PSA featuring the Incredible Crash Test Dummies (side-impact)
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Happy Thanksgiving!
Corby's Collision Would Like To Wish You and Your Family a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Most Minivans Struggle with Small Overlap Front Crash Test - IIHS News
Most minivans struggle with small overlap front crash test; Toyota Sienna earns acceptable rating, TOP SAFETY PICK+
ARLINGTON, Va. — A group of four minivans recently tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for protection in small overlap front crashes shows some of the worst possible outcomes for this type of crash, with only one vehicle performing acceptably. The Nissan Quest, the Chrysler Town & Country and its twin, the Dodge Grand Caravan, all earn poor ratings. The exception to the disappointing pattern is the 2015 Toyota Sienna, which earns an acceptable rating. It joins the Honda Odyssey, which last year earned a good rating in the test, in the ranks of TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners.
Friday, November 21, 2014
$27,000 Midsize Sedan Challenge: Features Video
"When you spend $35,000 or more on a midsize family sedan, you expect it's going to come packed with all kinds of technology and safety goodies, but when you're a little bit more budget-friendly, around $27,000 … can you get anything good at that price?" Cars.com's Aaron D. Bragman wonders aloud in the video above. The answer is yes. Watch the video for five examples.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Choosing an Auto Body Repair Shop
Having a damaged car can easily skyrocket stress levels,
especially if you have never been to an auto body repair shop. A
whirlwind of anxiety and questions roll around your head. Where is the
best place to go? Or, perhaps you need to replace the hood of your car
because it no longer closes tight. Maybe you are just seeking a new auto
body repair shop for future maintenance and repairs. There are dozens
of shops in your area. So, how do you choose?
1. Word of mouth: Ask your family, friends, or around town. Someone you know is bound to recommend a place or two. Go online to review sites such as Yelp. Good reviews are proof that the shop has met the satisfaction of customers in the past. Choose a few reputable shops and compare estimates.
2. Be aware of labor charges: Whatever you are having done to your car, a labor fee per hour is always included. Prices vary but can reach to an exuberant amount, such as nearly $100 per hour. A smaller staffed auto body repair shop means they do not have to pay as many people, so the labor prices are usually lower.
3. Get several estimates before settling: If you have the time, shop around for quotes. This will help you avoid overcharging. Some shops may match estimates from other shops. Limiting yourself to only a couple shops might burn a bigger hole in your pocket. It is important to remember the lowest price is not always the best. Trust your instinct. If the shop seems shady, move on.
4. Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask questions. Be conscious of how the staff reacts to questions. Do they seem agitated or irritated? In a professional shop, the staff treats customers with respect and is happy to answer your questions and address your concerns. Make sure you question whether or not the shop will issue a warranty for your car and for how long. Typical lengths for an auto body repair shop would be approximately two years. It is also important to if the shop has insurance in case of a fire or theft. In case your car sustains damage while in the auto body repair shop's care, you want to make sure the shop is covered.
It is wise to find an auto body repair shop before you actually need it. Having the time to research shops, as opposed to rushing around and taking your car to an unknown shop, will save you time, money, and help you make a more informed decision when the need for auto repairs arise.
1. Word of mouth: Ask your family, friends, or around town. Someone you know is bound to recommend a place or two. Go online to review sites such as Yelp. Good reviews are proof that the shop has met the satisfaction of customers in the past. Choose a few reputable shops and compare estimates.
2. Be aware of labor charges: Whatever you are having done to your car, a labor fee per hour is always included. Prices vary but can reach to an exuberant amount, such as nearly $100 per hour. A smaller staffed auto body repair shop means they do not have to pay as many people, so the labor prices are usually lower.
3. Get several estimates before settling: If you have the time, shop around for quotes. This will help you avoid overcharging. Some shops may match estimates from other shops. Limiting yourself to only a couple shops might burn a bigger hole in your pocket. It is important to remember the lowest price is not always the best. Trust your instinct. If the shop seems shady, move on.
4. Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask questions. Be conscious of how the staff reacts to questions. Do they seem agitated or irritated? In a professional shop, the staff treats customers with respect and is happy to answer your questions and address your concerns. Make sure you question whether or not the shop will issue a warranty for your car and for how long. Typical lengths for an auto body repair shop would be approximately two years. It is also important to if the shop has insurance in case of a fire or theft. In case your car sustains damage while in the auto body repair shop's care, you want to make sure the shop is covered.
It is wise to find an auto body repair shop before you actually need it. Having the time to research shops, as opposed to rushing around and taking your car to an unknown shop, will save you time, money, and help you make a more informed decision when the need for auto repairs arise.
Northwest Collision Center is the best auto body repair shop in St. Petersburg, Florida. If you are ever in an accident that requires auto body repair contact Northwest Collision Center for the quality help you deserve.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
How to Stay Safe Driving in the Rain
Stay safe in a downpour with these tips to handle slippery, wet pavement and reduced visibility.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Luxury Cars: Consumer Reports Reliability Ratings
How reliable are Lexus, Acura, Audi, Infiniti, Porsche, Volvo and other luxury cars? Consumer Reports' survey of luxury car owners can tell you which cars are likely to keep you out of the shop.
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Record Number of Booster Seats Earn Highest Rating - IIHS News
A record number of booster seats earn highest rating for safety belt fit; 27 of 41 new models for 2014 receive BEST BET designation from IIHS
ARLINGTON, Va. — The ranks of top-rated booster seats continue to grow as manufacturers design models to earn high marks in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s annual booster seat evaluations, plus offer the style and convenience parents look for when it’s time to pick a safe seat for their booster-age children.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Frame Repair Can Save Your Vehicle
You may think that if the frame of your vehicle is damaged it is a
total loss. With today's modern frame repair the frame of your vehicle
can many times be safely repaired and your vehicle saved. Something as
simple as hitting a pothole at high speeds can damage your frame. Most
of today's vehicles are constructed with a unibody frame which means the
vehicle is built right onto the frame (unlike older methods which
placed the vehicle on the frame after it was built) and this presents a
challenge to frame repair. This is why frame repair is better left to
the professionals who have the right equipment and skills to perform
frame repair safely and efficiently.
How Frame Damage Affects Your Vehicle
There are several signs your vehicle may have suffered frame damage. A bad accident is an obvious cause, but uneven tire wear, vibration, uneven wheel alignment, and leaning to one side can also be symptoms of frame damage. The safety and performance of your vehicle is greatly affected by frame damage. Your ability to control your vehicle as well as increased wear and tear are all factors to be considered. If the frame of your vehicle is damaged the signs and symptoms will only worsen with time.
Frame Repair Basics
As mentioned before many cars, SUV's, and small trucks have a unibody construction. Larger commercial vehicles are still built with a separate frame, and it takes a qualified shop to know how to fix both types of frame construction. The technician does more than just a quick overview to assess the damage; they must have a thorough knowledge of each type of frame, and the signs of damage to look for.
Once the damage is assessed the vehicle is placed on a large hydraulic machine which stretches and bends the frame back to factory specifications. The technician monitors this process carefully to ensure the frame is properly manipulated. Many times additional straightening and welding are needed to repair the frame. Not only do technicians need a thorough knowledge of vehicle construction, but they must also be versed in the many different types of metals used in frame construction and their properties. This helps prevent further damage to the frame, and enables the technician to repair the frame safely.
Not a Shade Tree Mechanic Job
You may see frame repair kits at your local store, but they can't give you the safe and proper repair provided by a qualified shop equipped with heavy duty equipment and a thorough knowledge of repair processes. If repaired incorrectly your vehicle may become unsafe and unreliable. For example unless they are calibrated to the original factory setting your air bags may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, or they may deploy at the wrong time. Don't take chances with your vehicle's safety and leave this job to the professionals.
If done properly frame repair can save your vehicle. Not all frame damage is catastrophic. A qualified shop with the right equipment can straighten and repair your vehicle and get it back on the road in good running order.
How Frame Damage Affects Your Vehicle
There are several signs your vehicle may have suffered frame damage. A bad accident is an obvious cause, but uneven tire wear, vibration, uneven wheel alignment, and leaning to one side can also be symptoms of frame damage. The safety and performance of your vehicle is greatly affected by frame damage. Your ability to control your vehicle as well as increased wear and tear are all factors to be considered. If the frame of your vehicle is damaged the signs and symptoms will only worsen with time.
Frame Repair Basics
As mentioned before many cars, SUV's, and small trucks have a unibody construction. Larger commercial vehicles are still built with a separate frame, and it takes a qualified shop to know how to fix both types of frame construction. The technician does more than just a quick overview to assess the damage; they must have a thorough knowledge of each type of frame, and the signs of damage to look for.
Once the damage is assessed the vehicle is placed on a large hydraulic machine which stretches and bends the frame back to factory specifications. The technician monitors this process carefully to ensure the frame is properly manipulated. Many times additional straightening and welding are needed to repair the frame. Not only do technicians need a thorough knowledge of vehicle construction, but they must also be versed in the many different types of metals used in frame construction and their properties. This helps prevent further damage to the frame, and enables the technician to repair the frame safely.
Not a Shade Tree Mechanic Job
You may see frame repair kits at your local store, but they can't give you the safe and proper repair provided by a qualified shop equipped with heavy duty equipment and a thorough knowledge of repair processes. If repaired incorrectly your vehicle may become unsafe and unreliable. For example unless they are calibrated to the original factory setting your air bags may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, or they may deploy at the wrong time. Don't take chances with your vehicle's safety and leave this job to the professionals.
If done properly frame repair can save your vehicle. Not all frame damage is catastrophic. A qualified shop with the right equipment can straighten and repair your vehicle and get it back on the road in good running order.
Kathryn McDowell is a freelance writer with a mission to educate her readers. She recommends professional frame repair if your vehicle has suffered any type of frame damage.
Monday, November 3, 2014
Takata Air Bag Recall: What You Should Know
With millions of airbags recalled, people are worried and wondering what to do. Consumer Reports answers your most pressing questions.
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