Happy New Year!

May the new year bring new hopes, new aspirations, new joys and and new successes in your life's journey.

What to Expect During a Car Insurance Claim | Allstate Insurance

When it's time to file a car insurance claim, it's helpful to know what information you need to provide and to understand how your insurance coverage works.

Merry Christmas!

May the magic and the wonder of the holiday season stay with you throughout the coming year

The Top 5 Used SUVs Owners Love (And the 3 to Avoid) | Consumer Reports

Find out which used mid-sized SUVs owners love and would buy again. Also, learn which SUVs owners regret buying.

What Does Car Insurance Typically Cover? | Allstate Insurance

Shopping for car insurance? Learn about the common types of coverage, including auto liability, comprehensive, collision and more.

Clever Car Hacks

Do you always forget what side your fuel door is on? Or what to do when your windows won’t stop fogging up? In most cases, there’s a common-sense car hack for that. In this week’s segment of Driving Smart, Matt Schmitz shares a few that will make driving a bit more enjoyable.

Which Auto Collision Center Should I Use

Next to your home, your car is the second largest investment you will make. You spend a great deal of time choosing that right car. And then in minutes you suddenly find yourself with a car that's been damaged in an automobile accident. As a result the same common question continuously gets asked "Which auto collision center should I use"?

And it's a very good question. Vehicles aren't cheap, and with such a big investment you want to be certain that the repair is done right and since you have the right to choose who will fix your car it's time to start shopping around. What ever you do, don't let your insurance company try to bully you into using whom they want.

Different auto collision centers will have different rates, different practices, and different ways of filling out their auto repair estimate, which means you need to be alert as to how they are quoting their work. What looks like the cheapest quote may not be once you take everything into account. The auto collision center has to work with your insurance company to put things right and get you back on the road as soon as possible.

Here are just a few things to find out about. That way you can compare each of the auto collision centers on a level playing field.

What are the hours of operation and do they work with your schedule? Do they have a drop off service or a late pickup service?

Is there a guaranteed delivery date to have your car repairs completed?

Do they offer a loaner vehicle to drive while your vehicle is being repaired?

How long do they warranty their work for? Is there a lifetime guarantee and if so is it on paint?

Repairs? Labor?

What is the qualifications of the craftsman in the auto collision center?

How long has the company been in business?

What type of equipment do they have for repairs? Do they offer state of the art equipment?

Do they guarantee color match?

Do they utilize laser measuring?

Where are the centers located?

What's it going to cost?

Before you do anything, if it is at all possible it's a good idea to drop by, see the facilities, and get a quote. There are more than 35,000 auto body repair shops across the country, which can make it a bit confusing to choose. Use the tools at your disposal. The internet is an excellent resource, and having your list of questions answered can help you make the right choice.

The average auto repair takes two weeks so make sure you have made alternative arrangements with a rental car. You should also make sure you are happy with their commitment to customer satisfaction and remember you can always check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the company has a good reputation.

Which auto collision center should you use? The choice is still yours but these tips should help you find the best facility for your repairs.

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62 Models Meet Tougher Criteria to Earn 2018 IIHS Awards - IIHS News

62 vehicle models meet tougher criteria to earn 2018 IIHS awards

ARLINGTON, Va. — Just 15 vehicles qualify for the Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS after the requirements were strengthened to include good-rated headlights and good or acceptable passenger-side protection in small overlap front crashes.

Another 47 vehicles earn the Top Safety Pick award, which now requires acceptable or good headlights. In contrast, headlights weren't factored in for 2017 Top Safety Pick, and an acceptable headlight rating was enough to bump a 2017 award winner into "plus" territory.

The inclusion of a passenger-side crash test is a first for any IIHS award. The Institute developed the passenger-side small overlap front crash test after it became clear that some manufacturers weren't paying sufficient attention to the passenger side as they made improvements to achieve better performance in the driver-side small overlap front test.

The 15 Top Safety Pick+ winners include four small cars, three midsize cars, five large luxury cars, two midsize nonluxury SUVs and one midsize luxury SUV. No minivans, pickups or minicars earn the highest award. Models from a wider range of vehicle types earn Top Safety Pick, but there are no minicars in that category either.

Essential Winter Driving Tips | Consumer Reports

From snow and ice to sleet and rain; winter weather doesn’t hold back. Be prepared with advice from Consumer Reports experts on how to drive through whatever winter throws at you.

13 out of 16 New Boosters Earn Top Rating of BEST BET - IIHS News

ARLINGTON, Va. — Thirteen out of 16 new booster seats for 2017 earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's highest rating of BEST BET, bringing the total number of boosters on the market with that designation to 118.

The BEST BET rating means a booster provides good safety belt fit for typical 4 to 8 year-olds in almost any car, minivan or SUV. Boosters that are rated GOOD BETs provide acceptable belt fit in almost any vehicle, while those rated Check Fit could work for some children in some vehicles. Seats designated "Not Recommended" don’t provide good belt fit and should be avoided.

Three of the newly rated boosters are rated Check Fit. None are Not Recommended.

Only one current seat — the Safety 1st Summit 65 — is rated Not Recommended. Four others that had been were discontinued this year.

Prep Your Car for Winter Now, Before It's Too Late | Consumer Reports

Winter weather can be tough on your car, so the best time to prepare for winter driving is before the flakes start flying. We give you important tips on how to get your car ready for all the snow, sleet and ice winter can throw at you.

How to Properly Transport a Christmas Tree

Poorly secured Christmas trees can result in vehicle damage that could cost drivers as much as $1,500 in repairs. Learn how to prevent unnecessary damage to your vehicle.

How to Build a Winter Emergency Kit for Your Car | Allstate Insurance

Keeping a properly stocked winter car emergency kit may help you survive if you get stuck or stranded. Consider packing these helpful items:

Happy Thanksgiving!

After a good dinner, one can forgive anybody, even one's own relations. 

-Oscar Wilde

Considerations When Looking for Body Shops

If you have been involved in a collision or just have some minor exterior damage to your car from wear and tear, you will need to look into the various body shops in your area that can make the necessary repairs.

Estimates: Most body shops will offer free estimates for their work, and getting several quotes is the best way to avoid overcharges. Get all of the details in writing. Even though it's just an estimate, you want to be able to compare apples to apples among different mechanics. In some cases, one mechanic may even try to match an estimate if they can.

Experience and reputation for repair work: Even in the digital age, nothing beats word-of-mouth recommendations. You can also check with your local consumer organizations to get a better understanding of their reputation. To narrow the field even further, you need to know the extent of the damage. If the damage is structural, make sure your choice has the experience needed to take care of all the repairs and not just the exterior issues.

Insurance company relationship: Most insurance companies have built up relationships with specific auto body shops. These contracts help the insurance provider save money because they have negotiated lower parts and labor rates. The business your insurance company recommends also meets certain training and certification requirements. This, however, is just a recommendation. If you do not feel completely comfortable and confident with their work, do not be afraid to tell the insurance representative that you want to go with another shop. In the end, they must respect your wishes. It's the law.

Warranty: A reputable business should have no problem standing behind their work. There may be separate metalwork, painting, decal, and mechanical repair warranties, providing comprehensive coverage. Choose a shop that will guarantee their parts and service. Some will even provide a lifetime guarantee for certain services.

Other services: Ask what other services are included or available for an additional fee. While some may focus their work to structural and exterior detailing, other shops may be able to take care of your car's inspection, oil change, or other maintenance measures.

Even though auto body shops are not needed until an accident happens, it pays to do a little research beforehand, so that when the time comes, you are prepared. Some auto body shops even offer 24/7 emergency towing services, which can be a lifesaver if your car is too damaged to drive. With some research, your car will be back in driving condition for a fair price.

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10 Ways to Spot a Flood-Damaged Car — Cars.com

Though hurricane floodwaters have receded, they left behind more than 600,000 vehicles swamped by the storms, and shoppers in the coming months need to beware: water-damaged cars from unscrupulous sellers will soon be flooding the market — so you need to know how to spot one. Matt Schmitz of Cars.com provides tips on how to spot a flood-damaged car in this week’s segment of Driving Smart.

Car Body Repair Common Result of an Accident

If you've ever been in an accident you will know that car body repair is usually the route to take if your car can be saved. If you haven't been in an accident before, however, you may feel panicked and at a loss about what to do. Here are some tips about the side effects of your accident and some things that you should consider.

It's scary to be in an accident. The shock of the impact is scary and jarring. The first thing you should do is make sure that you and your passengers are okay. If not then call 911 if you are able to. Some cars have OnStar devices that will check in to make sure you and your passengers are okay. If not then they will contact emergency services for you.

Once you confirm you and your passengers are okay check to make sure the people in the other car are okay too. Once you make sure everyone is healthy then you will want to evaluate the damage to your car and to the other car(s) in the accident. This is when you should exchange insurance information with the other people involved in the accident.

Depending on the severity of the accident you may have to wait for the police to come and make a report. If the accident is minor then you have a legal obligation to report the accident to the nearest accident reporting station as soon as possible. If you do not report the accident, however minor, you could get in trouble for a hit and run.

Once you have reported the accident and exchanged insurance information you will have to contact your insurance company. They will likely want you to get an estimate of the damage to your car before they decide whether they will fix it or if it will be a write off. Most insurance companies have a deductible that you'll have to pay.

Once you have the insurance payment figured out and the estimate done for your car then you can begin the process of getting it fixed. Depending on the severity of the damage this could take some time. Most insurance companies will provide you with a rental car in the meantime so you can still get around. Most accidents at the very minimum cause some sort of damage to the car's body. This usually means you will need some auto paint repair done. If you have bumper damage then you will likely need car body repair done as well.

It's important to go to a professional who you trust for your auto paint repair and car body repairs. Since the insurance company is paying the costs to fix your vehicle let them worry about the price. Your major concern should be that the job is done properly and in a timely fashion. Your insurance company might not let you pick the place that you get your car work done. However, if they do then you should do a little research first before you pick an auto body shop. It's always best to choose a shop that will guarantee their work with a warranty. Car body repairs that are not done well can cause you more automotive problems later on.

When it comes to being in an accident the main thing to do is stay calm and follow the tips above step-by-step to reduce the negative side effects you may experience.

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2017 Three-Row SUV Comparison: Cargo and Third Row — Cars.com

Our 2017 Three-Row SUV Challenge compared the new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, the redesigned 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, the refreshed 2017 Toyota Highlander and the 2017 Honda Pilot (winner of Cars.com's last Three-Row SUV Challenge), all priced less than $46,000 with destination fees. While doing that overall evaluation, we specifically put these SUVs' third rows and cargo space to the test to see which was best.

Fall Road Trip Travel Tips

Ready for a Thanksgiving road trip?

2017 Three-Row SUV Comparison — Cars.com

Three-row SUVs have become the family vehicle of choice, and it's a segment that's seen a lot of change in the past year. So we thought it was time to bring back the winner from our last Challenge, the Honda Pilot, and stack its 2017 incarnation up against three new competitors: the updated-for-2017 Toyota Highlander, the redesigned-for-2018 Chevrolet Traverse and the all-new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.

Do You Have a Spare?

Some new cars are without spare tires.

Consumer Reports 2018 Most Reliable Car Brands

Consumer Reports each year asks its subscribers whether they've had problems with their cars. We use that information to produce our annual reliability survey, which this year includes data from 640,000 vehicles.

Unusual Car Smells

Unusual smells could be a warning sign that your car is in trouble.

Consumer Reports 2018 Least Reliable Cars

Consumer Reports each year asks subscribers whether they've had problems with their cars. That data, which this year comes from 640,000 vehicles, forms our annual reliability survey. Here are the vehicles at the bottom of our rankings.

8 Car Noises You Should Never Ignore

A squeal, a hiss or a pop? What your car is trying to tell you.

When Should Automotive Engine Coolant Be Replaced?

Engine coolant goes by many names, including radiator fluid, radiator coolant, or antifreeze. No matter what you call it, engine coolant is one of the most vital car fluids for any vehicle. It is a combination of antifreeze and water (usually a 50/50 mix), and serves a number of purposes for a car.

First, it runs through a vehicle's radiator to remove any excess heat and prevent the engine from overheating. Next, since it contains antifreeze chemicals, it prevents it from freezing up in cold temperatures. But also, engine coolant prevents corrosion and works as a lubricant to the water pump and other internal workings.

So as you can see, radiator fluid is very important for a car or truck to operate safely and effectively. Continue reading to learn when your vehicle's engine coolant should be changed, as well as, factory car maintenance scheduling, and more!

Radiator Fluid Flushes

Changing or replacing the radiator fluid in your vehicle is referred to as coolant flush. Regular coolant flushes are vital for your vehicle because it inhibits corrosion, prevents over-heating, and provides lubrication to the internal workings of your engine's water pump, radiator, and heater core.

To properly identify when your coolant is dirty, you must first know what the color of the fluid is when brand new. The primary colors of engine coolant are yellow, orange, green, and black. Check the color of your radiator fluid once every week. When this color starts to change, you know it's time to change your radiator fluid. But the most noticeable sign that it is time to replace the coolant is when your engine starts to overheat. The temperature gauge on your car's dashboard will tell you how hot the engine is getting, and if you start to see smoke, it's gone too far!

Never operate a vehicle with an overheating engine. Not only is this extremely dangerous, it causes significant damage to the engine. This can result in a costly repair, engine replacement, or even a totaled vehicle. As soon as you are aware your engine is overheating, take it to an auto so immediately and have it serviced.

All fluids should be changed, flushed, and replaced regularly for all vehicles. The general factory car maintenance schedule is every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This includes motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and in some cases, even transfer case lubricants. But engine coolant does not need to be replaced this often. Most manufacturers suggest flushing the coolant every 24,000 to 36,000 miles, or once every 2 to 3 years. But if you are driving in hot climates or long distances regularly, then once per year is a better schedule.

Consult a licensed automotive service and repair technician for information regarding your make and model vehicle's factory maintenance schedule. An ASE-licensed mechanic will have up-to-date knowledge and information for all make and model cars and trucks.

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10 Steps to Get Your Car Super Clean

Keeping your car clean makes it more enjoyable. Plus, it helps preserve the car's value.

What Is Gap Insurance? | Allstate Insurance

Gap insurance is an optional car insurance coverage that helps pay off an "under water" auto loan on a totaled vehicle. Learn how it works.

5 Ways to Make Your Old Car Feel New Again

You don’t have to buy a new car to enjoy that new-car feeling. Here are 5 tips on how to make your old car feel showroom fresh.

How to Go About Getting Auto Body Repairs Done

Unfortunately with the cold season fast approaching, snow and icy conditions will bring about several automobile accidents. It's rough, but it happens all the time. Many people have gotten into accidents, but it is important to do the right thing. This will help the insurance company get to auto body repairs as soon as possible.

Here is what you should do if you get into an accident:

1. Get safe. If your car is in working condition, pull over. You don't need any other cars added to the accident. If your car is immobile, get yourself to the curb and out of harm's way.
2. Get help. If someone is injured, dial 911. Otherwise, call the cops. Even in the case of a minor accident, it is good to have an official record of the accident. If someone else is involved, it's their word against yours. It is good to have an account for the insurance companies. This way, there will be no disputes when it is time for repair work to be done.
3. Call insurance provider. This can wait until you are safe and at home. It is best not to wait too long though. While the accident is still fresh in your mind, you will better be able to recall the events more accurately.
4. Get repairs. When all of this is completed, you can search for a body shop to perform auto body repairs. Your insurance provider should have a list of body shops that they sponsor to work on your vehicle. There are benefits for using one of these shops, but you do not have to. If you have a shop that you always go to, the insurance companies will allow it with no problems.

There are a few different auto body repair services that a body shop will need to perform. After a collision, suspension and frame work will likely need to be done. This will keep your ride smooth with little bumps. If pieces do not need to be replace, auto body shops can perform paintless dent repair to get dents and scratches out. However, if any piece needs to be painted, several surrounding pieces or the entire car will need repainting.

Getting body work done can be a long and difficult process. Hopefully, these tips will help to get you through any ordeal properly. This way should ensure that you get little resistance from the insurance companies.

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8 Car Noises You Should Never Ignore

A squeal, a hiss or a pop? What your car is trying to tell you.

Should You Buy or Lease a New Car? | Consumer Reports

You are faced with the anxiety inducing dilemma of whether to buy or lease. See which type of driver you are to find a clear winner in this tough and costly decision in this CR Face-Off.

Corby's Collision - "Hands On" Owner with Happy Employees

"Hands On" Owner / Operator Paul Troutner talks about happy employees and happy customers. http://corbysvacaville.com/

Child Passenger Safety Tips for Your Precious Cargo

Child Passenger Safety Week in September is as good an excuse as any to remind ourselves of the dangers kids face in and around cars — and with annual traffic fatalities projected to hit a decade high, it’s an even better one. Matt Schmitz with Cars.com highlights those dangers and how to keep children safe in this week’s segment of Driving Smart.

Corby's Collision's History and Sense of Community

"Hands On" Owner / Operator Paul Troutner talks about Corby's history and sense of community. See more at http://corbysvacaville.com

What's the Best Compact SUV for 2017?

With gas still relatively affordable, compact SUVs are booming in sales popularity. These cars combine family-friendly features with a higher seating position and a little extra utility that appeals to many shoppers. We took the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, 2017 Honda CR-V, 2017 Jeep Compass, 2017 Mazda CX-5, 2017.5 Nissan Rogue and 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan, and compared them all to the 2017 Ford Escape - the model that won this comparison the last time we did it.

Happy Customers are Corby's Collision's Top Priority!

"Hands On" Owner / Operator, Paul Troutner, of Corby's Collision in Vacaville,  California discusses happy customers and alignments.

For more information, please visit http://corbysvacaville.com/

Under The Hood - Spare Tire

Don't forget to check the air in the spare tire and the mechanism that lowers it to the ground.

What to Do If Caught in a Flood in Your Car

The catastrophic flooding caused by the recent historic storms brings to the fore some important safety practices motorists need to remember in the event your find yourself trapped in your car by the rising waters of a flash flood. Matt Schmitz with Cars.com goes over the do’s and don’ts for drivers caught in a flood in this week’s segment of Driving Smart.

Four Small Pickups Earn Top Rating in Small Overlap Test - IIHS News

Four small pickups earn top rating in IIHS small overlap test

ARLINGTON, Va. — Four out of eight small pickup trucks evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety earn good ratings for occupant protection in all five IIHS crashworthiness evaluations, but the lack of an automatic emergency braking system and poor-rated headlights mean these pickups fall short of qualifying for either of the Institute's safety awards.

IIHS engineers evaluated two body styles of each pickup — crew cab and extended cab. Crew cabs have four full doors and two full rows of seating. Extended cabs have two full front doors, two smaller rear doors and compact second-row seats. The Institute tests the two most popular versions of pickups because their performance can vary by body style. The ratings in this round of evaluations apply to 2017 models.

What to do in an Accident | Allstate Accident Safety Tips

Car accidents are stressful events that seem to raise dozens of questions at once: Should I call the police? Should I move my car? Is it safe to drive home? This video will guide you through the most important decisions you need to make before and after you've been in a collision.

Five Tips For Choosing Auto Body Shops

As if getting in a car accident weren't bad enough, finding a reputable repair shop may prove challenging. There are many factors drivers must consider, including price, experience, and quality of work. But because most folks know next to nothing about collision work, a little advice often goes a long way. With that in mind, here are five simple tips you can use to find reliable body shops in your area.

1. Ask Around

Any company can advertise, but when it comes to collision repair, word-of-mouth is far more important. Because everybody remembers the time they got in a car accident, asking people you know to recommend body shops is often the best way to find a dependable service provider. Because we are in the Internet Era, many customers go online to search for a service provider. Although they will be strangers, reading posts from customers on review sites is the electronic equivalent of asking around. Another auspicious sign that the shop takes pride in its work is if the owner is involved in it's daily operation. As a general rule, when a business is family owned, employees tend to go the extra mile, since its often their name on the sign out front.

2. Consider Labor Costs

Because mechanics charge similar prices for replacement parts, labor costs generally have the biggest effect on the final bill. Depending on the facility's location and the experience of its staff, per-hour labor fees can range wildly. It is actually not at all uncommon for body shops that have multiple locations to charge different labor fees at each of their branches. Although higher labor charges may be justified if the provider does excellent work on difficult jobs, it probably isn't worth paying twice as much for labor if your vehicle has a damaged fender, bumper, or some other minor repair job.

3. Bigger Isn't Always Better

The reason smaller auto body shops often charge lower fees than larger ones is that they have a lot less overhead. When you stop at a family-owned repair center, for example, odds are the owner fills several essential positions. He or she may work as the manager, foreman, and chief mechanic all at the same time. But at a larger facility, each of those positions may be held by a different employee. The inevitable result is higher payroll and overhead costs that lead to higher labor rates to offset those fees.

4. Get Several Estimates

As elementary as it may seem, many drivers fail to get more than one price estimate for repair work. More often than not, they do this because they want to get the whole thing over and done with. But when it comes a major accident, you could save hundreds, even thousands of dollars if you compare prices.

5. Ask About The Warranty

Although a one-year warranty is considered standard, not all auto body shops offer it. As such, it is important to ask about the warranty and what it covers before you agree to anything. At the bare minimum, a warranty for bodywork should cover all repairs and should come in written form. It is not enough to simply take the owner or manager's word that they will fix any problem you might have should something go wrong.

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Are Lane Departure Warning Systems Effective?

Lane departure warning, a technology designed to address an often-fatal type of crash, is preventing crashes on U.S. roads, new research from IIHS shows. Results of the new study indicate that lane departure warning lowers rates of single-vehicle, sideswipe and head-on crashes of all severities by 11 percent and lowers the rates of injury crashes of the same types by 21 percent. That means that if all passenger vehicles had been equipped with lane departure warning, nearly 85,000 police-reported crashes and more than 55,000 injuries would have been prevented in 2015.

2017 Midsize SUV Comparison - Kelley Blue Book

For 2017 the midsize SUV category is overflowing with new and refreshed entries. To better understand the current crop of family-friendly SUVs we conducted a comparison of the GMC Acadia, Volkswagen Atlas, Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.

3 Essential Automotive Fluids Your Vehicle Cannot Go Without

All vehicles require regular scheduled maintenance, service, and tune ups in order to perform at their best ability. Long-term vehicle care is impossible without various routine maintenances. One of the most important factory scheduled maintenance requirements to stick by is automotive fluid re-fills.

There are several fluids a vehicle requires in order for it to operate safely and efficiently. These liquids include everything from battery fluid and transmission fluid, to windshield wiper fluid, power steering fluid, and more. Although there are various fluids that a vehicle absolutely needs in order to operate effectually, there are a few liquids in particular that are vital to a person's safety and a car's performance.

Continue reading to learn about the three most essential automotive fluids that no vehicle should ever be without, on the road.

Brake Fluid

Brakes are one of the most important components within a vehicle. Without properly functioning brakes, a vehicle is basically not drivable. A car or truck must be able to come to a stop for a driver and passenger, as well as other drivers on the road, to be safe. One product that makes our braking systems operate effectively is brake fluid. Brake fluid typically needs replaced every few months or so; depending on the amount of driving a person does.

When pressure is applied to the brake pedal, the brake fluid is compressed, transferring hydraulic force to the brake pads and shoes, allowing the vehicle to stop. Without proper amounts of brake fluid, a vehicle's brake pads and shoes will have difficulty producing enough friction to complete a stop. A mechanic is the person capable of checking your brake line system and re-filling the brake fluid. Although it can also be a DIY job, it is not recommended unless you have experience working with cars and trucks.

Motor Oil

Motor oil is one the most important fluids in a vehicle. It is engineered to cycle through a vehicle's engine crankcase in order to lubricate the pistons, valves, and other inner engine components. If a vehicle has an internal combustion engine, it will certainly require motor oil. If a vehicle does not have a sufficient amount of motor oil, the engine will seize up and fail in a short amount of time. Be sure to have a licensed mechanic check your motor oil levels to be sure you are driving with a properly lubricated engine.

Coolant

Coolant is a heat-transfer liquid. The most common coolants on the market are a 50/50 combination of radiator coolant and water. Coolant is intended to keep a vehicle's engine from overheating. When you see a person on the side of the road, with the hood of their car smoking, this is an indication that their engine has overheated. It works by cycling through an engine, collecting heat as it goes, and returning back to the radiator so the heat can be released out of the vehicle and into the air. Coolant levels are easy to check on your own. Consult a licensed mechanic for instructions and advice on checking your oil stick and coolant levels in your vehicle.

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2017 One-Ton Heavy-Duty Pickup Challenge

Our three judges put their heads together to discuss the pros and cons from our 2017 One-Ton Heavy-Duty Challenge. How does the all-new Super Duty measure up against our previous one-ton contest winner, the GMC Sierra 3500? Get the details straight from our expert test drivers.

Under The Hood - Tire Tread and Pressure

Check the tread and pressure to get the best performance from your tires

5 Benefits Of Changing Your Car's Air Filters

If you have a car, it's recommended that you change the air filter regularly. Here are some of the benefits of doing so:

You increase your car's performance

Dirty car filters reduce the amount of air that flows into the car's engine. When the amount of air in the engine is limited, the car doesn't spend the amount that it's supposed to and as a result, its performance goes down. Studies have consistently shown that cars with clean filters are by far more effective than those with dirty filters.

You protect your car from damage

Filters prevent foreign particles from getting access to the inside of the car's engine. Even when a small particle gets into the engine it can cause a lot of damage to the moving parts. The damage gets worse as more particles get into the engine. A clean car filter traps all the air debris ensuring that none gets into the engine. This protects your car from damage. Since the car and the engine aren't damaged, they last for a long time.

You increase the efficiency of the car

Studies by experts show that clean car filters increase the car's efficiency by up to 14%. The reason for this is because there is plenty of clean air in the engine thus the car doesn't strain burning fuel. Due to the efficiency, you spend less money than when the car is running on a dirty air filter.

You reduce car emissions

Dirty filters reduce air flow to the engine thus affecting emission control systems. Faulty emission control systems result to an incorrect air-fuel mixture. When the fuel mixture is too much, it can result in engine deposits resulting to a lot of emissions. In addition to the high emissions, it's also common for the car to consume more fuel than it should.

Changing the car filter

As you have seen, there are plenty of benefits that come with replacing your car filter. The cool thing with air filter replacement is that you can do it on your own. When replacing the filters, ensure that you replace them with identical ones designed for the exact match and model of car. Car filters come in different shapes, designs, and sizes; therefore, you should first remove the one in the car and buy a similar one that resembles it. For ideal results, ensure that you buy from a reputable store.

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Under The Hood - Coolant

Check your engine coolant to make sure your engine is protected for winter driving.

Adults Admit They Often Skip Belts in Rear Seat - IIHS News

Adults admit to not always using safety belts in the back seat

 ARLINGTON, Va. — Adults have gotten the message that it’s safer for kids to ride in the back seat properly restrained, but when it comes to their own safety, there is a common misperception that buckling up is optional. Among adults who admit to not always using safety belts in the back seat, 4 out of 5 surveyed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety say short trips or traveling by taxi or ride-hailing service are times they don’t bother to use the belt.

The new survey reveals that many rear-seat passengers don’t think belts are necessary because they perceive the back seat to be safer than the front. This shows a clear misunderstanding about why belts are important, no matter where a person sits in a vehicle.

What Is An Insurance Deductible? | Allstate Insurance

A deductible is a key feature of many types of insurance coverage. Find out what a deductible is and how it works in this quick video.

Slow Down, Move Over

Move Over laws protects tow truck drivers in all 50 states. Let’s help keep our drivers safe. Find out the Move Over law in your state: http://drivinglaws.aaa.com/tag/move-over-law/?sf59480749=1

What to Do When Your Brakes Go Out | Allstate Insurance

If you're concerned you don't know what to do if your car's brakes fail, don't panic. Prepare yourself for such a situation by familiarizing yourself with some tips to help you stop as safely as possible.

How to Cool Your Car Like a Pro | Consumer Reports

There's nothing worse than getting into a hot car after a day in the sun. These tips from Consumer Reports experts will have you driving away in comfort.

How to Inspect Your Car's Coolant Hoses and Junctions | Allstate Insurance

Do you know how to inspect and repair your coolant hoses properly? Learn how to look for leaks, cracks, dry rotting and other tips on how to inspect your car’s coolant hoses from The Humble Mechanic.

Dashboard Headlights

Do you know what these dash lights mean? Watch the video to take the quiz and tell us how many you got right!

2017 Luxury Sedan Challenge: Acceleration Test

For Cars.com's 2017 Luxury Sports Sedan Challenge, we tested seven compact competitors in zero-to-60-mph and quarter-mile acceleration plus 60-mph-to-zero braking. And while the Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti, Audi A4 2.0T, BMW 330i, Cadillac ATS 2.0T, Jaguar XE 25t, Lexus IS 200t and Mercedes-Benz C300 have only 2.0 liters of displacement, some automakers do a lot more with their soda-bottle-sized engine than others.

Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking?

As a driver you need to be aware of unusual signs that your car displays while you're driving. Strange sounds or movements could mean that there is a problem with the car. If the steering wheel is shaking, there is a possibility that the problem is with the wheels or tires.

At the top of the list of problems is whether any of the wheels is unbalanced. Unbalanced wheels are caused by worn or deflated or underinflated tires.

Misaligned wheels could also be the cause of your steering wheel shaking so much. Alignment problems could cause damage to your tires making future drives uncomfortable and irritating.

There is a possibility that one of the side walls of the tire is damaged. It could either be the front or the rear one depending on whether you have a front wheel driving or rear wheel driving car. The shaking will only be felt if the rack and pinion gear is connected directly to the axle.

A damaged sidewall is incredibly dangerous and you should get a new tire replacement before you end up in an accident. The sidewall can't be destroyed and be fixed later on. Once this part is torn, you need to replace it immediately. Unfortunately, because there is so much tension in this part of the tire it cannot be fixed.

You will also feel the shaking and vibrating if the rack and pinion is damaged or any other parts of the wheel are damaged including the ball bearings, rods and nuts. If any of these components are worn down it will usually feel like the motion factor of the car is about to fall apart with the slightest bump.

If you live in a muddy or snowy area, there are chances that the debris picked up along the way has gotten embedded into the components. This might be the easiest problem to fix as nothing was damaged and your car was manufactured to be prepared for this sort of situation. It may only require a thorough clean.

Also consider whether there are exterior factors that may cause the shaking. This could include underinflated tires, worn treads or whether the edging of the tire has been worn out. In that case, you may only need to go to a tire supplier to have the tires replaced.

You will only feel the shaking or vibrating of the steering wheel whilst you drive but make sure that you get it checked. It is best to trust the professionals because they will always be able to help you with tasks that you are not familiar with.

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Three Large Cars Join Ranks of TOP SAFETY PICK+ Winners - IIHS News

Three large cars join ranks of IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Lincoln Continental, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the Toyota Avalon come out at the top of a group of six large cars recently evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The three cars qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, the Institute’s highest award. The Tesla Model S, the Chevrolet Impala and the Ford Taurus fall short of any award because they each earn only an acceptable rating in the small overlap front test.

What's the Most American Car for 2017?

For 2017, Cars.com has revamped its longstanding American-Made Index (AMI) for the first time. The AMI is an analysis of cars assembled in the U.S. with high domestic-parts content, predominant U.S. sourcing for engines and transmissions, and high U.S. manufacturing jobs supported per vehicle. Cars.com analyzed light-duty passenger vehicles built in the U.S. (more than 120 in total). Watch the video to find out the most American-made car.

10 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Car | Allstate Insurance

Buying a brand new car may come with a high price tag, so many consumers are looking to buy used cars instead. Buyers still need to be diligent during their search for a used car to avoid purchasing a dud. Take a look at this checklist of 10 strategies and points to help ensure you are looking at the condition and value before buying that used car.

2017 Compact Hatchback Comparison - Kelley Blue Book

For this year’s compact car comparison we left the sedans at home and went with an all-hatchback lineup. The new Cruze and Civic hatchbacks were obvious invitees, as was the totally redesigned Subaru Impreza 5-Door. The familiar and celebrated Mazda3 served as the hatchback of reference.

How to Prevent Scratches, Swirls on a Black Car

Maintaining a black car's exterior is an intimidating experience considering a single finger swiped across the paint can show a noticeable blemish. With so many cars coming off the assembly line with fresh coats of deep, glossy black paint, we gathered tips on how to keep that luster looking as good as new. Cars.com’s Matt Schmitz shows how to help keep any car's paint color free of scratches and swirls in this week’s segment of Driving Smart.

5 Car Care Hacks: What Your Auto Body Shop Wants You to Know

While auto body shop professionals are happy to help with tiny and large problems alike, some car problems can be prevented or at least delayed. A great mechanic wants to empower car owners with knowledge of how to take great care of their vehicles. They should follow these five car care hacks to enjoy logging many miles to come in their automobile.

1. Tending to Tires

It's easy to trust that tires will keep spinning until the driver feels one go flat, but car owners can extend the longevity of their tires with a bit of extra care. They should wipe off brake dust on a regular basis, meaning at least once per week. If brake dust builds up, it's a little-known fact that it can bake into the wheels of an automobile if left on for too long. They should rely on a damp sponge and soapy water to clear off the dust.

That's not all it takes to keep tires in great shape. They should check the car's tire pressure regularly, or have a professional mechanic do so if they're not familiar with the ins and outs of tire pressure. Also, having their tread depth checked and tires rotated regularly is advisable.

2. Keeping Their Cool

Many people don't know that it's important to flush their motor vehicle's cooling system at least once per year, and they should change the coolant then as well as whenever it's needed throughout the year. Automobile owners need to trust a professional mechanic for this job, and they can ensure that grime, corrosion, and other deposits don't build up in the car's cooling system.

3. Letting Their Light Shine

Car owners should check their headlights and brake lights regularly to make sure these lights are in excellent working order. Not only can broken lights result in tickets, but they can also present a hazard on the road. Both the headlights and brake lights can be quickly tested at an auto body shop, and when there is a problem, it's usually easy to fix as long as vehicle owners catch it before it causes problems on the road.

4. Showing Pride in the Car's Appearance

One crucial aspect of taking the best care of a car is also keeping it clean. Whether they own a small car, a huge SUV, or anything in between, automobile owners should get a regular car wash and wax. They need to schedule a vehicle wash every week or at least every other week. Also, if they notice immediate issues, such as a bird relieving itself on the top of their car, it's important to wash the excrement away as soon as possible. Bird waste can actually damage a car's paint job, so cleaning up the mess right away is essential.

5. Paying Attention to Warnings

If drivers notice a warning light on their dashboard, they need to resist the temptation to look the other way. Whether it's a check engine light, a temperature light, an oil light, or something else, car owners should take their vehicle to an auto body shop to check on the problem right away. The earlier they catch an issue, the easier and less expensive it may be to fix.

Finally, automobile owners need to keep in mind that they can prevent some trips to the auto body shop for repairs by taking optimal care of their car. They need to take action today to keep their vehicle in pristine condition.


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Road Tripping - How to Pack Your Vehicle Like a Pro

One of the keys to staying safe on road trips is knowing how to pack your car properly. Maximize your cargo space with this quick checklist.

Tips for Finding a Collision Repair Service

You've been in an auto accident and you've escaped unscathed, but what about your car? You need to find a trusted collision repair center that can fix your car, both cosmetically and mechanically. You don't want to employ an unreliable mechanic and waste money on repair after repair, nor do you want your car covered in mismatched or cheap, flaky paint. Use this guide to learn how to identify a good collision repair center and avoid unreliable service.

Naturally, the biggest concern when your car needs body work is cost. Estimates from different body shops can differ dramatically, but choosing the cheaper option may result in a poor quality job. Use these tips to help distinguish between when it's alright to take a lower price and when it's too risky.

Word-of-Mouth

Listen to any recommendations from your friends, family, and acquaintances. They may have had a successful experience with a collision repair shop and may even have a contact number. This gives you a chance to find local businesses which may not be listed on the internet. Small, family-owned shops offer a more involved experience by allowing you one-on-one access to the individuals working on your car.

Location and Overhead

Labor charges make up a healthy chunk of overall cost. Collision repair shops charge anywhere from $40 an hour to $70 an hour or more, depending on the location. Corporate body shops may have higher rates in order to support a large front-office work staff. Some may feel more comfortable doing business in an office setting with a front desk clerk, but estimates tend to increase according to the company's overhead. A shop with a small number of employees may be easier on your wallet.

Shop for Estimates

In order to make sure you get the best price you can at a repair center you trust, take your car to multiple shops and ask for quotes. This will help you avoid being overcharged. If there is a particular shop you really like, but their price is too high, try to find a few lower estimates and see if they'll consider bargaining. Remember, the cheapest estimate isn't always the best option.

Warranties and Insurance

Make sure your collision repair center provides written warranty for their work and ask about warranty details before making any agreements. At the minimum, the warranty should last for one year. If you've heard of places offering lifetime warranties, consider it an advertising tactic. Yes, the warranty technically lasts a lifetime; however, the contracts include a copious amount of regulations and stipulations. You should also ask if the repair center carries fire and theft insurance in case your car is damaged, destroyed, or stolen while being repaired.

Follow Your Intuition

Finally, trust what your intuition tells you about each shop you consider and the employees you encounter. If the facility is dirty and disorganized, you can expect sloppy body work. Take care in selecting a collision repair center and remember these tips during your search. Good luck!

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More Than Half of Midsize SUV Headlights Tested Rate Marginal or Poor - IIHS News

More than half of midsize SUV headlights tested rate marginal or poor

ARLINGTON, Va. — New midsize SUV ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety show that headlights are improving when it comes to visibility, but many still need to do a better job of lighting the road ahead while limiting bothersome glare.

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2017 Volvo XC60 are the only models available with good-rated headlights among the 19 midsize SUVs and 18 midsize luxury SUVs evaluated in this new round of tests. Twelve SUVs are available with headlights rated acceptable, while 23 aren’t available with anything other than marginal- or poor-rated headlights.

Ensure Your Pet Travels Safely in the Car

Trips with your pets can be lots of fun, but it's important to remember their safety when you're on the road. While 83 percent of dog owners agree that an unrestrained dog is dangerous, only 16 percent use some type of pet restraint. Cars.com’s Matt Schmitz talks with pet safety expert Jennifer Burklow on the best products to keep everyone safe and happy in the car in this week’s segment of Driving Smart.

What's the Best 2017 Compact SUV for Towing?

A full-size truck or SUV might automatically jump to mind when considering a tow vehicle, but depending on what you need to tow a smaller compact SUV might do the trick and still be suitable for urban driving. Cars.com’s Mike Hanley goes over the 2017 compact models that offer significantly more towing capability than the class norm in this week’s segment of Driving Smart.

How to Inspect and Replace Your Car's Cabin Filter

Help keep your car's interior clean by replacing the pollen filter. The Humble Mechanic will show you how to inspect and replace your vehicle's cabin air filter.

Tips: Teen Driving

Pave a smooth road for your new teen driver.

Common Driver Mistakes That Cause Vehicular Damage

There are so many actions car owners do simply out of habit when driving their vehicles. Actions such as putting on our seatbelts after we sit down, checking the rearview mirror before backing up, or plugging in our music before taking off for the day. Similarly, there are several other things we do that are not as harmless as the rituals mentioned above.

Many drivers are totally unaware that certain habits can actually damage their vehicles. Driving habits you once thought were harmless are actually highly detrimental. Continue reading to learn a few common habits that can cause serious, costly damage to your car, and see if you are guilty of a few of them yourself!

The Parking Brake

The parking brake is one of the most neglected parts of an automatic transmission vehicle. Those who own manual cars or trucks often use their parking brake, but for several other drivers out there, this operation is often ignored, whether automatic or manual. This is a mistake that can jeopardize the integrity of your parking brake and the transmission itself. It can also result in your vehicle rolling downhill uncontrollably, after being parked on an incline. The parking brake puts a lock on the wheels and prevents it from rolling away. Failing to use a parking brake puts a lot of pressure on the car's transmission; a part of the vehicle not meant to "hold" a car in place. It also strips the parking paw, as mentioned before. Always use the parking brake, but remember to release it before putting your car into drive again!

Switching Gears

Another common driving mistake is switching gears while the car is in motion. This often occurs when a driver backs up in reverse, and then switches their car into the drive-gear before it comes to a complete stop. This can strip the gears and bands within a vehicles transmission, which can be a costly repair. After a while, your vehicle may lose its ability to switch gears altogether because there is nothing there to provide the necessary tension it takes to thrust a vehicle into drive. Always come to a complete stop before switching gears.

Air Conditioning

Many people start their cars the wrong way by leaving their AC on when they shut off the ignition the last time they drove it. Leaving the AC on when you turn your car off, or already having it on when you start your car, is bad for the serpentine belt and causes the engine to work harder than it has to. This can lead to costly repairs down the line.

Automotive Fluids

Failing to replace or change-out automotive fluids is another major mistake made by drivers and car owners alike. This can cause several issues and performance failures with a vehicle. Fluids like brake fluid, motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid are the most important lubricants and liquids for all vehicles. Have them flushed, filled, and replaced as suggested by the manufacturer.

Noises and Sounds

We are probably all guilty of ignoring funny noises and strange sounds coming from our vehicles, at some point in our driving careers. But this is bad to do, and can lead to very costly repairs and put a driver and their passengers in danger. It is not safe to drive a car that is not in good condition. Bad brakes, an overheating engine, and much more can cause serous car accidents and collisions. If your car's brakes are squeaky, or your engine seems to hiss louder than usual, or you hear some other type of unfamiliar noise coming from your vehicle, take it in to a licensed mechanic right away.

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Don’t Bother Buying These New Car Add-Ons | Consumer Reports

Before you sign the final paperwork for your new car, you may be asked to buy extras such as rustproofing and paint sealant. Consumer Reports auto experts say don't bother with these often overpriced and unnecessary add-ons.

2017 Midsize Luxury SUV Comparison - Kelley Blue Book

For this comparison we gathered a range of 3-row luxury players like the Infiniti QX60, Volvo XC90, Range Rover Sport, Audi Q7, and Acura MDX.

Top Car Safety Tips for Your Big Summer Trip!

As you get ready for that summer vacation, don't forget about your vehicle. The last thing you want do do is pack up the family, hit the road, and then have your car break down. Can you say, "worst vacation ever??" You don't always have to call the pros. There are some easy tasks you can do yourself to avoid problems when you hit the road.

AAA's 2017 Memorial Day Travel Forecast

Before you head out for #MemorialDay, download the AAA Mobile app to map a route, find gas prices, discounts & more.

How to Inspect and Replace Your Windshield Wipers | Allstate Insurance

Clear vision is an important safety feature for all vehicles, and your car's windshield wipers are designed to maximize a driver's vision by wiping away grime and precipitation. The Humble Mechanic offer his tips for regular maintenance that can help you keep your wiper blades are in good condition.

Top Tips to Keep Your Car Dent Free!

When you have a car or any other vehicle, dings and dents are inevitable. Visit to auto shops, mechanics, and body shops can be costly and present you with a long receipt that can wipe the green off your pocket too easily. However, with a few tips and tricks, and staying alert, you can keep your vehicle free from dents.

1. Drive Smart

Make sure when you're behind the wheels, you are careful and smart. It is good to assume that other drivers may make a mistake anytime and at any second. Even when you have the right of way, look out for other drivers; they may think it's their right of way and not yours. Therefore, drive smart and stay safe. This can prevent many accidents and mishaps.

2. Park Smart

Whether it's in your garage, or a mall's parking lot, it's important you park your vehicle safely. While parking in the garage, make sure you don't park too much towards either side, and keep the vehicle in the center. Therefore, when you open the door, it won't hit the walls. While for parking lots outside malls, be sure to follow the rules. Park on assigned spaces, else your motor is likely to get a dent or ding from trolleys or other car doors. There's a reason why they have signs that say "park at your own risk".

3. Don't Test Your Car

There are times when you may feel too excited and want to check how far and how fast you can drive your car. Even though this may sound exciting, but at the end, the only thing left will be a huge bill for body repairs. Driving your car at top speed for a long time can damage the engine and other parts, and you are likely to get a dent or two for sure.

4. Drive Safe

Speed limits, speed signs, and other signs are there for the safety of drivers. It is wise to follow them to prevent accidents or hazardous situations. Especially during the night and on highways, you need to drive safe and stay alert. Also, don't drink and drive - this will not only cause you a penalty, but also can wreck your car and cause fatal injuries.

These tips only talk common sense. They are a reminder for new drivers and old, to drive safe and protect your car from dings, dents and accidents.

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10 Strangest Vehicles Ever Made

Top 10 of the oddest automobile designs and concepts in the world. Some of the cars are awesome, others are just weird.

Make Your Car Like New Again With Expert Service From Your Local Auto Body Repair Shop

Cars can suffer damage due to all kinds of situations, from collisions to plain old wear and tear. Fortunately, auto body shops can address almost any car body or frame issue you bring in and can help you get your car back in perfect condition.

No matter how the damage to your car originated, a damaged vehicle looks unattractive and can send the wrong message to the world about the people who own and drive it. Leaving repairs undone can also lead to further, more dangerous, and costlier damage, and can be a safety hazard to drivers and passengers alike. This is why it's so important to contact an auto body repairer as soon as there's a problem. Experts in car body paint and structural repairs will be able to evaluate what needs to be done and take care of your car or truck with an eye to timeliness and workmanship so that you can get your car back in top shape as soon as possible.

Whether you were in a collision on the road, or another person nicked your car's paint job while you were parked, chipped auto paint can be a real pain. First of all, it affects the overall look of your car in a hugely negative way. And secondly, if left untreated, it can lead to more extensive chipping and, eventually, to rust that can deteriorate the whole body of the car. There are products on the market that let you deal with automotive paint issues on your own, but getting an exact match to your car's original color and quality of paintwork is nearly impossible. If you go the DIY route and the color match is even slightly off, your car will end up looking worse than it did before! Avoid these pitfalls by contacting a car paint specialist as soon as you know that there's a problem. These professionals have the knowledge, tools, and experience to tackle whatever car painting project you need so that you can get your car back to looking its best, and you can drive secure in the knowledge that you've forestalled any further damage.

If you're dealing with something more serious than a paintwork issue, getting professional help is a must. Not only are there aesthetic matters to consider, but there are a number of safety issues in question when it comes to repairing the actual structure of a car. If you're dealing with dents, the cosmetic aspect is probably the most important. It's unpleasant and distracting to drive around in a dented vehicle, but a body repair expert can take care of everything from a small ding from a golf ball to a huge dent from a collision, all without causing further damage to the car or the paintwork. These professionals can also handle more intense issues such as frame repair and straightening. After a car has been in a collision, the car frame is often damaged or misaligned. In the worst cases, this can make the car undrivable, and in all cases, it can compromise the overall safety of your vehicle. Using specialized machinery, repair experts can realign your car's frame so that your car works properly and complies with necessary safety standards.

If your car is damaged, don't wait--call your local auto body and repair shop today. Whether you need a minimal touch-up to your paint, or major repairs after a collision, professional body shops will be able to ensure that your car looks great and is protected as much as possible against future damage.

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What to Do If You Need Auto Body Repair

If you were recently involved in some type of accident or have neglected your care a little it may be in need of some attention. This can happen to even the best of car lovers. You may need to get auto body repair. But what are the steps you should take in the event that you need auto body repair. A lot of times auto body repairs are avoided due to simply not knowing what to do when repairs are needed. So, here are some helpful steps to take if you need auto body repairs to get your car looking its best!

The first step is to find out if your insurance company and policy cover the damages that were incurred to your vehicle. Then you need to find out how much they cover and also know you deductable. Once you have that figured out you can go on to the next step.

You will then need to find out how much money you have that you can spend on the repair out of pocket or in unison with your insurance. Once you figure that out you will know how much you have available to spend on repairs for your vehicle.

Then you really need to find a qualified auto body repair specialist at a well known and recommended auto body shop. It will be important if you are using your insurance to find an auto body shop that accepts the insurance and will work hand in hand with your insurance provider. There are some auto body shops that do a great job with this. Once you know that they will work with your insurance provider you will need to check that they are an upstanding repair shop. Make sure that you see for yourself that they provide quality work to your standards. Also check their prices and see that they are comparable to what you can afford to spend. Also, if your car is in need of more than one type of repair you should search for an auto body shop that offers all the services your vehicle needs with a high level of quality. Make sure that you get a quote from the auto body shop before you agree to let them begin work on your vehicle. No work should be completed without your consent, that way there are not any surprise bills.

Once you have found the auto body shop and received a price quote for the repairs you need to set up a time for them to begin work on your car. Depending on the degree of what needs to be done you may be without a car for a while. If that is the case you may need to make arrangements to get a rental car, unless you have another form of transportation.

So, if you are in need of auto body repair there are a lot of things you will need to do and take into consideration when planning a budget and place to get them repaired. Make sure you take the time and follow all the steps to get your car back to new in no time!

If your car is in need of auto reconditioning start looking for a qualified professional to handle your concerns. Look for an auto body professional to take care of your ride from interior repair to fixing the major auto body repairs.

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How to Change a Tire Like a Gentleman

How to change your tire like a gentleman - tips from AAA

Top 4 Tips For Car Body Care

There's no doubt that every vehicle depreciates in value with time. If you have been planning to sell the car in a few years and want to get a good deal, then you should not bring down the value of your car by not taking care of its appearance. A car which has not been maintained properly will hardly get any buyers.

The bait for coaxing the buyer is how the car looks from inside and outside. Maintaining your car and keeping it in the best possible condition is surely important not to ensure just the longevity of the vehicle, but also to improve its sale-ability. And of course, who doesn't like to drive a nice looking car!

Here's a list of things you need to look after to ensure your car stays in pristine condition.

• Car Wash

At least once or twice a month you need to wash your car properly. By doing that you can ensure that dirt is removed from the surface of the body & under the chassis and keeps it completely clean. Staining and rusting might occur if you fail to remove it on time. You need to keep in your mind that even heavy rains don't remove the contaminants off the car. It's better if pressure hose is used to wash the car.

• Car Waxing

By using car wax, you can ensure that a layer of protection is created which protects the car from harsh external elements such as rain, dead bugs, and bird droppings and avoids corrosion or rusting. The contaminants get stuck in the wax can be easily washed from the car. The breakdown of the molecular structure of paint can also be prevented with the help of car wax as it stops harsh exposure to UV rays and oxygen.

• Rusting

When iron is exposed for a long period of time to moisture & oxygen then rusting occurs. Due to salt in the air, especially in coastal areas a car's under body can rust faster. During heavy rains and while driving through puddles your car's under body comes into contact with water. The best care for this problem can only be taken by professional and expert mechanics at a renowned auto repair shop.

• Dents And Scratches Repairing

If you don't have any dents or scratches on your car, then there's no problem in considering yourself as lucky. Not many can boast of this miracle because no matter how much you try to protect your beloved car, it will get some scratches or dents here and there. If you have dents and scratches on your car and if the paint is peeled off during the impact then the car's body is susceptible to rusting. It's recommended that you should visit a renowned car body repair center to get dents and scratches fixed.

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How to Inspect Your Vehicle's Lights | Allstate Insurance

Lights are important for driving safety, helping you spot obstacles to avoid. The Humble Mechanic shows you how to inspect your lights and identify needed repairs.

The Top 6 Things to Look For In A Collision Repair Shop

Where would we be without collision repair shops? They can do wonders for an automobile. They can shape it, change it, paint it, and even relieve it of dents and scratches that take away from the beauty of your automobile.

It doesn't matter how the damage occurred, what does matter is you choosing the auto body shop to make your car right again. They are hard to come by. Not all body shops are the same. For example, choosing the one your insurance company told you to will only result in a minimum repair to your car. The insurance company has a "deal" with the repair shop. It doesn't mean they will do a good job on your automobile.

You need to look for a repair shop that does great work for a fair price. Yes, it's going to cost to right the wrongs with your car, but if you choose the right autobody repair shop, then you'll be very satisfied with the work they do. Here's a list of 6 things they should to look for in a great collision repair shop.

1. Be sure they give you an estimate. Most of the time, your insurance company will do this, and then send you to their preferred shop. However, you can take your car to any repair shop you want, but sometimes on you might have to pay a little more than the insurance pays. In the long run, it will be more than worth it.


2. Don't let "cheap" influence you! The cost is usually what everyone looks at first, however, if they use a can a spray paint, how's your car going to look when they are done? Check around and see what type of work they do - first - before you let them have your car.


3. Parts may take a while to get there. Don't drop your automobile off until they have all the parts they need to finish the repairs. Otherwise, it may take several weeks before you get your car back.


4. Technology check. With today's technology, they should be able to hook your auto up and know exactly what and how to fix any problem with the damage on your car. Don't let them use putty to fill in the blanks.


5. Be sure they use the best paint. Some of the repair shops will try to slip some nasty paint onto your auto. Check their paint supply to be sure it's going to last on your car. Some of the paint these days will only last a year or so before it starts to wear off.


6. Look for the warranty or guarantee. They should have a good one that will cover any type of work they do on your automobile. It should cover the paint, dents and starches, body work, and labor.

Looking for a collision repair shop is time consuming, but once you find the right one, you'll be glad you chose them. Your car will look like new again and no one will be able to see that any work has been done at all. Also, ask around and get others opinion of the auto body repair shop you choose for your auto. That's the best type of shop to have fix your car.

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