When it comes to visiting a mechanic for repairs or service on your vehicle, it is very important that you are educated before taking it in. There are just too many companies and mechanics out there that are more than willing to take advantage of someone that does not know what to expect and what their rights are regarding service and repairs to their vehicle. It is important to make sure that you are at least somewhat knowledgeable about your vehicle and what should be expected from an auto body repair shop before you go in. By being an educated customer, you will have a much smaller chance of being ripped off.

The first thing you will want to do is to make sure that you are taking the time to fully research the auto body shop before taking your car there. This is the only way to make sure that you are going to get your monies worth. There is nothing worse than paying full price for a job that was done half right. Secondly, you need to make sure that you are getting a few free quotes before scheduling your vehicle to be repaired. This is important, as not all companies will charge the same. Make sure that you are getting the deal that you deserve.

The third thing that you will want to keep in mind is that you should always plan to be without a vehicle for longer then they say. Even if they claim it will only be a day that they will need your car, delays happen, even to the most experienced auto body shop. Plan ahead to make sure that you are going to have the transportation you need in order to get around. The forth thing that you will need to consider is how you are going to pay for all of the repairs and for a rental car, if you so happen to need one. Check your car insurance policy to see what all is covered before you start making your appointments.

The fifth thing you want to keep in mind is something that not everyone thinks of in the heat of the moment. Even though you probably have a lot on your mind at the moment, make sure that the auto body shop is giving you a contract before they begin work. This contract should include the repairs they intend to do to your vehicle and the price for everything. This is to protect both you and the shop. You certainly would not want to come back in a few days with a bill that’s hundreds of dollars more then you authorized.

The sixth thing that you should do, before paying for completed work, is to inspect your vehicle. Make sure that the work you are being billed for was actually done and done right. If there are flaws that need fixed, do not shy away from saying something about it. There is never a reason to pay for a poor job. The seventh thing to keep in mind is that you must keep all records of your accident. Keep receipts for the auto body repairs that were done to your car. This will help you later down the road when you want to sell your car.

When you follow these simple steps and keep them in mind before heading to the auto body repair shop you will be in good shape. You will know what to expect, you will know your rights, and most importantly, you will not be ripped off.