Do Not be Fooled by the Common Myths about Collision Repair
Getting into an accident can be a traumatic and confusing time, especially if it is your first time. You will be asked to make some important decisions about your vehicle and its need for collision repair in Naperville, IL. As a car owner, you may have heard stories about what happens after an accident. While some of them may be accurate, others are considered to be myths that are frightening and far from reality.
Preparing yourself for an unexpected collision is important. One way to do this is by keeping yourself from getting fooled and learning how to identify some of the most common myths regarding collision repair in Naperville, IL.
Myth #1: It is necessary to use the auto body shop that your insurance company has chosen
This is probably one of the biggest myths in the repair industry, and insurance companies may perpetuate it. If you have a preferred shop or you want to go to one that is more convenient for you, then you have every right to do so. However, you can choose to use the recommended repair shop of your insurance company. After all, they work with these shops on a regular basis and will have some idea of who can do the work with minimal issues. Plus, you may even get a great deal out of the decision.
Myth #2: Your insurance company will pay for all the damages
Depending on your insurance company, they may cover all your repairs. There are different types of policies available to you, so it is always a good idea to discuss your policy beforehand with your agency before committing to any repairs. For instance, if you have coverage called “collision coverage,” they should cover damages caused by a collision, but it will not cover the damages that existed prior to the accident. If your vehicle was damaged for another reason such as bad weather or vandalism, you will need comprehensive coverage in your policy and not simply collision coverage. In some states, the damages of your vehicle may be covered by the other party’s insurance company instead of your own.
Myth #3: You need multiple estimates before your insurance company will pay
There is not a law that keeps you from obtaining more than one estimate for collision repair. If you are shopping around for the right auto body shop, it may be in your best interest to get multiple estimates. When you have several estimates in hand, the insurance company will perform its own estimate once you choose a shop. However, it is important to take note that some insurance companies will likely pay for a repair based on the lowest estimate. The only problem with that is the lowest estimate is not usually the most dependable one.
Myth #4: After your car has been in accident, it will never be the same again
While your vehicle may be badly damaged after being in an accident, a good auto body shop will have the necessary expertise and resources to get your car back to its previous condition. This will include its safety, functioning, and the overall aesthetics of your vehicle. Therefore, your car can be running as good as new.
Myth #5: Only a dealer can do collision repair properly
Another common misconception is that only a dealership that sells the same vehicle make as yours will have the ability and the original (OEM) parts to fix your car the proper way. This is too far from the truth since a non-dealer affiliated auto body repair can order the same parts. They also have qualified technicians with experience, training, and equipment to work on all models and makes of vehicles, including yours.
Myth #6: If you go to an auto body shop other than what your insurance recommends, they will not warranty the work
The truth is, insurance companies will not warranty the work, the auto body repair shop will. Make sure to choose a shop that warranties their work for the life of the vehicle.
Do not be fooled by the various misconceptions about collision repair in Naperville, IL. Be wary of the stories that can influence how and where you should have your car repaired. Any car owner needs to know the truth when it comes to getting your vehicle’s performance and appearance restored.
