A Consumer's Guide to Quality Collision Repair

An accident is an upsetting experience and collision repair is often complicated and confusing. Ford of Canada has developed this guide to highlight several key points in the collision repair process.

Take a few moments to review the information. Being an informed consumer can help ensure your satisfaction with your vehicle repairs.

THE INSURANCE COMPANY

A crucial part of the collision process is communication between you and your insurance company. One call to your agent will help you better understand the terms, conditions and limitations of your policy. The most important overall fact to remember is that most policies require that your vehicle be returned to "pre-accident condition."

THE COLLISION REPAIR CENTRE

Find a qualified body shop to perform repairs. Your insurance company may suggest collision repair shops, but you have the final say in where your vehicle will be repaired.

Many Ford dealers offer collision repair services or can recommend a local collision repair centre.

THE ESTIMATE

Collision repair estimates can be extremely difficult to understand. Ask your collision repair expert or your insurance company representative to review your estimate, making sure to explain all abbreviations and acronyms.

If your estimate is prepared at a drive-in claim center and you are immediately offered a settlement, you may want to review the estimate with your collision repairer to make sure the settlement amount covers all required repairs.

THE PARTS

Your vehicle will most likely require replacement parts. The exterior sheet metal, glass and plastic components - such as hoods, fenders, doors and bumper components - most frequently replaced after an accident are called "crash parts."

THERE ARE THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF "CRASH PARTS" YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT:

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or Genuine Crash Parts

These are parts made by or for the manufacturer of your vehicle, with equivalent fit, finish, structural integrity, corrosion protection and dent resistance - the basic quality requirements - as well as unsurpassed warranty coverage.

New Aftermarket Crash Parts

These are unauthorized copies of genuine crash parts. While generally cheaper, there are questions about the quality of aftermarket crash parts. There also is evidence that use of new aftermarket crash parts may reduce the re-sale value of your vehicle, and that your vehicle warranties may be affected.

Salvaged Crash Parts

These are crash parts recovered from "totaled" vehicles. Since the parts' origin is unknown (nature of original damage, removal techniques, storage), quality concerns may exist. You should be aware of the sources of salvaged parts, if used on your vehicle.

IMPORTANT

The types of crash parts to be used to repair your vehicle should be clearly listed on your estimate. If you prefer that certain types of parts be used, alert your insurance company representative.

A Few Words About Safety

The integrated electronic, electrical and mechanical systems on today's vehicles are designed to enhance performance and safety. Ford recommends the use of genuine Ford replacement crash parts and glass to restore your vehicle to "pre-accident" condition. Genuine Ford replacement crash parts and glass are the same as those used on your new vehicle, which meet all of the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Only genuine Ford replacement parts should be used for components that interact with vehicle safety systems including repairs to airbags, safety belts and glass, which must be installed according to manufacturers' recommended procedures.

Your Satisfaction

The most important fact to remember as you deal with your collision repair is that you should be totally satisfied before accepting your vehicle. Ford of Canada hopes this information will help you have a positive repair experience and that you are totally satisfied with the repairs to your vehicle.

ACCIDENT REPORT INFORMATION

If you are ever in an accident make sure that you record the appropriate driver and accident information. See our Accident Report form for more information.