{"id":956,"date":"2018-01-11T16:14:28","date_gmt":"2018-01-11T22:14:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.carwise.com\/blog\/?p=956"},"modified":"2018-01-11T16:14:28","modified_gmt":"2018-01-11T22:14:28","slug":"inspect-car-body-work-done","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carwise.com\/blog\/2018\/01\/11\/inspect-car-body-work-done\/","title":{"rendered":"How Do I Inspect My Car When the Body Work Is Done?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Your car was involved in a pretty serious accident, and it\u2019s been at the collision repair shop for a few weeks.  They\u2019ve just called to let you know it\u2019s ready, and you will be anxiously picking it up soon.  At this point you are a little nervous that the repairs were done right, and are wondering what to look for when you get there.  Upon arrival, a technician should carefully walk around the car with you using a written checklist while explaining what was done and why.   Ask them about the shop\u2019s warranty, as many reputable collision repair shops guarantee their work for one-year or 12,000 miles.  That said, it\u2019s still important for you to conduct your own inspection before driving off.   Here are some key inspection tips to use:<\/p>\n

Is Your Vehicle Clean?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Dirt hides imperfections and that\u2019s why your car should be spotless inside and out when you pick it up.  Make sure that it has been washed and vacuumed out thoroughly so that you can easily inspect the areas that were repaired.  Even your floor mats and engine should be clean.  In addition, the technicians shouldn\u2019t have left any old parts lying around in the trunk, engine compartment or interior; not even a single nut or bolt.  When you pick up a clean auto it presents the shop more professionally, and gives you less reason to doubt their work.  Once you\u2019re satisfied with the initial \u201ceye test\u201d, a more careful inspection comes next.<\/p>\n

Inspect Your Car\u2019s Repaired Area(s)<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Let\u2019s say for illustration purposes that your car sustained some major front-end damage.  That means not only were body panel replacements and painting required, but also repairs to the suspension, frame and engine components.  Inspect the following:<\/p>\n