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Ask if technicians are ICAR trained . If
body technicians, painters, office staff, and even the
detail person that cleans your car are ICAR trained, it
means they have attended a course or series of courses
offered by the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision
Repair (ICAR) to help upgrade their skills. Businesses with
trained personnel are likely to display these and other
certificates or diplomas in the customer waiting area. Look
for the symbol of excellence in collision repair, look for
the ICAR Gold Class Professional emblems proudly displayed.
This indicates the business is committed to a higher level
of training and professionalism.
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Expect the collision repair facility to be
neat, clean and well organized. The flow of existing work
should be almost unnoticeable.
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Note whether the employees are helpful and
courteous. This will give you an idea of how you will be
treated throughout the repair process.
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Ask about the shop policy on replacement
parts. When does the shop feel that non original equipment
manufacturer's parts are to be used? You have the right to
choose which type of parts go on your car.
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Ask how long the shop has been in business.
Does the shop have all required permits from EPA? Does the
shop dispose of its hazardous waste properly and charge you
for the service?
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Ask about the shops painting procedures.
Does the shop have a computerized system for mixing the
paint and keeping up with the waste? Ask about the paint
manufacturer's guarantee. It should be for "as long as you
own your car".
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Check what guarantees the shop offers.
Quality collision repair shops should offer a Limited
Lifetime Guarantee. Always ask to see a copy of a printed
guarantee, read it and ask questions of any parts you do not
understand. Make certain you know what is covered and
not covered.
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Make sure you get a written Damage Appraisal
done by a licensed New York
State Appraiser.
