Why do auto repair shops ask for VIN number?

Because the VIN tells us so much about the car, it’s useful for planning repairs and ordering the right replacement parts. The body shop keeps track of the vehicles that it works on in case the owner or technician need to know what work has been done in the past.

Should I provide my VIN number?

That being said, it is perfectly safe to give out your VIN. It’s in (essentially) plain sight, just like your license plate. We at Instamotor would argue in favor of sharing your VIN when trying to sell your car, so a buyer can look at the history and know what they are getting into.

What do you do when a body shop rips you off?

The Coalition Against Insurance Fraud provides the following tips:

• Rely on a repair shop’s reputation.
• Inspect the shop.
• Get a written estimate and require that the body shop get your permission before the repair bill passes a certain amount.
• Ask to see the repairs.
• Be sure to ask for an itemized receipt.

Are body shop estimates accurate?

Although very accurate in most cases, there can be some variance in what the final cost will be to receive the car. When completing an estimate the collision repair technician won’t be disassembling the vehicle but will be basing their estimate based off visible damages.

Do dealerships charge for recalls?

If your car has a recall for a safety issue, dealers are supposed to fix it for free of charge – but not always! It turns out there are some reasons they may refuse. If your car has a recall for a safety issue, dealers are supposed to fix it free of charge. It’s a federal law.

Why would someone want a VIN number?

When Do You Need a Vehicle’s VIN Number? A vehicle’s VIN number is needed when insuring the vehicle, during manufacturer recalls, and when making claims for warranty service. Another time the VIN number is useful is when you buy or sell a used vehicle.

Is VIN personal information?

VINs are considered personal information. The best way to look at it is to treat your car’s VIN number like a Social Security number. However, if your name (like registration and insurance) is tied to the VIN, then it’s possible that another person could trace you.

Can a body shop hold my car?

If you signed a “service agreement”, then the shop can keep your car until the repair is finished, even if you wish to terminate the agreement. If the shop accomplished the repairs, and you haven’t paid the bill yet, they can keep the vehicle until you pay the repair bill.

What must be written on a teardown estimate?

The Teardown Estimate A teardown estimate must note the following: The price of the teardown, including the price of reassembling the car or truck, and the price of replacing gaskets, seals, and other parts destroyed in the teardown process. The maximum time it will take the shop to reassemble the car or truck.

How do I get a body shop estimate?

5 Steps to Get a Body Shop Estimate

1. Communicate with your insurance agency. Depending on your policy, you may be required to provide certain documentation to your insurance agent when you hire a body shop to repair your car.
2. Compile a list.
3. Ask the right questions.
4. Weigh your options and choose a shop.
5. Wait patiently.