auto collision Archives - Car Struction

What is Collision Repair?

Dave Flanagan — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:24:58 +0000

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

Dave Flanagan — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:30:47 +0000

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.

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?

Dave Flanagan — Tue, 24 May 2022 19:52:36 +0000

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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I Have a Totaled Vehicle. Now What?

dylan — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 15:34:19 +0000

I Have a Totaled Vehicle. Now What?

What does a total loss mean?

Losing something is always scary. When the total cost of repairs exceeds the total value of your car, consider that totaled! Think of completely unfixable. Nothing can be done. With the rising cost of repairs, more and more vehicles are being totaled out. This actually does help the workload of all the body men. Don’t worry! This doesn’t mean the car cannot be repaired if it is of sentimental value. However, you will have to make that decision fairly quickly. Keep in mind, if you decide to keep the vehicle it might be very costly for you in repairs.

What happens to your totaled vehicle?

Where do I find my car? Once a car becomes totaled, it becomes the property of the insurance company. It will go on to a public auction or it will be sold to salvage yards. Many of these parts reappear on the market as remanufactured, refurbished, and/or re-inspected.

So the insurance company just told you that you have a totaled vehicle. Now what?

Accidents are unfortunate in themselves, but even more so once a vehicle is a total loss. When you are in an accident, record every detail whether it be in writing, photos, an exchange of insurance information, or a police report. Your insurance company will use this information to determine who is liable for the damage.

The insurance company process

Typically, a claims adjuster or the insurance company appraiser will monitor the process. Once they determine that the damages on your vehicle are far too extensive and more costly than the value of the car itself, it will be a totaled vehicle. We want to prepare you and to help understand what happens next. Here are a couple examples of common questions during an accident. So, hop in the passenger seat and buckle up as we help explain all the uncomfortable stuff!

Do I repair or replace my vehicle?

Following up, if you’re looking to save your vehicle due to some sentimental value, you must make your insurance company aware of your decision in the beginning. An insurance company will make a determination on the amount distributed for repairs based on the car’s value. The insurance company will reimburse you either for repairs, or replace the car completely. I think everyone prefers the later! There is also an option to purchase your vehicle back from the insurance company. You will need to re-register it under a salvage title. The down side to keeping your vehicle is that you may be investing more money into it than it’s worth. You can find out more information on this process on the DMV website.

What if the damage is only cosmetic?

Cosmetic damage is noticeable damage such as defect in a visual nature. This can be paint scratches, chips and dings on the body, a crack in the windshield, or even a scrap on the bumper. These defects do not affect the functionality of the vehicle at all. With the rising cost of repairs, cosmetic damage can be just as expensive as body or frame damage. As long as the vehicle is still safe to drive, then you don’t have to get it repaired. You can even buy it back from the insurance company and pocket the difference! This is called the “actual cash value.” Every situation is different, so always ask questions!

Call Car Struction to learn about your options

We feel these are the major areas of concern for most of our customers during the time of an incident. If your vehicle is deemed a total loss and you’re looking to save it now, call Car Struction! We will review the extent of the damage. There are always plenty of options and we are here to find the best solution for you!

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What Should You Do Before and After Auto Body Repair?

dylan — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 18:24:48 +0000

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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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Ways to Avoid Drowsy Driving

dylan — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 19:05:50 +0000

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?

Plan. If you know you’ll be out on the road, take a short nap ahead of time.
Avoid alcoholic beverages.
Drive with a friend. If you have a partner, you can switch drivers at the first sign of drowsiness.
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.
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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Winter Driving: Precautions and Preparations

dylan — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 01:50:29 +0000

How to Prepare for Winter Driving

Winter driving presents unique challenges, so it’s crucial to take extra precautions to ensure your safety on the road. Follow these tips to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for icy and snowy conditions.

Assess Road Conditions and Drive Cautiously

Driving in snowy or icy conditions requires extra attention. Understand how your vehicle responds to ice and snow. If you notice cars swerving ahead, slow down and consider taking an alternate route. On highways or any road, double the usual distance between your vehicle and the one in front. Avoid speeding and stick to the right lane to minimize lane changes. This approach will enhance your control and reduce the risk of accidents.

Prep Your Vehicle for Winter Weather

Check Tires
Cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure, so regularly check and maintain the correct air levels. Make it a habit to inspect your tires each time you fuel up. Properly inflated tires are essential for traction and safety in winter conditions.

Inspect Windshield Wipers
Worn wiper blades can impair visibility. If your wipers leave streaks or fail to clear large areas, replace them. Investing in new blades, usually costing around $10, can significantly improve your visibility during snow and rain.

Test the Defroster
The defroster is crucial for maintaining visibility. Test it to ensure it’s working efficiently. If it’s not functioning properly, visit a repair shop. A well-working defroster is vital for safe driving in winter months.

Check Fluid Levels
Regularly monitor all your vehicle’s fluid levels. In winter, you’ll likely use more windshield washer fluid due to road salt and grime. Ensure your fluids are topped off to maintain vehicle performance and safety.

By following these steps, you can better prepare for winter driving and reduce the risks associated with harsh weather conditions. Stay safe on the roads this winter

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Finding your Auto Repair Shop

dylan — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 01:08:19 +0000

How Do You Find Your Auto Repair Shop?

When looking for an auto repair shop, there are a few things to consider. But our biggest piece of advice is: find the perfect repair shop before you need it! It’s an important decision and you don’t want to make it under pressure. For most people the consideration doesn’t come until you’re on the side of the road calling your insurance company. Well we’re here to outline how to find a quality auto repair shop and what to look for. We hope that you’ll consider us.

1. Ask for Recommendations

Friends and Family: Start by asking friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations. They can provide insights based on their experiences.
Online Reviews: Check online review sites like Google, Yelp, and Facebook for customer feedback and ratings.

2. Look for Certifications

ASE Certification: Look for shops with technicians certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
AAA Approved: Consider shops that are AAA-approved, as they meet strict standards for quality and reliability.

3. Check for Professional Affiliations

Memberships: Look for shops that are members of professional organizations such as the Automotive Service Association (ASA).
Manufacturer Certifications: If you have a specific make of car, check if the shop has certifications from the car manufacturer.

4. Evaluate Experience and Reputation

Years in Business: A shop with a long history often indicates stability and trustworthiness.
Specializations: Some shops specialize in certain types of repairs or makes and models. Choose a shop experienced with your vehicle type.

5. Visit the Shop

Cleanliness and Organization: A clean, organized shop is often a sign of professionalism.
Customer Service: Observe the staff’s attitude and willingness to answer questions. Good customer service is key to a positive experience.

6. Compare Prices

Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain estimates from several shops for the same repair to compare prices.
Understand Costs: Be wary of significantly lower prices, which might indicate the use of subpar parts or rushed labor.

7. Check for Warranties

Parts and Labor Warranty: A reputable shop will offer warranties on their parts and labor. Make sure to understand the terms and duration of the warranty.

8. Research the Shop’s History

BBB Rating: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for any complaints against the shop and to see its rating.
State Consumer Protection Agency: Look for any records of complaints or issues with the shop.

9. Ask Questions

Technician Qualifications: Ask about the qualifications and training of the technicians.
Diagnostic Fees: Clarify if there are fees for diagnostic tests and whether they are applied to the cost of repairs.

10. Start with a Small Job

Test the Waters: Start with a small, routine service like an oil change to evaluate the shop’s service and reliability before entrusting them with major repairs.

Conclusion

Finding a good auto repair shop takes a bit of research and effort, but it is worth it to ensure your vehicle is in good hands. By following these tips, you can make an informed decision and build a long-term relationship with a trustworthy and skilled auto repair shop.

There are also other ways that you can narrow down your search. Finally, remember to look for ASE certifications. Technicians are required to pass at least one specialty exam and fulfill two years of work experience to become ASE-certified. If they pass a range of exams, they earn Master Technician status. So, take a peek! What’s the harm. Repair shops expect this sort of thing. You won’t hurt their feelings by asking a few questions. Do the research and take your time choosing your auto repair shop. Because when you really need them, you’ll be happy you took the time.

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Top 3 Concerns for Auto Body Repair Customers

dylan — Tue, 10 May 2016 01:13:45 +0000

We Understand your Auto Body Repair Concerns

When you find yourself in an auto collision, the first thing you need to do is find an auto body repair shop. But, what are the concerns that come to mind when bringing your car in to be serviced? We’ve found that most customers have the same concerns. Here are the top 3:

1. Paint
The biggest concern our customers have when bringing their damaged vehicle in is paint matching. We use the latest painting systems as well as techniques to restore your paint job to the factory coat. We are able to find the specific color code for your original paint by using the car’s ID plate. Along with using the right techniques, we can achieve the perfect color match. We even have the ability and the experience to color match custom coats.

2. Drivability
If you’ve been in an auto collision, another major concern is “will my car or truck drive the same?” The answer is yes. We use the most advanced computerized alignment machines to restore your vehicle after suspension damage. We can even provide you with a printout of the alignment balance before and after the repair.

3. Frame damage
When involved in a major wreck, you most likely have severe damage to your frame. In the past, it was nearly impossible to restore your vehicle’s frame to pre-accident condition. However, with the advent of advanced alignment machines, we are able to push and pull your frame back to normal. So much so, that it can even exceed the original specifications from the auto manufacturer.

We hope to put our customer’s minds at ease regarding auto body repair. After undergoing a traumatizing accident, you hope that you and your car can move on from the experience. Car Struction has the tools and experience to get you and your vehicle back on the road.

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Top 5 Ways to Avoid Auto Collisions

dylan — Fri, 29 Apr 2016 03:47:58 +0000

Helpful Hints to Avoid Auto Collisions

Auto collisions are around us every day. We travel the road, sometimes across cities, to commute to work, shop and play. And everyday there’s an auto collision or two on the route that you frequently take. You think to yourself, “Thank goodness, that wasn’t me,” as you pass by. But the truth is, it could’ve been you. No one wants to think about getting in an auto accident, or the aftermath of dealing with it. You may need medical attention, you have to talk to the police and call your insurance company. It can turn into a huge headache that everyone wants to avoid. Here are some ways that you can.

1. Limit distractions.
A majority of auto collisions happen due to distracted driving. Avoid any activities that may take your eyes off of the road including using your cell phone or fiddling with the radio. Wait until you are parked. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.

2. Don’t drive while drowsy.
It’s been proven that driving while tired or drowsy is the equivalent of driving while intoxicated. If you need to drive a long distance, take frequent breaks. And if you feel that you’re too tired to drive safely, stop driving and take a nap.

3. Anticipate turn signal use.
Don’t wait until the last second to signal. Other drivers will not have time to react to a last minute blinker. When changing lanes or getting off at an exit, turn on your signal early. This will give other drivers enough time to anticipate your next move.

4. Don’t get road rage.
Driving in traffic can get extremely frustrating. But, getting angry will only inhibit your driving skills. When you’re in traffic with aggressive drivers, take a breather. It’s not worth retaliating.

5. Avoid driving at night.
Visibility is extremely impaired at night. If you can avoid it, stay at home. There are also more drowsy and drunk drivers on the road at night.

Even with these tips, you can’t always avoid an auto collision. But, the best thing you can do is be a conscientious driver. And hope that if you’re doing your part, that others are, too.

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