Guidelines
To Use When Choosing
a Quality Repair Facility
| 1) The shop should offer a "Lifetime
Warranty" on it's Body work, and a minimum of "5 years", preferably a "Lifetime" on refinishing. (If the facility has been in business less than five years their warranty is probably meaningless.) 2) Ask the repair facility if they use new "Original Equipment Manufactured " parts, purchased from the dealer, or Taiwan imitation parts. If the shop says they use any IMITATION PARTS leave immediately. No one can perform quality work with junk parts from Taiwan. 3) Make sure the repair facility is an "I-CAR GOLD CLASS" shop. This assures you all techs have been trained, and certified. Ask if they employ "Certified Welders" and how many? 4) Tour the shop and look at the quality of work and cleanliness of the operation. Examine finished jobs and jobs in progress. 5) Ask the shop if they have any affiliation with insurance companies (Direct Repair Agreements) If they are under contract to work for any specific insurance company they can not work for you. Working for both sides is unethical and immoral. Look for the shop with no insurance company ties. The DRP agreements require they work on "their" cars first. This could cause extensive delays in your repair. 6) Call the Better Business Bureau (Telephone 264-1727, Ext. 406) to confirm the shop is in good standing with no complaints on file. 7) Verify the repair facility belongs to the Arizona Collision Craftsman's Association and is a member in good standing (Telephone 258-2222). This group maintains an "Arbitration Board" to resolve any problems you may experience with the repair. 8) Check with your friends, co-workers, or mechanic for a recommendation on a repair facility. 9) Never listen to an insurance representative who surely has a friend (Cheap Charlie or Bondo Billy) that they can recommend. Remember their bonus is tied to "low price". In addition the adjuster may secure favors (free work) or cash for recommending shops. 10) Don't be concerned with price or estimates. Leave the negotiation up to the repair facility. You have the right to go "first class", not in the baggage compartment. Securing a quality repair is simple if you follow the above 10 steps. REMEMBER THE ONE MAJOR KEY POINT- AVOID THE REPAIR FACILITY THAT THE INSURANCE COMPANY RECOMMENDS. If you have any additional questions please do not hesitate to ask us. WE WORK FOR THE CUSTOMER, AND NOT THE INSURANCE COMPANY. Our goal is to restore your vehicle to it's pre-loss condition and make you a satisfied customer. We are proud of the craftsmen we employ and the work they perform. Quality repairs require good equipment, new original parts, the best materials, skilled employees, and the dedication to do the job right. Sincerely, Robert K. Isham President |
