Is your vehicle in need of auto body work? It can be an expensive proposition to get that ride looking good again. Fortunately, depending on the work that is needed, there are ways to lower the cost. Let’s look at a few of the cost-effective ways available to you.

Do-It-Yourself Auto Body Work

Not all auto body work needs to be expensive. When you have small scratches or chips you would like to see gone, you don’t necessarily have to depend on an auto body shop. You can make these small repairs yourself. The car’s paint code is located on the door jamb. Match this code with the color code of touch-up paint. Very fine-grit sandpaper and soapy water will remove the scratch, so you can paint over it with the touch-up paint. Once it is dry to the touch, use a little rubbing compound to blend it into the finish.

You can also replace your own parts. Thanks to the internet, it is possible to find the parts you need and videos on how to install them.  If you have a fender or bumper that needs to be replaced, consider doing it yourself. Making simple replacements yourself can save you big bucks.

Minor Repairs

If you are looking at having a dent fixed, find out if the shop can do a paintless dent repair. Cheaper than traditional auto body work, where the paint needs to be redone, this method repairs the dent without a paint job; the technicians are able to repair the dent leaving the original paint intact. This method, also known as PDR, may save you money with your insurance company, as well. Some insurance companies will waive your deductible if you use PDR. Others may provide a discount.

Know What You Are Paying For

Are you aware that labor rates for mechanical repairs may be different than those of auto body work? Mechanical labor costs are usually higher. Find out what rates you will pay for your auto body work as compared to mechanical work. Make sure you check your repair bill, so you are paying the correct rate for the work you are having performed. Don’t pay more than you should for auto body work.

Shop around, too. Don’t just settle for one place, particularly if it is the place your insurance company recommends. Since the insurance companies negotiate contracts with certain repair businesses, and those rates may be rather cheap, don’t be surprised if the shop takes shortcuts with the repair job. It’s best to shop around to find the best deal with a reputable shop. You may be able to save some money by ordering replacement parts yourself for the shop to use. Ask if this would be a possibility.

At Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., we look for ways to help you save money and live a safer, healthier life. We are the lawyers who care. Specializing in personal injury cases and business litigation, we serve those living in the southwest Florida area. Contact us for your personal injury legal needs. The first consultation is complimentary.