Automotive body repair isn’t exactly the most glamorous job out there, but it has its perks. You don’t have to worry about customers and other typical store-front business problems; you just must fix cars! However, since you’re still in business, it’s important to remember the basics of running any business and avoid some of the common pitfalls that are easy to fall into as an auto body repairman or -woman. Keep these seven tips in mind when starting your own automotive body repair business, and you’ll be on your way to success.
1) Safe environment
A clean, safe environment is an important factor when looking to get automotive body repair. Making sure the shop has a business license, knowing they have workers’ compensation and making sure it’s in a protected neighbourhood can help ensure you’re in good hands. On top of that, it’s always helpful to call up and talk to the technicians who will be working on your car before you commit. By speaking with them about what repairs need to be done and how long it might take, you’ll get a better idea of the expectations, any potential challenges and all that comes with automotive body repair.
2) Tool belt
1. Check customer reviews. Customer reviews are the most telling resource to use when considering which company to choose for automotive body repair services. It is important to consider the quality of work, customer experience and whether you feel comfortable working with a company that rates poorly on any of these points. Most importantly, consider your time – can you afford to wait months or even years on end before you get your car back? It might be worth it in this case to pay a higher fee and make sure you know what you’re getting into from the beginning. 2. Be prepared for delays in service due to high demand and book ahead if possible. This may seem like common sense, but it’s easy to forget about the potential waiting times when dealing with cars!
3) Jack and lug wrench
The following tips are meant to help you understand the process and equipment involved in automotive body repair. The first step of repair is removing any remaining rubber or trim, then undoing screws holding metal panels and gently prying these off. For more serious damage, you’ll need a jack to raise the car high enough so that you can use a large metal tool (usually called a lug wrench) on the wheel nuts until they release. Once you’ve removed one wheel, release pressure from the jack and switch the lug wrench to that wheel’s opposite side. Now remove all wheels one by one and flip them upside down so they don’t get dirty while they wait their turn at being worked on.
4) Hammer
When it comes to an auto body repair, you might be thinking about a windshield repair or hail damage. But the truth is that there are many things that can happen to your car in a day-to-day situation. Maybe you hit something, maybe someone was at fault, or maybe an animal ran out onto the road and into your car. For these situations and many more, you need someone who knows how to automotive body repair properly. Here are seven essential tips for automotive body repair: 1) Prepare your tools: Having the right tools will help you prepare your project before doing any heavy lifting (or, if needed) get in touch with a tow truck. 2) Look under the hood: Often people forget to check underneath the vehicle.
5) Torque wrench
A torque wrench is one of the most valuable tools an automotive body technician can own. Torque wrenches measure the amount of torque or rotational force applied to bolts and screws. They should be calibrated regularly to ensure accurate readings, so it’s best to invest in a top-quality, durable wrench. An inexpensive model may break or slip off during use, which could lead to injury. Here are seven essential tips for automotive body repair
6) Dolly (if needed)
So, you’re ready to start your own auto body repair shop, but don’t know how to go about it? Have no fear – all you need is a little guidance.
For those looking to get into the business of fixing cars, there are a few steps to keep in mind:
– Market research: Find out what problems your potential customers have and use this information when marketing the services, you offer. Marketing typically doesn’t just involve advertising, but also attending community events and talking with prospective customers about their needs.
– Job postings: If you have an apprentice willing and able to learn more about the business then hiring is your next step! Most states require that a licensed individual be responsible for any automotive body repairs onsite.
7) Sandpaper
The first step in automotive body repair is to sand the damaged area. This smoothest out the damaged paint and provides a workable surface. You should always use wet sandpaper, not dry as it can damage your paint. For any nicks or minor scratches, a fine-grit sandpaper will suffice. However, you’ll need coarser grits of sandpaper for more significant dents and scratches to make sure you don’t worsen the damage.
Conclusion
The car is such a pivotal fixture in American society, and as with any other entity that has existed for decades, it’s seen both ups and downs. However, even despite all the changes and advancements, what remains constant is the fact that car owners need to know how to automotive body repair; this knowledge goes well beyond your standard know-how of engine maintenance. Here are seven essential tips to follow when performing automotive body repair.