car value after accident repair

Assessing Car Value After Accident Repair: What You Need To Know

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Pretty much everyone will be involved in a car accident at some point in their lives. Regardless of whether you are in a small fender bender or a major collision, one thing car owners wonder about is how much the accident will lower the value of their car. With that in mind, the team at Formula 1 Collision Center is here to answer your questions about car value after accident repair.

Schedule an appointment at our collision center in Tucson today! We’ll have your car fixed in no time flat after a crash.

Car Accident Value and Insurance

At the end of the day, what matters is how much your insurance company values your car after an accident, not the “actual” value. If your car has sustained sufficient damage, they may label it as salvaged or rebuilt, which means the total damage to the car outweighs its value.

If your car is not totaled, then whether or not you get repairs matters. Buyers are much more hesitant to buy cars that have issues and prefer vehicles that have a clean bill of health and good repair quality. Regardless of what kind of damage your car sustains, its resale value will drop after an accident.

17c Diminished Value Formula—The Basics

Most insurance companies use something called the 17c Diminished Formula to determine your car value after accident repair. The basic formula is:

  • Base loss of value x (damage modifier) x (mileage modifier)

The base loss of value is equal to 10% of the car’s Blue Book value before the accident. For example, if your car was worth $20,000 before the accident, the base loss of value is $2,000.

The damage modifier is a percentage your insurance company determines based on the severity and type of damage. The less damage the car has, the lower the damage modifier.

The mileage modifier, as the name implies, depends on the mileage of the car. The less mileage, the higher the mileage modifier percentage.

Will Maintenance Preserve the Value of My Car After an Accident?

A history of regular car maintenance can affect the value of your car after an accident, though not directly. Used and rebuilt cars are much easier to repair if you have comprehensive documentation of all the work performed on the car. So, if you get regular maintenance and document all that work, you will probably have an easier time selling a rebuilt car and can sell it for a higher price. Not documenting car maintenance and repairs can make it significantly harder to sell, depending on the current market trend.

Collision Repair in Tucson and Surrounding Areas

Read our blog to learn more about what causes car collisions. We can help you determine the total value of your car after accident repairs. If you have any more questions about your car value after accident repair, contact Formula 1 Collision Center online or give us a call today at (520) 369-4291 to schedule an appointment!

how to restore faded auto paint

How to Restore Faded Auto Paint in 3 Ways

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

It’s hard to beat the shine of a new car, but as many Arizonians discover, it doesn’t take long for the desert sun’s UV rays to fade auto paint. If your vehicle’s finish has seen better days, you may wonder how to restore faded auto paint. 

At Formula 1 Collision Center, the leader among Tucson’s auto body shops, we often hear from drivers who want to return their vehicles to their former glory. Determining how to deal with faded areas in a car’s paint depends on several factors, such as the type of paint, but there’s always a way to restore the color and finish. Read on for the most common methods of restoring paint, and call us at (520) 369-4291 to learn more. 

The Best Ways to Bring Back a Vehicle’s Color and Shine 

Cars lose vibrancy due to sun exposure, a lack of maintenance, pollution, and abrasive cleaners. Parking in shaded or covered areas and cleaning with the proper tools can go a long way toward preserving the paint and the vehicle’s value. 

You may not be able to prevent all fading, though. Here’s how to restore faded auto paint if you can’t.

1. Use a Clay Bar 

After washing and drying, using a clay bar to eliminate embedded dirt from the finish can restore color and shine. Automotive clay bars pull out dirt and contaminants that block light reflection and make paint look dull. Contaminants also cause paint to oxidize and develop a hazy finish.

Depending on the extent of the fading, a clay bar may be all you need to repair faded paint.

2. Buffing 

Buffing removes accumulated oxidation from the paint; it can also help eliminate minor scratches and other imperfections, leaving behind a gleaming surface. 

Buffing involves using a mild abrasive compound with rotating buffing pads or a wheel to eliminate the oxidation that fades paint. The process takes time, but if your vehicle has a clear coat, it’s often very effective for restoring the paint job and making it look new again. 

3. Repaint

Sometimes, the fading is beyond repair, and thorough cleaning and buffing can’t revive a tired-looking paint job. In this case, the only option is to repaint the vehicle.

Repainting is the only way to restore faded paint on a classic or antique car that has single-stage paint. Older vehicles often have this type of paint, which includes the base color and the clear coat in one. Newer vehicles typically have two-stage paint, which means that the manufacturer applies the base coat first, followed by one or more layers of clear coat. 

Buffing a single-stage painted car can actually do more harm than good, so it’s best to repaint it instead.

Let Formula 1 Collision Center Restore Your Vehicle 

If you want to restore your faded vehicle, get in touch with Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291. As the leaders in auto painting in Tucson, we can discuss how to restore faded auto paint or decide between painting or wrapping a car so you can drive a showroom-ready vehicle.

auto body repair process

How You Pick the Best Auto Body Repair Shop?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Painting, Auto Body Repair, Collision Repair.

Choosing the best auto body repair shop is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the quality, cost, and duration of the repairs your vehicle requires. In an industry rife with varying standards of service and expertise, it’s important to conduct thorough research to ensure your car is in capable hands. This blog will guide you through key factors to consider, such as reputation, certifications, warranty policies, and price estimates, to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also discuss the importance of seeking referrals, reading customer reviews, and understanding the types of services offered. With the right approach, you can find a repair shop that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, ensuring your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition both efficiently and effectively.

 

1. Understanding the Basics of Auto Body Repair

Auto body repair is a complex field that encompasses a wide range of services to restore a vehicle’s appearance and functionality after it has been damaged. This section aims to provide a foundational understanding of the various aspects of auto body repair, ensuring that vehicle owners are better equipped to make informed decisions when seeking repair services.

Types of Auto Body Repairs:

  • Dent Removal: One of the most common repair tasks. Dents can range from minor bumps to significant indentations and require different techniques like paintless dent repair (PDR) or more extensive panel work.
  • Paint Jobs: This includes scratch repair, paint touch-ups, or full vehicle repainting. Quality paint jobs not only enhance the vehicle’s appearance but also protect against rust and corrosion.
  • Frame Repair and Alignment: Essential for vehicles that have been in serious accidents. This involves straightening or replacing parts of the vehicle’s frame to ensure it meets safety standards.
  • Windshield and Glass Replacement: Addresses cracks or breaks in the vehicle’s glass, which are crucial for visibility and structural integrity.

Understanding Repair Processes:

  • Assessment and Estimate: The first step in auto body repair involves a thorough assessment of the damage and an estimate of the repair costs.
  • Disassembly and Reassembly: In some cases, parts of the vehicle may need to be disassembled to access damaged areas and then reassembled after repairs.
  • Body Filling, Sanding, and Painting: For dents and damages to the body, fillers are used to create a smooth surface, which is then sanded and painted to match the vehicle’s original appearance.

The Role of Technology in Auto Body Repair:

  • Computerized Measurement Tools: These are used for precise frame alignment and ensuring the structural integrity of the vehicle.
  • Advanced Painting Techniques: Modern auto body shops employ sophisticated painting techniques and computerized color matching to ensure a seamless finish.

Choosing the Right Repair Shop:

  • It’s important to select a repair shop that has the right tools, technology, and skilled technicians to handle your specific repair needs. Look for certifications, read reviews, and ask about their experience with your vehicle type.

Communication with Technicians:

  • A key aspect of auto body repair is clear communication with the repair technicians. Understanding the basics allows you to ask informed questions and understand the recommendations provided by the repair shop.

By grasping the basics of auto body repair, you become a more knowledgeable customer. This knowledge not only helps in ensuring that your vehicle receives the best possible care but also in understanding the scope and value of the work being done.

2. How to Evaluate a Repair Shop’s Reputation


The reputation of an auto body repair shop is a key indicator of the quality of service you can expect. This part of the blog will guide you on how to vet a repair shop’s reputation. We’ll talk about checking online reviews, seeking recommendations from friends and family, and researching local business ratings. Understanding how to interpret this information will help you find a trustworthy and reliable repair shop.

3. The Importance of Certifications and Training

In this section, we emphasize the significance of choosing a repair shop with certified technicians. Certifications, such as those from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), are indicators of a technician’s knowledge and skill level. We’ll explore what these certifications mean and why they matter for the quality of the repairs your vehicle will receive.

4. Comparing Cost Estimates and Understanding Pricing


Navigating through cost estimates can be overwhelming. This part of the blog will provide insight into understanding and comparing repair estimates from different shops. We’ll discuss factors that influence the cost of repairs, such as labor rates, parts prices, and the extent of damage. This information will empower you to make a cost-effective decision without compromising on the quality of repairs.

5. Warranty and Guarantee Policies


Warranties and guarantees are crucial for protecting your investment in auto body repairs. This section will cover what you need to know about the warranty policies of repair shops. We’ll discuss the typical coverage offered, including what is covered under warranty and for how long. Understanding these policies can provide peace of mind and help in making a more informed decision when selecting a repair shop.

Ensuring Excellence in Auto Body Repair: Your Next Step with Formula 1 Collision Center

By understanding the basics of auto body repair, evaluating a shop’s reputation, acknowledging the importance of certifications and training, comparing pricing carefully, and considering warranty policies, you can make a well-informed decision. Remember, the goal is not just to repair the damage but to ensure that your vehicle is safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re in the Tucson area and in need of top-notch auto body repair services, consider Formula 1 Collision Center. With a team of skilled technicians, state-of-the-art equipment, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Formula 1 Collision Center stands out as a reliable choice for all your auto body repair needs. Whether it’s a minor dent or major collision damage, their expertise ensures your vehicle is in the best hands.

To learn more about their services or to schedule a repair, visit Formula 1 Collision Center in Tucson, where quality meets efficiency in auto body repair. Trust is key in auto body repair, and with the right information and approach, you can find a repair partner who earns that trust and delivers excellent results.

how long does auto body repair take

How Long Does a Full Auto Body Repair Take?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Do you have some body damage on your car and wonder how long it will take to fix? Auto body repair times can vary significantly depending on several factors. To help you out, the team at Formula 1 Collision Center aims to answer the question, “How long does auto body repair take?”

Contact the best auto body shop in Tucson today!

How Long Does a Full Auto Body Repair Take?

So, how long does auto body repair take? Unfortunately, you won’t find one single answer to this question. Auto body repair can take a day or two, or it can take multiple weeks—it all depends on the specifics of the job. The time it takes to repair varies depending on several factors, including some of those below:

  • The extent of the damage. A dented fender will take less time to repair than a crumpled hood from a car accident.
  • Type of car. Some vehicles, like foreign import cars, require special parts and technicians, so repairs usually take longer. It will take longer to fix cars that require proprietary or less available parts. 
  • Current shop activity. The busier a particular auto body repair shop is, the longer it might take to pencil in your repairs.
  • Insurance process. If you run repairs through your insurance, the auto body shop will need to wait until they get final approval for repairs, which could take longer depending on how soon you start the insurance claims process.

Regardless of what kind of body repair you need, you should plan extra time on your schedule in case they take longer than initially expected. 

Estimating Auto Body Repair Times

One way to estimate how long auto body repair will take requires basing it on the quoted price. As a general rule of thumb, you can assume about one week of auto body work for every $1,000 the shop quotes. 

So, if a mechanic gives you a $2,000 quote for the job, you can expect it to take about two weeks to fix your car. Of course, this estimate depends on a number of factors, including whether they perform the repairs properly, whether they notice any hidden damage, and whether they have the necessary replacement parts available. 

Consider the following repair estimate for a few common auto body repair jobs:

  • Side door: 1–2 weeks
  • Hood: 4–6 weeks
  • Bumper: 1–2 weeks
  • Windshield: 1–2 weeks
  • Rear body: 4–8 weeks

Note that these times are just estimates and that actual times might vary depending on the type of car, the extent of the damage, the car’s maintenance condition, and repair scheduling. 

Full Auto Body Repair in Tucson

Formula 1 Collision Center is the auto body repair center you can trust. We rank as Tucson’s no. 1 choice for all things collision repair. We put quality and customer service before everything else. 

Read our blog to learn more about the auto body repair process. If you have any questions related to “How long does auto body repair take?” contact Formula 1 Collision online or call today at (520) 369-4291!

questions to ask the auto body repair shop

3 Questions To Ask Your Body Repair Shop

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Cars sustain cosmetic damage from various sources, such as wrecks, collisions with mailboxes, and the odd scratch or dent. If you want to prolong your car’s shine, you might appreciate these questions to ask the auto body repair shop the next time you’re in for a service or paint correction. 

Formula 1 Collision Center, the best auto body repair shop in Tucson, Arizona, outlines the details below.

#1 Are You Certified?

A reputable collision center will have various certifications demonstrating their experience and expertise. Since auto body repair often involves hazardous chemical usage and intense physical labor, the technicians may also train to ensure a safer working environment. Ask your prospective auto body shops to supply certification copies., and avoid shops that provide uncertified services. 

#2 Can I Have a Copy of Your Warranty Policy?

Inquiries about the warranty policies are among the most important questions to ask the auto body repair shop. The warranty establishes the following guarantees:

  • Longevity of the materials used
  • Service quality
  • Company confidence in its finished work

The warranty policy should outline any exclusions and circumstances that may nullify the agreement. Read through the policy before agreeing to pay for services. 

#3 How Do You Communicate With Insurance Companies?

Does your insurance policy cover the repair services? If so, you should choose a collision center that handles most of this communication. Their team should be upfront about whether they can work with your policy or provider.

Can your potential representative describe an insurance communication process? Will the way they do things make life easier for you? They should initiate and maintain contact throughout the service process.

Other Questions To Ask the Auto Body Repair Shop

Can You Provide a Written Estimate? 

While an estimate may not reflect the final cost, it can help you budget. Estimates feature itemized prices associated with the services and products required to complete the task. A trustworthy auto body shop documents and communicates any changes it makes to the written estimate so that you never feel caught off guard by the final bill. 

What Does Your Repair Timeline Look Like? 

A reputable auto body service doesn’t give customers any run-around. You should have an accurate idea about when they’ll complete the repairs. 

Do You Perform Paint Color Matching? 

You want the new paint to blend perfectly with the original color. Otherwise, your vehicle will permanently look off its game. The technicians should know how to locate your car’s paint color and describe their matching process.

What Communication Should I Expect From Your Team? 

Determine whether you should expect phone calls, emails, or text messages. You can also ask whether the staff switches communication methods depending on urgency. For example, a change to your final cost may warrant a phone call instead of a text message. 

Choose Formula 1 Collision Center for Trusted Auto Body Repairs

Do you have any other questions to ask the auto body repair shop? Send them to Formula 1 Collision Center for honest, prompt answers. Avoid uncertified or DIY auto body repair with Tucson’s talented technicians—call our trusted professionals at 520-369-4291 today.

what is considered frame damage on a car

What Is Considered Frame Damage on a Car?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Modern car frames tend to be robust and reliable. Vehicle frame damage still affects countless cars, however. Learn about what is considered frame damage on a car from the experts at Formula 1 Collision Center, as they provide the best auto body shop services in Tucson.

Our team at Formula 1 Collision Center excels at repairing even the most damaged vehicles. Call us at (520) 369-4291 to learn more about our high-quality services.

What Is a Car Frame?

Before answering the question, “What is considered frame damage on a car?” it’s worth understanding what car frames are. Car frames are the foundation upon which the rest of the car depends on. Car frames use either aluminum or steel for their construction.

Car frames perform multiple vital roles. They support the vehicle’s weight and protect passengers from external threats. Most of all, the frame provides the car’s mechanical and electrical components with much-needed support.

Car frames come in two varieties: unibody and body-on-frame. Unibody vehicles feature a frame that is part of the car body itself. Body-on-frame vehicles, on the other hand, use two separate parts that, while connected, are not the same. 

What Counts as Frame Damage?

What is considered frame damage on a car? The answer depends on the type of vehicle. Damage to body-on-frame vehicles occurs when intense force damages the frame rail on the side of the car or any other part of the vehicle.

The extent of the damage varies with body-on-frame vehicles. Typically, the worst type of damage occurs due to an intense side impact, such as a T-bone accident.

A unibody car has frame damage when similar impacts affect the body of the car. However, since these vehicles feature a body and frame that are one and the same, damage can occur more often, such as when the front or rear of the car experiences an impact.

Driving With Frame Damage

Some vehicles with a minor bent frame or other small issues may be safe to drive. Problems that appear to be small may, in reality, be much worse. 

Ask yourself: if you were to get into another accident, would you be safe? Cars with damaged structures can’t safely withstand impacts.

How to Check for Frame Damage

Whether you’ve been in an accident or not, you can check for frame damage by inspecting your vehicle. Look for minor scratches and dents. Are there any visible signs of damage?

If you hear any strange noises or feel strange vibrations while operating the vehicle, your frame could be damaged. Some vehicles struggle to handle high speeds with a damaged frame. Contact a repair shop as soon as possible if you suspect a damaged frame.

Learn More Facts About Car Frame Damage

Although you now understand what is considered frame damage on a car, you need experts you can trust. Formula 1 Collision Center can repair your car. If you need automotive frame straightening or other repair services, call us at (520) 369-4291.

auto body shop vs dealership

Auto Body Shop Vs. Dealership: Which is Better?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Most Tucson, AZ, vehicle owners want their cars and trucks to receive the best service to ensure optimal performance. However, many don’t know if they should take their vehicle to an auto body shop or a dealership for superior servicing. So, auto body shop vs. dealership: which is best?

To answer this question and more, Formula 1 Collision Center is here to teach you if you should take your car to an auto body shop or dealership the next time it needs servicing.

Formula 1 Collision Center is the best auto body shop in Tucson, AZ. Our team can handle even the toughest auto body repair projects swiftly and efficiently, ensuring you receive top-notch service every time you visit our facility. No matter your auto body needs, Formula 1 Collision Center has the skills and experience to get the job done.

Should You Take Your Vehicle to an Auto Body Shop or Dealership for Collision Repair?

Figuring out if you should take your vehicle to an auto body shop or dealership after an accident isn’t always easy.

However, before taking your vehicle to the dealership, you must ensure they offer collision repairs. Many dealerships don’t repair cars or only provide limited servicing. Auto body shops specialize in collision repairs, making them a viable option.

But the question remains: auto body shop vs. dealership, which is best for collision repair?

Pros of Auto Body Shops and Dealerships

Auto body shops and dealerships have unique strengths targeting different needs. Below are some pros of each service.

Dealerships

Some of the benefits of dealerships include:

  • Dealership technicians specializing in specific models
  • Works closely with the vehicle and original equipment manufacturer
  • Often cheaper if your vehicle has a warranty
  • Has access to original equipment

Auto Body Shops

Auto body shops also have many benefits, including:

  • Offering a wider range of services
  • Most have factory-trained technicians
  • More cost-effective if you don’t have a warranty
  • Don’t push additional services for commission purposes

Cons of Auto Body Shops and Dealerships

Like most things, auto body shops and dealerships aren’t perfect. Below are some cons of each service.

Dealerships

A dealership offers:

  • Less thorough repairs
  • Estimates on hours of labor
  • More expensive and limited services
  • Often pushes additional and unnecessary service for profit

Auto Body Shops

Some of the cons of auto body shops include:

  • Takes longer
  • Not ideal for high-end vehicles (unless they specialize in the field)
  • Might not have immediate access to specific parts

Taking your vehicle to an auto body shop is often more ideal since they offer a wider range of services and don’t work off commission. They also provide the same services at a cheaper rate, saving you money without sacrificing quality.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for High-Quality Collision Repair and Associated Services in Tucson, AZ

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for outstanding collision repair in Tucson, AZ. We will handle all your repair needs while providing exceptional customer service. Whether you want to know more about auto body shops vs. dealerships or learn DIY auto body repair, Formula 1 Collision Center is here for you.

Call Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291!

automotive frame straightening

Everything You Need to Know About Automotive Frame Straightening

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Accidents can leave your car severely damaged. Automotive frame straightening can restore the structure of your vehicle and make it safe for driving again.

Discover all the basics about this automotive service and turn to Tucson’s collision repair experts at Formula 1 Collision Center when you sustain frame damage.

Types of Car Frames

There are three types of frames that can make up your car’s structure:

  • Ladder frame: Ladder frames are stand-alone structures that are common on trucks, SUVs, vans, and antique cars. 
  • Unibody frame: Most modern sedans, minivans, and crossovers feature a unibody frame that welds the car’s body and frame together. 
  • Spaceframe: A spaceframe is an enhanced type of unibody typical in luxury cars. 

The build of the frame and the type of vehicle it adorns can impact how a collision repair specialist straightens it.

What Is Automotive Frame Straightening?

Frame straightening involves restoring the car frame to its original structure. This process uses a specialized machine with lasers to measure and realign the frame to its original factory specifications. From there, mechanics increase tension on chains fixed to the frame to realign it. 

When complete, the car should look like it did before a collision. 

When Should You Seek Frame Straightening Service?

Any driver in an accident with noticeable damage should receive frame repairs for their car. This includes front-end collisions, corner hits, or rear-end collisions that can crumple the frame inward.

Car accident statistics show that Arizona ranks among the most dangerous states for motorists, leaving a higher chance that you will need to receive automotive frame straightening. Getting your frame back into alignment improves your car’s aesthetic and is necessary for safe driving. Frame damage can cause strange noises while operating the car and uneven shock absorption. 

Does Car Frame Straightening Repair All Damage?

Getting your frame straightened after a car accident can restore the look of any dents and damage. However, it is not always a be-all, end-all solution. Any impact on a car will compromise its structure, safety, and function.  

When bringing your car for a frame straightening service, your technician should inspect all the damage to the vehicle, not just its frame. A frame straightening job will return your car to its manufacturer’s specifications. However, it doesn’t mean you aren’t susceptible to future damage. 

Does Frame Straightening Make Cars Safe to Drive?

Cars that undergo frame straightening from a qualified technician are safe to drive again. Being in an accident will make you especially mindful of safe driving. You can have peace of mind that when you straighten the frame, your car can keep you safe each time you get behind the wheel.

The precision of returning the vehicle to its factory specifications enhances the safety of the driver and passengers. 

Contact a Car Frame Straightening Expert

When you need automotive frame straightening and other services provided by an acclaimed auto body shop, turn to the experts at Formula 1 Collision Center. Call (520) 369-4291 for an estimate on frame straightening services.

different types of car damages

8 Types of Car Body Damage and How They Are Repaired

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair, Collision Repair.

Whether or not you’re a cautious driver, you’ll inevitably have to deal with vehicle damage at some point. While major collisions and accidents can cause catastrophic damage to your automobile, other car body damage might be less severe and easier to repair.

Although vehicle damage is frustrating, understanding the common types of damage that can occur is crucial. Knowing the common auto body damage can help you find an auto body shop in Tucson, AZ, to service your vehicle’s needs. Additionally, being an informed car owner allows you to validate a successful or failed repair process.

Weather Damage

Weather damage is widespread since vehicles brave the elements year-round. Fortunately, repair technicians can usually quickly repair minor damage to your car.

When hail, salt from snowy roads, or sun damage impacts your car’s exterior, it’s not uncommon for rust to form. Repair technicians can apply anti-rust chemicals or cut out the affected pieces, replacing them with new metal.

Major Collisions and Accidents

Major accidents typically cause severe car body damage only reversible through an extensive and sometimes expensive vehicle repair process. However, this process ensures that your car returns to its factory specifications and can extend your vehicle’s lifespan.

Cracked Windshields

Cracked windshields are typical for many drivers. Resin injections or other adhesives might be sufficient to prevent small cracks from growing. However, an entirely cracked windshield will require a total replacement.

Fender Benders

While fender benders seem like the least damaging accident, damage from these seemingly small occurrences might not be obvious. Inspections are usually necessary to determine the status of your car’s structure and alignment after a minor accident.

Body Dents

Dents come in a range of sizes and severity. For more minor dents, paintless solutions like body filler might be sufficient. However, large dents compromising an entire piece or panel of your vehicle’s body require more intensive dent repair.

Paint Damage and Scratches

Despite your best efforts, scratches on your automobile are inevitable. Depending on the extent of this car body damage, you may not require extensive repairs. Repair technicians buff out minor scratches, while larger eyesores might need a new paint job.

Bumper Damage

Getting rear-ended is a common form of car damage. In these accidents, your bumper will likely take the brunt of the damage and require repair. Cracked bumpers might require body filler, whereas more severe damage will mandate a replacement.

Suspension Damage

Whether you hit a curb or a pothole, suspension damage is another common form of car body damage. Less severe suspension damage typically only mandates realignment. However, if the ball joint or shock absorber takes too much damage, those pieces will require replacement.

Quality Vehicle Repairs from Formula 1 Collision Center

To learn more about car body damage or how you can prevent damage from road debris, call Formula 1 Collision Center. Our expert repair technicians provide excellent service and repairs at fair prices in Tucson, AZ, and the surrounding areas. Call (520) 369-4291 to schedule service today.

auto body repair process

Understanding the Four Steps in the Auto Body Repair Process

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Repair.

Millions of Americans take their car to a repair shop every year. However, most people don’t know the auto body repair process or the steps mechanics take to ensure optimal restoration after an accident occurs. That’s why the experts at Formula 1 Collision Center put together a brief guide to explain the repair process and how body shops use it to make your car as good as new.

Formula 1 Collision Center is one of Tucson, AZ’s most trusted vehicle repair companies. Our team specializes in high-quality collision repair and auto body refinishing, allowing us to handle all mechanical repair needs. If you’re searching for a reliable body shop in Tucson that can manage any repair project you throw its way, look no further than Formula 1 Collision Center.

The Auto Body Repair Process

Step One: Assessment

Before mechanics start the auto body repair process, they must assess your car damage. They thoroughly evaluate the extent of the damage and create an estimate to see if you want to move forward with repairs.

It’s important to note that some body shops base the first estimate solely on visual damage. Once a mechanic analyzes the internal damage, they will create a new, more accurate repair estimate. However, some body shops include internal damage in the first estimate, simplifying the auto body repair process.

Step Two: Repair

Once you agree to the body shop’s estimate, the mechanics will develop a blueprint and repair your vehicle. They replace damaged panels and smooth unsightly dents and dings to restore the car to its original shape. Mechanics often utilize sophisticated laser frame diagnostic systems to shape the vehicle and ensure optimal accuracy.

Repairs often take a few days or more to complete, so ensure you give the mechanics enough time to finish the process.

Step Three: Cleaning and Detailing

After the mechanics restore your car to its original state, they will clean and detail the vehicle to ensure it looks its best upon pickup. They repolish the paint, clean the interior, test interior and exterior components, and more before releasing the car to you.

Most reliable body shops will also test drive the car to ensure everything functions smoothly. If they uncover any issues, they will make the required repairs and retest the vehicle to guarantee optimal performance and usability.

Step Four: Pick Up

Finally, your body shop will call you to pick up your car, completing the auto body repair process.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for First-class Auto Body Repairs and Associated Services

Formula 1 Collision Center is Tucson’s go-to choice for auto body repairs and refinishing services. We understand each step of the auto body repair process and can make your vehicle better than ever at a price that fits your budget. Whether you need to refinish your vehicle or want to learn about possible car problems after a rear-end collision, Formula 1 Collision Center is here for you.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291 today!

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