If you’re getting ready to price out auto body repairs, it’s in your best interest to get several estimates from different auto repair shops. It’s also important to understand that the quotes you receive can (and probably will) vary wildly from shop to shop. And while it might seem logical to go with the budget option to save some cash or the pricier option if you want better quality workmanship, price isn’t always a strong indicator of a shop’s service.
Although the estimated cost of repairs will undoubtedly affect your decision, price isn’t the only thing you should consider when selecting an auto body repair shop. Read on for a few valuable tips that’ll help you choose the best body repair business for your needs and budget.
Look for Positive Word of Mouth
Any auto body repair shop can advertise or tell you they do excellent work. However, reviews and recommendations from previous customers tell the real story about an auto repair shop’s workmanship and customer service.
If you find glowing reviews or get a recommendation from someone you know and trust, those are things you should give credence to. A small, mom-and-pop shop might charge less than a national chain or a dealership, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the lower price is indicative of lower-quality service. It might just mean they have less overhead and fewer employees on their payroll, and that’s reflected in the cost of their repairs.
Consider Shop Location and Operating Expenses
An auto body repair shop’s location plays a huge role in their overhead, and those operating expenses ultimately trickle down into the cost of their repairs. If you’re getting an estimate from a shop in a ritzy location, be prepared for a pricier quote than the one you’d get from a shop in middle-class neighborhood. You’ll also need to consider:
● Size of the shop
● Number of technicians
● Number of foremen, front-desk staff, managers
● The number of labor hours they estimate for the repair
● Cost and quality of parts the shop uses
All of these factors ultimately affect the shop’s cost of service. Some shops charge for non-essential work and nickel-and-dime customers for every tiny thing they do, while others are less concerned with charging for trivialities. Some businesses are more flexible and simply charge by the hour, without tacking on charges for every move they make. No matter the price on the estimate, it’s important to take a close look at how the shop operates and how that trickles down into their prices.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Details
One of the most important things you can do when pricing out auto body repairs is ask the right questions. Go in knowing what you should get for your money, and don’t hesitate to be direct. A few critical questions you should always ask:
● Do you offer a warranty? If so, how long is it?
● What does your warranty cover?
● What are the warranty’s conditions or stipulations?
● Do you carry theft and fire insurance?
● Do you use OEM or aftermarket parts?
● How many coats of paint and clear coat do you use?
If you have any other questions, ask. Ultimately, the more information you gather, the more likely you’ll be to select an auto repair shop that does excellent work at a price point that fits your budget.
Schedule a Free Auto Body Repair Estimate in Plymouth, MN
If you’re hunting for a high-caliber auto body repair shop in the Plymouth, MN area, get in touch with our team at Minnetonka Collision. We specialize in comprehensive auto body repair for high-end vehicles and we service all other makes and models of automobiles too. Whether you’re looking for a quick dent fix, hail damage repair, touchup paint, or major collision repairs, our expert technicians are here to serve you.
To learn more about our services or get a service quote, feel free to schedule a free estimate online or give us call today at 763-230-7805. Questions or concerns? Send us a message, and we’ll be in touch!