auto body shop Archives - Car Struction https://carstruction.com/tag/auto-body-shop/ Collision Center | 757.523.2495 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:14:34 +0000 en hourly 1 https://carstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/cropped-carstruction-site-icon-32x32.png auto body shop Archives - Car Struction https://carstruction.com/tag/auto-body-shop/ 32 32 What is Collision Repair? https://carstruction.com/what-is-collision-repair/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:24:58 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=1860 The post What is Collision Repair? appeared first on Car Struction.

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How do you know if you need collision repair?

If you’ve been in a car accident, finding a good auto body shop isn’t exactly your top priority. In fact, you may be wondering, what is collision repair? Collision repair involves restoring a damaged vehicle to its pre-accident condition. This could mean a few cosmetic repairs or major structural repairs. With help from your insurance company, a quality repair shop will get you back on the road quickly. If you live in Chesapeake, VA, call Car Struction with your auto repair needs!

The Repair Process

The auto repair process following an accident may seem overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can make it a bit easier. Here is a snapshot of what takes place during collision repair:

Your insurance company will begin by inspecting the damage done to your vehicle. After they decide what can be fixed on your car, they will prepare an estimate of the repairs.

The next step is to take your car to a collision repair shop. The technicians will survey the damage and prepare an estimate to perform the work. Assuming you agree with the estimate, they can begin repairs.

The process of repairing your vehicle begins with dismantling the damaged parts. Auto body technicians will replace or repair them as needed. As soon as the technicians complete the repairs, they will reassemble your vehicle and return it to you.

The Importance of Repair

The Highway Loss Data Institute reports that over one third of drivers they surveyed had not taken their vehicle to a collision repair shop following an accident.

Nearly half of those who had been in an accident said they didn’t think it was necessary to have their vehicle repaired. This is a surprising statistic considering that auto repair after an accident is not only important for its resale value, but also for the safety of its passengers.

Failure to have a car properly repaired after a collision may make it dangerous to drive. It can also compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and prevent the airbags from deploying properly.

So even if you’ve been in a minor collision, be sure to take your vehicle to a reputable auto repair shop.

Conclusion

To summarize, collision repair is the process of repairing a vehicle that has been damaged in an accident. It is important to choose a reputable repair shop that has experience in repairing your type of vehicle. Be sure to get an estimate of the repair costs before authorizing any work to be done. At Car Struction, our experienced technicians specialize in collision repair. If you live in Hampton Roads, call today to receive an estimate to fix the damage to your vehicle today!

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]]> About Car Paint Shops https://carstruction.com/about-car-paint-shops/ Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:30:47 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=1850 The post About Car Paint Shops appeared first on Car Struction.

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About Car Paint Shops

If you need to have a car painted, there is a lot to learn about car paint shops. There are benefits to taking your car to a car paint shop rather than doing it yourself. They offer a selection of paint types depending on the car you’re looking to paint.

auto body paint company chesapeake

Types of Car Paint

Each type of car paint has its own unique characteristics. Enamel paint is the most common and the most durable. It has a lacquer base so it resists fading and chipping. It’s also easy to clean. Acrylic enamel, another common paint type, easy to clean, durable and glossy too. Unlike enamel paint, it may not be as impervious to fading and chipping. There is a trend among auto manufacturers to use water-based paints instead of oil-based paints. Water-based paints are more environmentally friendly and emit fewer pollutants than oil-based paints. On the other hand, they are less glossy and durable than oil-based paints.

What to Look For in a Car Paint Shop

There are several things to keep in mind when looking for a car paint shop. First is the quality of the work. Ask to see examples of work they’ve done in the past and check their references. Both price and location of the shop will weigh into your decision too. Lastly, it’s wise to ask if the paint shop offers a warranty with its work.

How to Prepare Your Car For a Paint Job

Washing your vehicle is an important first step to prepare your car to be painted. Be sure to apply a degreaser to get rid of any oil or dirt from car’s old paint surface. You’ll want to remove any wax or polish from the surface as well.

Next, use a sandpaper to rough up the surface of the car. This will help the paint adhere better to the surface. If there are any scratches or dents in the surface, use a putty knife to fill them in before painting.

Once the surface is prepared, it’s time to choose a paint color. If you’re not sure which color to choose, take your car to a paint shop and have them match it with a sample of paint from their database.

Once you’ve chosen a color, buy enough paint to cover your entire car.

Car Paint Shops Near Me

If you’re looking for a car paint shop near you, there are plenty of options to choose from. Check the Internet for paint shops in your local area or ask people you know if they can recommend a shop. Customer service and quality of paint jobs are important factors to consider when choosing who to go with. Be sure to find out if the shop you’re considering is certified by your car’s manufacturer. This is a sign that the shop’s technicians have the qualifications to work on your specific vehicle.

Cost is another important decision-making factor when shopping for paint shops. Be sure to gather estimates from several places so you can make the best, most cost-effective decision for you.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to have your car painted, there a many car paint shops that offer this service. Find out about the options they provide and the range of colors available to choose from. You will have an opportunity to select a finish that complements your personal taste style.

At Car Struction, we have more than 20 years of experience providing quality repairs to customers who need auto body repair work. Call us at 757-523-2495 or check us out online.

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]]> What’s the Difference Between an Auto Body Shop and an Auto Repair Shop? https://carstruction.com/whats-the-difference-between-an-auto-body-shop-and-an-auto-repair-shop/ Tue, 24 May 2022 19:52:36 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=1759 The post What’s the Difference Between an Auto Body Shop and an Auto Repair Shop? appeared first on Car Struction.

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Auto Body Shop vs. Auto Repair Shop

Your car needs a little work after a minor fender bender, but you find yourself wondering, “What’s the Difference between auto body shop and an auto repair shop?” After all, it sounds like both work on cars and could potentially get your car looking its best.

There is a difference between an auto body shop and an auto repair shop. Here’s what you need to know.

Auto Body Shops

Your car consists of two primary areas: the body (responsible for holding passengers, the engine, and all the other components in your car) and the engine (the part that allows your car to move).

An auto body shop handles repairs that are related to your car’s body, including its exterior components and non-moving parts.

Some repairs that an auto body shop (also known as a collision center) can complete include:

  • Fixing dents in your car’s sheet metal
  • Painting your vehicle or restoring your current paint color
  • Replacing damaged components, including bumpers, body panels, and doors
  • Fixing or replacing damaged glass

An auto body shop completes both minor repairs and major automobile restorations. It’s a misconception that repairs completed by an auto body shop are only cosmetic.

Your vehicle certainly looks better when the body, paint, and windows aren’t damaged. After all, your vehicle’s body is its primary support system.

Without the body, your car could literally collapse. If work pertaining to your car’s body isn’t properly completed, your vehicle won’t have the support it needs to protect you during a collision.

 

How Much is Full Body Work on a Car?

The price of full body work on a car ultimately depends on the exact work being completed and the make and model of your car.

It can cost between $600-$10,000 to repair the frame of a vehicle while repairing a car’s paint job will run between $1,000-$5,000.

Factors that affect the cost of full body work on a car include:

  • The vehicle’s make, model, and trim (parts for certain vehicles are more expensive and some cars require more labor to fix)
  • What components are damaged (it’s more expensive to replace or fix multiple parts)
  • Whether your paint can be touched up (touching up a vehicle’s paint job is significantly cheaper than painting the whole car)
  • Whether a part can be fixed or requires replacement (replacement is usually more expensive)

Some auto body repair shops also handle vehicle alignments. After a collision, it’s common for a vehicle to require a wheel alignment to make sure that the vehicle drives straight and the tires wear evenly and maintain their full lifespan.

 

When Does a Vehicle Need Auto Body Work?

A vehicle usually doesn’t need auto body work as part of its regular maintenance schedule. Instead, vehicle owners commonly need body work done after a collision with another car or building.

Even a minor accident can cause significant body damage. This is one reason that it’s essential to have your vehicle checked out after a seemingly insignificant collisions.

Weather is another reason you might need body work. Hail that’s a quarter of an inch or larger in diameter can cause minor damage, while hail that’s an inch or more in diameter is likely to cause moderate to severe damage.

 

Auto Repair Shops

An auto repair ship completes repairs and maintenance tasks that are related to the car’s engine.

Tasks that an auto repair shop can complete include:

  • Changing your oil and filters
  • Diagnosing unknown vehicle problems
  • Replacing your brake components
  • Repairing damaged or worn-out engine components
  • Putting on new tires
  • Fixing parts that wear out due to driving (like belts or hoses)
  • Repairing electrical issues
  • Fixing your car’s AC or heat
  • Repairing your exhaust system
  • Checking your fluids

Services provided by an auto repair shop help keep your vehicle running and ensure that your vehicle is offering you peak performance.

For example, an auto repair shop can replace your car’s air filter to prevent dirty air from affecting your gas mileage and overall power.

Or, if your vehicle is having trouble accelerating, an auto repair shop will work to diagnose and fix the issue.

 

How to Find an Auto Body Repair Shop

So now you know the answer to “What’s the Difference between auto body shop and an auto repair shop?” When seeking auto body work, it’s important to utilize a reputable shop that stands by its work. Online reviews are typically helpful for finding an experienced auto body repair shop, or you can ask friends and family for a referral.

At Car Struction, we have more than 20 years of experience providing quality repairs to customers who need auto body repair work. Call us at 757-523-2495 or check us out online.

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]]> What Should You Do Before and After Auto Body Repair? https://carstruction.com/before-and-after-auto-body-repair/ Thu, 02 Mar 2017 18:24:48 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=676 The post What Should You Do Before and After Auto Body Repair? appeared first on Car Struction.

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Not sure what to do before and after auto body repair?

Getting your vehicle repaired can be stressful. Auto body repair is often daunting, expensive, and time-consuming, but it’s necessary. You want your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. That’s understandable, but what next? Here’s what to do before and after the auto body repair.

Once you’ve been in a collision, the chaos begins. You’re dealing with insurance companies and auto repair shops. Don’t panic. Follow these steps for a smooth and painless process. These tips can make you feel more comfortable handling auto body repair.

Before the Repairs
  1. Understand Your Insurance Policies

Prepare for any situation by understanding your insurance policy. Call your insurance provider or log in to your account to see your coverage. Your provider can offer useful advice. Consider the cost of auto body repairs when reviewing your insurance policy and deductible amounts. Ensure you’re financially comfortable if you need to pay an out-of-pocket deductible. Shop around and compare options.

  1. Understand the Scope of the Damage

Ask questions and do research. Know exactly what parts need replacement and the work required before agreeing to anything. Have the repair shop list all parts and repairs before starting any work. They might suggest local spots for repairs. Shop around and have plenty of options.

After the Repairs

  1. Get an Itemized Bill

When the repair shop finishes, request an itemized bill. Have the repairman or shop manager walk you through the list of repairs and confirm the work completed.

  1. Inspect the Work

Keep your itemized bill and ask the repairman or shop manager to show you what was fixed. This also gives them a chance to explain any issues they encountered. Feel free to take pictures.

  1. Take a Test Drive

Take your car for a ride. Listen closely for any abnormalities that might indicate incorrect repairs or other unresolved issues.

Don’t be afraid to talk with your auto body repair shop. At Car Struction, we ensure you’re satisfied and that you can’t tell your vehicle was ever damaged. For work you can trust, call us. We’re always here to provide the best solution!

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]]> Millennial Drivers Unsafe For Roads https://carstruction.com/millennial-drivers-unsafe-roads/ Thu, 23 Feb 2017 16:18:37 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=671 Known as Generation Y, the children of baby boomers are also called “Echo Boomers.” A recent report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals Millennial Drivers aged 19-39 are now some of the most unsafe drivers on the road. The statistics are staggering and undeniable. Numbers Speak for Themselves The report states that “88% […]

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]]> Known as Generation Y, the children of baby boomers are also called “Echo Boomers.” A recent report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals Millennial Drivers aged 19-39 are now some of the most unsafe drivers on the road. The statistics are staggering and undeniable.

Numbers Speak for Themselves

The report states that “88% of young millennials engaged in at least one risky behavior behind the wheel in the past 30 days…” These risky behaviors include texting while driving, running red lights, and speeding. This generation is highly connected digitally, resulting in more distracted drivers. In this era of “smart technology,” in-car infotainment systems allow drivers to use connected devices while driving. Several other dangerous driving behaviors also factor into this study.

Survey Findings

The survey of 2,511 drivers from August 25 – September 6 reported the following findings:

  • Traffic deaths increased by 7% to 35,092 in 2015. This is the largest single-year increase in nearly 50 years.
  • Millennials acknowledged sending texts or emails while driving.
  • Nearly half of Millennials admitted to running red lights when they could have stopped safely.
  • Almost 12% of Millennials thought it was acceptable to drive 10 mph over the posted speed limit in a school zone.
  • 2.5% of drivers admitted driving within an hour of using alcohol or marijuana.

David Yang, AAA Foundation’s executive director, says, “Alarmingly, Millennial Drivers ages 19 to 24 believe their dangerous behavior is acceptable.” He continues, “It’s critical these drivers understand the potentially deadly consequences of engaging in these behaviors. They must change their behavior and attitudes to reverse the growing number of fatalities on U.S. roads.” This report serves as a shock to some but a warning to all to practice safer driving habits.

 

 

 

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]]> Ways to Avoid Drowsy Driving https://carstruction.com/ways-avoid-drowsy-driving/ Mon, 06 Feb 2017 19:05:50 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=654 Combatting Drowsy Driving As if there aren’t enough hazards on the road already, a very common hazard is drowsy driving. Drowsy driving is a dangerous combination of driving and fatigue. Generally, driving drunk and driving with fatigue are equally dangerous. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that 21 percent of FATAL automobile accidents involve a […]

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]]> Combatting Drowsy Driving

As if there aren’t enough hazards on the road already, a very common hazard is drowsy driving. Drowsy driving is a dangerous combination of driving and fatigue. Generally, driving drunk and driving with fatigue are equally dangerous. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that 21 percent of FATAL automobile accidents involve a drowsy driver. Evidently, many drivers have even admitted to falling asleep at the wheel at least once in their lifetime. That’s a scary thought! Here we have compiled some tips and important info when concerned with drowsy driving and how to avoid it.

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that a tired driver contributes to:

  • 6% of all crashes in which a vehicle was towed from the scene
  • 7% of crashes in which a person received treatment for injuries sustained in the crash
  • 13% of crashes in which a person was hospitalized

In total, their estimates suggest that a drowsy driver is involved in 328,000 crashes annually.

How do I know if I’m too tired to drive? The National Sleep Foundation gives us some warning signs.

  • Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids
  • Daydreaming, or disconnected thoughts
  • Trouble remembering the last few miles of your drive, missing turns, exits or traffic signs
  • Consistent yawning
  • Drifting, tailgating, or rubbing the shoulder strip.
  • Feeling restless or irritable

Furthermore, if you ever feel sleepy while driving a vehicle, then you understand the many ways a driver will try to stay awake. Generally, some of the top ways a person tries to stay awake at the wheel are drinking a caffeinated beverage, switching drivers, opening car windows, listening to loud music, turning up the A/C, eating, smoking, pulling over to stretch or sleep. But after all, two of these options are proven to be effective in combatting drowsy driving–switching drivers and pulling over to nap.

How do I avoid driving tired?

  1. Plan. If you know you’ll be out on the road, take a short nap ahead of time.
  2. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
  3. Drive with a friend. If you have a partner, you can switch drivers at the first sign of drowsiness.
  4. Stay off the road between midnight and 6a.mI. If this is not possible, then be as vigilant as possible while you’re on the road. Watch for warning signs that you’re feeling drowsy, such as drifting across lanes or hitting rumble strips, and keep an eye on other drivers for the same behaviors.
  5. Drink coffee or caffeine to stay alert, but not as a substitute for sleep. One thing to keep in mind is that coffee and other caffeinated beverages provide a temporary energy boost. After the effects of the caffeine have worn off, the feelings of drowsiness may return.

Additionally, make sure you get eight hours of sleep before a long trip. Also, you can make regularly stops at the 100 mile mark or every two hours. This will help you stay fresh and alert on the road.

In conclusion, drowsy driving is extremely dangerous and we would like you to take every precaution to stay safe!

If you or someone you know has been in an accident as a result of a drowsy driver, contact us now and find out how we can help get you back on the road safely. We are here for you!

 

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]]> Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop https://carstruction.com/choosing-right-auto-body-shop/ Thu, 16 Jun 2016 04:34:17 +0000 https://carstruction.com/?p=525 How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop Understanding Discrepancies in Estimates Auto body shop estimates can vary significantly. You might receive one estimate for $500 at one shop and another for $1000 at a different shop for the same work. Why such a difference? The deciding factor should not solely be the cost but […]

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Understanding Discrepancies in Estimates

Auto body shop estimates can vary significantly. You might receive one estimate for $500 at one shop and another for $1000 at a different shop for the same work. Why such a difference? The deciding factor should not solely be the cost but rather several other important considerations.

Word of Mouth Matters

Pay attention to recommendations from friends and family. While any shop can make great claims, the experiences of people you trust are invaluable. If your friends and family recommend a shop based on their positive experiences and fair pricing, that recommendation speaks volumes.

Get Multiple Estimates

Don’t hesitate to obtain several estimates. Compare them and see if any shop will match a competitor’s quote. However, remember that the lowest quote might not always be the best option. A significantly low price might indicate that the shop is cutting corners, which could lead to major problems later on.

Ask the Right Questions

Asking the right questions is crucial. Start with these important queries:

  • Does the shop offer a written warranty?
  • How long is the warranty valid?
  • What does the warranty cover?

A reputable shop should provide at least a 1-year warranty on parts and services. Be wary of shops offering lifetime warranties, as they may not be realistic. Additionally, inquire if the shop carries fire and theft insurance and whether they use new, used, or aftermarket body parts. Aftermarket parts can be a cost-effective option, but their suitability depends on the extent of the damage and your vehicle’s needs.

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your intuition. An empty or disorganized shop might reflect poorly on the quality of work. Evaluate whether the staff is willing to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable. You want to choose a shop where you feel assured that your car will be in good hands.

Why Car Struction Stands Out

At Car Struction, we combine expertise with great prices. Our knowledgeable staff ensures high-quality work, treats customers with respect, and offers fair pricing. Choose us for reliable service and peace of mind

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