The Future of Electric Vehicles and Auto Body Repairs

Carwise No Comment Jul 26,2025 Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Trends

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). As consumers increasingly adopt EVs, the world embraces cleaner and eco-conscious transportation solutions. This shift has a significant impact on various associated industries, particularly auto body repairs.

Auto body shops, which have traditionally dealt with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, now need to adapt to the unique requirements of EVs. This article examines the evolution of Electric vehicles and the implications for auto body repairs, providing insight into the evolving relationship between these two industries.

The Growing Prominence of Electric Vehicles

Electric automobiles have become a mainstream automotive option. With each passing year, sales of EVs continue to grow, and they are becoming an increasingly common sight on our roads. This growth is driven by several factors:

Ecological Awareness: Buyers are showing greater sensitivity to their carbon footprint decisions. EVs offer a greener alternative to traditional ICE vehicles, with reduced emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
Technological Advancements: The technology behind EVs has improved significantly, offering increased range, faster charging, and improved performance. These advancements have addressed many early concerns about EV practicality and convenience.
Government Incentives: Many governments worldwide are providing financial benefits, including tax breaks and monetary support, to promote the switch to EVs. These initiatives, coupled with the implementation of emissions regulations, are driving a shift toward electrification.
Charging Infrastructure: The development of widespread charging networks is making EV ownership more feasible. The increasing availability of charging stations addresses range anxiety and makes EVs a more viable option for longer journeys.

Impact on Auto Body Repairs

The rise of EVs has several implications for the auto body repair industry. EV construction differs significantly from that of ICE vehicles, and these differences present new challenges and opportunities for repair facilities:

Specialized Training and Skills: Working on EVs requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. Auto body shops need to ensure their technicians are trained to handle high-voltage systems, new types of body materials, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This specialized training is crucial to ensure safe and effective repairs.
Equipment and Tools: EV repairs often demand specific tools and equipment that differ from those used for ICE vehicles. For example, body shops may need to invest in specialized lifts, scan tools, and battery handling equipment. This ensures they can properly service and repair EVs, adhering to the unique requirements of these vehicles.
Safety Protocols: Electric vehicles present unique safety challenges due to their high-voltage systems. Auto body shops must implement strict safety protocols to protect both technicians and customers. This includes procedures for disabling high-voltage systems, handling damaged batteries, and ensuring proper isolation and protection during repairs.
Structural Differences: The design and construction of EVs vary significantly from ICE vehicles. Repairs may involve working with new types of lightweight components, including composite materials and metal alloys, that require different techniques and equipment. Additionally, the placement of batteries and other components can affect the repair process, often requiring a more comprehensive disassembly and reassembly of the vehicle.
ADAS Calibration: Advanced driver-assistance systems, such as driving assistance technology and collision prevention systems, are now common installations on many EVs. Repair facilities need to invest in calibration equipment and training to ensure these systems continue to function correctly after a repair.

Adapting to the Future

Auto body shops must adapt to keep pace with the evolving landscape of automotive technology:

Technician Training: Investing in ongoing technician training is essential. Shops should ensure their staff are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to work on EVs, including high-voltage system handling, ADAS calibration, and understanding the unique construction of these vehicles.
Specialized Equipment: Body shops should consider investing in purpose-built tools designed specifically for EV maintenance. This may include battery charging and testing equipment, lift systems designed for EVs, and tools for working with new types of body materials.
Partnerships and Certifications: Repair facilities can seek partnerships with EV manufacturers and industry associations to gain access to specialized training and resources. Additionally, achieving certifications specific to EV repairs can help shops stand out and assure customers of their capabilities.
Stay Informed: The EV market is rapidly evolving, and repair facilities must stay up-to-date with the latest developments. This includes keeping abreast of new models, technological advancements, and changes in safety protocols and repair procedures.

Conclusion

The outlook for EVs shows great promise, and presence on our roads will only increase. Auto body shops that embrace this change and adapt their practices will be well-positioned to succeed in this evolving automotive landscape. By investing in training, equipment, and partnerships, repair facilities can ensure they are ready to meet the distinct hurdles and possibilities that electric vehicles bring.

As the relationship between EVs and auto body repairs continues to develop, shops that remain at the forefront of innovation will be better positioned to provide the specialized services these vehicles require. This includes understanding the unique safety protocols, having the right tools and knowledge to work on EV-specific components, and staying informed about the latest advancements in the industry.

The future of electric vehicles and auto body repairs is an exciting prospect, and with the right preparation, repair facilities can ensure they remain a vital part of the automotive industry’s sustainable journey.

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Finding the Best Auto Body Shops Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide to Quality Collision Repair

If you’ve been in an accident or simply need some aesthetic work on your car, finding the right auto body shop near you is essential. With countless options out there, the decision can be overwhelming. You want a place that provides high-quality repairs, has skilled technicians, and offers excellent customer service—all without breaking the bank. Here’s everything you need to know about locating and choosing the best collision repair shops near you.

Why Choose a Local Auto Body Repair Shop?

Opting for a local auto body repair shop near you offers several advantages:
1. Convenience: It’s easy to drop off your vehicle and pick it up when repairs are complete.
2. Faster Service: Local shops prioritize timely repairs.
3. Reputation: With a local shop, you can quickly research their reputation. Reviews from neighbors and friends can help you find trustworthy collision repair.

Key Services Offered by Collision Repair Shops Near Me

When choosing a collision repair shop, knowing the specific services they offer can help you decide if they’re right for your needs:
1. Dent and Scratch Repair: Quality shops have expertise in eliminating unsightly dents and scratches, leaving your car looking as good as new.
2. Paint Matching and Refinish: Paint is a complex process, and top auto body shops use advanced technology to ensure a perfect color match for your vehicle.
3. Frame Straightening: After an accident, frame damage can compromise your vehicle’s safety. Collision repair shops near you will have specialized equipment to restore the structural integrity of your vehicle.
4. Glass Replacement and Repair: Whether it’s your windshield or windows, most auto body repair shops near you will offer glass services to repair cracks or replace broken panes.

How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop Near You

1. Check Certifications and Training: Look for shops with technicians certified by reputable organizations, such as ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) or I-CAR. This certification ensures they’re trained on the latest repair techniques and technology.

2. Read Reviews and Ratings: Search for “collision repair shops near me” and read reviews on platforms like Carwise, Google, Yelp and Bing. Customer feedback can give you insights into the shop’s service quality, timeliness, and professionalism.

3. Get Multiple Estimates: It’s essential to compare prices from a few different shops. Look for estimates that break down labor and parts costs, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about each line item.

4. Inspect the Shop’s Work Environment: A reputable auto body repair shop near you will maintain a clean and organized environment. The way they care for their workspace often reflects their approach to handling customer vehicles.

Why Quality Matters in Collision Repair

Cutting corners to save on collision repair can lead to additional problems down the line, costing you more in the long run. Quality collision repair shops near you will use top-grade materials and parts, ensuring that your vehicle meets safety standards and retains its value. Look for shops that offer a warranty on their work; this shows they stand by their quality and gives you peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a trustworthy auto body shop near you can make all the difference in your vehicle’s repair process and outcome. With a little research, you can find a collision repair shop near you that meets your needs for high-quality work, excellent customer service, and reasonable pricing. Taking the time to pick the right shop will ensure your car is back on the road safely and beautifully, without any unexpected surprises.

Ready to start your search? Use our directory on Carwise.com to find auto body repair shops near you and schedule your next repair with confidence!

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Get Your Car Ready for Winter: Precautions to Take Before the Cold Sets In

Carwise No Comment Dec 18,2024 Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Car Care Tips, Safety Tips, Trends

As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, it’s a reminder that winter is coming. It’s not just the weather that’s about to change; our cars also need some extra attention to ensure they can handle the lower temperatures, icy roads, and snowy conditions.

Here is a list of precautions to take to get your car ready for the winter season:

Check Your Tires

Ensure your tires have enough tread to handle snowy and icy roads. You can do the penny test: place a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too shallow, and it may be time to replace your tires.

Check your tire pressure regularly as cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Keep your tires properly inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Winter-Grade Windshield Wiper Fluid

Fill your reservoir with winter-grade windshield wiper fluid that won’t freeze. This will help you maintain clear visibility while driving in snowy or icy conditions.

Battery and Charging System

Get your car battery tested to ensure it is strong enough to handle the extra demands of cold weather. Cold temperatures can reduce battery power, so it’s important to make sure yours is in good condition.

Also, check the charging system and belts to ensure they are in proper working order.

Lights and Signals

Inspect all lights and signals to ensure they are clean and functioning properly. This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency hazard lights. With shorter days and more darkness, it’s important to be seen and to see the road clearly.

Engine Oil and Filters

Check your engine oil level and change it if necessary. Consider switching to a lower-viscosity oil during winter, as thicker oils can make it harder for your engine to turn over in cold temperatures.

Also, replace your oil and air filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

Emergency Kit

Prepare or restock your emergency kit for winter driving. This should include items like a small snow shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables, flashlight with fresh batteries, reflective triangles or flares, a blanket, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit.

Brakes and ABS

Have your brakes inspected to ensure they are in good condition and that the anti-lock brake system (ABS) is working properly. ABS helps prevent skidding and maintains control in slippery conditions.

Exhaust System

Inspect your exhaust system for any leaks, which could be dangerous if left unchecked. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if it builds up in your car.

Heater and Defroster

Test your heater and defroster to ensure they are working properly. You’ll need a clear windshield and warm air during those cold mornings.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your car is ready for the challenges of winter driving. Stay safe on the roads and remember to adjust your driving habits according to the conditions.

Feel free to add your own tips in the comments below, and share this list with your friends and family to help them get their cars winter-ready!

Stay warm and safe this winter!

1613

2021’s Most Popular Car Colors

Carwise No Comment Jun 23,2021 Trends

Like anything else, interior and exterior car color trends can go in and out of fashion, with some tried and true favorites that have withstood the test of time.

The Top Three Car Colors of 2021

What car colors are trending in 2021? According to Kelley Bluebook, the top three car colors this year are:

Dark Seltzer, a dark gray color
Redolent Red, a reddish-brown color
Abstraction Blue, a darker blue color

Gray is also expected to remain a popular choice, along with the classics: black and white.

This year, experts find that there is a bigger emphasis on texture or subtle details versus drastic color pallet changes. For example, cars may feature more textured-looking paint by including sparkles or specks.

Which Car Paint Colors are Easiest to Maintain?

Car color can be taken as a remark upon the driver’s personality, and many people want their car color to match their own personal tastes. However, when choosing a car color – either on a new car or for a paint job for an old car – it’s also important to consider maintenance. Some colors are easier to keep looking great than others.

For example:

Black looks great when it’s fresh and clean – but it can soon look dirty from grime or water marks.
White looks great like black does – and is equally hard to keep clean.
Gray is the easiest to keep clean and hides minor dirt easily, and silver is a close second.
Other colors may hide certain types of mess (for example, yellow can hide pollen) but not others (mud would show easily on a yellow car).
Blue, while rising in popularity, also doesn’t do a good job of hiding anything, so it can be difficult to keep clean.

If you’re considering a custom or unique color for your car’s paint, you may want to consider whether the color will be easy to match, should you ever need a touch up. Certain colors can be a challenge for auto body technicians to tint accurately, which could risk discoloration in areas where they’ve repainted. Specialized paint finishes can also create challenges if you need to repaint the car down the road. This doesn’t mean that you should avoid unique colors and finishes; the key is finding the right auto body shop near you that has the expertise to get the job done right if you ever need your vehicle repainted.

Find An Auto Body Shop Near You to Repaint Your Car

How do you know when it’s time to paint your car? Things like hail damage or rust could mean it’s time for a paint job, assuming paintless dent repair isn’t an option. If you decide to paint your car, make sure you take the time to research the process and get quotes from several different shops.

When you’re ready, Carwise.com is here to help you. From real customer reviews to shop certifications, hours and locations, Carwise’s search tool can help you choose the right auto body or collision repair shop from more than 21,000 shops nationwide.

U.S. Cities With the Most Collisions

Carwise No Comment Jun 17,2021 Trends

Summer is a great time to travel. Whether you’re loading up the family for a road trip to the beach or setting out solo to visit friends, summer tends to be a busier travel time than any other season.

When on the road, accidents can happen – and they’re actually more likely to happen in some cities than others. Before you hit the road, check out this list of cities with the most collisions, so you can know before you go.

U.S. Cities with the Highest Car Accident Rates

Allstate’s America’s Best Drivers Report uses “relative collision likelihood” to compare the rate of accidents in each city with the national average and ranks each city from best to worst. According to Allstate, these cities were the ten most accident-prone in 2019:

Baltimore, MD – 152.5% relative collision likelihood
Washington, D.C. – 142.3% relative collision likelihood
Boston, MA – 116.5% relative collision likelihood
Worcester, MA – 105.6% relative collision likelihood
Glendale, CA – 99% relative collision likelihood
Los Angeles, CA – 82% relative collision likelihood
Springfield, MA – 81.7% relative collision likelihood
Providence, RI – 70.8% relative collision likelihood
Alexandria, VA – 69.9% relative collision likelihood
Oakland, CA – 67.7% relative collision likelihood

U.S. Cities with the Most Car Accident Fatalities

While these cities may have the greatest chance for accidents, a different set of cities had the most fatalities. Some of the deadliest cities for drivers are Baton Rouge, LA; Savannah, GA; and Dallas, TX.

The Riskiest Days and Times to Drive

When traveling, there are also specific times of the year – or even times of the day – when you’re more likely to have an accident. In the United States, July 4 is the deadliest day on the roads, with many other holidays close behind, such as October 31 (Halloween) and January 1 (New Year’s Day). With regard to time of day, it should come as no surprise that the most dangerous time to drive tends to be 5 to 7 p.m., when rush hour traffic is at its peak.

These statistics or numbers might be alarming – but no need to panic. Simply exercise extra awareness during peak travel times or days, and of course stay alert when traveling anywhere unfamiliar or driving in heavy traffic.

After an Accident, Find a Local Collision Repair Shop with Carwise

Accidents happen – and with them come repairs. From paintless dent repairs to repairing hidden damage to a car’s technology, if you’re in an accident you’ll want to be sure your car is repaired quickly and effectively.

Fortunately, Carwise.com is here to help. Carwise has details on nearly 22,000 shops, from hours and locations, to shop certifications, reviews by real customers, and before and after photos. Use Carwise’s shop finder tool to search your zip code for a customer-reviewed auto body shop nearby: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops/.

Why Auto Thefts and Burglaries Are on the Rise in 2021

Carwise No Comment Jun 2,2021 Trends

Since the 1990s, vehicle thefts and burglaries have trended downward, to less than 800,000 in 2019. Yet 2020 saw a sharp increase in car thefts and burglaries, and the trend has continued into 2021. It’s not just cars being stolen, but specific parts on a vehicle, as well. Theft of catalytic converters rose sharply in 2020, from an average of 282 converters stolen per month to 1,203 in 2020 – a rise of nearly 327%. What could be causing this rise in thefts? We dig into the contributing factors to this trend below.

Reasons Car Thefts and Burglaries Are Rising

1. The COVID-19 Pandemic

One big contributing factor to this rise in auto thefts and burglaries is the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic downturns like the one that resulted from the pandemic often create financial desperation that might motivate some people to steal assets that they can sell for cash, whether it’s the car itself, or parts on the car, or items that have been left in a car, like a backpack, laptop, or another valuable.

Another factor during the COVID-19 pandemic was that during the peak severity when infection rates were high, many people were also trying to avoid public transit, which may have been another motivating factor for car thefts.

2. The Rising Demand for Precious Metals

One factor driving theft of car parts, in particular, is the rising demand for precious metals: palladium, rhodium and platinum. These are the metals used to manufacture catalytic converters, the part on an engine that manages exhaust emissions. With metal prices soaring due to increased demand, thefts of catalytic converters have soared, with thieves typically selling the stolen parts for scrap. A catalytic converter is located on the underside of a car, in the exhaust system between the manifold and the muffler.

Vehicles that have higher ground clearance, like a pickup truck, make it easier for thieves to access the catalytic converter and remove it. Hybrid vehicles are also frequent targets for catalytic converter theft because theirs tend to be in better condition, due to reduced use of gasoline compared to other vehicles. (Source)

There are two ways to tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen. First, if you turn on your engine and it is suddenly much louder than usual and the exhaust coming from your tailpipe is smoky, this could be the result of a missing catalytic converter. Second, thieves steal the catalytic converter by cutting off the pipes on either end of it. If you look beneath your vehicle and see two severed pipes with no converter, it’s been stolen. (If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, try searching the internet for photos of the undercarriage for your car’s specific make and model, e.g., “2018 Toyota Prius undercarriage.”)

3. The Key Fob Problem

Many newer cars do not require a manual key to start the engine, but instead use a keyless ignition that come with a key fob. As long as the fob is in proximity to the car’s computer system, the car can be turned on with the push of the button, thanks to an embedded microchip in the fob that validates the signal. At first, this technology drove a steep decline in car thefts, but recent reports show that one big contributing factor to the rise in car thefts is how often vehicle owners forget to take the key fob with them when they leave exit the car, typically leaving it in the cupholder for anyone to find. In other words, stealing a car has never been easier for a thief. If you own a car with keyless ignition, never leave your key fob in the vehicle, even if you think you’ll only be out of the car a few minutes.

What to Do if Your Car has been Stolen:

1. File a report with law enforcement. Your auto insurer will not be able to honor the claim if a police report has not been filed.

2. Contact your auto insurer to inform them of the missing vehicle.

What to Do if Your Car is Burgled:

If your car has been broken into or you suspect that a part such as the catalytic converter has been stolen and you want to file an insurance claim, we recommend taking these steps:

1. Document the damage for your auto insurance provider.Documenting the damage with your smartphone will help speed up the process of filing a claim with your auto insurance and seeking repairs from an auto body shop near you. Proceed with caution if there is broken glass.

2. File a report with law enforcement.

3. Contact your auto insurer to inform them of the incident. If the damage is covered, ask if you can submit photos and video of the damage, as well as documentation.

4. Find an auto body or auto glass shop near you to repair the damage. If your car has been damaged, such as a shattered window, or damaged door or handle, you can contact an auto body or auto glass shop near you to discuss possible repairs. Ask if they accept digital photos of vehicle damage to generate a virtual estimate and kick off the repair process. Professional auto body and auto glass technicians can help restore your vehicle to pre-theft condition.

Find an Auto Body or Auto Glass Shop Near You

A car burglary is always a distressing experience but finding the right auto body or auto glass shop to get repairs doesn’t have to be. Carwise.com makes it easy to find a repair shop near you, with details on nearly 22,000 shops – from real reviews by customers, to shop hours and locations, to shop certifications and before & after photos. Use Carwise’s shop finder tool to search your zip code for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby to get your vehicle repaired after a burglary: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops/.

How Has the Pandemic Changed Driving & Traffic?

Carwise No Comment May 27,2021 Trends

As more of the U.S. population becomes vaccinated against COVID-19 and public spaces begin to reopen, you may be wondering what to expect once you hit the road again, whether it’s a return to your daily commute or a long-awaited road trip to see loved ones. Like many parts of daily life, the coronavirus pandemic had an immediate, massive impact on when, how, and what people drive, which may lead to long-term changes in traffic, vehicles and driving experiences. Here are the major ways that driving has changed during the pandemic:

Less people on the road has led to fewer but more severe accidents.

In the early months of the pandemic, when the stay-at-home orders and shift to remote work began, a large percentage of people stopped driving, leading to fewer car accidents. The number of miles driven nationally plummeted nearly 46% by early April 2020¹; by December, 50% of vehicle owners continued to drive less.²

Yet, while the number of car accidents dropped dramatically, those accidents that did occur were more severe. With significantly lower traffic congestion, people were driving at higher speeds. Another factor is the size of vehicles people are driving; in the first seven months of 2020 alone, SUVs accounted for 50% of all new vehicle registrations.³With more large, heavy vehicles on the road moving at faster speeds, the trend of accidents getting worse isn’t all that surprising, but something drivers should be mindful of.

Not only are these conditions more dangerous for drivers; they are more expensive. Severe accidents lead to more extensive repairs and a higher likelihood that a vehicle will be declared a total loss. (A vehicle is a total loss when one of the following is true: the car cannot safely be repaired, the car’s damage meets your state’s criteria for total loss, or the repair costs would exceed the car’s estimated value.) When you’re out on the road, try to stay aware of your speed even if traffic is sparse, and be prepared to encounter other drivers who are speeding.

People who used to take public transit are choosing to drive during the pandemic.

While the percent of people commuting by car has always been significantly higher than those taking public transit in the U.S., the pandemic has deepened that gap even further. In a study by Continental on public mobility, 81% of U.S. respondents reported having changed their daily mobility habits during the pandemic, with 22% report traveling more often by car than before the pandemic.⁴ This trend will likely continue for the next several months amid lingering health concerns from coronavirus. So even though the pandemic has changed the way many people work and more companies are allowing employees to work from home, if those who do commute to the office continue to choose personal transportation rather than mass transit, it will not only increase traffic volume but likely continue to impact rising gas prices.

Be prepared to pay more at the pump.

With more people choosing to commute by car instead of public transit, and more people planning travel for their first vacations post-pandemic, gas prices are soaring back to pre-pandemic levels as demand for oil rises. A recent report from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) predicted that gas prices will climb to a three-year high this summer, to an average of $2.78 per gallon in the next six months. Although that price is similar to what we paid in the years before COVID-19, it’s still a 34% jump from gas prices in 2020 and may catch many drivers off-guard if they haven’t filled their gas tank in a while.⁵

Drivers are becoming more interested in usage-based insurance.

With more people driving less often and working remote for the foreseeable future, many have started seeking new ways to save on their auto insurance and understand how it is priced. A growing percentage of customers are comfortable with their auto insurers using their driving data to inform pricing,⁶ or what is known as “usage-based insurance” (UBI) or “pay as you drive” insurance.

Here’s how UBI works: depending the age and type of vehicle you have, your car may be able to record things like the mileage, speed, and distance of your driving on an average day. Some insurers can collect that data from your vehicle with your consent and use that to personalize your auto insurance pricing – and the better driver you are, based on the applicable carrier’s criteria, the better the price. If you find yourself working from home more often than you did before the pandemic, UBI may be a cost-effective option.

Drivers are using digital tools to file insurance claims and seek repairs after an accident.

The necessity for social distancing had a major impact on how people interact with their auto insurer or local collision repair shop after an accident. Insurers used to send an adjuster to inspect a vehicle in-person after an accident and write an estimate for repair costs. These days, that entire process can be done from your smartphone, making it a COVID-safe experience for you and the adjuster: many insurers offer self-guided experiences through their mobile app that will allow you to snap photos of your damaged vehicle from the scene of the accident and upload any additional documentation securely. From there, the insurer uses a combination of computer and human analysis to review your photos and draft an estimate, which they can send to you via their app or an email.

Some collision repair shops offer similar digital experiences: you can start by searching for a collision repair shop near you via an online tool like Carwise, which lists profiles on over 22,000 collision repair shops nationwide. On Carwise you can review dozens of details on local shops, from their operating hours and location to real customer reviews, industry certifications, and photos of their work. Once you find a collision repair shop near you that meets your criteria, you may be able to schedule an appointment online or request a virtual estimate based on your photos of the damaged vehicle. Many shops are offering contactless drop-off and pick-ups as well and will update you about your repair status via text or email.

Daily life may not return to “normal” for a while, but as we rediscover familiar experiences like commuting to work for visiting family, we encourage you to be safe on the roads. If your car is in need of repairs, use Carwise’s shop finder tool to search your zip code for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop near you: http://carwise.com/auto-body-shops.

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Article sources:

1 – Bob Pishue, Transportation Analyst, INRIX. “COVID-19 Effect on Collisions on Interstates and Highways in the U.S.” Page 5, December 2020. https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/travel_monitoring/tvt.cfm

2 – ENGINE CARAVAN. “Driving Change in Auto Insurance.” December 1, 2020. https://engine-insights.com/blog/driving-change-in-auto-insurance/

3 – Top Libby, IHS Markit. “New Vehicle Registrations Show Record Levels for SUVs.” www.aftermarketnews.com, October 8, 2020.

4 – Continental Press Release, 2020-12-09. “Increasing Importance of Private Transportation During the Pan- demic: Continental Mobility Study 2020.”

5 – Energy Information Administration, Short Term Energy Outlook: https://www.eia.gov/outlooks/steo/

6 – TransUnion. “COVID-19’s Impact on the Insurance Industry Will Continue Well into 2021.” December 17, 2020. http://www.transunion.com/business.

What is the Economic Impact of COVID-19 on the Collision Repair Industry?

Carwise No Comment Apr 14,2020 Auto Body Shop Owner Tips, Trends

The COVID-19 pandemic has already changed the spending habits of most Americans. Nearly every sector in the US economy has been impacted by COVID-19, including the $50 billion a year collision repair industry. And although the recession has allowed some shops to catch up on backlogs and fill job vacancies, others are getting squeezed as people drive less and tighten their budgets. What follows are some ways that COVID-19 may be affecting the bottom line of the average collision repair shop near you.

Auto Shops Remain Open

Since they are classified by the government as “essential” businesses, auto body and glass repair shops can still-remain open when other businesses can’t. CollisionWeek (CW) recently surveyed collision repair facilities across the US to determine how their business has changed over the past month and to get their economic projections for the rest of this year. Fortunately, CW discovered that 100% of the shops they contacted were still open for business.

Car Businesses is Down in these States

However, 78% of shop respondents reported to CW that their sales had declined since the government first announced travel restrictions to slow down COVID-19’s spread. Only 9% of those shops surveyed indicated that their sales had increased over the past few weeks.

CW learned that the states where business had declined the most were those that had implemented shelter-in-place orders early on, including Pennsylvania, California and New York. In fact, several respondents in those states mentioned that the number of repair jobs involving insurance claims had dropped dramatically due to stay-at-home orders and fewer traffic accidents.

Some Car Shops Are Downsizing

The US collision repair industry employs over 350,000 workers nationwide. Eventually, most body shops will no doubt feel the financial impact of the COVID-19 recession. But when asked by CW if they had recently laid-off workers due to declining business, only 18% of respondents said “yes”. And, most of the shops that had done so we’re in the same three states listed above.

Supply Chain Disruptions For Collision Repair Shops

Collision repair shops also rely upon automotive parts manufacturers to supply them with both after-market and OEM parts. But a lot of parts factories have been forced to temporarily close due to COVID-19, including those in China.

As a result, nearly half of all respondents in the CW survey reported that they were experiencing supply shortages, with OEM parts being the hardest to obtain. Over 15% of respondents also mentioned that they were having trouble getting some of the paint supplies and other materials they needed.

For safety reasons, body shop technicians are also required to wear N95 masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE). Due to the emergency reallocation of PPE to healthcare workers and first responders, some shops are also having a hard time purchasing enough PPE.

What Does the Future Hold For Auto Repair Shops?

CW also asked respondents to make business predictions for the next two months- specifically how long they could stay afloat if the COVID-19 crisis persists. Eight-out-of-ten shops felt confident that they could weather the financial storm even if it lasts for a while, with only around 9% indicating that they would be forced to close their doors for good.

When asked by CW if they were confident that business would return to normal during the second half of 2020, a vast majority of survey respondents indicated that they thought it would.

Over at CCC, a leading information services provider for the collision repair industry, they are also optimistic about the future of their clients. According to a recent article posted on CCC’s website, some industry insiders believe that COVID-19 will only cause a minor ripple in the collision repair sector, resulting in a temporary hiring slowdown in some states.

But given that there’s already a shortage of technicians in the collision repair field, that may give the average shop a chance to catch up as new tech school graduates become available.

Promptly Find Local Collision Repair Shops Here

Even with fewer drivers on the road due to the COVID-19 pandemic, accidents still happen. When your ride’s been dinged up, promptly take it to one of the 19,000+ auto body and glass repair shops listed in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once you do, I-CAR and ASE-certified collision repair professionals will promptly go to work restoring your vehicle like new again while putting your mind at ease.

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

Which U.S. Cities Rank Highest for Traffic Congestion?

Carwise No Comment Mar 18,2020 Trends

If you live in a large city around the United States, you’re no stranger to traffic congestion. Daily commutes can be stressful, especially when you’re further delayed by work zones and accidents. Morning and evening rush hour backups have become a way of life for millions of Americans, whether it’s traveling by car, truck or bus. But have you ever wondered how your city’s traffic congestion ranks in comparison to other metro areas? Thanks to a recent study by INRIX, that “guessing game” is now over.

Who is INRIX?

INRIX is a global leader in transportation analytics and connected car services. In other words, they collect, analyze and then provide information to customers about how people travel around the world on-a-daily-basis. In March of this year, INRIX published a report called the 2019 Global Traffic Scoreboard. The data contained within that study was collected anonymously from various sources, including cars, smartphones, trucks and traffic control systems.

INRIX looked at traffic patterns, the average length of delays, lost productivity and daily travel times for commuters in 100s of U.S. cities. Based on that information, INRIX was able to rank each metro area based on traffic congestion severity. In addition to motorists, they also included daily commuters who use bicycles or public transportation.

These U.S. Cities are Commuting Nightmares

Wichita, Kansas, had the lowest traffic congestion score in the country, with commuters on average only losing about two hours of annual productivity. Unfortunately, if you commute to another city, lengthy traffic delays are costing you significant time and income every year.

According to INRIX, these are the top 10 most-congested U.S. cities for commuters, starting with the worst:

Boston, MA
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
New York City, NY
Washington, DC
Los Angeles, CA
San Francisco, CA
Portland, OR
Baltimore, MD
Atlanta, GA

For example, the average commuter in Boston loses 149 hours per year while stuck in traffic, which ends up costing them roughly $2,205 in lost income. The estimated economic impact nationwide is over $88 billion.

Worst U.S. Corridors for Commuters

INRIX also analyzed congestion data for specific roadways. Surprisingly, a few of the U.S. cities that didn’t rank the highest overall for congestion still had individual roadways that did. These were the worst traffic corridors for motorists in 2019:

I-5 in Los Angeles, CA
US-101 in Los Angeles, CA
Brooklyn Queens Expressway in New York City
I-95 in New York City
I-85/I-75 in Atlanta, GA
I-35 in Austin, TX
I-275 in Tampa, FL
I-290 in Chicago, IL
I-405 in Los Angeles, CA
I-90/I-94 in Chicago, IL

For instance, the average commuter in L.A. loses up to 80 hours of productivity per year when traveling on I-5 between the I-10 and I-605 interchanges.

What’s the Solution?

The transportation experts at INRIX point out that access to reliable data is the first step in tackling the congestion problem. When it comes to solving urban mobility challenges, creating more intelligent transportation systems is vital.

They further recommend that city planners and engineers do a better job of prioritizing transportation spending with respect to traffic flow, parking and population movement. Unfortunately, the operating budgets of many large metropolitan areas highlighted in this report are already stretched to the breaking point.

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No matter where you drive in the U.S., accidents happen. When your ride’s been dinged up in a fender-bender, put your mind at ease by promptly locating a local auto body or glass repair shop through the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once you do, I-CAR and ASE-certified collision repair specialists will get started restoring your vehicle like new again using the latest equipment, services, and technologies.

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What Are 3 Automotive Technology Trends for 2020 & Beyond?

Carwise No Comment Mar 4,2020 Auto Body Shop Owner Tips, Trends

It’s always fun to stop by the local dealership, auto body shop or car show to check out some of the new high-tech gadgets on the latest models. By now most drivers have heard about self-driving cars, multi-function tailgates, and crash-avoidance systems. But there are always bolder innovations appearing on the automotive scene that keep curious drivers hungry for more. Ready or not, here are 3 hot automotive technology trends for 2020 and beyond that are coming to a showroom near you.

Gullwing Doors

If you ever watched the Back to the Future movies, you’re familiar with gullwing doors. Also known as “falcon wings”, they are hinged at the roof rather than on the side. The first passenger vehicle with gullwing doors was the 1939 Bugatti Type 64, although its famous French creator preferred the term portes papillon, or “butterfly wing”.

By the mid-1950s the Mercedes-Benz 300SL had gullwing doors, followed by the Bricklin SV-1 in the ‘70s, DeLorean DMC-12 during the 1980s, and a handful of other high-end models. After that, the concept remained relatively dormant until Elon Musk’s Tesla crew reintroduced falcon-wing doors in 2015 on their Model X crossovers.

That same year a tiny automaker from Liechtenstein called Quant came out with ultra-lightweight carbon fiber gullwing doors on its Quant F concept car. In general, gullwing doors can be problematic if you park in low-ceilinged garages or too close to other vehicles. But get used to the idea, because additional gull-wing auto introductions are already in the works.

Electronic Gear Selectors

The first patent for a push-button transmission was issued in 1909, and by the 1950s nearly every major automaker had offered electronic gear shifters on select models. Flash-forward to 2020 as automakers are trying to eliminate center console clutter to accommodate smartphones and other high-tech mobile devices.

As a result, console cupholders are staying but gearshift levers are not. And that’s where electronic gear selectors come in. Several auto manufacturers have been easing push-button transmissions into the market since the late 2010s, including Honda, Acura, and Fiat Chrysler. If your automatic transmission vehicle is equipped with an electronic gear selector, to go from park to forward or reverse you simply touch the display screen and wait for a response.

Unfortunately, there have been a few “glitches” with push-button shifters. For starters, it’s sometimes hard to tell when the car has finished shifting. Not only does that cause delays, but it can also be downright annoying. Secondly, there have been reports of accidents after drivers exited their vehicles with the engine still running after they thought the car was placed in “park, but it wasn’t.

Touchscreen Infotainment Systems

Newer touchscreen infotainment systems are another product of the decluttering design craze. Naturally, touchscreens are nothing new, but today’s larger versions contain even more submenus that control everything from your vehicle’s moonroof to its climate. That’s all well-and-good for freeing up interior space, but some of today’s oversized touchscreens are proving to be overly distracting for drivers who are trying to concentrate on the road.

Peugeot, Tesla, and Audi have been innovators for advanced touchscreen systems, but on some vehicles, the navigation function goes away when scrolling through the various submenus just to perform a simple task like turning on the A/C. Thankfully, most automakers are keeping steering-wheel-mounted thumb controls for the same functions that can be accessed via touchscreens- at least for now.

As the 2020s play out some further improvements will hopefully be made so touchscreen infotainment controls are safer and less distracting to use.

Your Car Collision Repair and Auto Body Solution for 2020 & Beyond

Whether your new car drives itself or it’s older than you are, accidents happen. When your ride’s been dinged up in a fender bender, promptly take it to one of the reliable auto body shop and glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once you do, I-CAR and ASE-certified collision repair professionals will use the latest technologies and services to promptly restore your ride like new again.

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