When you need auto body work, you may be tempted to take your car to the first place you find. You may be tempted to find the cheapest place to complete the work. Maybe you just want your car back in a hurry, so the place that can get the work done in the least amount of time may be where you go. All of this can result in the work not being what you expected.
Schedule Consultations
You don’t want to be unhappy with your repair. In order to avoid such an outcome with an auto repair shop in NYC, spend some time finding out who offers what. The quality of work can vary from one location to the next. The types of equipment used and procedures involved can vary. This will influence the outcome. You need to hire a professional with a good reputation for offering great work.
Talk to people you know and find out whom they have used for their vehicles. An auto repair shop is a common enough business that you likely know people who can point you in the right direction. Perhaps you have seen advertisements for a location in the area and you would like to talk to them. Once you have a few connections, call them to schedule consultations.
Being Prepared
Take your vehicle with you when you go to an auto repair shop. You want them to look at your vehicle and tell you what they can do for you. If the vehicle isn’t drivable, take photos with you so they can look at the damages. If they tell you they can’t take care of the work, thank them and be on your way. If they can help, talk to them about what the process will be.
Ask to see photos of other vehicles they have worked on. This can show you what the end results typically are with their services. Find out if they work directly with your insurance company. Most providers of such services do, and they will be happy to work with the insurance on your behalf for them to get paid.
Ask for a written estimate of the cost involved. This should provide you with the cost of the parts and also the cost of labor. Breaking down the information that way can help you to make comparisons. You can see what each of the possible providers feel your vehicle needs to get it back into exceptional condition. Don’t forget to ask when they can start the work and how long it will take. You may need to make other arrangements while your car is being fixed if it is your only source of transportation.
