Even the most minor fender benders can affect the look—and possibly the operation—of your vehicle. Whether you were recently involved in a collision or simply need some work done on scratched car paint, find an auto body shop that performs services quickly and efficiently. Use these tips to locate a shop you can rely on for years.

Top 3 Tips for Selecting the Best Auto Body Shop

Ask Around & Read Reviews

Talk to family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors about their auto body shop experiences to get an idea of what you can expect from area businesses. Read as many testimonials and reviews as you can to further shape your expectations, as reviews inform you about wait times, the customer service level, and the quality of the labor and materials used. Research the shop with your local consumer organization as well to learn about any complaints.

Get Several Estimates

Obtain estimates from several auto body shops and compare them. Consider each shop’s location and overhead as you read the estimates, as those in higher-end areas usually charge more than medium-income neighborhoods. However, do not automatically go with the shop featuring the cheapest estimates, as they may charge surprise fees or use low-quality materials to keep their overhead low.

Visit the Shop

Visit each potential auto body shop to get a feel for the space and determine the level of cleanliness, organization, and overall professionalism. Ask how long the shop has been in business, as those with at least one decade of service will have established a strong customer base. Also, inquire about the shop’s experience with your vehicle make and model, whether the mechanics are ASE and I-CAR-certified, and what kind of warranties the shop provides, such as those for labor and paint.

Trust auto body work to the experienced, friendly, and highly-trained team at Whitesell Collision. The Waynesboro, VA, family-owned shop has specialized in auto body repairs since 1949 and uses only the highest-quality parts and materials to restore your vehicle to like-new condition. Towing services are also available for your convenience and peace of mind. Call (540) 943-3361 today to schedule an appointment with the I-CAR and ASE-certified mechanics or read testimonials online. Like the Facebook page for more helpful tips.