I found the following advice on how to select a collision repair facility on a consumer Web site the other day (www.cars.com) and thought it would be helpful to post here. These are all things that should be no-brainers, such as keeping a clean and professional-looking facility. But then again, I personally know of a shop a few blocks down from where I live that is a complete eyesore. So read these tips offered to consumers and ask yourself if they would pick your shop considering all these points:
1. Ask if the shop customarily handles your vehicle make and model. Ask how long the shop has been in business.
2. Look for a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. Many vehicle manufacturers recommend specific repair procedures and equipment for the repair of their vehicles. Ensure that the facility you choose is trained in these procedures and has the proper equipment. Professionally run establishments will have a courteous, helpful staff willing to answer all of your questions.
4. Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, customer service awards.
5. Many times you can see the vehicles being repaired by the shop. Are you impressed by the type of vehicles the company is repairing and the way the vehicles are being handled?
6. Also look for signs that the staff is technically competent, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work training from I-CAR and ASE.