How To Find A Collision Repair Shop After An Accident
When your car is damaged in an accident or collision, you want it repaired and back on the road as soon as possible. So, where should you get your vehicle repaired, and how does the auto shop work with your insurance company? Knowing your options may help you better navigate the process.
BENEFITS OF A DIRECT REPAIR PROGRAM
Many insurance companies offer direct repair programs, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). A direct repair program is a network of collision repair shops approved by your insurer.
You’re not obligated to work with these recommended mechanics or body shops for your repairs; you’re free to choose your own facility, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). However, there may be some benefits to working with one of your insurance company’s “preferred” repair shops
Streamlined repair and payment process.
Your insurer and the direct repair shop in your area may have a streamlined repair and payment process that reduces paperwork and saves time
Quality standards.
Auto repair shops your insurer recommends are screened in advance to be sure they meet certain quality standards.
Car Repair
What laws regulate auto repair shops?
Texas has no laws that specifically apply to auto repair shops
Deceptive Trade Practices–Consumer Protection Act (DTPA) makes it illegal for a repair shop to:
Knowingly make a false or misleading statement about the need for parts, replacement or repair service;
State that work has been done or parts were replaced when it is not true;
Represent that goods are original or new when they are really second-hand or rebuilt;
Advertise goods or services (such as special offers or discounts for repairs) with intent not to sell them as advertised.
Do I have to sign something before repairs can begin?
There is no legal requirement that you sign something before repairs can start. You can agree to repairs orally, but it’s always best to get it in writing
Otherwise, you will have a hard time proving your case if something goes wrong. Always get a written:
Authorization for Inspection – this is your permission to allow the mechanic to inspect, test, drive, diagnose, or disassemble your car to provide an estimate of the work that needs to be done.
Authorization to Commence Repair – this is your permission for the mechanic to do the repairs. It should include the repairs to be done, date of completion, form of payment, cost of repairs with parts and labor itemized, storage fees or other charges, if the parts are new or rebuilt, and your signature.
Here are some ways disreputable car repair shops can make more money from repairs:
Padding charges – Shops may offer you a reasonable verbal estimate for repairs but give you a final bill that is far beyond the estimate. A mechanic may leave the repair estimate blank on the authorization form then fill in an inflated amount later, after you’ve signed.
Needless repairs – Some repair shops pad bills by “repairing” mechanical problems and damage that don’t exist.
Counterfeit or used parts – A car repair shop may install parts that are counterfeit, substandard or used, but charge you for expensive new parts. If used parts are installed, you should know about it and make sure you’re not billed for new parts.
Disassembling car before work is authorized – A shop may take some of your car apart before getting permission to repair it. At that point you either have to pay for overpriced repairs or pay a fee to have it reassembled.
Unauthorized repairs – Charging you for repairs you didn’t authorize or not getting your approval for extra work not part of the original written agreement.
Charging for repairs covered under warranty – Saying your repairs are covered under warranty then charging you for covered repairs
How to Give Back by Tipping Your Mechanic
we tip waitstaff at restaurants, baristas when we get coffee and valets when they park our cars. Because these are common situations, we don’t think twice about tipping. What about less common situations, like when you have your car serviced? It is nice to let your auto mechanic know that you appreciate their hard work.
There are no hard and fast rules about tipping mechanics. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision.
Do you go to the same mechanic every time your car needs service? If he or she always provides great service at a fair price, tipping is a great way to show your appreciation.
Think about how much you’d like to tip. 20% is common for a meal at a restaurant, but it’s difficult to determine an amount for an automotive service. A $5 tip is considered a kind token. $20 could be given for great service or a more complicated job. Give a larger tip if you feel that your mechanic went above and beyond.
Before you tip, ask if it’s okay first. Some auto technicians are not allowed to accept tips. Asking first will help you avoid an uncomfortable situation. If your mechanic followed through with exceptional service, consider offering them a tip that would cover a meal like lunch.
Mechanics are paid either an hourly rate or a flat rate. Parts and labor typically make up the bill. However, don’t assume the technician working on your car is getting a large portion of what you pay for labor.
Sometimes mechanics will help you out without charging you. In this case, giving a tip makes sense and shows that you appreciate their help.
Even when tipping is appropriate, the best way to show your appreciation is by saying “thank you” and recommending the mechanic to your friends.
Keep in mind that you should never feel obligated. Tipping your mechanic should be used to show appreciation for a job well done or for exceptional service.
HOW TO START A CAR REPAIR SHOP
This business employs automobile mechanics who provide repairs and vehicle maintenance to consumers and businesses. The car repair shop might also offer services like custom installation of stereo and alarm systems, window tinting, and aftermarket upgrades.
You have found the perfect business idea, and now you are ready to take the next step. There is more to starting a business than just registering it with the state. We have put together this simple guide to starting your car repair shop. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant
Plan your Business
A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns
A few important topics to consider are:
What are the startup and ongoing costs?
Who is your target market?
How long it will take you to break even?
What will you name your business?
Costs for starting a shop vary, but generally include:
Business license: $50 to $100.
ASE certifications: $36 registration fee, one time, plus $39 per certification, except L1, L2, and L3 certs which are $78.
Insurance: $4,000/yr.
Mechanic’s hydraulic lift: $3,700.
Diagnostic machine: $5,000 to $10,000.
Shop rental fees: $1,500 to $15,000/mo.
Mechanic’s tool set with specialty tools: $15,000.
Total Cost: $50,000+
AUTOMOBILE MECHANICS – HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
Auto Collision Technology
Auto Repair Technology
Diesel Mechanics and Repair
Introduction to Mechanics
Motorcycle Mechanics and Repair
Many automobile mechanics are self-employed. If you want to run your own business some day, you should consider taking these courses as well:
Accounting
Entrepreneurship
Introduction to Business
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking. You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.