Identifying a Quality Collision Repair Facility
Identifying A Quality Collision Repair Facility
During the course of a lifetime, statistics show that the average person will be involved in at least one accident. After the accident, will you know where to take your vehicle for a quality auto body repair? The Automotive Service Association (ASA), the largest non-profit trade association of its kind serving collision repair businesses, recommends that you follow these guidelines when making your shop selection.
1The employees should participate in ongoing technical education and have proof of their educational accomplishments. Businesses that believe strongly in training will likely post employees’ diplomas from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR).
ASE areas of certification include:
I-CAR areas of instruction include: - Collision Repair
2 The facility’s management personnel should participate in up-to-date management training. Management programs are offered by organizations such as the Automotive Service Association’s Management Institute (ASAMI).
3 The employees should demonstrate , concern for the customer, and be helpful and courteous. The employee’s attitude is usually a good indication of how you will be treated throughout the repair of your vehicle.
4 The technician should be able to easily-* explain the extent of damage to your vehicle, and provide information about your estimate and final bill.
5 The facility should be neat, clean and I well-organized.
6 The facility should offer a guarantee on parts and labor. The guarantee should be posted, detailed in the repair order or available upon request.
7 The facility’s credentials should , include involvement in a trade association such as ASA. As a member of ASA, the facility agrees to uphold the association’s Code of Ethics, which is the standard for professionalism in the automotive service industry.
8 The business should have a proven , track record,
demonstrated through professionalism,
the number of years in business and a reference list. References from local businesses and
insurance companies, as well as past customers, will give you a good indication of the
facility’s reputation and professionalism. Also, check to see if the facility does a
formal follow up with its customers after the repair is complete.
9 The facility should have the necessity EPA permits and federal identification number, along with a business license. When applicable, these items should be displayed in a prominent place. The facility should demonstrate environmental awareness and practices. Examples of these practices would include using low VOC* products and paint equipment that lowers the escape of VOCs, proper hazardous waste storage and disposal, and recycling.
These recommendations can help you identify a quality shop and ease your mind about the repair process. When you take your vehicle to a quality shop, you will likely get the best possible service and repair.
ASA member businesses can be identified by the red, white and blue sign. We look forward to serving you soon!
*VOC: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are the solvents in paint products that evaporate at room temperature and become a gas when exposed to the air or sprayed. VOCs are precursors to ozone formation. Ozone is the main component of smog.