3 Things To Consider When It Comes To Auto Body Repair

Accidents happen, and sometimes it's your car that ends up needing repair. Whether it's a minor fender-bender or a major accident, auto body repair is something your vehicle may require. There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to repair work. Finding an auto body repair shop and working with insurance companies can be a hassle. However, you want to ensure that your car is back in working order as soon as possible. Here are three things to consider when it comes to auto body repairs.

Your Insurance

The first thing that you should consider when it comes to auto body repair is your auto insurance. The type of insurance policy you have will determine how much of the work your vehicle needs will be covered. Often you will have a deductible to meet before the work is covered. You may also find that certain repairs are not covered under your policy. In general, comprehensive or collision insurance policies will cover more than liability only policies. Your insurance company may also only cover repairs done at certain shops. It's important to stay in contact with your insurance company during the entire process.

Cost

In some cases, necessary auto body repair is not covered by your insurance policy. Having an idea of the average cost of common auto body repairs can be very useful. Costs can vary depending on the make and model of your car. A small one-inch dent costs on average between $50 and $120 to repair, while a 12-inch dent will run between $160 and $450. A new bumper can cost between $300 and $1,600. Painting your car will also add to the total; a mid range paint job can cost between $1,000 and $3,500. 

Timeline

Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to auto body repair is that it can take time. The average repair time is now 9.85 days. That doesn't include the 2 to 5 days it can take to come up with a repair estimate. Chances are you will be without your car for at least a few days while the repairs are being completed. During this time you may need to get a rental car or make other plans. If major repairs are needed, it can take a few weeks for the repairs to be complete.

When it comes to auto body repair, there are a few things to consider. Contacting your insurance company is a must. Some repairs may be covered by your policy while others may not. It is also a good idea to have an idea of how much common repairs tend to cost. Timeline is another important thing to consider: auto body repair can take a few days, if not weeks, to complete. 

For more information, contact companies like Straightline Collision.