Fact: You Have the Right to Choose Any Repair Shop

Many people believe they must take their car to an insurance-preferred repair shop, but this isn’t true. Insurance companies have a network of preferred shops, but you are not required to use them.



Choosing your own trusted repair shop ensures you get quality service, proper parts, and expert craftsmanship rather than repairs based solely on cost-saving measures. Always go with a shop that prioritizes your safety and vehicle integrity over cutting corners.

Fact: Even Small Dents and Scratches Can Cause Hidden Problems

A small dent or scratch may seem purely cosmetic, but it can hide structural damage beneath the surface. Issues like misaligned frames, weakened panels, and compromised airbags might not be immediately visible but can affect your vehicle’s safety and performance over time.



Additionally, minor damage exposes metal surfaces to moisture, which can lead to rust and corrosion. Getting even small damages checked and repaired promptly helps maintain your vehicle’s long-term value and safety.

Fact: Professional Collision Repair Can Restore a Car to Pre-Accident Condition

A properly repaired vehicle should drive, look, and perform exactly as it did before the accident. Advanced collision repair techniques, computerized frame straightening, and high-quality paint matching ensure that your vehicle is returned to its original factory specifications.



At Ray’s Automotive, we use OEM-approved parts and advanced repair methods to restore your car’s safety features, alignment, and finish, ensuring that it’s just as reliable as before.

Fact: Modern Paint Matching and Repair Technology Make Repairs Seamless

Many drivers worry that repaired areas will stand out or that the paint won’t match the original color. However, collision repair shops use advanced digital paint-matching technology to seamlessly blend the new paint with the existing finish.



At Ray’s Automotive, we use high-tech color-matching systems to ensure that the paintwork looks flawless, making it impossible to tell where the repairs were done.

Fact: High-Quality Aftermarket Parts Can Perform Just as Well as OEM Parts

While OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are built to match the exact specifications of your vehicle, some aftermarket parts meet or even exceed OEM quality standards.



Reputable collision repair shops will discuss your options and ensure that any aftermarket parts used are certified and meet safety standards. In many cases, the differences are minimal, and using high-quality aftermarket parts can save you money without sacrificing durability or performance.

Fact: Independent Repair Shops Can Offer the Same (or Better) Quality Service

Many people assume that only dealerships can properly repair their vehicles. However, independent auto body shops often have more experience, advanced technology, and personalized customer service compared to dealerships.



Certified auto repair shops like Ray’s Automotive follow manufacturer guidelines, use top-tier materials, and employ expert technicians who specialize in restoring your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

Fact: Coverage Depends on Your Policy and Deductible

Many drivers assume that their insurance will cover 100% of collision repair costs, but this depends on your specific policy, deductible, and coverage limits.

Some insurance policies only cover certain types of damage, while others require you to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in. It’s always best to review your policy and speak with your insurance provider to understand what is and isn’t covered.



At Ray’s Automotive, we work directly with insurance companies to ensure fair coverage and help streamline the claims process for you.

Fact: "Totaled" Means the Repair Costs Exceed the Car’s Value

When an insurance company declares a vehicle totaled, it doesn’t necessarily mean the car is beyond repair. Instead, it means that the cost of repairs is higher than the car's market value.

If you want to keep and repair your totaled car, you may have options, such as buying it back from the insurance company and working with a collision repair shop to get it roadworthy again.



At Ray’s Automotive, we can help you assess whether repairing a totaled car is worth it based on the damage, potential costs, and your personal needs.

Fact: Turnaround Time Depends on the Damage and Shop Efficiency

Many people worry that collision repairs take weeks or even months. While extensive damage may require more time, most repairs can be completed in a few days depending on the shop’s workload, parts availability, and the complexity of the repair.



At Ray’s Automotive, we prioritize efficiency without compromising quality, providing realistic timelines and frequent updates so you always know the status of your vehicle.

Fact: Quality Should Always Be Prioritized Over Price

It’s tempting to choose the cheapest repair shop, but low-cost repairs can mean cutting corners, using poor-quality parts, or skipping crucial safety checks.



Instead of focusing solely on price, consider:

At Ray’s Automotive, we offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality, ensuring that your vehicle is repaired correctly and safely.

There are many myths about collision repair, but being informed helps you make better decisions about your vehicle’s repairs. Always choose a trusted, certified repair shop that uses high-quality parts, advanced repair techniques, and provides transparent pricing. At Ray’s Automotive, we’re committed to providing top-tier collision repair services that restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition while ensuring your safety and satisfaction. Contact us today for an estimate, and let our skilled technicians take care of your vehicle!