After a collision, a professional repair job is key to ensuring your vehicle looks and functions as it did before the accident. But how can you tell if the job was done correctly? Whether it’s your safety or your car’s resale value at stake, spotting shoddy repair work early can save you stress and money down the line. Here are five clear signs your collision repair might not have been up to standard—and what you can do about it.
1. Misaligned Panels or Gaps
One of the easiest ways to spot poor repair work is to inspect the panels of your car. After a proper repair, your vehicle’s panels should align perfectly, with no uneven gaps between the doors, hood, bumper, or trunk. Misaligned panels can indicate improper assembly or that the vehicle’s structure wasn’t restored correctly—a crucial mistake that could affect how your car absorbs impact in an accident.
What to do: Stand a few feet away and observe your car under bright light from different angles. If something doesn’t look quite right, raise your concerns with the repair shop immediately.
2. Uneven or Mismatched Paint
A professional collision repair job should leave your car looking seamless, with paintwork that perfectly matches the rest of the vehicle. If you notice differences in color shading, uneven textures, or overspray (paint on areas it shouldn’t be, like windows or trim), these are red flags.
Why it matters: Beyond aesthetics, mismatched paint can lower the resale value of your car. Plus, it indicates a lack of attention to detail, which might mean there are other overlooked issues.
What to do: Check for a smooth, consistent finish. Walk around the car and inspect it under natural light for color discrepancies. Always ask the repair shop if they used manufacturer-recommended paints.
3. Persistent Mechanical or Safety Issues
If you’ve experienced unusual sounds, vibrations, or trouble steering after the repair, it could point to unresolved mechanical issues. Problems like damaged suspension, improperly installed parts, or misaligned wheels might not be immediately obvious.
Why it matters: Mechanical failures could compromise your safety. For example, if airbags or sensors weren’t replaced correctly, they might not work properly in future accidents.
What to do: Take your vehicle for a drive as soon as you collect it. Test its steering, brakes, and overall stability. If something feels off, take it back to the repair shop right away.
4. Flaws in the Glass Replacement
If the collision involved broken windshields or windows, a poor replacement job can leave signs like uneven sealing, visible air bubbles in the adhesive, or even wind noise while driving. A properly repaired window should sit flush against the vehicle with no leakage or gaps.
Why it matters: Poorly sealed glass can lead to water leaks and future damage from rust. Worse, it could weaken the structural integrity of the car in another collision.
What to do: Check the glass edges and seals carefully. Look for any signs of bubbling, gaps, or excess adhesive.
5. Missing or Loose Parts
Another indicator of subpar repair work is missing or loosely installed parts. Clips, bolts, and screws that secure parts like headlights, bumpers, or trims should all be accounted for. Missing components can cause rattling, reduced performance, or even the parts falling off when you’re on the road.
What to do: Before driving off, inspect all parts of your car, especially areas that were directly impacted in the accident. Gently tug on components to ensure they are securely fastened.
What Should You Do If You Spot Problems?
If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to take action. Speak with the collision repair shop and provide clear evidence of the issue. Reputable shops often offer warranties on their work and will address problems without additional charges. However, if the shop fails to resolve your concerns, you may need to seek a second opinion or file a complaint with your insurance provider.
Your vehicle deserves premium care after an accident. Always choose a trusted repair shop with a strong reputation to avoid these pitfalls and keep your car in top shape. Make the right call today—protect your investment and your peace of mind.