Tag: Auto Advice

New Trends in Auto Body Repair

Posted on by Cline Collision Center

New Trends in Auto Body Repair

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At Cline Collision Center, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of the auto body repair industry. As technology and methods evolve, we ensure that our services are aligned with the latest trends to provide our customers with the best possible outcomes. Let’s explore the latest trends in auto body repair and how they impact vehicle owners.

Data-Driven Diagnostics for Precision Repairs

One of the most significant advancements in auto body repair is the use of data-driven diagnostics. This technology allows us to use detailed data and analytics to diagnose issues with pinpoint accuracy. By leveraging data, we can gain precise insights into the repairs required, ensuring that we address every issue correctly the first time. This not only improves the quality of the repair but also reduces the time your vehicle spends in the shop.

OEM Certification: Ensuring Top-Quality Repairs

At Cline Collision Center, we are proud to be OEM certified for a range of manufacturers, including Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Kia, Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, Infiniti, Honda, and Acura. This certification means that our technicians have been trained and certified to repair these vehicles to the manufacturer’s standards. Using OEM parts and following OEM repair procedures ensure that your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition, maintaining its safety, performance, and value.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important in all industries, and auto body repair is no exception. We have adopted eco-friendly practices such as using waterborne paints instead of solvent-based paints, which significantly reduce the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Additionally, we implement recycling programs for metal, plastic, and glass parts, reducing our environmental footprint and promoting a greener future.

Advanced Materials and Repair Techniques

Modern vehicles are constructed using advanced materials such as high-strength steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber. These materials require specialized repair techniques and equipment. Our technicians are trained to handle these materials, ensuring that repairs are performed correctly and safely. By staying updated with the latest repair methods, we can maintain the structural integrity and safety of your vehicle.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are making their way into the auto body repair industry. These technologies assist technicians in visualizing repair processes and training in a simulated environment. By using AR and VR, we can enhance our training programs and improve the accuracy and efficiency of repairs. This cutting-edge approach ensures that our team is well-prepared to handle even the most complex repairs.

Customer Communication and Convenience

We understand that having your vehicle repaired can be a stressful experience. That’s why we prioritize clear and transparent communication with our customers. Modern customer communication tools, such as automated updates and digital inspections, allow us to keep you informed throughout the repair process. Additionally, we offer convenient services such as online booking and estimates to make the repair process as smooth as possible.

Electrification and Hybrid Vehicle Repairs

As more electric and hybrid vehicles hit the road, the need for specialized repair techniques for these vehicles grows. Our team is trained to handle the unique challenges of repairing electric and hybrid vehicles, including working with high-voltage systems and ensuring the proper functioning of electric drivetrains. By staying ahead of this trend, we can provide top-notch service to owners of these environmentally friendly vehicles.

Commitment to Excellence

At Cline Collision Center, we are committed to providing the highest quality repairs and customer service. Our dedication to staying current with industry trends and advancements ensures that we can offer the best possible outcomes for our customers. Whether you need a minor repair or extensive bodywork, you can trust us to restore your vehicle to its optimal condition.  We are honored to serve the Santa Rosa community and look forward to continuing to meet and exceed your expectations.  Please see our reviews for what our customers have to say about our services.

The auto body repair industry is continually evolving, and at Cline Collision Center, we are dedicated to keeping up with these changes. By embracing new technologies and techniques, we ensure that our customers receive the best possible service. If you need auto body repair, trust Cline Collision Center to provide top-quality, OEM-certified repairs that restore your vehicle’s safety and performance.  Make an appointment to get started and we will not disappoint you. 

Should I Pay Cash For Auto Body Repairs Instead Of Filing An Insurance Claim?

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Should I Pay Cash For Auto Body Repairs Instead Of Filing An Insurance Claim?

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Here at Cline Collision Center, We often encounter customers who are unsure whether to pay cash for auto body repairs or file an insurance claim. It’s a common dilemma among automobile owners, and there are several factors to consider when making this decision.

Should you pay cash for auto body repairs instead of filing an insurance claim? The answer depends on various factors, including the extent of the damage, your insurance deductible, and your personal financial situation.

When you choose to pay cash for auto body repairs, you’re essentially covering the cost out of your own pocket without involving your insurance company. This can be beneficial in certain situations, particularly if the damage is minor and the repair costs are relatively low.

One advantage of paying cash is that it can help you avoid potential increases in your insurance premiums. Filing a claim with your insurance company could lead to higher rates, especially if you have a history of claims or if the damage is deemed your fault.

Another advantage of paying cash is the potential for faster repair turnaround times. Insurance claims often require approval from the insurance company, which can delay the repair process. By paying cash, you can expedite the repairs and get back on the road sooner. Paying cash for auto body repairs can give you more control over the repair process. You can choose the repair shop you trust, negotiate the cost of repairs,  and ensure that the job is done to your satisfaction.

There are also situations where filing an insurance claim may be the better option. If the damage is significant and the repair costs are high, filing a claim can help alleviate the financial burden. If you have a low insurance deductible, the out-of-pocket cost of filing a claim may be minimal.

At Cline Collision Center, we understand that every situation is unique, which is why we offer personalized guidance to help you make the right decision for your needs. Whether you choose to pay cash or file an insurance claim, you can trust our team of experienced technicians to provide high-quality auto body repairs.

In addition to our expert craftsmanship, we also offer a 23% discount on hourly labor for cash payments. This exclusive discount is just one of the ways we strive to make the repair process as convenient and affordable as possible for our customers.

In conclusion, the decision to pay cash for auto body repairs or file an insurance claim depends on various factors, including the extent of the damage, your insurance deductible, and your personal preferences. If you’re unsure which option is best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Cline Collision Center for guidance. We’re here to help you get back on the road safely and efficiently, no matter which path you choose.

What You Should Know About Diminished Value Claims

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What You Should Know About
Diminished Value Claims

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Getting into an accident can be expensive, in more ways than one. Beyond the damage to your car, you may also need to pay for medical care or take time off work. In addition, collision damage also impacts your vehicle’s value, even after it’s been repaired. 

The good news is that auto insurance providers offer a variety of policies designed to cover the different types of losses you might encounter after an accident, including diminished value claims. These claims specifically address the decline in market value your car can suffer after being involved in an accident. 

What Are Diminished Value Claims?

With vehicle collisions, one driver will typically be considered at fault. In California, drivers are allowed to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to compensate for the diminished market value caused by the car accident.

Instead of covering the total value of the vehicle, diminished value claims cover a percentage of the car’s value. Typically, insurance companies limit such claims to 10% of the vehicle’s pre-accident appraised value. Therefore, the maximum payout you can expect to receive from this type of claim is 10% of your car’s value. However, insurers will adjust this percentage based on your vehicle’s mileage before the accident and how much damage it sustained. That means that even if your car has decreased in value by thousands of dollars, you may only receive a few hundred dollars. 

Essentially, these claims are a means of providing additional compensation to drivers who weren’t responsible for an accident but whose vehicles sustained damage. The at-fault driver’s insurance company will usually pay for the repair or make an offer to fix the not-at-fault driver’s damaged vehicle. 

If the not-at-fault driver believes the vehicle’s value will significantly depreciate after it’s repaired, they can file a diminished value claim to offset the cost of the loss. 

Understanding the 3 Types of Diminished Value Claims

In general, a car loses value in two ways after an accident. First, simply having a record of an accident on the car’s history decreases its value, regardless of the extent of the damage. Secondly, the quality of the repairs and replacement parts can decrease the value. 

Diminished value claims can be categorized into three types, depending on the timing and value of the collision repairs:

  • Immediate diminished value claim: applies to cars that haven’t been repaired yet. This type of claim considers the loss of value from the accident and the need for repairs. 
  • Inherent diminished value claim: made after repairs have been completed and focuses on the decrease in value due to the accident alone. Even if a car appears to be in better condition after the repairs, this type of claim can still award compensation for its inherent diminished value. 
  • Repair-related diminished value claim: compensates for the decrease in value resulting from the parts and repair methods used. For example, a car that’s repaired using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts is more valuable than one repaired using aftermarket parts. 

When Can You File a Diminished Value Claim? 

Certain conditions must be met to file a diminished value claim:

  • You must be deemed not at fault for the accident.
  • The other driver involved in the accident must have insurance. 
  • Your car must have had value before the accident. 
  • You must reside in a state that recognizes diminished value claims.

When insurance companies assign value to a car, they take several factors into account, including:

  • Mileage
  • Year
  • Make
  • Model
  • Special features
  • Pre-accident condition

A 20-year-old car with 300,000 miles and missing parts before the accident is unlikely to qualify for a diminished value claim. In contrast, a car with only 8,000 miles in like-new condition before the accident is more likely to receive compensation through a diminished value claim.

Get a free estimate for the diminished value of your vehicle here. 

Filing a Claim

To file a diminished value claim, you’ll need to submit it to the at-fault driver’s insurance company; check their policies for submitting a claim. The insurance company will ask for specific information, such as a police report determining fault, pictures of the damage, and bills or estimates for repair. You may also need to get an appraisal to determine your car’s value.

If an insurance claim has already compensated you for necessary repairs, filing a diminished value claim can be cost-prohibitive, as the expense of gathering evidence may exceed the final payout. Nevertheless, diminished value claims can provide a safety net if you stand to lose a significant amount of your car’s value, even after repairs.

After an accident, it’s important to understand all of your options for recouping your losses, including diminished value claims. At Cline Collision Center, we understand the importance of OEM repairs and how they can impact the value of your vehicle. Our experienced team has completed training on OEM repair procedures and uses OEM parts to protect your car’s value and ensure its fully restored to its pre-accident condition. If you need repairs or have questions about filing a diminished value claim, contact us today at (707) 591-9909. 

12 Common Car Myths Debunked

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Have you ever heard that you’re supposed to warm up your engine before you start driving? Or that red cars are more expensive to insure? Most of us have heard similar auto tips, but as it turns out, many of them aren’t true. Some of these tips are outdated in relation to newer vehicles, while others have always been downright false. For the purpose of education (and fun!) here’s a look at 12 common car myths.

Two Mechanics discussion on car damage inspection ,professional working team auto car repairing center concept ,senior staff coaching the new employ mechanic concept
  1. You Should Warm Up Your Engine Before Driving, Especially in the Winter
    Out of all car myths, this one is probably the most widespread. Although it does take time for an engine to warm up to its optimal temperature, letting it idle while it warms up is unnecessary. Technological advances in modern cars allow engines to warm themselves up as they drive; within seconds, a newer vehicle is ready to hit highway speeds. Some experts recommend you let your car idle for up to 30 seconds before you start driving—any longer, and you’re wasting fuel.
  1. Red Cars Are More Expensive to Insure
    Approximately 44% of Americans believe red cars are more expensive to insure than any other color. Fortunately for red car owners, this isn’t the case. Insurance companies use several factors to calculate rates, including the make of the car, the driver’s age, and their insurance record—just to name a few. Car color, however, isn’t factored in.
  1. All SUVs Perform Well Off-Road
    SUVs were originally designed to perform well on the road or off; in many ways, they were the mid-point between standard road-driving cars and off-road vehicles. That’s not the case with most SUVs today. As manufacturers stopped focusing on off-road capabilities and more on passenger comfort, the wheels became smaller and the cabins became outfitted with all kinds of gadgets and amenities. This isn’t to say that there aren’t any new SUVs that can go off-road, though; the Mercedes G class, for example, is rugged enough to brave sand, mud, or snow.
  1. Convertibles Aren’t Safe in a Collision
    It makes sense to think that a vehicle without a roof would be less sound in an accident, but automakers have taken extra measures to ensure convertibles are just as safe as any hard-top vehicle. For example, convertibles have a stiffer chassis, reinforced pillars, and special roll hoops behind the seats to protect drivers in the event of a rollover. Some models even include an active roll bar system that’s automatically activated if the car flips.
  1. Muscle Cars Can’t Corner
    Old-school American muscle cars used to be infamous for their poor handling, but thankfully, this is no longer the case. Newer muscle cars handle very well, regardless of whether they’re driving in a straight line or navigating a turn.
  1. SUVs Are Safer Than Smaller Cars
    This myth has been circulating for years, and it’s easy to see why. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “a bigger, heavier vehicle provides better crash protection than a smaller, lighter one, assuming no other differences.” While this is true, SUVs have a higher center of gravity that makes them more likely to roll over—especially during a collision or when navigating a tight turn. They also need a longer braking distance than smaller cars. Fortunately, automakers continue to improve the safety features of SUVs.
  1. Electric Cars Are More Likely to Catch on Fire
    Electric car fires have been featured on international news over the last couple of years, which has kept this myth alive. Even though a damaged lithium-ion battery can generate enough heat to start a fire, gasoline is more flammable and likely to cause a car fire.
  1. It’s OK to Wash Your Car with Dish Soap
    Washing your car with dish soap may help you save money in the short term, but it’s abrasive. Over time, it can damage the paint and give the car a dull appearance; dish soap can also be tough on rubber components. Cars with paint damage should be repainted to prevent further damage to the body; rather than spending the money to repaint your vehicle it’s much more cost-effective to invest a little more in the proper car wash products!
  1. Aluminum isn’t as Safe as Steel
    Steel and aluminum have different densities; if the same amount of aluminum was used to replace steel, it would make a car unsafe. However, automakers factor this in and use more aluminum to increase the thickness. An aluminum body is actually safer than a steel body because it absorbs more energy in a collision and provides bigger crush zones.
  1. ABS Always Reduces Braking Distance
    This myth is true, in part. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents your wheels from locking when you have to brake suddenly; this is to ensure you stay in control of the vehicle. However, it wasn’t designed to reduce braking distance. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that braking distance is 14% shorter in wet conditions for cars equipped with ABS versus vehicles without ABS. In dry conditions, the braking distance for both ABS-equipped and non-ABS vehicles is essentially the same.
  1. You Don’t Need to Wear a Seat Belt if You Have Airbags
    This may sound silly, but some drivers really do believe they don’t need to wear a seat belt since they have airbags. Obviously, this isn’t the case! Airbags are designed to supplement the protection of seat belts—and their efficacy relies on the position that seat belts keep passengers in. If you’re not wearing a seat belt, there’s a good chance a collision could cause you to slide under the airbag or completely miss it when it deploys—which could lead to injuries from hitting the dashboard or even being ejected from your car.
  1. 4WD and AWD Vehicles Have a Shorter Braking Distance Than 2WD
    This is a common misconception, but a 4WD or AWD vehicle does not have a shorter braking distance than a 2WD. The braking distance is largely dependent on whether the vehicle is equipped with adequate tires.

Safety First: OEM Repairs Offer the Best Protection After a Collision

As you may have noticed, many of the most common car myths revolve around safety. At Cline Collision Center, we make safety the focus of every repair we perform. That’s why we’ve invested in OEM factory training and use only OEM parts on all repairs. Today’s vehicles are more complex than ever, with specialized parts and systems specifically designed for each make and model. Using an aftermarket part can mean the part doesn’t fit or function as it should, and in some cases, it can even cause an entire system to not work properly. This is especially crucial when it comes to ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features, like Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Anti-lock Brakes, and Lane Departure Warning.

If you’ve been in an accident, OEM repairs offer the best protection for you and your family. They’re also the only way to truly restore your vehicle back to factory specifications. So, don’t settle for anything less! Give Cline Collision Center a call today at 707-591-9909 or request an appointment online.

How to Avoid Getting into an Accident in the Rain

Posted on by Cline Collision Center
Rain water splash flow from wheels of silver car moving fast in daylight city with selective focus. Car moving on asphalt road during heavy summer storm rain.

Driving in the rain, whether a light sprinkle or a heavy downpour, is one of the most challenging conditions drivers face. Rain affects visibility, friction on the pavement, vehicle performance, and reaction times. Heavy downpours can make it difficult to see ahead of your vehicle, which can be especially dangerous. Rain also tends to slow traffic, which can lead to backups or stop-and-go traffic that increases the risk of rear-end collisions. Fortunately, if you understand how rain affects all these factors, you can take steps to protect yourself and others on the road.

Here are some simple tips to keep you and your loved ones safe this rainy season:

Prepare Your Vehicle Ready for Rainy Weather

It’s always recommended to get your vehicle ready for the rainy season before it begins to ensure everything is in proper working order. You should:

  • Inspect and replace your windshield wiper blades. Good visibility is one of the most critical factors for driving safely; when your blades are worn, they can smear water across your windshield, rather than clear it. This can distort your vision and make it more difficult to see obstacles while driving. Check your windshield wiper blades for signs of wear and damage, and replace them if needed. If they look ok, you can also test them to see how well they work. If the blades are causing streaks or they aren’t clearing the water away in one swipe, it’s time to replace them.
  • Check all lights and turn signals to make sure they’re working. Not only will your lights help your own visibility, but they’ll make your vehicle visible to other drivers. They’ll also warn other drivers if you’re slowing down or making a turn.
  • Check your tire pressure and tread. A good amount of tread and proper tire pressure will give your tires better traction and help them grip the road. When your tread is low, your tires have more difficulty resisting hydroplaning, which is when your tires ride on the surface of standing water rather than the road. This can be very dangerous – and contrary to what many drivers believe, it can happen even when the roads are slightly damp. If your tires have low tread, they should be replaced.
  • Check your brakes. If your brakes have been squealing, grinding, or vibrating when you push the pedal down, it’s a good idea to have them serviced before wet weather hits. Brake issues can make it more difficult to stop, even in dry conditions, but they can be even more hazardous in the rain.

Drive Slowly

Whether you’re caught in a rainstorm or just a drizzle, it helps to drive slowly. This is because it takes longer to slow down and come to a complete stop when the roads are wet. In addition, the faster you drive, the harder it is for your tire tread to displace the water from your tires. Driving slowly helps reduce the risk of hydroplaning, plus it gives you more time to react to any hazards or obstacles you might encounter. A good rule to follow is to reduce your driving speed by about 1/3 in wet conditions.

Turn on Your Lights

Even if it’s relatively bright outside, turning on your headlights will make your vehicle more visible to other drivers. Having your lights on during adverse weather is also required by California law, so make sure to flick them on when it’s raining, even if you have good visibility.

Know Your Route

Checking maps or adjusting your route while you’re driving can be distracting and increase the risk of getting into an accident. Knowing your route ahead of time is much safer—and less stressful!

Double Your Following Distance

The more distance you leave between your vehicle and the car in front of you, the more time you have to react. Driving distance is important in all weather conditions, but it can make a significant difference in wet weather when stopping distances are longer. The recommended distance while driving in the rain is six seconds, or double what you would normally allow for on a dry, sunny day.

Follow the Path of the Car Ahead of You

When driving behind another car, try to follow its path. The tracks its tires make on the road have already been cleared of some of the water, so you’ll have better traction and a reduced risk of hydroplaning.

Keep Your Windows Clear

Fogged-up windows can reduce visibility just as much as the heaviest downpour, so make sure you’re using your defroster or air conditioning to reduce any fog that builds up. If you find your defroster isn’t working as well as you like, you can also roll down your windows, which will help to balance out the temperature difference.

Keep an Eye on Brake Lights

A good rule of thumb for all driving conditions is to keep an eye on the brake lights in front of you, especially if you can see a few cars ahead. This can alert you to quick slowdowns and give you plenty of time to decelerate if you need to.

Be Cautious Around Pooled Water

If you can’t tell how deep pooled water in the road is, be sure to approach it with caution. Drive through it slowly so you can assess how deep it is. If the puddle is deep enough, it can damage your vehicle’s electrical components and may cause a breakdown.

Be Cautious While Braking

One common reason vehicles collide in rainy weather is drivers slamming on their brakes. Wet roads can cause cars to slide forward—often into the rear end of another car, so make sure you’re braking gently and early. This will prevent you from skidding ahead, and it will alert the driver behind you that traffic is slowing down.

Wait It Out

The first 15 minutes of rain is typically the most dangerous time to drive. This is because the water mixes with oil on the road, making conditions extra slick. After about 15 minutes, the oil starts to get rinsed away. If you’re already en route when it starts to rain and you have the time, you may want to consider stopping for 15 minutes or so before you start driving again. If you haven’t left yet (and it works with your schedule) consider waiting for about 15 minutes or so before heading out.

Go Slow, Be Alert, Stay Safe

No one wants to be involved in an accident. However, staying safe in rainy conditions is easier when you keep your speed low, stay alert to road and traffic conditions, and make an effort to drive safely. Keep plenty of room between you and the car in front of you, and make sure you’re doing what you can to keep your visibility as high as possible.

We hope you never get into an accident, but if you do, we can help! From high-quality OEM repairs to complete insurance coordination, we make your repairs as convenient and stress-free as possible. Contact Cline Collision Center today at (707) 591-9909 or request an appointment online. Stay safe out there!

What’s Causing My Car’s Paint to Fade?

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Repair of Aluminum Panels Shows Our Shop’s Commitment to Future

Have you noticed your car’s paint isn’t as shiny and vibrant as it once was? Although vehicle paint can withstand a lot, it’s not invincible. There are many things that can cause the paint to become dull or faded over time. Thankfully, understanding why this happens can help you take steps to protect your paint and preserve its longevity.

Some of the most common reasons car paint becomes faded include:

  • Sunlight
    The number one cause of faded paint is oxidation from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays cause heat to build up underneath the clear coat, which mixes with oxygen. This causes the molecular breakdown of the paint’s structure. In the early stages of oxidation, the color will begin to fade and become noticeably less vibrant. As the damage progresses, the surface of the paint will start to feel rough or dusty. Then, the clear coat will begin to flake off. If the metal underneath the paint becomes exposed, it’s at risk of developing rust—which can compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity and safety.
  • Salt
    Salt is very corrosive, especially if it’s left on the paint for an extended period of time. The sun’s UV rays will heat up the salt crystals, which can cause them to eat away at the paint and cause the color to fade. Salt can also cause rust formation.
  • Exhaust
    Believe it or not, even the unburnt fuel from your car’s exhaust can damage the paint. Carbon particulates are typically hard and jagged, which allows them to bind to the clear coat and cause the paint to become exposed. Exhaust particles can also contribute to oxidation.
  • Car Washes
    Some car washes use spinning plastic brushes that can damage the paint and cause the clear coat to look dull. They may also use strong soaps that can lessen the shiny finish of the clear coat.
  • Improper Hand-Washing Methods
    Just like the spinning plastic brushes at the car wash, improper hand-washing methods can affect your car’s luster. Harsh soaps and bristle brushes can lead to paint damage and an overall dull appearance.
  • Acid Rain
    Acid rain contains acidic elements that can cause damage if they’re allowed to accumulate on your car’s exterior. Studies have even shown that acidic material can remain on the paint after the water has evaporated. Over time, this can ruin the paint and even weaken the metal below.

Fading Prevention and Repainting

To prevent your paint from fading, it’s best to park your vehicle in a garage or shaded area whenever possible. If you don’t have a garage or shade to park under, you may want to consider using a car cover. Since various impurities (like bird droppings, dead insects, sap, salt, and exhaust) can damage the paint over time, you should also have your car professionally washed and waxed every few weeks.

If your car paint is faded or has been damaged in an accident, contact Cline Collision Center for expert paint matching and repainting services that will help your vehicle regain its luster in no time! Contact us today at (707) 591-9909 or .