Choosing a collision repair shop is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a vehicle owner, and it deserves more than a quick internet search. The right questions, asked upfront, reveal everything you need to know about a shop’s standards, priorities, and commitment to doing the job correctly. Before you hand over your keys, here are ten questions worth asking.
1. Will you repair my vehicle according to OEM manufacturer procedures even if insurance doesn’t fully cover it?
This question cuts straight to a shop’s priorities. A shop committed to quality conducts repairs to manufacturer specifications regardless of insurance pressure. At Eli’s, the answer is always yes.
2. Are you an independent shop, or do you have a direct repair relationship with an insurance company?
Direct repair program (DRP) shops have formal agreements with insurers that can influence how repairs are performed and what parts are used. An independent certified shop works for you, not the insurance company. Eli’s is an independent certified shop that has you and your car’s best interest in mind, not the insurance.
3. Do you have OEM certifications or I-CAR Gold Class status?
These credentials aren’t honorary; they require ongoing training, specialized equipment, and demonstrated competency. A shop that holds manufacturer certifications and I-CAR Gold Class status has made a verifiable commitment to excellence. Eli’s holds both.
4. Will you use OEM parts, aftermarket parts, or recycled parts, and why?
The parts used in your repair directly affect fit, safety, and long-term performance. OEM parts are engineered specifically for your vehicle, and Eli’s uses them exclusively.
5. Do you perform required calibrations for safety systems like ADAS?
Modern vehicles rely on cameras, radar, and sensors that must be recalibrated after a collision or windshield replacement. If a shop doesn’t mention this step, that’s worth noting. All Eli’s repairs require a calibration stage before returning the vehicle back to the customer.
6. Will you provide a detailed written repair plan and explain it to me?
Transparency is a hallmark of a trustworthy shop. Before work begins, you should understand exactly what is being repaired, how, and why. At Eli’s, the dedicated team assigned to your vehicle will provide a detailed repair plan, provide constant updates, and answer any questions you may have.
7. Do you have the proper equipment to repair today’s advanced materials?
Aluminum, high-strength steel, and EV battery systems all require specialized tools and training. Not every shop is equipped for modern vehicle construction, and the difference shows in the repair. Eli’s Collision Repair has all of the required equipment to repair today’s modern vehicle.
8. Will you provide a written warranty on your repairs? What does it cover?
A confident shop stands behind its work in writing. Understand the scope and duration of the warranty before you commit. Every repair Eli’s performs is under warranty.
9. What happens if additional damage is found during the repair?
Hidden damage is an unfortunate reality of collision repair. A reputable shop will contact you, explain what was found, and get your approval before proceeding, never surprising you with an inflated final bill. At Eli’s, we’ll lay out all of your options and work with you on the best path forward, including keeping insurance companies accountable.
10. Will you review the completed repairs with me before I take the vehicle home?
A final walk-through isn’t just good customer service. It’s an opportunity to verify that every item on the repair plan was completed to your satisfaction. This is a vital step at Eli’s as it’s important to us that you are confident with our services and can enjoy your ride home!
At Eli’s Collision Repair, we can give a confident answer to every one of these questions. Nearly 50 years of certified, OEM-committed collision repair has given us a standard we’re proud to uphold.
Ready to experience the Eli’s difference? Get an estimate today.