Auto Body Assistance: 4 Tips For Saving Money

Tony Mers • September 6, 2018
auto body repair services

There are approximately 6 million car accidents every year across the United States. Some of these crashes are minor, but some can be absolutely devastating. Approximately 72% of vehicle incidents, however, result in property damage of some kind. And that's where auto body repair services enter the picture.


There are plenty of auto body shops across the country that provide top-of-the-line collision repair, but some can be quite expensive. Here are some great tips for saving a few bucks when you’re in need of auto body repair services:



  • Make sure the shop is ASE certified -- The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the major certifying body for automobile mechanics in the United States. It's important to bring your damaged vehicle to an ASE certified shop so you know you're getting quality service and aren't being ripped off.

  • Visit or call before you get work done -- Not enough people visit or call a repair shop before actually dropping off their car. Swing by the shop and take a look at some of the vehicles on the lot to see if they are in good condition. The shop will likely be extremely welcoming and you'll be able to talk to the staff about their expertise.

  • Get estimates -- It's best to shop around a little bit and get a few estimates in order to find the best deals. The best way to save money when dealing with auto maintenance is to not spend a fortune at the shop itself, so do a little research beforehand and find out how much you're going to have to pay.

  • Get a code reader of your own -- If you have your own vehicle code reader, you can perform your own diagnostics and save a significant amount of money. Whenever a light goes up on your dashboard, there is an on-board diagnostics code associated with it. You can purchase an automotive code reading device to help you understand what is wrong with your vehicle, and whether or not you need immediate repairs.


If you want to learn more about finding legitimate auto body repair serviceshere in Chicago, give River North Collision Repair a call today. We'll help you repair your vehicle without bankrupting you in the process.

A person wearing white gloves polishing the front of a dark car with a yellow rotary buffer beside i
October 21, 2026
Ignoring a car dent can lead to rust, paint damage, and costly repairs over time. Protect your vehicle's value and appearance with timely dent repair.
A black car with illuminated rear lights parked indoors beside another black car on a wet shop floor
October 13, 2026
Car bumper damage can result from collisions, parking accidents, and harsh weather. Learn the common causes and when you need professional repairs.
A person wearing a respirator spraying paint on a masked vehicle inside a work bay with tools mounte
By River North Collision Repair • September 24, 2026
Can a body shop match original factory paint? Find out how professional paint matching and blending help create a smooth, consistent vehicle finish.
A woman wearing sunglasses and a patterned scarf leaning against a black car inside an auto service
By River North Collision Repair • September 17, 2026
Spot common signs of pothole damage, from tire problems to dents, vibrations, and uneven wear. Know when your car may need professional repairs.
A black SUV with open doors parked inside an auto service bay with hoses, bins, other cars, and over
September 15, 2026
Looking to repair or replace your car? Before deciding which option works for you, consider repair costs, your vehicle's value, the damage, and safety.
A person wearing gloves using a polisher on a gray car panel with yellow tape along the window edges
September 3, 2026
Car paint damage from accidents, vandalism, or weather may qualify for insurance coverage. Learn what factors can affect your claim and repair costs.
August 27, 2026
Foggy headlights can reduce visibility and affect your vehicle’s appearance. Find out what causes cloudy lenses and how professional repair can restore clarity.
Auto Body Shop vs Dealership: Cost, Quality, and Time
August 25, 2026
Compare an auto body shop vs. a dealership for cost, repair quality, and turnaround time to choose the right collision repair option for your vehicle.
A woman holding up a key fob in front of a black car that is parked indoors, with the front grille
August 24, 2026
Protect your car from door dings with nine practical parking tips that help prevent dents, preserve your vehicle's appearance, and reduce repair costs.