Even with automotive technology advancements, accidents are still common. According to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, there have been 1,593 traffic crashes between January and September of 2022 in Robertson County alone and more than 135,000 statewide. If you're in an accident, getting the right repair services is crucial to get your car back on the road safely and quickly. Read below as our team at Reiselman GMC takes a closer look at what to expect from a collision center and how to choose the best one. 

What Is a Collision Center?

A collision center is a specialized facility focused on repairing and restoring vehicles that sustain damage in an accident or other incident. It works with insurance providers to restore damaged vehicles to their pre-accident condition. Collision centers have a wide range of services, including the following:

• Diagnostic services to determine the extent of the damage to the vehicle and repair options.
• Replacement of exterior parts, such as bumpers, fenders, and doors.
• Replacement of airbags, seat belts, and other safety components.
• Repair of damaged or dented body panels, such as hoods, roofs, and trunks.
• Replacement of interior components, such as carpets, upholstery, and floor mats.
• Paint restoration and color matching to return the vehicle to its original appearance.
• Auto body fabrication and welding for damage that's too extensive to repair.
• Repair or replacement of suspension and steering components, such as shocks, struts, ball joints, and tie rods, to restore proper handling and safety features.
• Wheel alignment and balancing to ensure proper tire contact with the road and to reduce wear and tear on the tires.
• Removal of scratches, dents, and other imperfections from the vehicle's exterior.
• Installation of new windshields and windows.
• Repair or replacement of glass.

Collision centers may also offer additional services for convenience, such as detailing and window tinting. If your vehicle requires repairs or service after an accident, our team at Reiselman GMC can help. We offer a full suite of services to restore your vehicle to its original condition or as close as possible while guaranteeing its safety and reliability on the road.

When Should You Take Your Vehicle to a Collision Center?

If your vehicle has damage from an accident, you should take it to a collision center as soon as possible. Timely repair by a professional is the best way to ensure the safety of your vehicle and those who ride in it. It also enables it to maintain its resale or trade-in value in the future. Many collision centers also provide repair services for non-collision-related damage, such as hail damage and rust, that can affect your car's appearance and performance. So you can take your vehicle even if it wasn't involved in a collision.

What's the Difference Between a Collision Center and a Service Center?

At first glance, there appears to be little difference between a service center and a collision center. Both provide repairs to vehicles that have sustained damage and have trained, certified technicians to perform these repairs using high-quality parts and proper tools and equipment. They may also offer diagnostic services and part and component replacements.

The difference between the two lies in their focus and capabilities. A collision center specializes in accident-related damage by repairing or replacing damaged systems and restoring a vehicle's overall appearance and functionality. A service center tends to focus more on routine maintenance and minor repairs, including oil changes, tire rotations, engine tune-ups, and replacing worn-out parts, such as brake pads and spark plugs.

How Do You Choose the Best Collision Center?

If you're in the market for automotive collision repairs, it's important to do your research and choose the right provider. Doing so can give you peace of mind and ensure you can repair your vehicle correctly and promptly. Some factors you should consider before selecting a service provider include the following:

• Reputation: Ask for feedback and referrals from friends and family. Read reviews online to understand better the service quality a collision center offers.
• Certification: Choose a center that your vehicle's manufacturer has insured and certified. Check if it has appropriately trained its technician team.
• Range and cost of services: Make sure the center offers the services you need at a reasonable cost. Inquire about additional fees, such as those for towing or storage, and promotions you may be eligible for to cut costs.
• Quality of work: Understand the process the center follows to repair your vehicle, such as the materials and techniques it uses. Ask for warranties on the work and inquire about its service guarantees.
• Professionalism: The center's staff should be knowledgeable, courteous, and willing to answer any questions you may have. The facility should be clean and organized, with amenities for customer convenience.

Why Bring Your Car to a Dealership Collision Center?

While many body shops and independent collision centers are available, choosing a dealership collision center is still your best option. Knowing your vehicle is in good hands can give you peace of mind. The following are some advantages of a dealership collision center:

• Expert technicians: Your car's manufacturer has factory-trained and certified the collision center's technicians, and they work with the latest technology and tools.
• Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and materials: OEM parts have a warranty that ensures they'll fit properly and last.
• State-of-the-art equipment and tools: Proper tools help the technicians get the job done faster and more accurately.
• Quality and satisfaction guarantee: A written warranty includes a guarantee so you won't have to pay for any issues that may arise from the collision repair.
• Loaner cars: It offers you a vehicle to continue your daily routine while yours is in for repairs.

Reiselman GMC is your go-to dealership collision center in Springfield and the nearby areas. We're committed to providing you with a hassle-free experience and excellent service. We can also help you find your next or GMC model and ensure you get the best financing option available.