Choosing an independent shop or a dealership can have a significant impact on collision repair. Both places can be helpful, but they address different demands according to your preferences. Below, we discuss the key differences between the two. When you need auto body repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works. Dealership Repairs Dealerships typically offer specialist services, especially if your vehicle is still under warranty or is a recent model. Technicians have deeper expertise with specific brands and models because the manufacturer usually teaches them. This implies that they will most likely use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, which are replicas of the parts originally included with your vehicle. OEM parts can ensure a precise fit and prolong the life of your warranty. However, dealerships are more expensive. Dealership labor costs are usually higher than independent enterprises, and OEM parts are generally more expensive than aftermarket alternatives. Furthermore, dealerships have greater overhead costs, which could raise the overall cost of repairs. Because dealerships frequently have a lot of customers, if they are overburdened with servicing requests, repairs may take longer. Independent Shops Prices for independent collision repair companies are usually lower. We can use aftermarket parts at Autocraft & Body Works, which are available for a significantly lower price than OEM parts. Independent businesses are a great option if you're seeking low-cost repairs or if your car is older and no longer covered by warranty. The flexibility and personalized attention of independent shops appeal to a lot of drivers. Independent mechanics can suggest a wider variety of repair options because they aren't connected to any certain manufacturer. Additionally, independent businesses frequently have shorter wait times than dealerships because they serve fewer customers. Which to Choose? When choosing between a dealership and an independent shop, your car's age, warranty status, and financial standing are the deciding factors. Older cars, especially those still covered under warranty, may be worth the price because of the OEM parts and dealership expertise. However, for older vehicles or when reducing repair expenses is a top concern, an independent shop could offer better value without sacrificing quality. Collision Repair in Yakima, WA At Autocraft Paint and Body Works, we’ve been fixing dents, removing scratches, and restoring vehicles to their pre-accident condition for more than 70 years. To learn more about our local auto body shop, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 404-0988 . We’d be more than happy to offer a free estimate for the cost of body repair in Yakima or answer any questions you may have about the repair process.

In addition to making your car look attractive, its paint protects it from rust. On the other hand, the elements can erode the protective layer from the outside of your car and cause damage. Below, we discuss how different weather conditions impact body paint. When you need automotive paint repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works . Sun and Heat Damage Long-term exposure to UV rays can cause your car's paint to corrode and become discolored, giving it a brittle, dreary appearance. Heat, especially from the sun, can eventually cause paint to dry up and crack. Whenever possible, park in shady places or use a car cover. Paint can also be shielded from sun damage by applying a ceramic coating or a UV resistant wax. Rain and Humidity Rain may seem innocuous, but over time, the contaminants and acids it contains can erode paint. Furthermore, when paint has been damaged or scraped, moisture buildup caused by high humidity can promote rust and corrosion. Use a sealer to keep moisture out and clean your car frequently to get rid of grime. Fix any chips or scratches as soon as you can to prevent rust. Wind and Debris The wind can carry dust, sand, and other small particles that can scratch and chip your paint. These minor imperfections may not seem like much at first, but if left unattended, they can worsen over time. Keeping your vehicle clean and waxed can lessen damage caused by flying debris. Scratches can also be avoided by wearing a transparent bra or applying paint protective film. Snow and Ice Winter weather brings road salt, snow, and ice, all of which can significantly harm your paint job. Salt can speed up rust growth and degrade the clear coat, making your paint more susceptible to damage. After your car has been exposed to snow and salt, give it a thorough rinse to remove any remaining residue. Before winter approaches, apply a layer of wax to provide an extra layer of protection. Automotive Paint Repair in Yakima, WA At Autocraft Paint & Bodyworks, our shop offers custom auto painting and factory auto painting services. We also conduct computerized color-matched auto painting to blend repaired areas with those unaffected by an accident seamlessly. Our facility is equipped with one 57-foot downdraft paint booth, allowing us to paint large vehicles, as well as two 27-foot downdraft paint booths for smaller cars, vans, SUVs, and trucks. These modern additions to our shop allow for high-quality painting that ensures your vehicle’s finish turns out perfectly. To request an estimate for the cost of car painting in Yakima, please give our team a call at (509) 404-0988.

Bus collisions, whether minor or severe, can lead to a variety of damages that require prompt and effective repair. Addressing these damages efficiently is key to maintaining the safety, functionality, and appearance of the vehicle, while also minimizing downtime for fleet operations. Below, we discuss some of the most common types of bus collision damages and how to address them effectively. When you have a bus or other heavy-duty vehicle that needs collision repairs in Yakima, WA, or the surrounding areas, visit Autocraft Paint & Body Works . Body Panel Damage One of the most frequent issues in bus collisions is body panel damage, such as dents, scrapes, or large cracks. These damages affect the vehicle's appearance and can lead to rust and structural issues if left unaddressed. The repair process typically involves removing dents using specialized tools, sanding down scrapes, and replacing or welding damaged panels when necessary. Advanced techniques like paintless dent repair (PDR) can also speed up the process while preserving the original paint. Window and Windshield Cracks Broken or cracked windows and windshields are another common outcome of bus accidents. Windshields are vital to the structural integrity of the bus, so even minor cracks should be repaired quickly. Depending on the size and location of the damage, repairs may involve filling cracks with resin or completely replacing the glass. Frame Damage In more severe collisions, the bus frame can sustain damage, which can impact the vehicle's alignment, handling, and overall safety. Addressing frame damage requires precision. A repair shop will typically use computerized measuring systems to identify misalignments and employ hydraulic equipment to restore the frame to its original specifications. Proper frame repair is critical, as even small deviations can lead to long-term performance issues or safety risks. Suspension and Steering Issues Collisions often affect the bus’s suspension and steering systems, particularly in side or front-end impacts. Damaged suspension components can cause poor handling while steering issues pose a significant safety risk. Suspension and steering repairs involve inspecting and replacing damaged parts such as control arms, tie rods, and shocks. Realigning the wheels is also a crucial part of ensuring the bus drives smoothly and safely post-repair. Bus Collison Repair in Yakima, WA Our facility services all buses and shuttles. If you need collision repair for a city bus, school bus, shuttle bus, airport bus, hotel bus, party bus, or other type of bus, our team can handle the job. From dings and dents to bus reconstruction, we do it all. Give Autocraft Paint & Body Works a call at (509) 404-0988 to request an estimate for the cost of bus body repair in Yakima.

It can be dangerous and stressful to drive with a damaged windshield. Find out how to safely handle a cracked windshield and prevent more damage below. When you need auto glass repair in Yakima, WA, or the surrounding areas, visit Autocraft Paint & Body Works . Stay Calm and Assess the Situation When driving when your windshield cracks, remain calm and in charge of your car. Determine the crack's severity as soon as possible. If the crack is small and doesn't interfere with your vision, you can drive to a secure area. However, pull over as soon as it's safe to do so if the crack is large enough to impair your vision. Find a Safe Place to Pull Over Find a secure spot to pull over. When you have a problem, let other drivers know by using your hazard lights. Steer clear of stopping in places with lots of traffic or low visibility. A parking lot or rest area is ideal if available. Drive Cautiously Drive carefully if your windshield is cracked. Steer clear of potholes and bumpy roadways since they may exacerbate the crack. To lessen the chance that debris will strike your windshield and cause additional damage, maintain a safe distance from other cars. Inspect the Damage Examine the fracture from the inside and outside of the windshield after you've stopped. It's best to avoid driving farther if the crack is large or has adversely affected your visibility. Driving with a severely broken windshield can be dangerous since it could shatter completely. Contact a Professional Regardless of how small the crack is, it needs to be professionally evaluated and fixed as soon as possible. To explore your choices, get in touch with a local auto glass repair company. At Autocraft Paint & Body Works, we can restore your glass to its original condition. Windshield Repair in Yakima, WA If your auto glass has been damaged, whether it’s a small chip or something more serious, bring it to a reputable shop as soon as possible. At Autocraft Paint & Body Works , our Yakima collision repair shop will have you back on the road ASAP in a safe and pristine-looking vehicle. To learn more about our local auto body shop, which has been serving the Yakima Valley for more than 70 years, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 404-0988 . We’d be more than happy to offer a free estimate for the cost of auto glass repair in Yakima or answer any questions you may have about the repair process.

In Yakima, traffic congestion, weather conditions, and road quality all contribute to the demand for auto body repairs. Understanding the most common types of auto body repairs will help you be better prepared to handle problems when they arise. Here are some of the most common vehicle body repairs we offer. When you need auto body repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works. Dent and Ding Repairs Dents and dings are some of the most frequent auto body issues in Yakima. They are mostly caused by minor accidents, hailstorms, or even parking lot disasters. Paintless dent repair (PDR) is a common technique for repairing minor dents without damaging the vehicle's original paint. Bumper Repairs Bumper damage is another common repair need. Given the intense traffic and the possibility of rear-end crashes, bumpers frequently carry the brunt of the damage. Repairing or replacing a bumper involves removing cracks, scratches, or dents while also ensuring that the vehicle's safety features remain intact. Collision Damage Repair Collisions aren’t rare in Yakima. Collision damage can range from simple fender benders to more serious crashes that compromise the vehicle's structure. Repairing accident damage usually entails straightening the frame, replacing damaged pieces, and restoring the vehicle's appearance and safety characteristics. Paint Repairs Sun exposure and road debris often result in scratches, chipping, and faded paint. Our auto body shop offers paint repair services, such as color matching and refinishing, to restore the vehicle's original appearance. Proper paint repairs also help to protect the car from rust and other damage. Glass Repairs and Replacement Windshields and windows frequently break or chip. Damaged auto glass, whether caused by flying debris, accidents, or vandalism, requires urgent attention. Repairing small chips and cracks can keep them from spreading, but more serious damage usually requires glass replacement. Auto Body Repair in Yakima, WA At Autocraft Paint and Body Works, we’ve been fixing dents, removing scratches, and restoring vehicles to their pre-accident condition for more than 70 years. To learn more about our local auto body shop, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 404-0988 . We’d be more than happy to offer a free estimate for the cost of body repair in Yakima or answer any questions you may have about the repair process.

To prevent injuries that could harm you or your vehicle, bumpers are essential. Damage, however, may reduce their efficacy and cause problems in the future. Below, we discuss the reasons it's critical to fix bumper damage as soon as possible. When you need bumper repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works . Common Types of Bumper Damage Bumper damage can happen from minor fender benders to catastrophic crashes. Impacts from road debris, scrapes against objects, rear-end collisions, and parking accidents are common causes. In congested parking lots or tight spaces, it's easy for other cars or fixed objects, such as poles or barricades, to collide with your bumper, causing dents, cracks, or scrapes. Unmaintained roads put your car at risk of bumper damage from things like potholes, trash, and uneven surfaces. The Risks of Bumper Damage When a bumper fractures, its structural integrity is compromised and its capacity to absorb force during a collision is reduced. As a result, you and your passengers are more likely to sustain injuries in an accident. Furthermore, a damaged bumper raises the possibility of corrosion and other damage by letting moisture and debris into the components underneath. The Importance of Repairing Damage Your car needs to be repaired right away to ensure its structural integrity. Even with minor damage, safety features like crumple zones and airbags can stop working. When damage is repaired, your car's market value and beauty remain intact. Unappealing cracks, dents, or scratches will make your vehicle appear less appealing and turn off potential buyers. Bumper Repair in Yakima, WA In some cases, replacing a body part is quicker and more cost-effective than trying to repair any damage it has acquired. At Autocraft Paint & Bodyworks, our team uses quality OEM parts when we need to conduct any body panel replacement, including bumper repair, grille repair, car door replacement, fender replacement, quarter panel replacement hood replacement, or trunk lid replacement. Call us at (509) 404-0988 for expert bumper repair in Yakima and the surrounding areas.

It can be challenging to deal with the aftermath of an accident, particularly when deciding how to proceed with repairs and assessing the damage to your car. How long you can wait to start repairs is an important question among the tension and uncertainty. We go over the factors to consider below when determining when repairs should be made. When you need collision repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works . Time Limits With Insurance Insurance policies typically provide a time limit within which repairs must start or be completed for coverage to begin. Delaying repairs after the allotted period may jeopardize your claim, even if these deadlines differ depending on your insurance company and the specifics of your policy. As soon as you can, you should notify your insurance provider of the accident and find out whether there are any time limits or requirements before beginning repairs. Take Action Before Body Damage Gets Worse Any accident-related damage might deteriorate over time and possibly lead to structural problems that jeopardize the safety of your car. A small scratch or dent may gradually rust or corrode, causing serious harm to other parts of the body. In addition, if you don't replace damaged body panels, your car's aerodynamics will suffer, which will lower performance and fuel economy. Where Should You Get Your Car Repaired? You can choose any car body shop you like, but before you do, take into account these things. Choose a reputable business that employs trained specialists who have worked on the make and model of your car before. Take into account the shop's location, operating hours, and any additional services offered, such as towing or car rentals. Ask about the warranty on repairs and whether the shop works directly with your insurance provider to expedite the claims process. Autocraft Paint & Body Works reduces your out-of-pocket costs and works directly with your insurance provider to make the process as smooth as possible. Collision Repair in Yakima, WA At Autocraft Paint and Body Works, we’ve been fixing dents, removing scratches, and restoring vehicles to their pre-accident condition for more than 70 years. To learn more about our local auto body shop, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 404-0988 . We’d be more than happy to offer a free estimate for the cost of body repair in Yakima or answer any questions you may have about the repair process. 

A sleek, glossy paint job can make any vehicle look like a work of art. However, even the brightest paint colors can fade over time, making your vehicle appear dull. We look at the most common reasons for vehicle paint fading and how to prevent it below. When you need automotive paint repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works . Why Does Paint Fade? Paint fading is primarily caused by exposure to the weather. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) light is a major culprit since it can destroy the paint's chemical structure, causing it to lose luster. Pollutants, bird droppings, and extreme weather conditions can all cause the paint to fade with time. Inadequate protection and maintenance, such as sporadic washing and waxing, can accelerate the fading process. How to Treat Faded Paint Professional paint services are an excellent approach to repairing damaged paint and returning your vehicle's exterior to its former state. These treatments use specific techniques, such as paint correction, which is a laborious process of removing surface flaws, swirl marks, and oxidation. Autocraft Paint & Bodyworks’ skilled detailers revitalize and boost the sheen of the paint with high-quality polishing solutions, buffing machines, and expert knowledge. How to Prevent Paint Fading To avoid fading, park your vehicle in shaded areas or use a car cover to protect it from the sun's harmful UV rays. Wash your vehicle regularly to remove pollutants, bird droppings, and other contaminants that can cause the paint to deteriorate faster. Applying high-quality auto wax forms a protective covering that shields the paint from environmental damage. UV-resistant and ceramic coatings help prevent fading. Automotive Paint Repair in Yakima, WA At Autocraft Paint & Bodyworks, our shop offers custom auto painting and factory auto painting services. We also conduct computerized color-matched auto painting to blend repaired areas with those unaffected by an accident seamlessly. Our facility is equipped with one 57-foot downdraft paint booth, allowing us to paint large vehicles, as well as two 27-foot downdraft paint booths for smaller cars, vans, SUVs, and trucks. These modern additions to our shop allow for high-quality painting that ensures your vehicle’s finish turns out perfectly. To request an estimate for the cost of car painting in Yakima, please give our team a call at (509) 404-0988.

Ever had a fender-bender and wondered about the extent of the damage to your vehicle? It's a common dilemma – is it just a scratch on the surface, or is there more going on beneath? We discuss the main differences between structural and cosmetic issues below. When you need auto body repair in Yakima, WA, call Autocraft Paint & Body Works. What is Cosmetic Damage?  Cosmetic damage typically refers to surface-level issues that don't affect the structural integrity of the car. Things like scratches, dents, or minor paint chips – the kind of imperfections that don't impact how your vehicle drives but may bother you aesthetically. While cosmetic damage can be unsightly and diminish the overall appearance, it's often less critical in terms of safety and functionality. So, if you've got a ding in the door or a scrape on the bumper, it's likely cosmetic. What is Structural Damage? Structural damage to your vehicle is not often visible, but it is necessary for maintaining its overall integrity and safety. Unlike cosmetic faults, structural damage affects the frame and essential components that contribute to your vehicle's structural strength. This can include chassis and frame damage, as well as front or rear-end damage. If the impact is severe enough, certain parts, such as the engine, alternator, or transmission, may sustain mechanical damage. Identifying structural damage is crucial since it can have a significant impact on your vehicle's performance, safety features, and even its resale value. Collision Repair in Yakima, WA At Autocraft Paint and Body Works, we’ve been fixing dents, removing scratches, and restoring vehicles to their pre-accident condition for more than 70 years. To learn more about our local auto body shop, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (509) 404-0988. We’d be more than happy to offer a free estimate for the cost of body repair in Yakima or answer any questions you may have about the repair process.