Choosing the Right Body Shop

Choosing the right body shop is important. A reputable body shop employing trained, competent technicians, following recommended repair procedures, and operating in an ethical manner can make a stressful time, a little less stressful.

If you are not already familiar with a local shop:

• Call your local Acura dealer. Many Acura dealers have their own body shop, or can recommend a reputable shop. The dealership Parts Manager will, in most cases, be the best source of information for this.
  Click here to learn more about Recognized Body Shops in your area.
• Ask friends, family members or other Acura owners where they have had collision repair performed and ask about their repair experience.
• Check your local phone book yellow pages. Look for shops that advertise trained technicians and association with professional organizations.

Assuming that your car is drivable, and you will be going to a shop to secure a written insurance estimate, upon arrival at the shop:

• Look at the shop's work area. A relatively clean, organized shop is a sign of professionalism. Because body work can sometimes be messy and dirty, doesn't mean that the shop should look that way.
• Look for plaques or certificates stating the shop is a member of the local Better Business Bureau or are members of local, regional, or national trade organizations such as a state auto body association.
• Look for or ask about the shop's use of frame straightening racks or alignment machines. Do they have their own, or sublet the work to another shop? Depending on the severity of your collision, you may need a full-service body shop.
• Look for plaques or certificates that attest to the shop's or technician's certification for training. Training certification could be issued from such organizations as I-CAR, an international, non-profit organization of professionals providing industry-recognized technical training in the collision field.
• Look for certificates of completed training from paint companies, refinish products suppliers or industry training centers.

Be sure you are comfortable with the body shop and are reasonably sure that they will provide a safe and proper repair for your vehicle. You will have to live with the results of their work for a long time.

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