Suffering damage to your car can be very upsetting and frustrating, not to mention putting you out of pocket to get it fixed. You need a reliable, professional repair shop that you can trust to return your car to its former glory. But how can you tell who will provide such a great service?
It can feel like a bit of a minefield if you aren’t sure what to look for, but if you ask the right questions and do your research you can soon find a dependable garage. Here are some of the important things to look out for:
Experience of your car type
Ask the staff if they’ve worked on your make and model of vehicle before, or anything similar, so you know they have relevant experience. Ask if they hold any Vehicle Manufacturer Approvals they may even already hold approval for your make of vehicle. Choosing a repairer who holds Manufacturer approval, will mean your Manufacturer Warranty will not be affected. Click here to see the Manufacturer Approvals we hold.
Ask about their previous work
Can they give examples of previous work? Perhaps they might have photos on display, a facebook page or reviews on google. Either way, it’s reassuring to know they have a good track record and satisfied customers.
Are they the experts?
You’ll already know if the repairs you need are significant or not, and you need the staff at the bodyshop to tell you in more detail what is required to carry out the work. If a number of panels are affected, if a respray is required, and what parts they might need, for example. If you are unclear, always ask, and if you feel under pressure or uncomfortable with the level of work being quoted or the amount of time they say it could take, check elsewhere so you can be sure you’re getting the right deal.
Verify the cost
Treat the quote as you would any other, and check with two other repair shops, so that you can be confident that the cost is fair and reasonable. Some work or parts can carry a higher cost than others, and you should be clear about what you are paying for.
Customer care
How do you feel when you speak to the staff? Customer service is an important factor of any job, from the receptionist answering your initial call to the mechanic or specialist working on your vehicle. If the staff are polite, friendly and honest, it’s a good sign.
