What Surrey Drivers Should Know About Collision Repair in Winter

Winter driving in Surrey, BC, presents a unique set of challenges that every driver should be aware of. Winter weather creates more hazardous conditions on the road during your daily commute, which increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, your vehicle may need some extra care and maintenance in the cold weather to prevent mechanical issues and lower your chances of being involved in a collision.

Why Winter Driving in Surrey Increases Collision Risks

Winter conditions in Surrey are cold and often rainy. In some cases, precipitation may turn to freezing rain, snow, or hail. Fog, heavy winds, and cloudy conditions are also common. These factors combine to create the perfect conditions for an accident:

• Reduced Visibility – Even a light mist can reduce your visibility on the road, especially if your windshield wipers are not in great shape. Heavy rain can make it especially hard to see the road, even with your wipers at full speed. Add fog to the equation, and visibility significantly decreases, making it harder to see pedestrians and cyclists, as well as other vehicles. You may also have a harder time determining how far away other vehicles and objects are from your vehicle, which could result in you hitting the brakes just a little too late.
• Driver Fatigue – Not only is the winter cold and cloudy, but it’s also darker. Days are shorter, which has more people feeling tired. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make errors like failing to look for other vehicles before turning into traffic or having longer response times.
• Lower Traction – Wet conditions mean reduced traction because roads are slippery, so your tires don’t have a secure grip. That can mean that it takes a longer distance to bring your vehicle to a stop, and you might have less control of your vehicle when making turns or sudden maneuvers.

Common Winter Collision Damage You Should Watch For

Winter collisions can lead to the same types of damage you might see in an accident during any other time of year. However, certain types of damage can rapidly become much worse in the winter weather, so you shouldn’t delay repairs to address these issues:

• Scratches and Dents – What begins as a minor dent or scratch could become much worse without timely repairs. Unfortunately, scratches and dents become more common in the winter, not only because of a higher rate of accidents but also due to an influx of debris kicked up by winter storms. Inspect the body of your vehicle often and don’t delay repairs for small scratches and dents. Dents will only become larger because metal is more likely to warp or crack in cold temperatures. Scratches in the paint could allow moisture intrusion, which leads to rust and corrosion that can severely damage your vehicle.
• Cracked Windshield – Cold temperatures cause glass to contract, which can place added stress on the structure of your windshield. If there is a small chip or crack in the glass, it can rapidly become worse in the wintertime. This is a problem you should not ignore because your windshield is integral to the structural integrity of your vehicle. Additionally, large cracks can dramatically reduce your visibility on the road.
• Poor Wheel Alignment – Hitting a pothole, curb, or object in the road—or experiencing a more severe collision—can throw your wheels out of alignment. If you don’t get your alignment repaired right away, cold temperatures are likely to exacerbate this problem, which can in turn cause uneven wear on your tires and permanent damage to your vehicle’s suspension.

How Winter Conditions Complicate Collision Repair

Winter conditions can add challenging variables to winter collision repairs, which may mean your vehicle has to spend longer in the shop. First, collision and repair shops see an influx of customers in the winter due to the higher volume of accidents. Additionally, cold temperatures can make repairs more difficult when it comes to frame straightening or repairing body panels, because metal is more likely to crack in cold weather. Finally, paint takes longer to cure in cold temperatures, so seek out a shop that takes appropriate precautions for winter conditions to maintain a high quality of work in every season.

Choosing the Right Collision and Repair Shop in Surrey

If you have been in an accident, you have the right to take your vehicle to your preferred auto body repair shop. Your insurance cannot force you to take a vehicle to a specific shop. When you are looking for the right collision repair specialist, look for a shop that has a longstanding reputation, certified technicians on staff, and modern tools and equipment to facilitate a full range of collision repairs for both major and minor accidents.

Benefits of a Certified Collision Repair Centre

Columbia Collision Repairs is ICBC-certified, which means that we meet a higher standard of excellence for our repair services, and we guarantee our vehicle repairs with warranties on parts and workmanship.

Essential Winter Car Care Tips to Prevent Damage

While the risk of collision damage is higher during the winter, there are some steps you can take to prevent accidents this season:

• Inspect your tires and replace them if they are worn or damaged.
• Check your tire pressure often and keep the tires well inflated.
• Park in a garage when possible.
• Maintain fluid levels.
• Remove all ice or snow from your vehicle before driving.
• Check your battery and replace it if needed; clean battery terminals if they are corroded.
• Wash your car regularly to remove debris and de-icing solutions.
• Wax your vehicle to protect its paint and finish.

Don’t Delay Your Winter Collision Repair Needs

If you have been in an accident and need vehicle repairs, don’t wait to bring your vehicle in for a full inspection. Columbia Collision Repairs makes it easy with our drive-thru service—no appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle to our shop today or contact us to learn more about our trusted shop. We answer our phones 24/7.

FAQs for Our Collision Repair Experts

How long does a collision repair take?
Collision repair can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the type of damage your vehicle has sustained. When you bring your vehicle to us for an estimate, we will let you know how long we expect the repairs to take and help you coordinate a vehicle rental or secure a courtesy vehicle from our fleet.

Will my insurance cover collision repairs for a winter accident?
Whether you were involved in a collision with another vehicle or lost control of your vehicle and hit a tree, your insurance may provide coverage for collision repairs. However, you should check your policy to understand what is covered. You’ll also need to file a claim through your insurance company before you begin the repair process.

How Winter Weather in Surrey Affects Your Vehicle After a Collision

Winter in Surrey, BC, is cold, wet, and sometimes snowy. In these conditions, not only are car accidents more common, but they can also cause more damage to your vehicle. Collision damage will only become worse if you delay auto body and collision repair services and leave your vehicle vulnerable to the elements. At Columbia Collision Repairs, we offer prompt, professional auto body repairs in every season. Here’s a look at how winter weather can affect your vehicle during and after an accident.

Common Winter Conditions That Impact Your Vehicle

Surrey experiences a high volume of rain during the winter. Driving in rainy conditions can reduce visibility, reduce traction on the road, and increase the risk of errors behind the wheel. If your vehicle has been in an accident, wet conditions can wreak havoc on your vehicle’s frame and internal systems. In addition to rain, Surrey occasionally sees snow, ice, hail, and heavy winds. These conditions also increase the risk of an accident and can make vehicle damage much worse in the event of a collision.

How Winter Weather Affects Your Car After a Collision

Even if your car has not been damaged in a collision, it puts added stress on your vehicle. You might experience reduced battery power, thickened engine fluids that reduce fuel efficiency, condensation in the fuel lines, and lower tire pressure. When your vehicle has scratches, dents, or structural damage, cold weather has an even greater impact:

• Rust and Corrosion – Areas of damaged paint, a damaged undercarriage, or bent panels can allow moisture and road salt or de-icing solutions to infiltrate the inner structure of your vehicle, leading to rust and corrosion on the frame, brakes, suspension, engine, and exhaust. Rust can quickly damage a vehicle and render it undriveable.
• Paint and Finish Damage – If rust develops on the body panels of the vehicle, paint may bubble and peel. Even before rust and corrosion occur, moisture and cold temperatures can cause paint to warp or crack, turning minor cosmetic damage into a significant problem. Additionally, auto body paint takes longer to properly cure in cold temperatures, so you should always seek professional paint restoration after an accident instead of attempting to patch the paint Not only will the results be better matched to your vehicle’s colour and finish, but the paint will be properly set and cured to restore the protective finish of your vehicle.
• Frame and Alignment Issues – Metal becomes more brittle in cold temperatures, so it is more prone to cracking or breaking upon impact. Existing damage can also become much worse during the cold. For example, dents may become larger or form cracks, or poor wheel alignment may become even more severe.
• Electrical and Sensor Problems – Another potential risk with corrosion is damage to the vehicle’s electrical system due to damaged wiring, poor connections, and malfunctioning sensors. Additionally, ice, rain, and fog can all reduce the accuracy of safety sensors like blind spot monitoring and back-up cameras, further increasing the risk of a collision.
• Glass and Windshield Damage – If you have a small crack or chip in your windshield, it can quickly become a major crack that requires the entire windshield to be replaced. During the winter, the glass in your windshield will contract, putting added tension on existing chips or cracks. Running your vehicle’s heater can only worsen the problem, as the sudden temperature change can cause uneven expansion of the glass molecules.

Why Timely Collision Repair Is Crucial During Winter

If you’ve been in a car accident at any time of year, seeking professional auto body and collision repair right away is essential. Even if you don’t think your vehicle has sustained serious damage, there may be issues below the surface that aren’t immediately noticeable. Plus, even small problems like dents and scratches can become much worse if they aren’t fixed in a timely manner. Winter weather only accelerates damage to your vehicle after a collision, so don’t wait to visit an auto body shop to get professional collision repairs.

Tips to Protect Your Vehicle Post-Collision in Winter

During a severe storm, you may not be able to get your vehicle to the shop immediately, so you should take steps to protect your vehicle until you can get it repaired. Avoid driving and park in a garage if possible. Otherwise, remove any snow, ice, or rain from your vehicle and cover it with a waterproof vehicle cover. When conditions improve, towing your vehicle to the shop rather than attempting to drive it will prevent further damage.

Get Expert Collision Repair Services in Surrey

Columbia Collision Repairs is here for you when you need reliable car body collision repair in Surrey, BC. We are open Monday-Saturday, but our staff is available to answer the phone 24/7 to help you coordinate your collision repair service. Count on our ICBC-accredited shop to provide comprehensive, precise repairs that will get your vehicle back to pre-accident condition as quickly as possible.

Winter Collision Repair FAQs

Can cold weather cause car problems?
Yes, cold weather can cause both mechanical and structural issues for your vehicle. It can also increase the risk of an accident, so it is important to use extra caution when driving during the winter and routinely inspect your vehicle for damage.

How can I get around while my car is having auto body and collision repair?
Getting around during the winter when your car is in the shop can be challenging. Fortunately, we offer courtesy vehicles along with pick up and drop off services, helping you get where you need to go while your vehicle is being repaired.

Common Types of Auto Body Damage and How We Fix Them

From accidents to vandalism to exposure to the elements, there are many different types of damage your vehicle may face. Fortunately, Columbia Collision Repairs can fix any type of auto body damage your vehicle sustains, whether someone hits your car with their door in a parking lot or you’re involved in a major collision. Our highly-trained and certified staff can repair any type of vehicle and any type of damage. Take a closer look at the common types of auto body damage in Surrey, BC, and the techniques we use to bring your vehicle back to like-new condition.

Common Types of Auto Body Damage

• Dents and Dings – Dents and dings are the most common forms of auto body damage. They are more than just cosmetic issues, as dents can worsen over time and diminish the resale value of your vehicle. In some cases, dents may also be accompanied by structural damage, so you should always seek professional care whenever you notice a blemish on your vehicle. Dents may occur due to loose debris on the road, parking lot damage, fender benders and other accidents, or hail damage.
• Scratches and Paint Damage – Your vehicle’s paint isn’t just there for aesthetics. Vehicle paint protects the underlying structure of your vehicle, so scratches and paint damage make your vehicle more vulnerable to rust and structural damage. Your vehicle is designed to stand up to the elements, but direct impacts may leave their mark with scratches, buff marks, and blemishes. You may also see damage to your paint job after years of exposure to the elements, which can cause fading.
• Cracked or Broken Bumpers – Bumpers are designed to absorb the force of an impact in a head-on or rear-end collision. When they are damaged, they should be repaired or replaced right away to ensure the safety and structural integrity of your vehicle.
• Frame Damage – Major collisions can cause the frame of your vehicle to warp or bend. This type of damage is serious, and you should not drive your vehicle until it has been professionally repaired.
• Windows or Windshield Damage – Windows may break due to break-ins, vandalism, collisions, or an unfortunate encounter with a stray rock or debris on the highway. Your windshield is made from laminated glass, so it may remain intact when it is cracked or broken, but your vehicle’s windows are likely made from tempered glass, which will shatter upon impact.

How We Fix Auto Body Damage

Columbia Collision Repairs provides full-service auto body damage repair for major and minor collisions, as well as other types of vehicle damage like vandalism or an attempted break-in. We use the latest tools, techniques, and equipment to provide precise, reliable repairs that restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition. Here’s a closer look at the types of work our trained and certified auto body repair technicians perform at our shop:

• Dent Repair – Our dent repair services include paintless dent removal, traditional dent repair, and crease dent repair. Paintless dent removal is a quick and affordable process that is perfect for repairing minor dents or dings that have not scratched your vehicle’s paint. Traditional dent repair and crease dent repair are more complex, but our team has extensive experience with these methods and can make it like the dent was never there. Often, dents don’t just affect the surface of the vehicle, so we will perform a complete assessment of the damage and recommend the right type of dent repair for your needs.
• Paint Restoration – If your vehicle’s paint is damaged, you might be worried about achieving an exact match. We work with numerous distributors to have access to every colour available, and we utilize state-of-the-art application techniques and sealing technologies to ensure a seamless finish.
• Bumper Repair – Different types of damage will warrant different types of bumper repair. We can provide dent removal, bumper replacement, or bumper painting, and we can reset airbag sensors and warning lights so that your vehicle remains safe on the road.
• Frame Straightening – In major collisions, it is common for the vehicle frame to become bent out of shape. Frame straightening is a highly specialized type of auto body damage repair in which the frame is adjusted with high-powered hydraulic equipment to restore its original shape and integrity.
• Auto Glass Replacement – Whether your auto glass was damaged in a collision or due to a chip that’s grown to a major crack, we can fix it. We provide windshield repair and replacement, as well as replacement of windows and rear windshields.
• Mechanical Repairs – Your vehicle may have mechanical issues due to an accident, such as suspension or steering problems. We can provide the repairs you need under one roof, so your car will be ready to drive when it leaves our shop.

Why Professional Repair Matters

Auto body repair is not a DIY job. If you find yourself Googling “how to fix auto body damage,” you should instead search for a local repair shop that can handle your vehicle repair needs. Improper collision repairs can lead to even more damage that becomes even more expensive to fix.

Tips to Prevent Auto Body Damage

There are many steps you can take to prevent auto body damage. Keep the following tips in mind:

• Park in a garage or covered area when possible.
• Always follow local speed limits and traffic laws.
• Do not drive impaired.
• Wash and wax your vehicle regularly to protect its paint.
• Avoid parking next to large vehicles—try to park in less busy areas and keep empty spaces next to your vehicle.
• Do not drive during major storms.

Get Your Car Back to Pre-Accident Condition

Auto body damage happens. We can fix it. Contact Columbia Collision Repairs today or visit our shop for an estimate. No appointment is necessary.

Auto Body Damage Repair FAQs

How long will my car be in the shop?
Repair timelines can vary dramatically, so we will provide an estimate for your repair time when we assess your vehicle. Auto body repair may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Can I choose where my vehicle is repaired after an accident?
Yes, in British Columbia, you have the right to choose where you want your vehicle repaired. Your insurance company cannot make you go to a specific repair shop.