Tag: Car Repair

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.

Will My Insurance Rates Go Up if I Choose My Own Body Shop?

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Will My Insurance Rates Go Up if I Choose My Own Body Shop?

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In the wake of a car accident, you’ll need to decide where to have your auto body repairs performed. Your insurance company may steer you towards one of their preferred shops, but it’s important to understand that you can choose where to go—and your insurance company can’t penalize you for it. 

Understanding the Dynamics Behind Insurance-Recommended Shops

Contrary to what you may have heard, you’re not obligated to use the body shop recommended by your insurance provider. California law states that you can use any body shop you choose—which gives you the freedom to find a shop that meets your needs. In addition, your insurance company cannot raise your rates or penalize you in any way for going to the shop of your choice. 

If you can choose to take your vehicle anywhere, why do insurance providers try to persuade you to use one of their recommended shops? 

In short, insurance companies partner with big box auto body shops in order to save money. Insurers typically will negotiate special rates in return for sending the auto body shops business. This can end up saving the insurance providers a lot of money, and in return, the auto body shops receive a steady flow of business. However, the cost savings from these arrangements seldom trickle down to drivers—and in some cases, you may not receive the quality of repairs you were hoping for. 

Potential Pressure from Insurance Adjusters

Although insurance adjusters can’t penalize you for opting out of their preferred repair shop, they may use tactics to sway your decision. It’s not uncommon for them to tell you that your chosen shop is out of network—while conveniently leaving out that there aren’t any consequences for choosing an out-of-network auto body shop. 

They may also emphasize the additional training their chosen shop has or subtly imply that only their recommended shop can guarantee proper repairs. Sometimes, adjusters might prolong the process, hoping that you’ll break down and choose their preferred option. Ultimately, you have the final say on where you take your vehicle. You’ll need to decide whether you’d like to go with the convenience of a pre-selected shop or find a shop that best fits your needs. 

At Cline Collision Center, we take pride in the fact that we work for you—not your insurance company. Our focus is always on providing reliable factory-level OEM repairs that fully restore the safety, functionality, and appearance of your vehicle. To make your repairs as convenient and stress-free as possible, we also handle the insurance coordination on your behalf. To receive a free estimate or schedule an appointment, contact us today at (707) 591-9909! 

Why Use An Independent Auto Body Shop Versus a Dealership?

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Why Use An Independent Auto Body Shop Versus a Dealership?

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When you get into an accident, you have two options for collision repairs: visit the dealership or go to an independent auto body shop. 

Unfortunately, this isn’t a straightforward decision, so it’s essential to understand the distinction between dealerships and independent shops from every aspect of the repair process. Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately your decision will boil down to personal preferences. 

What to Consider with Dealership Body Repair

Surprisingly, when you entrust your vehicle to a dealership for body repair, there’s no guarantee they will handle the work themselves. Unlike an independent shop that specializes in collision repair, dealerships have to juggle multiple tasks, including sales and fulfilling maintenance warranties. 

Dealerships are under immense pressure to expedite their services; it’s the nature of their business. So when they become too overwhelmed with the workload, dealerships will often outsource collision repair to one of the auto body repair shops they partner with. However, not every body shop is in as much of a hurry or rush to complete the repairs. For independent shops like Cline Collision Center, quality repairs are more important than the number of vehicles that pass through the shop. 

Although dealerships excel in standard repair work, they tend to prioritize the speed of repairs rather than the correctness of the repair when it comes to performing bodywork after a collision. This is often because service fees and repair work are frequently linked to the dealership’s estimate of the time it will take to complete the repair.

What to Consider with Independent Body Shop Repair

Technicians at independent body shops often receive the same factory training as those at dealerships and may even be more proficient than dealership technicians, depending on their experience. While dealerships specialize in repairing a specific brand, technicians at independent shops work on a wide range of makes and models, which gives them a broader range of experience and technical expertise to repair any vehicle more effectively. 

In addition, independent shops have the option of obtaining Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) certifications for specific brands and models. This certification means the shop has been officially recognized and approved by the respective automaker to carry out repairs on their vehicles. OEM certification is especially important for brands that require specialized training to perform specific repairs, like Ford, Honda, and General Motors.

Choosing Between a Dealership or an Auto Body Repair Shop

Here’s a breakdown of some of the factors you should consider when deciding between the dealership and an independent shop:

1. Quality of Repair

  • Dealership: Dealerships may rush repairs due to high demand, which can potentially affect the quality of the repairs you receive. In some cases, the work may be outsourced to an outside shop that may or may not care about quality. 
  • Auto Body Shop: Reputable body shops often deliver superior repair quality.

2. Price

  • Dealership: Dealerships tend to have higher repair costs.
  • Auto Body Shop: Independent body repair shops typically offer more cost-effective repairs.

3. Experience

  • Dealership: Technicians at dealerships specialize in specific car brands and models.
  • Auto Body Shop: Independent shops work on a wide range of vehicles, and many have certifications indicating their expertise on specific brands and models. 

4. Customer Service

  • Dealership: Dealerships tend to offer more impersonal service and limited interaction with mechanics. 
  • Auto Body Shop: Independent shops focus on providing personalized service and building relationships with their customers. 

5. Location and Facilities

  • Dealership: Dealerships have larger facilities with more amenities but higher expenses—which get passed on to customers.
  • Auto Body Shop: Independent shops have smaller facilities with lower overhead and costs. 

6. Warranty vs. Non-Warranty Repair Costs

  • Dealership: Dealerships are typically less expensive for warranty repairs but pricier for non-warranty repairs.
  • Auto Body Shop: Independent shops are generally cheaper for non-warranty repairs. 

7. Warranties and Insurance

  • Dealership: Dealerships often accept manufacturer-backed warranties, which can provide peace of mind for warranty repairs. However, be prepared for potentially higher prices for repairs that aren’t covered by the warranty.
  • Auto Body Shop: Independent shops don’t accept warranties, but insurance may cover repair costs.

As you can see, there are pros and cons to each option; when making a decision for your vehicle, think about what’s most important to you. If you’d like more cost-effective repairs, industry expertise, and personalized service, an independent body shop is your best bet. If you’re concerned about warranty repairs or have a specific make that needs specialized repairs your local auto body shop isn’t trained for, you may want to consider going to the dealership. It’s important to do some research and compare your options to find the best fit for your needs. 

At Cline Collision Center, we take pride in being an independent OEM auto body shop that puts our customers first. Safety and quality are our top priorities, and our team of experienced technicians is dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality factory-level repairs. If you’ve been searching for expert collision repair that focuses on customer satisfaction, contact us today at 
(707) 591-9909 to schedule an appointment. Your vehicle is always in excellent hands here! 

Your Auto Body Advocates: How Cline Collision Center Differs from Insurance-Recommended Shops

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Your Auto Body Advocates: How Cline Collision Center Differs from Insurance-Recommended Shops

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Getting into an accident is extremely stressful, so when it comes to getting your car repaired and back on the road, your insurance company may seem like a reliable guide. However, here at Cline Collision Center, we take a different approach—one that puts your needs above all else. 

We Work for You, Not Your Insurance Company

When you call your insurance company after a collision, they provide a list of shops to go to get your vehicle repaired. Although this may seem convenient at the time, it’s important to understand that this list isn’t for your benefit—it’s all about the insurance company’s bottom line. Insurers partner with auto body shops that can save them the most money. 

As a result, these shops always have work coming in, but it’s all a numbers game; insurer-recommended shops care about quantity, not quality. They don’t need to advertise or spend the time and money needed to get Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) certified because they already have a built-in clientele that’s funneled through insurance providers. Many of these shops are still using the same repair methods as they were 30 years—which simply doesn’t cut it given the exponential advanced in automotive technology over even the last decade. 

In contrast, Cline Collision Center is not affiliated with any insurance company. We work for you, not your insurer. 

Quality and customer service are our top priorities, and we take pride in advocating on your behalf to ensure you get the repairs you need and deserve. We invest in OEM certification (we’re now certified for 19 makes) to ensure our team is up-to-date with the latest factory-recommended repair procedures and that every vehicle that passes through our shop is repaired safely and correctly. As with any business, making money is still important—but quality and customer satisfaction always comes first. 

Cline Collision Center is an Independent Auto Body Shop

Unlike other auto body shops, we’re locally and independently owned and operated. We’re not a chain or corporation, which gives us the freedom to truly put our customers first. We don’t cut corners, use aftermarket parts, or rely on insurance companies to get business. 

Every member of our team is passionate about offering high-quality OEM-like repairs. For every vehicle that comes in, we look up the guidelines on how to repair it exactly like the manufacturer. We don’t pay our technicians on commission as the insurer-affiliated shops do, so there’s no motivation to complete a job quickly in order to move on to the next one. Instead, every member of our team takes the time needed to complete the work properly and ensure high-quality repairs. 

Our Commitment to Using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts

When it comes to repairing your vehicle, we stand firm in our commitment to using OEM replacement parts. OEM parts are designed to the exact same specifications as the original parts installed in your vehicle. Not only do they offer superior quality and fit over aftermarket parts, but you can trust them to fit and perform as they were intended. Manufacturers have a reputation to uphold, so they have a vested interest in producing reliable parts that are meant to last.

In critical systems like brakes, suspension, and airbags, using OEM replacement parts is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s safety standards. Aftermarket parts, which may be made of cheaper materials or lack the proper fit, often don’t meet the same safety and quality standards. Using OEM replacement parts ensures that your vehicle’s warranty remains valid. Some manufacturers even offer to warranty the replacement parts themselves for additional peace of mind. 

In addition, if you plan to sell your vehicle in the future, having OEM replacement parts can often enhance the resale value. If you go to an insurance-recommended shop, there’s a good chance they’ll use aftermarket parts in able to keep their costs (and those of the insurance company) as low as possible. 

In-House ADAS Calibration

Approximately 9 out of 10 vehicles manufactured after 2017 have cameras, sensors, and other delicate equipment located throughout the windshield, bumpers, and side panels; in the not-so-distant future, every car on the road will be equipped with them. These delicate and sensitive components are part of what’s known as the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), which includes safety features like adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, lane-keep assist, and more. 

When you get into an accident, these components are often damaged or knocked out of place and will need to be replaced and/or calibrated to keep your safety features functioning properly. Take the lane departure warning system (LDWS), for example. This technology uses cameras and sensors to monitor the vehicle’s position within the lane and alerts you if you start to drift out of the lane without using your turn signals. 

If the LDWS isn’t calibrated properly, the system might detect lane departures inaccurately or with a delay. This could cause it to provide false alarms that make you think you’re moving out of the lane even if your vehicle is still within it. On the flip side, it could fail to detect a legitimate land departure and you may not receive a warning, which increases the risk of unintentionally leaving the lane and getting into a collision. Proper calibration is essential to ensure these vital safety features work properly. 

Typically, you would need to visit the dealership for ADAS calibration, which can take 3 weeks or more. If you had to get your car repaired at an insurer-recommended body shop and then visit the dealership for ADAS calibration, the entire process would take even longer. To help save you time and streamline your repairs, we’ve invested in the equipment we need to complete your ADAS calibration in-house. 

We’re a Full-Service Auto Body Shop

As a full-service auto body shop, our service goes beyond simply ensuring you receive high-quality repairs. We understand that dealing with the insurance company directly can be overwhelming, especially after the stress of getting into an accident, which is why we offer complete insurance coordination. We’ll handle all the communication and paperwork on your behalf. 

Our goal is to be as helpful as possible during the repair process—from answering questions about the repair process to driving you home or to the rental shop. While we don’t provide loaner vehicles, we do offer deductible rebates for clients who don’t have rental car coverage on their insurance policies. We’ll waive a portion of your deductible to help free up money for rental cars or other alternative transportation, and we’ll even help you make arrangements for a rental. 

We stand by the quality of every repair with our lifetime warranty. If you ever have an issue with any of the work we’ve completed, you won’t have to deal with a bunch of back-and-forth with us. If you have any questions or concerns, we’ll have you come into the shop. Any work that’s needed to resolve the issue will also be made a priority. Your vehicle will go to the top of the list, so we can have it back to you ASAP. 

Additionally, we throw in several courtesy services with repairs. We’ll go around your vehicle and remove any scuffs we see and thoroughly clean the exterior and interior. If we notice your headlights are showing signs of oxidation, we’ll also throw headlight restoration (sanding and polishing) free of charge. These are all benefits you simply won’t find at an insurance-affiliated shop. 

We Care About Our Customers

If your insurance provider tries to steer you to one of their shops, it’s important to understand that you ultimately have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. Choosing a shop outside of your insurer’s network won’t affect your warranty or any other benefits. 

At Cline Collision Center, we truly care about your safety and satisfaction. In fact, our goal isn’t just to provide the best collision repairs in the area—it’s to exceed your expectations at every step in the repair process and earn your business for life. Whether it’s addressing minor scratches or significant structural damage, our dedicated team works diligently to provide the quality repairs and service you deserve. To schedule an appointment or request an estimate, contact us today at (707) 591-9909. 

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. 

Do I Have A Say In How My Car Is Repaired?

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There is nothing better than jumping into the 2004 Nissan Xterra you’ve had since high school graduation, and heading out to the beach, right? But, bummer, dude, you just got into a fender bender. Now the ocean is a distant dream and your trusted friend needs some love. Where do you go to make sure your car gets fixed right? Did you know that not all replacement parts are created equal? That some parts are of higher quality than others?

Not all people know that the type of parts that collision repair shops use makes a significant difference in the quality of repairs you get. If you want to make sure your Nissan will soon be looking good and get you back out to the surf, then catch this wave and read on.

What is OEM? Why Are These Parts Better?

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are made by the car’s original manufacturer. It is what was installed by the factory when your car rolled off the line. An aftermarket part is made by another company and designed to look and function like the original. Some companies focus on building exceptional quality aftermarket parts that they can sometimes be even better than the original. Unfortunately, for many other parts makers (and the shops that buy them), price is much more important than quality. These cheap knockoffs might not fit your car and definitely won’t last as long or be as safe.

How do I know if I’m getting OEM parts?

Do I Have A Say In How My Car Is Repaired

One way is to purchase an OEM endorsement, a clause in your insurance policy that guarantees the repair shop uses OEM parts. You pay extra for an OEM endorsement, but without this, insurance companies will try to steer you toward shops that use aftermarket parts. This works out well for insurers because these repairs cost them less. It’s not as good for you. Parts not made by the manufacturer may not look quite right. Worse, though, aftermarket parts can also fail and cause your vehicle to become unsafe.

Are there other ways to guarantee I am getting OEM repairs?

You can take your beloved Xterra or any other car or truck to Cline Collision Center. We are ASE-certified, with OEM certifications from Nissan, Infiniti, Fiat/Chrysler (FCA), Honda/Acura, Ford, Hyundai, and Kia. We have earned Gold Class status from I-CAR, a designation that lets you know that everyone who touches your car is highly trained understands new vehicle technologies and repairs. We will also help you navigate insurance. If integrity, honesty, safety, and craftsmanship are important to you, too, call 707-591-9909 or contact us online today!  

Understanding the Basics of Car Painting

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The latest colors shining brightly—there’s no doubt that paint sells cars. Even though it is a big reason why you might like or dislike a car, very few clients know how cars are painted and how that affects collision repair.

Hopefully, the damage to your car is covered by insurance and isn’t costing you anything beyond the deductible and the time invested. Most people just want their car back in pre-collision condition, and don’t really care how that process plays out. Still,  having as much knowledge as possible is always helpful in understanding what your repair specialist is doing. The following are some paint basics—we won’t call it a primer because, as you will soon see, that might get confusing!

Eco-friendly Paint is Better Paint

In the last century, manufacturers used lacquer paint on vehicles. Painted on and then treated with a hardener to make it stick, this process was not environmentally friendly. Up to 85% of lacquer paint evaporated into the air, sending lead, chromium, and other heavy metals into the atmosphere, where it rained down on our homes, crops, and waterways.  

Understanding the Basics of Car Painting

Carmakers developed water-based enamels in the 1990s. Applied first, the primer creates a smooth surface by leveling it out. Primer protects the vehicle from corrosion and damage from rocks and other road debris. The base coat is next—it is what probably what you call “the paint,” giving your car the desired color. Sprayed over the top of the base coat, clearcoat is the final step. How glossy do you want it? Clearcoat  transforms the paint, changing the flat base coat into the shiny, rich color that gives new vehicles the allure car sellers and buyers want.

It turns out that waterborne paint is cleaner and brighter than the old-school stuff,  healthier for anyone who works around it, and better for the planet, too!

Match Game for Cars

If you only need a small portion of your vehicle touched up, we mix paint that matches so perfectly that the repair is undetectable. We have to take into account any fading that might have occurred from age and sunlight exposure, as well as any differences between the color listed by the carmaker and the actual color used. For highly complex paint, such as metallic or tri-coat peal finishes, we may have to paint a larger portion of the vehicle to ensure matching, such as the entire bumper, door, or hood. Plastic bumpers can be especially tricky since paint darkens at different rates on plastic vs. steel.

Of course, paint is just part of the job. The prep work is just as important. We take the time to remove existing layers of paint and fix all scratches, gouges, dent, pits, rust spots, or holes before painting. We may even have to remove interior components, including the dash, console, and even the seats. All of this takes time. Though we know how inconvenient it is to have your car in the shop, it is even worse to have your life disrupted and end up with second-rate repairs. We make sure the value of your vehicle remains the same, or is even increased by our high-quality work.

When you have autobody damage, go to the pros at Cline Collision Center. We are ASE-certified, have OEM certification from Infiniti, Nissan, Fiat/Chrysler (FCA), Honda/Acura, Ford, Hyundai, and Kia, and have earned Gold Class status from I-CAR. For top-quality workmanship and customer service, including help with navigating insurance challenges, call 707-591-9909 or contact us online today!

Was Your Crashed Car Repaired Right?

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The crash was over in moments, but the repair has taken weeks. You finally get the call from the shop and head over to pick it up.

You’re a little anxious, though. Did they repair it right? How will you know for sure?

We’re a Gold Class shop, which means we go above and beyond to repair your car the right way. That’s why we encourage you to take a very careful look at your vehicle when you pick it up. We’re proud of the work we do and excited to show it off.

We’re also not afraid to tell you how to give your vehicle a long, hard look after collision repair.

A technician or advisor will likely walk you around the car, showing you the repairs. Hopefully, you took it to a Gold Class facility that guarantees their work for at least 12 months. That’s a start anyway.

It’s All About the Details

The first thing to note is if the car is spotlessly clean, inside and out. Reputable shops thoroughly wash the outside and clean the outside—even your floormats and engine should be clean. Dirt hides imperfections and you want to be able to see every surface clearly.

Was Your Crashed Car Repaired Right

Next, examine the repairs. Check body panel seams for uneven gaps. Open and close doors, hood, and trunk to see if they are closing perfectly. If an airbag was deployed, make sure it has been replaced. Look at the gap between tires and fenders—is it the same distance at every wheel? Ensure that all hoses and wires in the engine are connected. Turn on your headlights to check for beam alignment. Request the frame spec printout if the frame was straightened and have them explain the numbers to you.

Don’t Get Painted into a Corner

Now for the paint. Matching paint is one of the most difficult parts of collision repair. When paint fades, technicians have to add a little tint to get it just right. If possible, pick up your car during the day and use bright sunlight to help you see hair, grime, or overspray. Look at it from up close and then take a few steps back.

Go ahead and take it for a spin before signing off. Are there any odd sounds? Does it drive and steer okay?

If any red flags come up, be sure to speak to the owner for an explanation. Some problems won’t show up until later, such as uneven tire wear from a poorly straightened vehicle or hidden suspension damage. That’s why you went to a shop with at least a 12,000-mile guarantee, right?

A good inspection goes a long way toward guaranteeing your collision repair job is done right. An even better way is to go to a shop known for helping you navigate insurance and performing top-quality work. Check out the long list of Cline Collision Center 5-star reviews on Yelp and Google. Then contact us online or call us at 707-591-9909 today!