Auto Body Repairs and Their Cost Estimates

As wonderful as your car is to you, at some point it will need repairs whether from your own fault or someone else’s fault. To help alleviate the stress that comes with car repairs it is beneficial to know about the repairs, the cost that is associated with the repair, and if and how insurance is involved with the repairs.

Common Auto Body Repairs and Their Cost

There are a multitude of repairs that may occur to your car, but we want to introduce you to the five most common auto body repairs and the cost associated with each repair.

Cracked or Broken Windshield

A small crack or chip to your windshield may at only be a nuisance, but that small crack or chip can spread into a larger crack that can endanger the passenger(s) and even garner you a fine. The cost of repairing a cracked or broken windshield will depend on the extent of the damage but a good estimate is $10 to $150 for a small chip or crack and up to $1,500 to replace an entire windshield.

Dented Bumper

The bumper of your vehicle is designed to be hit and mitigate the damage to the rest of the vehicle. While a dented bumper may not endanger the safety of the passenger(s) in the vehicle the damage to the bumper does need to be addressed before it becomes a more pressing issue. If not addressed, the exposed parts of the vehicle may become rusted as they are exposed to the elements. The cost to repair a dented bumper will range from $300 to $1,500.

Auto Body Paint Repair

If you have owned your vehicle for an extended amount of time you may have noticed that there are nicks, scratches, gouges, and even fading of color to the paint on your vehicle. This type of damage can negatively impact the value of your car and if untreated long enough will be an avenue for rust. To repair the paint on your vehicle you can either choose a one or two-step application process. The one-step application process involves either an enamel or urethane paint being applied to the exterior. While both paints will provide a new glossy finish with the scratches being filled in, The urethane paint provides more durability and a longer warranty. The two-step application is the one-step application plus a urethane sealer for extended durability. To restore the vehicle to a “new car” look before the one or two-step process there needs to be chip and scratch repair, a full sanding, and priming. The cost of paint repair can start at $300 for the one-step application all the way up to $7,500 for a custom paint job.

Suspension

You will know when it is time to repair your suspension when you hear the creaks and squeaks, and the ride becomes uncomfortable. These noises aren’t just a nuisance but a suspension in need of repair is a safety hazard. The cost to repair individual components of the suspension begin at $300, but to replace the entire suspension you will pay upwards of $5,000.

Dented Auto Body

A dented auto body repair is any dent that is not a dent to the bumper of the vehicle. A dent may be a minor eyesore or may be major that causes the vehicle to be unsafe. To repair a single minor dent, you may pay up to $200 but a single major dent could cost up to $1,500; with each dent being priced out individually and not collectively.

How are Auto Body Repairs Paid?

Auto repairs are not completed for free so either you, your car insurance provider, or a combination of both will pay for the coverage.

The Estimate

Auto body repair shops base their estimates on: make and model of the vehicle, type and extent of damage, labor and operational expenses, and affiliation of shop as either independent or part of a dealership. They also have databases that guide the pricing telling them the time it should take to repair, what parts are needed, and the cost of the parts.

Insurance or No Insurance

The auto insurance policy that you purchased will outline what type of damage is covered and how much will be paid after your deductible; usual deductibles range from $500 to $2,500. It is recommended to get an estimate from the auto body repair shop before filing a claim because with each claim you file, your premium increases. if the estimate comes back from the auto body repair shop and is less than your deductible there is no need to file a claim. If the estimate is more than your deductible and more than what your rate increase would be, you will want to consider filing a claim. You will also want to consider what is covered as part of your auto policy. There will be no cost to you to repair or replace your windshield if you have a complete windshield rider. Collision cover should cover the cost of auto body dents and major bumper dents no matter who is at fault. While paint repair alone and suspension repairs are not covered as they are deemed wear-and-tear repairs.

Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. has delivered extraordinary automotive body repairs and collision repair services in Surrey, British Columbia since our family owned ICBC accredited body shop opened in 1981. We take pride in performing the finest auto repair services in the area, guaranteeing that our customers are happy, and their cars look pristine. Our staff comprises 10 trained and certified auto body repair specialists who operate within our 10,500-square-foot body shop in Surrey, BC. With the ability to perform comprehensive car body repairs we are proud to be your preferred collision repair shop in the Lower Mainland. Fill out the contact form below for us to contact you, or call or visit us today to learn more about our range of auto body and collision repair services.

Types of Car Frame Damage and How They Are Repaired

When you hear back from the auto body shop that your car has frame damage from the accident, you might immediately think that your car is totaled, but with technological advances this may not be the case. We here at Columbia Collision Repairs would like to share our over 40 years of experience with you about what to expect when the frame of your vehicle has been damaged.

What Is the Frame of Your Vehicle?

The technical term for the frame of your vehicle is the chassis and it is the structural support system of your vehicle. It supports all the mechanical components, car body, and the weight of your vehicle. The frame also protects all the internal parts of the car and the passenger(s) in the event of a collision. There are two types of frames your vehicle may have: unibody or body on frame. The unibody frame is designed to be the frame and body of the car in one unit and are unified to support the entire vehicle. The unibody frame is most commonly found in passenger cars. The body on frame is also known as a ladder frame and is two separate parts bolted together. The body on frame is commonly found in trucks, SUVS, and buses.

What Is Frame Damage?

Frame damage is classified as any damage, to any part of the vehicle, that is intended to support the vehicle’s structural integrity. This damage can be visible hidden from an exterior look at the vehicle, but it is caused by outside forces or from disrepair. Major damage to the frame compromises the main support of the vehicle and can make it too unstable to drive, put other parts of the vehicle at risk, and compromise the safety of the passenger(s). Dents, scratches, and or gouges to the paint are minor frame damage but will not put the passenger(s) at risk.  The cost to repair the frame damage may be more than the value of the car, but if the damage is repairable, the time it will take to fix the damage will depend on the complexity of the repair, if there is any damage found during the initial repair, and the availability of the parts needed for repair.

Types of Car Frame Damage

Even though frame damage is damage to the structural integrity of the vehicle, not all frame damage is created equally. Here are some of the different types of frame damage and what to expect with each type of damage to the frame of your vehicle. These types of frame damage can occur to either a unibody or a body on frame type of frame.

Sagging Frame Damage

Sagging frame damage is when the frame of the vehicle is sagging after an outside force has collided with the vehicle. The result of the collision leaves parts of the frame uneven and can cause gaps that may be visible or hidden. If the gaps are hidden, they are most often found when sections of the vehicle lean in toward the gap. The most common result of a sagging frame is stress to the tires and the coils but can be corrected through the use of a frame straightener.

Twisted Frame Damage

Twisted frame damage is when the unibody or body on frame becomes twisted as a result of a collision between your vehicle and an outside force. A thorough inspection by a trained technician is usually needed to detect twisted frame damage because it doesn’t cause gaps in the vehicle. A twisted frame is most commonly detected when the vehicle is unstable at high speeds or has difficulty in turns and is corrected using a frame straightener. If a twisted frame is not corrected tires and coils will wear faster.

Sway/Corner Frame Damage

Sway frame damage is also known as corner frame damage because it is the result of an impact to the corner of the vehicle. This type of damage most commonly occurs because the driver of the vehicle turns the wheel before impact trying to avoid the collision. The symptoms of sway damage are vibrations and/or rubbing sounds coming from the vehicle as a result of the vehicle not being able to drive in a straight line. Sway damage can be corrected using a computer assisted frame straightener but if sway damage is not corrected the misalignment will cause issues to the transmission.

Mashed Frame Damage

Mashed frame damage is the result of your vehicle being hit head-on or rear-ended and the frame has crumpled in on itself and part of the frame has become shorter than the manufacturer’s specifications. Of the different types of frame damage, mashed frame damage is the most visible because it is indicated by the distortion, or wrinkles, in the hood, fenders, rails, and/or frames. Mashed frame damage can not be repaired but the section of the frame that was damaged must be replaced. This is not a cost-effective fix and left unattended will cause serious wear and tear on the rest of the vehicle and put the passenger(s) of the vehicle in danger.

Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. has delivered extraordinary automotive body repairs and collision repair services in Surrey, British Columbia since our family-owned ICBC accredited body shop opened in 1981. We take pride in performing the finest auto repair services in the area, guaranteeing that our customers are happy, and their cars look pristine. Our staff comprises 10 trained and certified auto body repair specialists who operate within our 10,500-square-foot body shop in Surrey, BC. With the ability to perform comprehensive car body repairs on a wide array of vehicles, we are proud to be your preferred collision repair shop in the Lower Mainland. We will work with your insurance company to have your damage repaired. Fill out the contact form below for us to contact you, or call or visit us today to learn more about our range of auto body and collision repair services.

Thinking of DIY Auto Body Repairs?

Should You DIY Auto Body Repair?

When your car needs body repairs, knowing whether you should attempt the work yourself or trust a professional can be difficult. At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. in Surrey, BC, we understand the concern and want to provide helpful information about DIY auto body repair so you can make an informed decision. Before taking the plunge into working on your own vehicle, there are important factors to consider—from safety regulations to necessary tools and supplies. We’ll review them all here so you can decide what makes sense for you.

DIY Auto Body Repair

DIY auto body repair can be tempting. However, there are many reasons why you should always turn to a professional instead. From saving time and money to making sure that all safety regulations are met—it makes sense to hire professionals like the ones you’ll find here at Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. With our experienced staff and reliable technology, we offer complete auto body repairs in Surrey, BC.

Fixing Body Damage Requires Professional Intervention

Nobody enjoys seeing their vehicle with body damage, but experienced professional auto body repair is essential to restoring your car’s appearance and structural integrity. Letting damage linger unaddressed can make it worse and might even result in permanently impairing its value. Fortunately, Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. offers comprehensive auto body repair services in Surrey, BC. Our team of certified experts can quickly and accurately diagnose damages, provide estimates for repairs, and perform all the necessary work to revive your car so that it looks as good as new. Don’t leave your vehicle to chance—trust a professional to get the job done quickly and correctly!

Lack of Proper Tools and Equipment

No one expects to be in a collision, but when accidents happen, it’s essential to make sure your car is properly repaired. Unfortunately, the quality of repairs depends upon the types of tools and equipment available in the repair shop. Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. recognizes this need and has made it our mission to provide complete auto body repairs with industry-leading tools and equipment. This ensures that a safe and reliable repair is performed by our highly experienced technicians, giving every customer a reliable option for repairing their vehicles efficiently.

Damaged Vehicle Prepping is Challenging

Prepping a damaged vehicle for collision repair on your own can be challenging, but our professionals can handle any prepping that needs to be done on your car or truck. Our experienced technicians are equipped with the latest tools, materials, and technologies to make sure that your vehicle is completely ready for all repairs. With our years of experience and dedication to quality, you can trust that your car will be in good hands when it comes to prepping for collision repair.

Inferior Results

Don’t settle for inferior auto body repair results! When it comes to car repairs, quality matters. We will ensure that your vehicle repairs are done to the highest standard. Whether minor dent repair or complete restorations, you’ll receive a professional result that looks as good (or better!) than the original condition of your car. With our complete auto body repair services and years of experience, we will make sure all your car needs are met.

Health and Safety Concerns

Working on your auto body repair yourself can potentially expose you or your family to harmful chemicals or dangerous situations. Having your car’s auto body repaired at a proper collision repair shop eliminates this risk entirely. At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we prioritize health and safety. All staff members are required to complete safety certification training prior to working on any vehicle. We understand that the safety of our customers and staff is our top priority and take appropriate steps to continually ensure a clean, safe environment for everyone in our shop.

No Controlled Environment

When you need auto body repair work, the environment it takes place in is an important factor to consider. For example, if painting is part of the process, you’ll want to keep the environment free of dust and other debris. Our professional auto body shop ensures quality workmanship from a controlled environment, so you can feel confident in a job well done.

Trust the Professionals

While many may be tempted to take on an auto body repair job at home, for best results, it is important to entrust the task to a professional. Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. provides reliable, complete auto body repairs that will restore your car back to its original condition so it can continue to serve you dependably. With over three decades of experience and a team of certified technicians, you can expect the highest quality of service and excellent craftsmanship from Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd.

Need Top-Notch Auto Body Repairs? Call Us Today!

When it comes to auto body repair, it can be tempting to attempt a DIY job. But many factors should be considered and evaluated before making this decision including the need for proper tools and equipment, vehicle prepping challenges, and potential health and safety risks. All things considered; it is best to leave auto body repairs in the capable hands of an experienced professional. Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. offers complete auto body repairs in Surrey, BC. You can contact us today for all your repair needs.

Auto Body Repairs in Surrey, BC

Types of Auto Body Repairs

If you’ve encountered auto body damage, you know how complex the repair process can be. From scratches to dents and rust, there are a variety of repairs that need to be made in order to get your car looking its best again. Fortunately, at Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we offer complete auto body repairs so that no matter what type of damage you’re facing, we can help make sure it gets resolved quickly and effectively. With our comprehensive service and experienced team, we’ll have your car back in perfect condition in no time. In this blog post, we’ll discuss different types of auto body repairs and how they’re carried out so you can understand exactly how Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. is able to restore your vehicle back to good shape.

Overview of Auto Body Repairs We Offer

Have you been in a car accident and need repairs? Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. provides comprehensive auto body repair services in Surry, British Columbia. From windshield repair and replacement to dent repair, our certified technicians have the experience to provide reliable and quality service for all your auto body needs. We specialize in vehicle collision repairs such as painting, frame repairs, and realigning doors and windows, as well as windshields. No matter the make or model of your car, we provide efficient service with a customer satisfaction guarantee. If you’re looking for a reliable shop that can handle your auto body repairs with care and precision, Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. is the perfect choice for you!

Common Reasons for Car Body Repairs

The need for car body repairs can be caused by regular wear and tear, unforeseen impacts, or changes in weather. At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. in Surrey, BC, we offer a variety of repair services to get your car’s body back into top condition. This includes frame alignment, panel repair, dent removal, and refinishing services such as paint touching up, scratching removal, and even bumper and fender replacement. Our services also include full auto detailing and a wide range of windshield repair services. With the help of Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., you can quickly have your car looking brand new again.

Windshield Repair and Windshield Replacement Services

When it comes to windshield repair and replacement services, Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. has you covered. Our experienced team is here to help with all your auto body needs. We offer top-quality windshield repair, windshield replacement, and a wide range of other services so you will be back on the road in no time. Stop by our Surrey, BC location today and let us give you the peace of mind that comes with having quality windshield repair and replacement services you can trust.

Frame Alignment and Repair Services

At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we strive to provide top-notch customer service and excellent auto body repair for all our customers. Our frame alignment and repair services are second to none. With experience and dedication, our staff guarantees that your vehicle will be restored to manufacturer specifications. We use the most up-to-date equipment, techniques, and parts to ensure that your car is returned to a safe, reliable condition. We only use the highest quality paint materials and adhere strictly to safety standards. No matter what you need—from a simple scratch to major structural repairs—Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. has you covered!

Car Dent Repair and Scratch Removal Services

Finding a reliable car dent repair and scratch removal service can be stressful, especially when dealing with an expensive or precious vehicle. Our specialized automotive technicians are highly qualified to deliver the highest quality dent repair and scratch removal services. Utilizing advanced technology and materials that meet the industry’s standard requirements, we strive to swiftly restore your vehicle’s paint job and panels back to their original condition. Rest assured that when you collaborate with us to fix dents or remove scratches from your car, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it’s in good hands.

Car Collision Repair Services

Are you in need of a reliable car collision repair service? Look no further than Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. With decades of experience and a team of certified professionals, we offer complete auto body repairs for vehicles of all makes and models. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or significant accident damage, we have the expertise to ensure that your car looks like new. Our friendly staff is committed to providing quality customer service, keeping you informed along every step of the repair process.

Bumper Replacement Services

Our experienced technicians provide fast and efficient bumper replacement services. We use the latest tools and techniques, ensuring that your car is restored to its pre-accident condition quickly. Our team of qualified professionals has a wealth of knowledge working on all kinds of vehicles, so you can trust us with the care of your car. We understand that having car repairs done can be tedious and time-consuming, so our goal is to get you back on the road as soon as possible.

Contact Columbia Collision Ltd. Today!

Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. offers a wide range of auto body repair services to fit whatever type of repair you may need. We use high-quality parts manufactured by reputable companies to ensure great results that will last for years. Contact us today for any general inquiries about our services or call us directly to book an appointment!

Types of Car Frame Damage and How They Are Repaired

Car Frame Damage Repair in Surrey, BC

A car’s frame is like a house’s foundation: it is the core of the vehicle’s construction and supports its overall strength. When a car’s frame is damaged, it can be unsafe to drive, and even dangerous in the event of an accident. At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., our expert team knows that getting your car’s frame repaired fast and correctly is essential for optimal safety and performance. We have been providing Surrey, BC with quality car frame repair services for more than 40 years, and our technicians take pride in ensuring your vehicle takes you where you need to go safely.

What is Car Frame Damage?

Car frame damage typically occurs after a collision, or if the vehicle is driven through an area of deep potholes. Types of frame damage can range from minor to serious. Minor frame damage often appears as dents, scrapes, or small holes in the frame. Serious frame damage can involve bent frames, broken welds, and misaligned parts that need to be realigned and secured with new welding. When a car’s frame becomes bent or deformed, it can lead to other problems such as misalignment, suspension issues, and even engine failure.

How Do I Know If My Car Has Frame Damage?

There are several signs that your car may have frame damage. They include:

• Obvious or visible bending
• Unevenly worn suspension or shocks
• Unevenly worn tires
• Improper wheel tracking
• Improper tire alignment

If you’re not sure whether your car has frame damage, you can always bring it to Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. for an inspection. Our experts will check your vehicle thoroughly to determine the extent of the frame damage and provide you with professional advice on how best to proceed with repairs.

Types of Car Frame Damage

There are several types of possible car frame damage. Some of the most common include:

• Sway damage: This type of damage can occur if a car is hit in a corner. If your car has sway damage, it will sag or lean to one side. Sway damage will keep your car from being able to drive in a straight line and can even damage the transmission.
• Sagging frame: If your car’s frame is sagging, gaps will be present in the car body. Sagging can lead to uneven wear on your tires and coils, which will make the parts wear out faster than normal.
• Mashed frame: A car frame can become mashed during a collision. During an accident like a head-on collision or a rear-end collision, the frame collapses in on itself and can cause severe damage.

Does Frame Damage to A Car Make It Unsafe to Drive?

When a car’s frame is damaged, it can become unstable and difficult to control. Driving with frame damage can also cause additional problems such as misalignment of the wheels and suspension issues. If you think your car may have frame damage, it’s important to bring it in for an inspection and repair as soon as possible. 

How Are Car Frames Repaired?

Car frame repair involves straightening the frame, replacing any damaged parts, and welding new parts in place. Often, we will utilize an auto body frame straightening machine to restore the frame to its original shape. Once the frame has been straightened, our technicians will ensure that all components of your car are in good working order before it leaves our shop.

Contact Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. Today

At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we understand how important it is for your car to be safe and reliable. That’s why our team of certified technicians is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality car frame repair in Surrey, BC. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services

Dealerships vs. Auto Body Repair Shops: Which is Better?

Auto Body Shop in Surrey, BC

A vehicle accident can be a very stressful experience, especially when you have to decide what to do if your car has been damaged. When you’re searching for the right place to take your car for repairs, you have two main options to choose from: dealerships or auto body repair shops. While both can offer professional service, there are some key differences between the two that may influence your decision.

Do Dealerships Do Collision Repair?

While many car dealerships have a staff of technicians on hand who are qualified to perform collision repair, they may not always offer this service. Dealerships tend to specialize in new and used car sales, so their focus is often more on offering services that appeal to customers looking to buy a car. Many dealerships offer auto repair services, but collision damage is a specialized area that many will outsource to an auto body repair shop.

Do Dealerships Do Body Work?

Many car dealerships can perform body work, but only for makes and models of cars that they sell. If your car is not a model that the dealership carries, they may not be able to do any needed body work. Additionally, dealerships often focus more on repairs that are aesthetic or cosmetic rather than structural. This means that if your car needs extensive repair work, a dealership may not be the best choice for you. Plus, a dealership may charge you more than an auto body shop if they think the repair will take a lengthy amount of time.

Are Dealership Mechanics Better?

Just because a mechanic works at a dealership does not mean that they are necessarily better than a mechanic at an auto body shop. A lot of car dealerships have multiple mechanics and technicians on hand, but some may not be as experienced or knowledgeable as those from a specialized auto repair shop. This means that there’s no guarantee that you’re getting the best service available when taking your car to a dealership for repairs.

Dealership vs. Auto Body Repair Shop: Determining Factors

There are three main factors to consider when choosing between a dealership and an auto body repair shop: price, experience, and parts.

• Price: Typically, a repair from an auto body shop will be less expensive than a repair from a dealership. This is due to several reasons, such as the dealership having an overhead or certain parts being more expensive.
• Experience: While many dealership mechanics only work with a set number of makes and models, auto body repair shops typically employ technicians with a wide range of experience from different car manufacturers. This gives you the assurance that any repairs they make will be done correctly by someone who is familiar with your vehicle type.
• Parts: Auto body shops generally have access to most parts, but dealerships may be able to get their hands on specialty pieces more easily. This can come in handy if you need a specific part that is hard to find.

Contact Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd. Today

At Columbia Collision Repairs Ltd., we strive to provide the best service when it comes to collision repair. We are dedicated to making sure our customers get the most out of their visit and are completely satisfied with their auto body repair. Contact us today for more information about our services.