After the stress of a car accident, trying to find a collision center can seem exhausting. To help, we’ve put together some key tips to follow for a smoother process.

Overall, when you’re looking for a collision center, you want to choose one that has certified technicians. Ideally, they should follow OEM certification standards and be recognized by organizations such as ASE and ICAR Gold. In most cases, the technicians will also be specifically certified through OEM manufacturers, aka common vehicle brands like Ford, Honda, Toyota, Dodge, Chevrolet, etc., but it never hurts to ask—especially if you need work on a foreign or classic car. Additionally, to keep up on all the changes happening in the industry, the technicians should be attending on-going training programs so they can perform their repairs expertly.

Ask your insurance.

Most insurance companies will have a list of trusted collision centers in the area. If you’re not sure where to go after a collision, they can supply you with a recommendation. Additionally, that typically means there’s a partnership happening where the insurance agrees to have the shop on the list for discounted services, so it could also mean a good deal on repairs.

Ask your friends and family.

One of the most common ways we get recommendations for all types of needs—asking the people you trust. Your friends and family have most likely needed auto body repair in the past, and they might have a trusted place they go for those services. Ask them how long they’ve been going to that place, if they’ve had issues before, and maybe also a tip on who they should ask to speak with if they have a regular technician.

Ask your mechanic.

While you might not have a trusted collision center, maybe you have a trusted service center instead. They’re most likely connected to many other collision centers in the area so they can always have a referral ready.

Do some research.

Whether or not you ask for a person referral, it doesn’t hurt to do your own research. Look up the collision center online to get a feel for their business. Check their online reviews to see what others have been saying about their service, and be sure to look in all the usual places—Facebook, Google My Business, and Yelp. Then, try looking up their social media and website to get another look at their brand. You might also be able to see how they interact with their customers there as well.

If you’re located in the Southern Twin Cities, check out our expert collision center in Eagan, MN. Superior Collision Center has been serving the metro since 1982.