Why is a proper wheel alignment so important?
Picture yourself cruising down the most beautiful road in the world. Now imagine driving down that same road and your car veering off to the left or right because your wheels were pointed the wrong way. Not the most beautiful road in the world anymore.

Proper wheel alignment is a complex topic covering a variety of terms and a smorgasbord of parts. When your wheels are out of alignment, your tires aren’t pointing in the right direction. This will affect your steering and suspension. More importantly, it could affect your safety and the durability of our tires and all of the parts controlling them.

How do vehicles lose their wheel alignment?
It doesn’t take much. There are many ways for your car to lose its alignment. Wheel alignment can be thrown off by:

*Pot holes
*Hitting the curb
*Bumping into a concrete parking stall
*Fair wear and tear

Without a proper wheel alignment, you will end up wasting a lot of money on tires because they will wear down much faster. Your vehicle may not handle as well, or you could have difficulty maintaining control of your vehicle altogether.

Did you know?
The best move you can make is to have it checked with every other oil change. This will extend the life of your tires.

A lot will happen over the course of 6,000 miles. You will inevitably drive through pot holes, travel down gravely stretches of road, and you may occasionally knock your wheels on a curb mid-turn. All of these things combined can greatly impact the way your tires sit, throwing off your wheel alignment in an instant.

It can be difficult to determine with the naked eye when your wheel alignment is off. We cannot see in fractions of degrees without the proper technology. It only takes a minuscule amount of misalignment to have a huge impact on tire life. Our certified technicians here at CarStruction are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Come by and see us today!

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Smartphones keep us more connected than ever before. They allow us to be just a touch away from our entire lives. That is everything that we have going on as well as a complete resource for any off-the-wall questions we have always wanted the answer to. Now, we’re able to integrate that technology into our vehicles to create a fully connected car.

For those of us who have seen Knight Rider, we now all have our own “Kitt.” If you haven’t seen Knight Rider, look it up you’re already on your smartphone. A fully connected car allows us to do so many things that were just a dream before. Your car now responds to voice commands. Integrate with your phone, you can tell it to call, text or email someone. It will also read responses aloud for you so you can keep your eyes on the road. With a connected car, you now have internet-enabled navigation with real-time traffic. Your integrated navigation will even give you step by step directions as you’re driving down the road.

These features are only the beginning. The connected car has quickly become standard. They are so much safer to drive that insurance companies are even rewarding their customers with price breaks for integrating this technology in their older vehicles. As a collision repair shop, we’re all about safety. Anything that you can do to drive more focused on the road the better. With the advent of cell phones, there was a rise in fender benders. When texting was introduced, there were more and more accidents caused by running red lights or stop signs. But now with the connected car, we’re getting back to focusing on the road. However, they are no replacement for driving safety. Connected cars are not a guarantee. You still need to practice safe driving skills and be vigilant when on the road.

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Our Services

• Alignment
• Auto Frame Repair
• Custom Auto Paint Services
• Fleet & Industrial Services
• Motorcycle Body Repair
• Auto Paintless Dent Removal
• Auto Storm Damage Repair

CarStruction F.A.Q.

Do You Work with Insurance Companies?

We work with all insurance companies, and in fact, we are a direct repair facility for many insurance companies. So, let us know who is your provider.

If My Vehicle’s Frame has Damage, is it a Total Loss?

Frame damage is no longer the nail in the coffin for a damaged vehicle. Modern equipment, techniques, and advanced expertise of the technician allow for even severely-damaged frames to be repaired. Of course, the less damage, the better the likelihood of saving the car.

Can Car Struction Match my Paint Color Exactly?

Absolutely. In addition to working with Porsche and Mercedes-Benz closely to keep paint formulations on hand, our paint technicians can flawlessly blend the new paint into the existing paint of your vehicle.

How Many Estimates Do I Need?

We work with your insurance company to establish an estimate, as do many collision repair centers. Getting multiple estimates is generally not advantageous, as they will all be nearly identical.

Do I Need an Appointment?

We do suggest scheduling an appointment through our easy-to-use form ahead of time. If you find yourself short on time, then please give us a call and we will fit you in as soon as we can.

What Happens if Additional Damage is Found After the Estimate?

Unfortunately, the first observation and inspection doesn’t always discover deep-down damages. During the course of repair, we may find further issues that need to be addressed. In this case, we will contact the insurance company for authorization to pay for any supplemental damages. Then we will notify you before we take further action.

The post Don’t Delay on Rust Repairs appeared first on Car Struction.

Before you drive to the auto body shop for having your car repainted, ask yourself a few essential questions. Repainting is a job best handled by professionals. It can be both time-consuming and costly. Car Struction can help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Evaluate the Value of Your Car

First, assess whether your car is worth repainting. While you might have a strong attachment to your car, consider how repainting will impact its value. If the cost of repainting exceeds 25% of your car’s value, it may be wise to reconsider. We can help evaluate your car’s value and estimate the repainting cost. Classic cars and low-mileage used vehicles often benefit the most from a fresh coat. Additionally, if you plan to sell your car, a new paint job might boost your return on investment.

Choose the Right Color

Next, consider your color choice. Although selecting your favorite color can be exciting, it might not always be the best option. Staying with the car’s original color typically simplifies the process and reduces costs. If you opt for a new color, remember that you’ll need to repaint hidden areas such as the trunk interior and door jams. While a new color can bring personal satisfaction, it might not necessarily increase the car’s value.

Find a Quality Paint Shop

Finally, choose a reputable paint shop. Look for one that emphasizes thorough preparation. A high-quality paint job involves roughly 10 hours of prep work for every hour of painting. A professional shop will remove parts like bumpers, taillights, and mirrors to ensure a smooth finish. In contrast, less reputable shops might just tape over these areas. Quality shops use specialized booths equipped with fans, heat lamps, and multiple layers of paint.

At Car Struction, our skilled and experienced painters are ready to handle your paint job with precision. Contact us with any questions—we’re here to assist you!

The post Getting Your Car Repainted appeared first on Car Struction.

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

The post Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop appeared first on Car Struction.

Understanding Your Options

In the past, a cracked or chipped windshield almost always meant a full replacement. Today, however, auto glass repair technology has advanced significantly. Depending on the size, location, and severity of the damage, many windshields are repairable. To make the right choice, it’s essential to consult a professional.

Auto Glass Replacement

When we replace a windshield, we carefully remove the old glass from the frame to avoid scraping and rust formation. Unlike some mobile glass repair companies, we take extra steps to prevent rust. We also thoroughly test the new glass for strength and safety before installation. Despite advancements in repair technology, a new windshield generally offers better structural integrity than a repaired one. After installation, we allow the bonding agent to cure for a few hours before you can pick up your vehicle. Due to the complexity and thoroughness of this process, replacement is usually more expensive than repair.

Auto Glass Repair

Auto glass repair provides a cost-effective and quicker solution compared to replacement, depending on the damage extent. A quality repair halts the spread of damage and conceals the initial crack or chip. In some cases, your insurance may waive the deductible, covering the entire repair cost. However, timely action is crucial. If the damage grows larger than a dollar bill, or if it’s too close to the windshield’s edge or driver’s field of vision, replacement becomes necessary. A repair in these areas might cause distortions that compromise visibility.

Final Decision

If repair isn’t feasible, bring your vehicle to Car Struction for a high-quality windshield replacement. Our expert team ensures a seamless installation for your safety and satisfaction.

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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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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.

The post Top 5 Ways to Avoid Auto Collisions appeared first on Car Struction.

Night driving can be extremely dangerous. It sounds pretty obvious. However, it impairs your faculties more than you may think. Nighttime driving affects your peripheral vision, depth perception, as well as your ability to see and distinguish color. In fact, 40% of fatal car accidents occur at night. Here are some helpful hints for when you’re out night driving.

1. Proper maintenance of your head and taillights is key. Without a regular cleaning, your head and taillights can get hazy. Give them a good washing every couple of weeks to improve their performance and clarity.

2. Wash your windshield, front and rear to keep visibility up. Don’t forget to wash your side mirrors as well.

3. You may not know this, but you can actually adjust the angle of your headlights. They can be aimed properly if they’ve gotten off track. This will aid greatly with your visibility when driving at night.

4. Dim those dash lights. The darker the cabin of your vehicle is, the better you can see the road.

5. Go ahead and turn those headlights on at or even before sunset. This will not only increase your ability to see, but also other’s ability to see you.

6. You headlights are actually a measuring tool. Low-beam headlights can see up to 160 feet. High-beams shine up to 500 feet. However, don’t “outdrive” your headlights. Always give yourself enough time to stop when night driving.

7. Avoid the lure of the oncoming headlights. When you’re tired and driving at night, it can be easy to zone out and stare into the headlights of oncoming traffic. This is an aspect of highway hypnosis as well as driving past pavement marking after pavement marking. Stay alert by checking your mirrors frequently and observing your surroundings.

8. Along with observing your surroundings, check for animals especially deer that may be crossing your path. This is most important to watch out for at night, when animals are roaming around looking for shelter.

9. Limit your distractions by staying off your cell phone.

10. When driving at night, your number one obstacle is fatigue. Do your best to stay hydrated and if you’re driving a distance, take small breaks.

The post 10 Tips for Night Driving appeared first on Car Struction.

Mother Nature can sometimes be unpredictable and unforgiving. You just bought a new car. You’re so proud of it. You took pictures of it in your driveway, and posted them all over Facebook. If you’re like me, you’ll even take extra trips to the store as an excuse to show it off, and just to drive it and enjoy that new car smell before it fades.

Then, a major storm rolls in. If you see a severe weather report, there’s a good chance that it could include some hail. If possible, park your vehicle in a garage or under your carport. If these aren’t available to you, there are other options. Find some covered parking at a mall, office building or even a covered gas station and ride out the storm. Before you leave your precious car, take a look at the surrounding area. Be sure to not park under or close to any trees or branches that can fall on your vehicle. If you can’t find any covered parking, place blankets over your vehicle and hope for the best. Be sure to duct tape them down though, so they don’t fly away in heavy winds.

Unfortunately for you, you don’t have a garage to park it in. You leave it in the driveway maybe covered in taped down blankets and hope for the best. You hunker down, and wait for the storm to pass. Suddenly, you hear a loud boom of thunder, then a crack and a crash. You pray that the car alarm you hear reverberating from outside is not your own… you peer out the window, and it is. Your beautiful brand new car just took a tree branch right to the grill. We feel your pain. Before you weep for the loss of your car, know that there is such a thing as storm damage repair—and an “act of God” clause in your auto insurance.

Honest Storm Damage Repair with Your Best Interest at Heart

Car Struction offers premier storm damage repair services. We can work with your insurance company to get the best parts for your vehicle. We work with most insurance companies and will go to bat with them on your behalf. No matter how extensive the damage, we are equipped to restore your car or truck to like new condition.

From cracked windows and windshields to repairing your vehicle’s framework, we have you covered. We also offer paintless dent removal for hail damage. PDR utilizes metal rods to massage the dents out, and restore your body panels to their original shape. Furthermore, most dents don’t cause damage to your paint job. Most dents and dings can be repaired with paintless dent removal, but there are exceptions. For example, sharp dings that have stretched the metal too far and too deeply to recover cannot be restored with PDR.

Whatever the case, we will utilize the best techniques to restore the body of your vehicle. And whether you had a factory paintjob or a custom one, our certified technicians can match the color and finish. Before you know it, you’ll be out on the town showing off your new car again. If your vehicle has fallen victim to a particularly malicious storm, call Car Struction today for a free estimate on storm damage repair.

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