ON TO THE NEXT

NEW NORMAL? NO PROBLEM

If you recall, in last year’s Collision Repair Buyer’s Guide, we had cautioned that the 2020s would see the business of collision repair change beyond recognition. 

Clearly, we were right. 

This year brought far more chaos than anyone could have imagined. Sure, we’d expected the typical fast-paced changes alongside new technologies— but no one could have prepared us for the socially-distanced reality this year had to offer. 

Don’t forget that this is only the beginning. There’s still far more to come, and the shift toward electric-powered and autonomous vehicle repairs could sneak up on you the same way 2020 snuck up on the world—should you have your back turned. 

Canadian automakers have taken leaps and bounds in recent months to ensure that the nation is part of the new wave of automotive electrification. Quebec recently announced plans to cease the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035, while British Columbia plans to only sell zero-emissions vehicles by 2040. 

Electrification is coming—fast. Along with it come a myriad of other expectations: new metals, continued OEM standards, consolidation—heck, the Canadian government has even teased wooden automotive parts. The future is upon us, and it’s time to react. 

Come 2021, your business will face a choice—will you do whatever it takes to stay alive and thriving, or keel to the pressure of the new normal? 

If you’re reading this, you already have your answer. You hold in your hand the very reason to be optimistic about the future of your business. Flip through the information-packed pages of this guide and embark on a path to success and profitability.  

With information drawn from the resources of Collision Repair’s 20 years of publication, the 2021 Buyer’s Guide offers the most comprehensive overview of the top-notch products being used in the most forward-thinking collision repair centres. Moreover, the informed conversations with industry leaders, business owners, technicians packed between these pages⁠— along with our daily eZine coverage and digital content—will guide you toward the right choices for you and your business.  

Whatever the challenge, the 2021 Buyer’s Guide offers your solutions. This is the key to your business’ future—make sure you flip the ignition.

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"Cars in a Professional Collision Repair Workshop with Technicians Expertly Restoring Vehicles to Pre-Collision Glory"

Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

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AN ELECTRIFYING EXPANSION

AN ELECTRIFYING EXPANSION PREPARING FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY FUTURE THIS YEAR, I-CAR AND THE CANADIAN WELDING BUREAU (CWB) HAVE JOINED FORCES TO FURTHER EXPAND WELDING TRAINING

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NOT JUST A HUMBLE HAND TOOL

NOT JUST A HUMBLE HAND TOOL TAKE FUTURE REPAIRS INTO YOUR OWN HANDS HAND TOOLS ARE JUST AS IMPORTANT IN TODAY’S COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY AS

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