What to do when trouble shows up after a collision repair
From a collision repair quality inspector
After you pick up your car, a new rattle, warning message, leak or change in steering needs a look. Do not keep driving if the car may be unsafe. Signs include a problem with braking, steering or visibility, or a safety warning. Arrange a safe way to move the car and tell the repair shop what happened. [1, 2]
Keep notes on the problem
Write down the date, the mileage, the road conditions and exactly when the symptom shows up. Take a photo of any warning light or visible flaw. A short video may catch a noise that comes and goes. Keep the final invoice, repair estimate, scan reports and warranty. Good notes help a technician recreate the problem without guessing what’s causing it. [1, 2]
Ask the shop to inspect and report
Contact the shop soon and ask for an inspection. Ask what it tested, what the results showed and whether its repair warranty covers the issue. If the insurer sent you to this shop or offered a repair guarantee, let the claim handler know as well. Get the shop’s findings and any planned fix in writing. [1, 2]
When the problem won't go away
If the symptom keeps happening or the explanation doesn’t make sense, get a second opinion from someone qualified. Tell the first shop and the insurer before you approve new work somewhere else. The exception is when safety calls for action right away. Keep a record of your calls and costs. [1, 3]
Consumer protection agencies may help with disputes over repair quality. The insurance regulator may take up concerns about how the claim was handled. [1, 3]
Questions for the shop
- Could this make the car unsafe to drive right now?
- What test will find the cause?
- Who pays if the problem is tied to the repair?
Put the symptom in writing
Send the shop a dated note that describes the symptom and asks for an inspection. [1]
Sources and further reading
- 1Federal Trade Commission, repair quality and warranty disputes
- 2California Department of Insurance, auto body repair guidance
- 3Texas Department of Insurance, auto claim complaints
This is general education from a repair quality point of view. A new symptom may have more than one cause. A qualified professional has to decide whether it’s linked to the crash or to the repair.
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