Part of owning a car is taking it to the mechanic for routine maintenance as well as occasional repairs. While you may be well-acquainted with your mechanic, you might be less so with an auto body shop. When you get into an auto accident, whether it’s a fender bender or a severe collision, you’ll need to have your vehicle examined by a mechanic as well as an auto body shop. Both professions perform essential but different tasks. Here’s a brief comparison of the two. 

Mechanic

A mechanic performs a range of repairs on electrical and mechanical components. This includes everything from the brakes and drive shaft to axles and engine as well as routine and minor repairs such as changing the oil, replacing tires, or replacing a broken tail light. Typically, when you’re having difficulty driving the vehicle or it’s making unusual sounds and behaving in an unsatisfactory way, you’ll take it to a mechanic. A mechanic focuses on how the car works, rather than how it looks. 

Body Shop

The auto body shop makes your vehicle look better, although their work can also improve performance. These professionals fix the cosmetic damage, such as dings and dents, as well as paint and glass damage. Generally, body shops perform specific tasks mechanics don’t have the training, skills, or equipment to conduct themselves. However, a good body shop technician will also examine the vehicle to determine if there is underlying damage. If they notice more significant damage than is visible on the surface, they’ll refer you to a mechanic to have this issue addressed.

In some cases, it’s necessary to have the mechanical components fixed first. When you get into a collision or have another type of accident, it’s important to have your vehicle evaluated by a professional for a holistic and thorough repair. Fixing cosmetic damage will improve your vehicle’s value and prevent minor issues, like scratches, from becoming worse. 

If you’re a Guilford County, NC, resident in need of a reliable auto body shop, turn to Chris Paint & Body. Located in High Point, these professionals have served the community since 1981. From crash repairs and hail damage repair to frame straightening and paintless dent removal, they provide a range of services to restore your vehicle to top condition. Call (336) 847-4006 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about all they have to offer.