Auto Body Repair – The use of aluminum panels for automotive applications is nothing new. Hoods and hoods have been made of aluminum for years. Replacing steel parts with aluminum helps reduce weight levels, which can help build vehicles for a certain emission class.
In fact, many luxury cars, including Jaguar, Range Rover, Ashton Martin and Audi, now use almost exclusively aluminum parts. In the past, cars were made more exclusively of steel. It is a good choice for creating a robust car, but modern design can create lightweight, impact-resistant solutions from other materials that are just as safe and weigh much less.
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The Ford F-150 is perhaps the most famous vehicle to pioneer the use of bulky aluminum parts. Although there is still a steel frame inside that gives the vehicle a solid internal structure, aluminum parts now make up the majority of the vehicle. The lighter weight due to the replacement of steel also leads to better fuel consumption for such a large vehicle. This is one of the main reasons why aluminum is now preferred.
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Aluminum collision repair is quite different than steel collision repair. Steel has a “metallic memory”, which means that it can be easily returned to its original structure. Aluminum is more pliable and dent repair requires special tools. The aluminum dent pull station is now a standard resource for auto body shops performing aluminum repairs.
Aluminum also reacts differently to heat. This means that workshops that have traditionally worked with steel will have to adapt their methods. Too much heat can compromise the integrity of the aluminum. Because of this action, many vehicles with large aluminum components use alternative methods of joining parts in addition to welding. For example, the Ford F150 has many aluminum parts connected by rivets and special adhesives. This replaces welding in initial construction and of course in repairs.
Body shops must be able to carry out these types of repairs. Those experienced in welding on steel vehicles cannot simply apply the same techniques and tools to aluminum components. Improper welding of aluminum can even become a safety concern, as the metal can begin to disintegrate after welding at temperatures that are too high. Panels can even shrink at high temperatures. Technicians must also be sure not to accidentally melt the adhesive connections while welding other parts of the vehicle.
Why is aluminum so popular? The government continues to impose stricter requirements on the fuel consumption of cars. It’s all about weight, so lightweight materials will become more and more common. Although the repair may be more complicated, the cost of fuel savings far outweighs the cost of the repairs.
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Most new vehicle models, including the Ford F150, contain mostly aluminum components. Auto repair shops need to invest in tools and training to repair them properly. However, it appears that the trend of using aluminum will continue for quite some time. There are even training courses to become certified to work in aluminum body repairs. Such certifications will help the auto shop stay current and provide high-quality repairs.
If you’re in Portland, Oregon or the Southwest Washington area and need auto body repair services, visit one of our eight locations to get your car fixed right the first time. Mackin’s Auto Body specializes in aluminum body repair and many other types, makes and models of vehicles.
Chris Roberts is Director of Operations at Mackin’s Auto Body, a position he has held since 2018. With a career in collision repair that began in 1999, Chris brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the role. Prior to his current position, he served as Assistant Manager of Operations at Mackin’s Auto Body from 2013 to 2017. Chris graduated from Northwest Nazarene University. When he’s not making sure everything runs smoothly at Mackin’s, you can find him skiing the snowy slopes, surfing on sunny days, or cheering on his daughter at her soccer games.
If you’ve never been in an accident involving an insurance claim, the process can seem daunting. But breaking it down into manageable steps makes the whole thing seem more doable. It is important to focus on immediate tasks after a car accident….
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Finding a scratch on your car’s paint is frustrating, especially if it’s in a visible place. But these scratches aren’t just an eyesore. Even a small scratch on a car’s paint can cause further damage as deeper layers of paint or metal are exposed to the elements. this is…
Teslas are incredibly unique cars. This is one of the many reasons why they are so popular with drivers who can afford them. From the long-range electric battery and sleek design to innovative technology integration, there are many reasons why you love driving a Tesla. …The auto body repair process in and around Seattle, Auburn, Bonney Lake and Centralia, Washington can be confusing if you are not familiar with collision repair. You probably envision a team of perfectly dressed, talented technicians working hard to restore your car or other vehicle to its former glory. And if so, you wouldn’t be far off. But the auto body repair process involves much more than just that. We’ve raised the bar for auto body and auto body repair at all 4 (four) Collision 1 Puget Sound locations, including our convenient Seattle auto body repair center.
If you are involved in a car accident, it pays to know about the body repair process. Not only will this knowledge allow you to get a handle on the potential cost and timeline of the collision repair process, but it will also help you set realistic expectations for auto body repair.
Thousands of traffic accidents occur in Seattle each year. Hopefully you’ll never be involved in one. But if you are, here’s what to expect.
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Immediately after an accident, it is important to assess the damage to your car. Photograph the actual scene for documentation and filing the case if you intend to do so. If you are seriously injured, first call an ambulance and the police for help. If the accident occurred outside of the Seattle city limits, contact the appropriate local authorities. You can also use the Washington State Patrol’s “Online Motor Vehicle Collision Reporting” page for a collision that occurred anywhere in Washington.
Give an impartial accident report to your insurance company and the police. Note that both Seattle and other Puget Sound areas have distracted driving laws. Be honest and say if you have been on the phone while driving. This will prevent further complications with the authorities.
Remember to exchange contact information with the other driver involved in the accident. Ask about their insurance policy and how you can reach them for repairs. This part is crucial when it comes to covering the cost of collision repair. If the other driver claims they don’t have insurance, seek help from the appropriate legal authorities, as Washington requires all drivers to have auto insurance.
You will need to take your car to a reliable auto body shop in Seattle or one closer to get an accurate repair quote. Note: When searching, it may be better to search for “auto body shop location” instead of “auto body shop near me”. While you can easily send any pictures of Collision 1 Auto Body Shop or consult over the phone, taking your car to the shop will give you a more thorough and accurate estimate.
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For example, our Seattle collision repair center will have one or more collision repairs, and body technicians will perform a visual inspection of your vehicle to assess the level of damage, including interior damage, and assess which parts need to be replaced . Remember that the first assessment will usually only include visible damage. Once the technicians get under the exterior of your car, they will most likely find even more damage, which can lead to additional repair costs.
Most auto body shops in the Seattle area, including Collision 1, will use computer software to create estimates and submit them to your insurance company. You will also receive a copy of the repair estimate so that you can compare it with quotes from other service centers.
A quick word when it comes to choosing which quote to go with. The cheapest option is rarely the best option. Always choose the company that offers the most thorough offer and that you trust the most.
A few words about the repair and write-off of your vehicle. When it comes to insurance claims, remember that the depreciated value of your vehicle will be taken into account. The older he is, the lower the payment. Your insurance company assumes that due to its age, some parts of your car are subject to wear and tear. This means that it is almost always better to repair the vehicle than to scrap it.
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Finally, if you are dealing with the other driver, liability will be determined based on fault as determined by Washington