It's not uncommon for estimates from different body shops to vary wildly. One shop might give you an estimate for $500 while another wants $2000 for the work. What's the difference? And when is it OK to choose the cheaper shop? Sebastian Cina, owner of Auto Pro Collision in Staten Island, New York knows better than most people how to choose a reliable shop. Cina started working on cars at a young age and has been in the body shop business for 25 years.
Here are Cina's five tips for choosing the best auto body shop in Staten Island, New York:
1. Do your research. Look online for reviews of local shops. Or ask friends or family for recommendations.
2. Ask about the process and how long it will take to complete your car's repairs. Some shops may do work in a rush that isn't as high quality as needed. You want to choose a shop that gives an accurate time frame of when your vehicle can be repaired - not one that promises you first dibs on their next open slot, which may be weeks away.
3. Get an estimate from multiple shops. Ask each shop to break down the cost of the work so you can see where your money is going.
4. Make sure the shop is licensed and insured. You don't want someone working on your car who doesn't have the proper qualifications or who aren't covered in case of an accident.
Finally, look for a shop that has a good reputation and offers a warranty on their work. This is especially important if you're shelling out a lot of money for repairs. You want to be sure the job was done right and that you won't have to pay.
It's most important to find a shop with established expertise and a good reputation for customer service. You can do that by getting recommendations from your insurance company, friends, or family members, says Cina. If you have AAA, being affiliated with the Better Business Bureau is also a plus.
Once you've narrowed down your list, take some time to visit the shops and get quotes. "Get a couple of estimates," says Cina. "But don't just go with the cheapest one."
You want to make sure the shop is licensed and insured, and that they have a good relationship with your insurance company. "The insurance company is not going to want to pay more than they have to, so the shop has to be able to work with them," says Cina.
Lastly, don't be afraid to ask questions about the repair process. How long will it take? What parts will be used? How experienced is the staff?
Looking for an auto body shop in Staten Island?
Look no further than the professionals at Auto Pro Collision in Staten Island, NY. With over 25 years of experience, we are confident we can handle any repair job - big or small.
Give us a call today for a free estimate! (718) 815-2886 or visit us online at https://www.autoprostatenisland.com/