Buying the Right Car for a College Student

What Collision Repair Challenges Do Hybrid Vehicles Present?

No Comment Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Auto Body Shop Owner Tips

Your Toyota Prius was just involved in an accident and has been taken to the local auto body shop for some collision repairs. Given that it’s a hybrid, you’re wondering if the shop’s employees will have to take any special precautions while repairing the damage. Because of their electrical systems, restoring a damaged hybrid vehicle does present unique challenges. What follows are some of the precautionary steps that body shops take to protect their employees and your vehicle.

What’s a “Hybrid” Vehicle?

First introduced in the U.S. 20 years ago, hybrid vehicles (HVs) use both a conventional gas or diesel engine and an electric motor. This helps an HV consume less fuel, and emit less CO2, compared to an automobile that’s only powered by a fossil-fueled engine.

There are two types of hybrids, “conventional” or “plug-in”:

  • Conventional Hybrids. Offered by virtually all automobile manufacturers, these HVs use a gasoline engine to keep a modestly sized battery charged while driving. Available in various makes and models, conventional hybrids cannot be plugged in to recharge their batteries, and therefore only drive sporadically solely on electric power.
  • Plug-In Hybrids. Available through some auto makers, a plug-in hybrid has a large battery that can be recharged by plugging the vehicle into a standard wall outlet or recharging station. Once charged, the car runs purely on electricity without burning any fossil fuel. However, a plug-in HV can still run without ever being plugged in and will continue operating in normal hybrid mode (using the gas engine + electric motor) for as long as there’s gas in the tank.

I-CAR HV Repair Recommendations  

To protect insurance adjusters, auto body shop estimators, technicians and your vehicle, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) has established safety protocols (1) for working on both types of HVs. Here are some of their recommendations:

Before Repairs Begin

  • The vehicle cannot be towed or moved on its road wheels to prevent possible HV system damage and to reduce the potential shock hazard.
  • All HV system components must be initially located and inspected for signs of damage.
  • All service requirements for the various systems must first be fully understood, for example the engine cooling system.
  • Damaged body panel(s) must be checked behind for any HV system wires, connectors, modules or batteries that might have also sustained damage.
  • The proper air conditioning system service equipment and oils must be used to exclude the system from getting contaminated.  

Wearing Protective Gloves

  • Although an HV’s electrical system is designed with several built-in safety interlocks and circuit monitoring systems that initiate a shutdown if compromises are detected, protective electrical lineman’s gloves (Class 0) are highly recommended.
  • Those gloves will protect technicians when working on or near high-voltage vehicle components like the battery, system main relay, service plug receptacle and fuse, any orange-colored cables, inverter assembly, electric drive motors, PHEV charge port, etc.   

During the Teardown and Reassembly Phases

  • The HV’s electrical propulsion system must be disabled before touching or prying on any other system components.
  • If there’s anybody or engine damage in the vicinity of the HV system, the HV system must be totally disabled before proceeding.
  • Confirming that the HV system is shut down should be done by using a high-quality digital volt-ohm meter.
  • Technicians should never put their fingers in, or directly on, any connectors or HV system parts.
  • All disconnected connectors must be kept free of dirt, fluid or contamination.
  • If the HV system seems intact with no compromises and appears to be safe to power up, the technician must first scan the vehicle to identify any HV system issues. Those will show up as an HV system error message or if MIL or DTCs are present.  

Find a Local Body Shop in Seconds Through Carwise  

No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, when it’s been involved in a collision you can find a good body shop in seconds through the nationwide Carwise referral network. Shops featured in the Carwise network have the I-CAR and ASE-certified technicians, equipment and services to restore your ride like new again promptly and reliably. Most speak directly to insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their work to put your mind at ease.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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Which 2019 Vehicles are the Safest to Drive?

No Comment Safety Tips, Trends

If you’re currently shopping for a brand-new vehicle, in addition to appearance, fuel efficiency, performance and price, safety probably ranks high on your priority list. Crash protection, especially when you’re transporting children, is certainly important. But even with all the new safety features available on 2019 models, finding the safest vehicle for your family can be challenging. Thanks to the ongoing research efforts of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), finding a safer vehicle is now easier than ever before.  

What is the IIHS?  

The IIHS (www.iihs.org) was founded in 1959 as an independent, non-profit organization  dedicated to reducing losses related to motor vehicle crashes including injuries, property damage and deaths. To support those efforts, the IIHS started the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), and both organizations are now wholly supported through funding supplied by members of the auto insurance industry.

After initially focusing on crash prevention, the IIHS then expanded its scope to reducing crash-related losses and improving vehicle safety by using a modern, scientific approach to:

  • Study human factors that cause accidents
  • Explore new crash avoidance technologies and crashworthiness improvements
  • Find ways to make the physical driving environment safer

Thanks in part to IIHS’ continuing efforts, the number of traffic-related fatalities in the U.S. has dropped since 1979.

How Does the IIHS Test Vehicles?    

Three years after its state-of-the-art Vehicle Research Center (VRC) opened in 1992, the IIHS/HLDI began publishing their annual Top Safety Pick ratings. Yearly, the IIHS conducts numerous safety tests on 130 to 160 of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. Each of those vehicle models are then put through 80 to 100 rigorous crash tests at the VRC. Based on those test results, the IIHS/HLDI then assigns an overall vehicle safety rating that’s determined by how a given vehicle performs within each crash category.

For example, a “good” rating for “front overlap protection” lowers an occupant’s odds of being killed in a crash by 40% compared to a “poor” rating. A “good” rating in the “side-crash protection” category reduces the fatality risk by roughly 70%. When finished, only the safest vehicles are awarded a “Top Safety Pick” or “Top Safety Pick Plus” rating.

2019 “Top Safety” Award Criteria

Criteria used by the IIHS/HLDI to determine the safest vehicles for model year 2019 were:

Top Safety Pick

  • Headlight rating of “acceptable” or “good”
  • “Acceptable” or “good” rating in the passenger-side small overlap front crash test
  • “Good” ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint crash tests
  • “Advanced”, “superior”, or “advanced superior” rating for front crash prevention

Top Safety Pick Plus

  • Headlight rating of “good”
  • “Good” ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint crash tests
  • “Advanced”, “superior”, or “advanced superior” rating for front crash prevention

According to the IIHS, heavier vehicles generally still afford more crash protection than do smaller, lighter vehicles. In other words, a smaller car that qualifies for a “Top Safety” award may not necessarily protect its occupants better than a large pickup or SUV that didn’t make their list.

Safest Vehicles for 2019

Based on receiving an overall Top Safety Plus designation, here are the safest vehicles to drive for the 2019 model year (1):

  • Small Cars: Honda Insight, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Kia Niro Hybrid
  • Midsize Cars: Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Toyota Camry, BMW 3 Series, Lexus ES 350, Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  • Large Cars: Kia Stinger, Toyota Avalon, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Genesis G70, G80 and G90, Lincoln Continental, Mercedes-Benz E-Class
  • Small SUVs: Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, Volvo XC40
  • Midsized SUVs: Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, Subaru Ascent, Acura RDX, BMW X3 and X5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and GLE Class

Note: No large SUVs, minivans or pickups received a Top Safety Plus rating.

Locate a Nearby Collision Repair Shop in Seconds  

Even the safest vehicles can still be involved in accidents. When your ride needs some collision repairs, take it to an auto body or glass repair shop featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. ICAR and ASE-certified technicians there have the training, equipment and experience to restore your vehicle like new again promptly and reliably. Most shops in the Carwise network warranty their outcomes to put your mind at ease, and speak directly with insurance companies so you don’t have to.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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Checking your car before school

What Do Women Really Want in an Auto Body Shop?

No Comment Auto Body Shop Owner Tips

If you’re a woman who’s reading this right now, have you ever felt neglected or disrespected when taking your car to a local body shop? If you own a collision repair business, are your employees treating customers of all genders the same? Based on information from collision repair industry insiders, women are becoming increasingly more influential when it comes to making collision repair decisions within a household. As a result, many auto body shops are addressing the needs of women with updated amenities and marketing strategies.  

Treating Women as Equals

According to a recent article from Auto Body Review (1), although men are involved in more car accidents than women, women are now oftentimes the ones bringing the family vehicle in for repairs. Quoted in the article is Nancy Friedman, President of Telephone Doctor Customer Service, who consults with body shops on how to improve their customer service. What Friedman has found over the years is that women want to be treated with the same level of customer service and professionalism that men are.

Furthermore, Friedman relates that women desire to be clearly heard while having their questions answered promptly and respectfully. Here are some additional observations about what women want from a collision repair shop based on Friedman’s research:

  • Make eye contact and smile
  • Don’t rush or ignore them
  • Shake their hand the same way you would a man’s without breaking it
  • Put a hook in the women’s bathroom so they can hang up their bags  

And although all these might seem trivial when you’re a shop owner, it’s the little things that add up in the end.   

A Welcoming Shop Setting

Another recent article from Body Shop Business (2) also looked at what makes a woman feel more comfortable while at a body shop. The article’s author made it clear that because over half the customers who walk into the average shop are women, meeting their expectations is essential for success. Here are some of the key areas they identified around the shop that can be difference-makers for women:   

Parking and Entrance

A woman’s brain tends to notice organization and neatness. As a result, when a shop’s parking area and front office are clearly marked, it makes them feel more comfortable and welcomed once they’ve arrived.  

Kid-Friendly Waiting Area

Mothers who bring small children with them to a shop don’t want dust from the service bays floating around on their kids’ snacks while filling out paperwork. Women prefer waiting areas that are clean and inviting and usually equate a lack of office cleanliness with the quality of repairs that would be done on their vehicle. If mom has a small child in tow, nothing is more frustrating than trying to do paperwork with junior acting up. Women like shops with kid-friendly areas featuring toys, a play table and maybe even some coloring books and crayons.

Shop Décor

Again, this ties into a woman’s comfort zone. Old calendars with crumpled pictures of antique cars hanging on the wall probably won’t impress, but some nice artwork, fresh paint and thriving green houseplants will.

Explaining Estimates

Most people are confused about how repair estimates and insurance companies work, so they rely on the explanation provided by the shop manager to put their minds at ease. Women want someone at the shop to patiently and respectfully describe the repair process, how long it might take, and what their out-of-pocket costs will be.

Bathroom

Nothing turns a woman off quite like a dirty, smelly bathroom. On the other hand, sparkling toilets and sinks, a diaper changing table, bright vanity lighting and clean walls go a long way in keeping her happy. Adding some air freshener, scented hand soap and toilet seat covers are game-changers when it comes to earning a woman’s trust and repeat business.   

Body Shops Nearby that Treat All Customers Equally

Whether you’re a man or woman, car accidents happen. When you need some high-quality collision repairs, trust in one of the customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Not only will you be treated with respect, but ICAR and ASE-certified technicians there will have the experience, equipment and training to restore your ride like new again, promptly and reliably.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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Holiday Road Trip

How Can I Get My Car Ready for Summer Road Trips?

No Comment Car Care Tips

Many drivers don’t maintain their vehicles properly during the winter and early spring because it’s cold. But summer’s hot temperatures and dusty conditions can be hard on cars, and notably during those much-anticipated vacation road trips. And, you certainly don’t want to get stranded on the steamy roadside with your overheated kids in tow. The key to getting your vehicle ready for summertime driving is preventing mechanical breakdowns in advance. Before heading out on your exciting road trip, use these summer driving car maintenance tips from the pros.

Summer Road Conditions are Hard on Engines

Here are some of the ways that summer’s hot, dry weather and congested road conditions can wreak havoc upon your vehicle’s mechanical components:

  • Accelerates tire, hose and drive belt aging
  • Strains your cooling system and A/C to the limit  
  • Stop-and-go driving is hard on the engine, transmission and brakes
  • Dust and dirt can clog your engine’s filters and reduce performance  

Do These Before Hitting the Road

Fortunately, there are several preventative measures you can take to help ensure a more seamless summertime travel experience, starting with these:  

Check the Tires

If you put winter tires on your car, make sure to swap them out for a good all-season tire with enough tread to get you safely through those summer rainstorms. Every 10-degree F rise in air temperature increases tire pressure by one PSI. Improperly inflated tires can overheat on long trips and cause blowouts. Check your tire pressure at least weekly and rotate your tires every 5,000 miles.   

Test the A/C  

Since you probably don’t use the A/C much during the winter or spring, run it for a little while to make sure it blows out cold air. Are there any strange noises or odors? If you notice anything unusual, the system may need to be cleaned or recharged, or it could have a leak. To give you peace-of-mind, have it inspected by a pro.

Look Under the Hood

Most drivers don’t check under the hood when it’s chilly outside. Now that it’s warmer, pop the hood when the engine’s cold and look over the:

  • Battery. Is there corrosion around the posts? If so, clean it off with an old toothbrush and baking soda. Check it again a few weeks later. If the corrosion is back, it could be signaling a more serious issue. If so, you may want to replace the battery.
  • Oil. Check your oil level and top it off with the specified summer grade found in your owner’s manual. If it hasn’t been replaced for 3500 miles (conventional oil) or 5000 miles (synthetic), get an oil change. Remember that oil filters can also clog up faster during dusty summertime conditions.
  • Coolant. Check your coolant’s level and appearance in the overflow reservoir. It should be clear and not cloudy, and if you need to top it off use a 50/50 mixture that’s specified for your vehicle’s make and model. If your coolant hasn’t been changed for over 5 years or 100,000 miles, a flush-and-fill is probably a good idea.
  • Brakes. These should be inspected by a mechanic at recommended intervals found in your owner’s manual, or sooner if you notice unusual grabbing, vibrating, noises or longer stopping distances.
  • Belts, clamps and hoses. Visually inspection your engine’s drive belts, clamps and hoses. If anything looks worn or frayed, take it to a mechanic and have them checked out.

Lights

Inspect all lights and replace burned out bulbs. Also, periodically clean dirt and splattered bugs from the lenses using a soft rag and glass cleaner.

Windshield Wipers

If your old blades are leaving streaks behind when it rains, it’s time for a new pair. Do so before it gets hot, and remember to also top off your wiper fluid.

Your Summertime Cure for Road Trip Damage

Even when keeping your vehicle well maintained, car accidents happen. Flying rock chips, the sun’s UV rays, hailstorms and construction zones can also take a toll on your car’s paint job. When you need some summer repairs, promptly take you vehicle to a nationwide auto body shop featured in the Carwise referral network. I-CAR and ASE-certified technicians there have the experience, equipment and know-how to restore your ride like new again promptly and reliably.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.   

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Summer driving safety tips

When are the Most Dangerous Days and Times to Drive?

No Comment Trends

If you’re like most drivers, you can just sense when it’s more dangerous to be on the road. July 4th, Memorial Day weekend, New Year’s Eve and those stressful work commutes during nasty weather probably come to mind. But have you ever wondered statistically when the most dangerous weekly driving times and days are? Thanks to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA; www.nhtsa.gov) that was subsequently analyzed by the online legal directory Avvo (www.avvo.com), you don’t have to guess anymore.

How Avvo Compiled Their Crash Data

Every year, the NHTSA collects reams of data about traffic accidents and resulting fatalities for all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. That information is then organized into tables listed on their Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) website. Back in 2017, Avvo, which is a nationwide legal directory that helps potential clients find attorneys, decided to analyze FARS data from 2016 to determine the most likely times and days of the week for motor vehicle crash-related deaths. What follows are the fascinating trends their study (1) revealed.

Most Dangerous Daily Drive Times

Based on Avvo’s findings, the most dangerous time of day to drive is between 4 pm and 6:59 pm. In 2016, 6,201 people died in motor vehicle accidents during those time zone-adjusted hours, out of a total of over 37,000 fatalities. For starters, 4 pm to 7 pm is a peak time for work commuters heading home. Avvo also discovered that the second deadliest time for road travelers is 7 pm to 9:59 pm. But what surprised the Avvo researchers was the comparatively low number of fatalities (3,345) during the morning commute hours of 7 am to 9:59 am.

Why the large disparity between morning and evening rush hour fatalities? According to traffic safety experts, the main reasons are probably these:

  • People are in more of a hurry to get home than go to work
  • Frustration after a long work day
  • Distracted driving while responding to accumulated text or voicemail messages
  • Impaired driving due to alcohol and/or drugs

Obviously, commuters living in large metropolitan areas are at a higher risk, especially when tied up in traffic congestion. On the positive side, the researchers also found that Tuesdays between 1 am and 3:59 am are the safest times to be behind-the-wheel.

Worst Days of the Week for Traffic Fatalities

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that driving gets a little crazier on the weekends, and especially late at night. As you would expect, the Avvo study determined that the overall worst days of the week for traffic fatalities in 2016 were Saturdays, with nearly 7,000 deaths, followed by Fridays with 5,826 fatalities. Saturday night from 10 pm until Sunday morning at 3:59 am was statistically the most dangerous weekend period of all. Once again, Tuesday stood out as the safest day for travelers.

In general, the researchers concluded that:

  • There are typically more vehicles on the roads from Friday evening through Sunday, especially during the summer.
  • Drivers tend to be more careless and reckless on weekends.
  • Alcohol and drug use are higher during those times.

Additional Findings and Driving Safety Tips

Out of a total of 34,748 reported traffic accidents and 37,748 fatalities in 2016, alcohol was a contributing factor in 10,497 deaths. Not wearing a seatbelt led to 10,428 fatalities, and speeding was involved in 10,111 deaths. Keep in mind that a single fatality may have been attributed to multiple causes. Distracted driving was a factor in 3,450 road fatalities, with another 400,000+ injured because drivers weren’t watching the road.

Based on the evidence, experts recommend using these safe driving precautions:

  • Always drive defensively
  • Limit driving distractions inside your vehicle
  • Obey all traffic laws and posted signs
  • Always wear a seatbelt, even in the back seat
  • Avoid operating a vehicle when impaired by alcohol and/or drugs
  • If you plan on using alcohol or drugs, have a designated driver

Promptly Find Client-Reviewed Collision Repair Shops Here

Unfortunately, car accidents happen when you least expect them to. When you’re involved in one, promptly locate a client-reviewed collision repair shop by using the nationwide Carwise referral network. Auto body shops featured through Carwise have the I-CAR and ASE-certified technicians, equipment and services to restore your ride like new again promptly and reliably. Most speak directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their work for your peace-of-mind.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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5 Top Driving Habit Tips

Buying a New Car vs. Leasing: Which Should I Choose?

No Comment Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips

After having your old vehicle paid off for several years now, it’s time to get a new one. You’ve read a lot online about buying a new car versus leasing but still can’t make up your mind. Deciding which option makes the most sense can be confusing, and there are positives and negatives associated with each. In the end, choosing between buying a car or leasing boils down to what works best based on your lifestyle, transportation needs, and budget. To help make your decision a more rewarding one, here’s some input from the pros.

How Does Leasing Work?

Leasing is a type of auto financing where you’re not actually paying for the entire car. Instead, you’re only paying for the depreciation that occurs over the lease’s term, which is usually 2 to 4 years, plus fees and interest. Leasing usually requires an upfront down payment when signing a contract, and then you’ll pay the balance of the vehicle’s price in monthly increments until the term is over. The salesperson might throw out phrases like “capitalized cost”, “residual value” and “money factor”, so familiarize yourself with those before signing on the dotted line.

What if I Buy a Car?

When you buy a car, you are paying the entire negotiated price using your trade-in value, cash, financing, or a combination of all three. A typical transaction involves a down payment, trade-in of your existing vehicle, and taking out an auto loan with set monthly payments for up to 6 or even 7 years. When financing a car, the lender holds onto the title until you pay off the entire financed amount. At that point, you take over ownership of the vehicle’s title clear and free.

Pros and Cons of Leasing

Those desiring a newer vehicle for business, entertaining clients or simply because they like to drive one tend to lease because it’s easier to upgrade every 2 to 3 years. Overall, the pros of leasing a new car include:  

  • No or little down payment required
  • Lower monthly payments
  • You can drive a more expensive car for less money.
  • No trade-in or selling negotiations after the lease are over   
  • Fewer sales tax paid

The cons of leasing are:

  • You don’t own the vehicle when the lease ends, although you’ll have the option to buy.
  • Mileage per year is capped, usually at 12,000 miles, although you can pay for more.
  • Lease contracts can be confusing.
  • You may have to pay excess wear-and-tear fees that can be hidden in the contract.
  • If your financial situation changes, it can be costly to terminate a lease early.
  • You cannot customize or modify the car.
  • You’ll pay more over the long haul for a leased vehicle than one you purchase and keep for several years.  

Pros and Cons of Buying

Buying a car works best for drivers who plan on keeping their vehicle for several years after it’s been paid off, for example, to pass it down to a college-bound family member. These are the pros of buying a car:

  • No excess mileage charges
  • Provides trade-in or resale value later
  • More flexibility, as you can sell or trade-in the car whenever you want.
  • You can modify or customize your car as you please.
  • You’ll save money over the long haul once it’s paid off.

Cons associated with buying a new car include:

  • Higher monthly payments
  • A larger down payment is required.
  • Once the warranty has expired you are responsible for all repair costs.
  • The hassle of trade-in or selling negotiations
  • More cash tied up in a car that will depreciate-in-value over the years

In the end, deciding between buying and leasing comes down to the importance of personal tastes and priorities versus pure dollars and cents.

How Can I Find a Good Local Auto Body Shop?

Whether you choose to lease a new vehicle or buy one, accidents happen. When you’re involved in one, you can promptly locate a good local auto body shop by using the nationwide Carwise referral network. Collision and glass repair shops featured on Carwise’s website have the I-CAR and ASE-certified technicians, equipment and services you need to repair your ride promptly and reliably. Most work directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their outcomes for many miles of care-free driving.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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What are the Most Common Repairs that Auto Body Shops Do?

1 Comment Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Auto Body Shop Owner Tips, Dent Repair, Trends

If you’re like most drivers, at some point you’ll have to take your vehicle to a local collision repair shop after an accident. Most shops, like those featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network, offer a full menu of auto body repair and restoration services, from paintless dent removal to professional detailing. And, although most services are provided to repair damage resulting from a recent collision, that’s not always the case. In general, these are the most common types of repairs that body shops perform.      

Paintless Dent Removal (PDR)

Stray grocery carts, hail and flying rocks can all leave noticeable dents in body panels and doors. Left untreated, even minor dents can cause more expensive paint damage later. To ensure that doesn’t happen, body shops use a process called “paintless dent removal” (PDR).

PDR requires no fillers or sanding, as a trained technician uses a variety of special tools to gently and slowly push dents back into place without harming the factory paint job. Overall, PDR is a very cost-effective and long-lasting way to get your ride looking great again.  

Auto Body Painting

A new paint job might be necessary after an accident, to protect an older car’s exterior from the elements, or simply to improve esthetics. Body shops routinely do paint jobs on vehicles with bodies that are marred by scratches, rock chips, rust, paint swirling or other damage. When doing so, these are the steps that trained technicians use:

  1. Surface is sanded down to the bare metal and cleaned
  2. Corrosion-resistant primer is applied and allowed to cure
  3. Cured primer is sanded down and the surface carefully cleaned
  4. Several layers of paint are applied with a sprayer and allowed to dry for up to 7 days
  5. Clearcoat is then applied that gives the finish a high-gloss appearance
  6. The exterior is then buffed and polished

Window Repairs and Replacements

Auto glass damage comes in many forms, including chips, cracks and breaks. Sometimes the damage can be repaired, and other times a total windshield or window replacement is necessary. If your vehicle is being repaired a local body shop due to an accident, they may have a full-time glass repair technician on their payroll. Those that don’t partner with glass repair shops in the area that can send out a technician to perform the necessary window repairs or replacement before the vehicle is picked up.

Frame Testing and Straightening

Studies have found that roughly 50% of all vehicles sustain frame damage after an accident,

including minor fender benders. A frame that’s unknowingly weakened or bent can place a vehicle’s occupants unnecessarily at risk during a subsequent accident. And, a vehicle with a bent frame will also track unevenly down the road, handle poorly and probably cause your tires and steering components to wear out prematurely.

To help ensure that your frame is safe after an accident, these are the steps body shop technicians take:

  • The frame is first visually inspected for signs of damage.
  • If any damage is present, the vehicle is then placed on a frame alignment machine.
  • The machine then straightens the frame using hydraulic force and torque until it’s back to its original factory specifications.

Once the frame is straightened, your vehicle will track normally and be safer to drive.

How Can I Find Good Auto Body Shops Near Me?  

Finding a good auto body shop that offers all these repair services can be challenging, especially when you’re new to an area. When you need some help, use the nationwide Carwise referral network. All collision and glass repair shops featured in the Carwise network are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the highly trained technicians, equipment and services you need to restore your ride like-new again promptly and reliably.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com. 

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Is Drugged Driving Now a Major Problem on American Roads?

No Comment Trends

Thanks to organizations like MADD, and the stricter enforcement of drunk-driving laws, alcohol-related traffic deaths in the U.S. have steadily declined since the 1980s. Based on statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) (1), drunk driving deaths have fallen by one-third within the past 30 years; most notably for drivers under the age of 21. Unfortunately, widespread marijuana legalization and the growing opioid crisis have helped create a new problem on American roads; one that’s quickly spiraling out of control.  

How Common is Drugged Driving?

Drugged, or “drug-impaired”, driving refers to the operation of a vehicle while under the influence of any type of drug, legal or illegal (illicit), and every state has laws against doing so. But even with those laws in place, how common is driving while under the influence of drugs (DUID)? That answer can be found in some troubling data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (2) that were based solely on studies focused on illicit substance use by drivers:

  • In 2017, 12.8 million people aged 16-and-older admitted to driving after using illicit drugs.
  • In 2016, among all drivers killed in traffic accidents, 43.6% of those whose blood was drug tested for illicit substances had positive results.
  • Of those fatalities, over half tested positive for two or more illicit drugs in their system.
  • 20% of all nighttime weekend drivers tested positive for illicit drugs in the 2013-14 National Roadside Survey.

When it comes to DUID law enforcement, here are some of the challenges that police officers face:

  • Overall, it’s much harder to determine when a driver is drug impaired compared to one who’s under the influence of alcohol.
  • Drivers can be field tested for alcohol impairment using a breathalyzer. No such roadside testing method is available to officers when they suspect a pulled-over driver has been using drugs.
  • A growing number of drivers today are operating a vehicle while under the influence of two or more drugs that affect them in different ways, including prescription and OTC products.

And, if these problems weren’t enough, an increasingly greater number of drivers are now combining alcohol with one or more legal or illegal drugs before climbing behind the wheel.

How These Popular Drugs Impair Drivers  

Here are the various ways that many popular legal or illegal drugs can interfere with a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle:

  • Marijuana. The THC found in marijuana slows down reaction times and impairs the judgement of distance. Marijuana is also the most common drug that’s used in combination with alcohol by drivers who get charged with DUID offenses.
  • Methamphetamine or cocaine. Can cause drivers to engage in aggressive and reckless behaviors.
  • Opioids and opiates. Prescription and illegally obtained opioids and opiates can cause drowsiness, and impair a driver’s memory and cognitive skills.   
  • Sedatives like benzodiazepine or barbiturates.  Oftentimes prescribed by doctors for depression or as a sleep aid, these drugs cause drowsiness and dizziness.  
  • OTC medications. Many drivers take over-the-counter remedies for colds or allergies without considering that they can interfere with driving. Diet pills and other “stay awake” products contain stimulants that may induce excitability or drowsiness.

How Can I Help Prevent Drug-Related Accidents?    

Fortunately, there are several positive strategies you can take to help avoid becoming another DUID statistic. 

  • Offer to be a designated driver, or have a designated driver collect all the keys.
  • Get a ride to and from parties where there are drugs and alcohol present.
  • Speak with your friends about the risks of drugged driving.
  • Avoid parties altogether where alcohol and drugs will be available.

Regarding OTC and prescription medications, carefully read the label warnings first before taking the product and then driving a car. If there’s any chance it could impair your ability to operate a vehicle, don’t drive. If you have questions, consult a pharmacist.

Where Should I Take My Car for Collision Repairs?

No matter how careful you are as a driver, accidents happen. When your vehicle is involved in one, take it to a body shop featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. ICAR and ASE-certified technicians there will have the equipment, training and experience to restore your ride like new again promptly and reliably. Most work directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their outcomes to put your mind at ease.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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Collision Repair Shops Nearby are Myth-Busters

How WIN Promotes Diversity in the Collision Repair Industry

No Comment Auto Body Shop Owner Tips, Trends

Collision repair has historically been an industry that’s mostly employed men, but one organization has been working diligently behind the scenes to change all that. Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Women’s Industry Network (WIN), an increasing number of women are now enjoying rewarding careers at all levels in the collision repair process. And fortunately, these transformative changes within what once was a male-dominated industry are coming at a critical time when many shops are now facing technician shortages.

What is the Women’s Industry Network?

Founded in 2006, the Women’s Industry Network, or “WIN”, is a not-for-profit organization that attracts, develops, and helps promote talented women within all segments of the collision repair industry. Started initially by a handful of passionate individuals, WIN today boasts a dedicated membership of over 500 men and women across the U.S. and Canada, including Mary Bara, the first ever female CEO of General Motors. Overseeing WIN’s many initiatives are a 12-member, all-volunteer board, and an Executive Committee made up of five individuals.

How WIN is Reshaping the Future  

A handful of women have historically served within the collision repair industry in positions ranging from front office help to shop co-ownership. Today, WIN’s membership roster reflects the expanding roles of women within this $236 billion per year market who work for:

  •         Collision repair shops
  •         Distributors
  •         Suppliers
  •         Consultants
  •         Paint manufacturers
  •         Recyclers
  •         Insurance companies

As the industry continues to change, more and more women are now serving in important positions to help ensure a brighter tomorrow. WIN’s impact starts with the fact women influence a majority of buying decisions in households, including ones related to collision repairs. According to their website (thewomensindustrynetwork.site-ym.com), the group is also reshaping the future of the industry by:

  •         Helping to identify what the “face” of a business or organization should look like
  •         Ensuring industry sustainability
  •         Better positioning organizations and businesses for growth opportunities
  •         Addressing technician shortages and the shrinking traditional labor pool

WIN Supports Diversity in These Ways   

So how exactly does WIN directly promote diversity in the collision repair industry? First, the group financially supports qualified applicants who demonstrate a strong desire to excel in the field of collision repair by offering several scholarships and financial awards that cover:

  •         Trade school tuition assistance up to $1,000
  •         Continuing education programs
  •         Attending career enrichment events, like the annual WIN Educational Conferences
  •         Free, one-year memberships to WIN

Secondly, WIN presents annual Most Influential Women (MIW) awards to exceptional candidates who have enriched the collision repair industry with their vision, leadership and commitment to excellence. To date, over 80 MIW recipients have been honored for their professional achievements and continuing efforts to go above and beyond while giving back to their respective communities.

MIW candidates are nominated by their peers each year, and then the winners chosen by WIN’s Board and Executive Committee members. Past MIW recipients include shop owners, body and paint technicians, managers, suppliers, lobbyists, wholesalers, insurance adjusters, educators, editors, writers, and industry association directors. The women who earned MIW distinctions in 2018 were Shelly Bickett, Mary Mahoney, Marie Peevy and Petra Schroeder.  

And finally, WIN hosts an Educational Conference every year that offers numerous training, networking and socializing opportunities for participants. This year’s conference is being held in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, May 6th through 8th.   

Find Auto Body Shops Nearby that Also Promote Diversity

Thanks in part to the efforts of WIN, the future of the collision repair industry remains bright. When your ride’s been in an accident, take it to an ASE-certified auto body shop nearby featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Highly-qualified men and women there will have the training, equipment and know-how to restore your vehicle like new again promptly and reliably.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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5 Signs of Spring that Can Also Damage Your Car’s Paint

No Comment Car Care Tips

For millions of drivers in cold weather states, the long-awaited sights and sounds of spring have finally arrived, like colorful flowers, chirping birds and warmer temperatures. On the other hand, springtime also ushers in several damaging forces that target your car’s once-pristine paint job. Protecting your car’s finish from these sinister forces starts with knowing what you’re up against. To help you better prepare, here are 5 common signs of spring that you need to watch out for.   

  1. Bird Droppings

As our feathered friends become more active in the spring, they start bombarding vehicles with their droppings. Those droppings contain seed and berry residues that can quickly discolor your car’s paint, along with uric acid that can eat through the clear coat finish. If that’s not enough, the sun’s powerful rays can also bake bird droppings into the finish.

Left on the paint’s surface, it’s a corrosive combination that can leave ugly stains on your prized vehicle that are very hard to remove. To protect your paint from bird droppings, car care experts recommend promptly wiping them off with a damp cloth.

  1. Pollen

Anyone with springtime allergies knows when the air is full of pollen. Not only do they make your eyes water and nose run, abrasive pollen particles can scratch your car’s paint. Because they’re so tiny, pollen particles can also infiltrate the small pores found in your paint’s finish and then release acid.

If this happens on a large enough scale, that acid can cause irreversible staining, fading and oxidation. The best way to prevent pollen damage is to give your car a thorough washing with soapy water; as soap acts to block the acid’s activation.  

  1. Flying Pavement Debris  

If your state receives a lot of snow, road plows and salt team up to leave lots of loose pavement debris in the spring. Those jagged projectiles get picked up by tires on moving vehicles, and then catapulted into your bumper and hood. The resulting paint chips not only look bad, they can also cause paint flaking and even serious body corrosion.

To help ensure that doesn’t happen, when a rock chip appears promptly touch it up with matching auto paint from the dealership. Be sure to first carefully clean all dirt and old wax from the area so the paint adheres to the metal. If there are several chips and the resulting DIY touch up paint job looks tacky, you can have what’s called “flatting and polishing” done at a local auto body shop to get the finish smooth again.

  1. Tree Sap

As trees awaken in the spring, they tend to drip sap. When that sticky substance lands on your parked car, it can get baked in by the sun’s rays, crystalize into the painted surface, and then leave an ugly rough patch behind. Because of its chemical makeup, even fresh tree sap cannot be removed by simply washing the area.

Instead, promptly clean off the sap with rubbing alcohol by spraying it on with a clean bottle, and then wiping it off using a soft microfiber cloth.    

  1. Bug Splatters

Spring also brings flying bugs that get splattered on the front of your car. Bug juices contain acids that can quickly erode your car’s paint, especially when the splatters get baked in by the sun. To help ensure that doesn’t happen, experts recommend lathering up the bug guts as soon as possible with a soap and water mixture, and then rinsing them off.

If you drive frequently, you can even Scotchguard the front of your vehicle for added protection. Once you’ve waited too long and the bug stains are visible in the paint, you may have to take your car to a pro to get them out.  

Promptly Locate Auto Body Paint Experts Nearby  

When your car’s paint job needs some professional TLC, take it to a nearby auto body shop featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. I-CAR and ASE-certified technicians there have the training, equipment and experience to restore your ride’s factory paint job like new again promptly and reliably. If you need some accident repairs, most collision repair shops in the Carwise network speak directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their outcomes to restore your peace-of-mind.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

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