No, you are not obligated to take your car to a shop recommended by your insurance company. The decision is entirely yours, and you can choose any repair shop you trust.

When selecting a repair shop, focus on the quality of their work. Many shops now have websites showcasing customer testimonials and before-and-after photos of repairs, which can provide insight into their expertise. Look for shops with certifications like I-CAR, ASE, or frame machine certifications, as these indicate a commitment to high industry standards. Technicians with extensive experience in body repairs also bring valuable knowledge to the job.

Additionally, prioritize shops with strong local reputations. A facility that has been in business in the area for many years, has good reviews, and stands behind their work is likely to provide reliable service. A clean and well-maintained facility can also be a good indicator of professionalism. Pay attention to the office environment—friendly, welcoming staff are often a sign of a shop that values its customers.

The answer is yes, if the frame has not been permanently weakened by a tear or kink. Also, some areas of the crush zone are off limits to repair. Serious damage may require a frame component section or replacement. Today's light cars are designed with a uni-body frame, meaning most of the vehicle core is part of the frame structure. It is very common and safe for a competent shop to correctly repair a vehicle frame.

Waterborne paint is a high solids product where water is the carrier of the color instead of solvents. Waterborne paint is cleaner and generates 25% less pollution emissions than that of solvent paint. Most vehicle manufacturers have or are moving to waterborne paint systems. We use it because it is a better, safer product that helps impact the environment less.

Repair time is typically a function of labor hours on the job. Some makes and models or specific parts might not be available locally and a shop will add in days to acquire those parts.

Most body shops have some sort of a guarantee or warranty for the repairs they perform. If the problem that occurs is related to the accident and not a workmanship problem with the body shop, then you can go back to the insurance company up to two years after the time of the accident for anything else that happens.

Make sure before you take your car to a body shop you research the shop and see what their warranty is and exactly what it covers and for how long. Auto Tech Services offers a lifetime warranty as long as you own your car. Check out our warranty page for more information.

OEM - (Original Equipment Manufactured) by your vehicle's factory supplier.

Aftermarket - Copied from the original factory part and manufactured by a 3rd party supplier. Mainly manufactured overseas and imported into the US.

Recycled Part - An original factory part taken off of a vehicle that has been retired from service.