Getting into an accident, no matter how minor, is always a stressful experience. The moment of impact is one thing, but then you’re faced with a new set of questions: Who do I call? How do I handle my insurance claim? And most importantly, how will I get my car back to the way it was?
At Oakdale Collision, we understand these concerns. For years, we’ve been helping our neighbors in the Oakdale community get back on the road, quickly and safely. Our goal is to make the entire collision repair process as seamless and stress-free as possible. We believe that when you’re already having a bad day, the repair process shouldn’t make it worse.
So, what exactly happens after you bring your car to us? Here’s a look at our process.
Step 1: The Initial Assessment and Estimate
The moment you bring your vehicle in; our experienced technicians will conduct a thorough initial assessment. We’ll examine the visible damage and take detailed photos. We will then prepare a comprehensive estimate for the repairs.
This is also the time when we work with your insurance company. We are committed to making the insurance claim process hassle-free for you. We can communicate directly with your adjuster, provide all the necessary documentation, and ensure that the repair plan is approved, saving you time and a lot of headaches.
Step 2: The Tear-Down and Hidden Damage Check
Sometimes, the most significant damage isn’t visible on the surface. Once we get approval, we’ll start the “tear-down” process, carefully disassembling the damaged area. This allows us to uncover any hidden structural or mechanical issues that weren’t apparent during the initial estimate.
If we find additional damage, we’ll notify both you and your insurance company and get a “supplemental” estimate approved before moving forward. This ensures there are no surprises and that your car is repaired correctly and safely.
Step 3: Precision Repair and Parts Replacement
With the full extent of the damage known, our I-CAR Gold Class certified technicians get to work. We use the latest equipment and techniques to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. Whether it’s structural repair, replacing panels, or addressing mechanical issues, our team focuses on quality craftsmanship. We use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts whenever possible to ensure an exact fit and to maintain the safety and integrity of your vehicle.
Step 4: The Art of Painting and Refinishing
One of the most crucial steps in restoring your car’s appearance is the paint job. Our team uses a computer-assisted paint-matching system to ensure a perfect color match. We apply a new coat of paint and clear coat in a controlled environment to achieve a flawless factory-quality finish that will stand up to the Minnesota elements.
Step 5: Final Reassembly and Quality Control
After the paint has cured, we reassemble all the parts, from lights and trim to moldings. Before we call you to pick up your car, it undergoes a meticulous final inspection. We check every detail to ensure that all repairs were done correctly and that the vehicle is safe to drive. We even wash and detail your vehicle, so it looks as good as new.
Step 6: Delivering Your Restored Vehicle
The best part of our job is handing the keys back to a satisfied customer. When you pick up your car, we’ll walk you through the repairs that were performed and answer any questions you may have. We stand behind our work with a lifetime warranty, so you can drive away with complete confidence.
Don’t let an accident keep you off the road. Call Oakdale Collision, where we meet by accident and remain friends forever.