We all tend to be cautious over who we let service and repair our cars so it makes good sense that we’d be equally cautious over who would deal with accident repairs. After a major collision, you will want to use a bodyshop that can guarantee good structural stability if the chassis needs realigning. It is often the case, however, that your insurer will advise you to have crash repairs undertaken at a garage they recommend.
Be aware that when it comes to accident repairs in Kent, it is you who has the final choice over who does the work.
This blog post looks at some of the key attributes of a good bodyshop and should guide you towards a choice of repairer who will deliver safe workmanship in line with current BSI 10125 standards (formerly PAS 125) for accident and crash repairs.
Online Reviews
It doesn’t take long to sit down and look through the choice of accident repair centres in Kent. Credentials are obviously important but so is feedback from previous customers. There is no better testament to the standards a repairer can achieve than the referrals and testimonials of those who have used the company in the past. Disregard repairers with low-end ratings.
Also, keep a close eye on complaints and avoid having crash repairs undertaken at a workshop that can’t satisfy customers.
Facilities
At the very least, a reputable repairer will have approval from a few insurers and accreditation from product, material or equipment suppliers. A repairer will only have these approvals and accreditations if they have facilities like a body alignment system, a low-bake oven and a paint mixing scheme. Ask about facilities before making a final choice.
Motorists in Kent should know that we complete crash repairs in our own oven and that we have an ICI mixing scheme.
Courtesy Cars
Once you book in for accident repairs and have made plans to drop off your car, there’s a good chance that you’ll still need to be mobile. A reputable accident and crash repair centre should always be able to provide a courtesy car for you to use while your own is off the road. You may need to check your policy first to see if you qualify for a courtesy car.
Most bodyshops will have a choice of vehicles and should be able to offer you something that is close to your own model.
Guaranteed Workmanship
When it comes to accident repairs and crash repairs, even the best workshops can run into difficulty. With a rigorous QC system in place, a repairer should easily pick up on any imperfections and address them before handing back the keys. Avoid using companies in Kent that can’t offer a guarantee on workmanship or a manufacturer warranty on materials used.
Even if your insurer seems insistent on where you have your car repaired, it is always you who has the final decision.
