Repair - Collision Repair Medford, Oregon - 24 Hour Towing Medford

Ten Useful Things You Should Know About Collision Repair:

1. Your car is the second largest investment you're likely to make.

Preserve its value and your safety by having it repaired

professionally.

2. Never drive a car that could be unsafe because of damages.

3. Some insurance companies may want you to visit the drive-in

claims center before having

your car repaired. You can do this, or you may leave your

car at your collision repair shop and ask that the insurance company inspect the car there.

4. You are not required by law to obtain more than one estimate of appraisal.

5. You have the right to go to the repair shop of your choice. Your insurance company cannot

require you to go to a particular shop.

6. Differences in repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not include all necessary

work. If you're not sure why one estimate is different from another you've received, ask the

shop manager.

7. Choose a shop that has uni-body repair equipment and certified (by I-CAR or ASE, for example)

technicians.

8. Ask if the shop will be using genuine manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts.

9. Ask if the shop offers a repair warranty.

10. Let the collision repair shop you choose help you negotiate your claim with the insurance

company. This often leads to a better deal.

Choosing A Repair Facility

Our first recommendation is to check out a quality collision repair facility in your area.

Quality shops will have the following:

• An overall high level of CSI (Customer Satisfaction)

• Technical training-a priority. Many shops display certification of training, such as the I-CAR Gold Class logo.

• Participation in Paint Supplier Value-Added Programs and may offer warranties on their paint refinish work.

• Referrals from nationally recognized insurers.

Direct Repair Programs

If your damages involve an insurance carrier, a number of carriers offer a "Direct Repair Program" where they have aligned themselves and recommend specific collision repair shops. In exchange for these direct referrals, these participating shops may agree to certain discounts and concessions. In addition, these shops agree to expedite repairs to further reduce costs (i.e.: rental) and inconvenience.

Although most of these insurers provide a warranty on repairs under these programs, we strongly recommend that as the owner, you interview the repairer prior to having your vehicle moved to or repaired by one of these shops. Ask about their policy of offerings, such as factory replacement parts, warranty (lifetime if possible), and if they are in a position to act on your behalf regarding the repair methodology and processes utilized. Remember that the repairer should represent your needs and work in cooperation with the insurer in achieving a repair that properly and thoroughly restores your vehicle to its pre-loss condition relative to safety, appearance, reliability and function.

It is your choice as to where to have repairs performed. It is an important decision involving the repair of a significant investment. Make your selection based on sound answers to your questions. Do not assume all Direct Repair shops offer equal quality, nor should you merely rely upon the warranty provided by the insurer.

The vast majority of typical collision repair work comes from repeat and referral business from past customers. Ask friends and relatives for recommendations on shops that have performed quality work for them in the past. Also, check for sign of participation in advanced technician training such as the I-CAR GOLD certification as mentioned above. Membership in trade associations and local business groups is another indicator of a shop's commitment to their business and your satisfaction.