think fender, hood, door, bumper cover — are heavily damaged, you could be without your vehicle for a month. Your insurance may cover your rental, but read the fine print. Most will have set limits on rentals, either as a dollar amount or days of use.
If possible, arrange your rental car through your repair shop. They often get preferred rates, and if the repair takes longer than your policy’s allotted time for a rental, most shops will pick up the difference or switch you into a complimentary loaner to keep your business.
DROP IT AT THE SHOP
Arrange to have your vehicle towed to your choice of a repair shop rather than an impound yard, unless law-enforcement authorities have other orders or insurance carriers require the vehicle at a regional inspection centre. In many areas, towing and storage-yard companies have a vested interest in keeping your damaged vehicle safe for a limited time — three days, tops — because they charge fairly hefty fees to your insurance company.
If the police and your insurance company have no objections, have your vehicle towed to your shop of choice. If the tow truck driver has other ideas, call another service.
KEEP TABS ON THE REPAIR
Many collision shops offer progress reports by email or text. This can avoid multiple calls to get the status of your claim and can give you a heads up on any delays. If a required part is back-ordered, you may be able to authorize the use of another supplier to get things moving again.
When it’s time to pick up your repaired vehicle, doing so during the day makes for an easier visual inspection. If possible, take it for a road test to ensure there are no new rattles or vibrations and that everything is working as it should.