Was Collision Repair Done Properly? Exeter Specialists Explain What To Check
Exeter, United States - November 26, 2025 / Auto Collision Center of Exeter /
Exeter, NH – When your vehicle returns from the body shop, a flawless paint job might conceal deeper issues. Auto Collision Center of Exeter, a trusted provider of collision repair in Exeter, NH, explains how vehicle owners can confirm their repairs were done correctly. From structural integrity to advanced system recalibration, these inspection points ensure your safety on the road.
Why Post-Repair Inspection Matters
Not all collision repairs are created equal. While a vehicle may look perfect externally, critical steps such as frame straightening, sensor calibration, or system diagnostics may have been skipped. This oversight can compromise vehicle safety and reduce resale value. Hidden faults might only appear after you’ve driven the vehicle for a few days, posing real dangers if braking, steering, or crash-prevention systems were not restored to factory specifications.
What Defines Proper Collision Repair
Certified repair centers like Auto Collision Center of Exeter restore vehicles to manufacturer specifications. Using OEM parts or high-quality alternatives, their technicians ensure every structural, mechanical, and cosmetic detail meets safety standards. Pre- and post-repair scans, frame measurements, and test drives verify repair accuracy. The facility follows I-CAR Gold Class repair procedures and uses Spanesi laser measuring systems to restore vehicles to precise structural integrity.
Proper auto collision repair doesn’t just return your car to visual form. It restores its crash protection and operational safety. Modern vehicles rely on complex unibody structures and integrated safety systems. If components are not correctly aligned or sensors recalibrated, your vehicle may not protect you as designed in a future crash. That’s why I-CAR Gold Class certified collision repair centers are increasingly essential for late-model vehicles.
Key Indicators of Poor Collision Repairs
Some signs appear immediately, others during initial drives:
Visual Clues: Mismatched paint, texture changes, or overspray indicate poor refinishing.
Panel Misalignment: Uneven gaps, sticking doors or trunk lids signal improper fitment or uncorrected frame damage.
Performance Issues: Pulling to one side, vibrations, or off-center steering can point to suspension or alignment problems.
Dashboard Warnings: Airbag, ABS, or stability control lights suggest incomplete diagnostics or skipped recalibration steps.
New Noises: Unfamiliar rattles, wind noise, or squeaks may indicate loose components or poor reassembly.
Your Collision Repair Inspection Checklist
Use these steps to verify repairs:
Exterior Finish: Inspect in daylight for color and texture consistency. Paint should match across panels without visible differences.
Panel Alignment: Examine the spacing around doors, hood, and trunk. Panels should close smoothly with even gaps.
Documentation: Request a copy of the pre- and post-repair diagnostic scans, frame measurement reports, and part invoices. These documents confirm structural repairs and system integrity.
ADAS Calibration: Ask if advanced driver-assist features like lane-keeping or collision warning systems were recalibrated. Most 2023+ vehicles require this.
Road Test: Drive on a straight, flat road. The steering wheel should be centered, and the vehicle should not pull or drift. Pay attention to handling, vibrations, and any noise.
Electrical Check: Test all lights, signals, infotainment, climate controls, and safety alerts.
Warranty Assurance: A professional facility provides a written warranty. Auto Collision Center of Exeter offers a limited lifetime warranty valid as long as you own the vehicle.
Certification Makes a Difference
Only about 15 to 20% of repair shops nationwide hold I-CAR Gold Class certification. This elite designation requires continual technician training on new vehicle materials, safety systems, and repair methods. Auto Collision Center of Exeter employs I-CAR Platinum-certified technicians and follows OEM repair guidelines for structural, cosmetic, and functional restoration.
The shop uses advanced tools like the Snap-On and Bosch scanners, Spanesi frame racks, and RM computerized paint-matching systems. Its repairs meet the safety and appearance standards expected by both OEMs and discerning customers.
What To Do If You Suspect Incomplete Repairs
If problems emerge:
Return to the repair facility promptly with documented concerns.
Request all repair documentation, including scan results and frame measurements.
Schedule an independent post-repair inspection. Costs typically range from $200 to $300.
Contact your insurance carrier for assistance, especially if the repair was completed through a DRP (Direct Repair Program).
Auto Collision Center of Exeter works with major insurers like State Farm, Geico, and Amica, but also supports all insurance claims independently. Their transparency and documentation give customers confidence in the quality of their collision repair services in Exeter, NH.
Trust Auto Collision of Exeter for Verified Collision Damage Repair in Exeter, NH
Auto Collision Center of Exeter performs repairs that include structural measurements and full diagnostics. Their team supports transparent service and backs work with a limited lifetime warranty. Located at 58 Winter Street, this family-run shop offers high-quality collision damage repair in Exeter, NH, for late-model vehicles. Contact them at (603) 772-0214 or accofexeter@gmail.com for a free estimate.
Contact Information:
Auto Collision Center of Exeter
58 Winter St
Exeter, NH 03833
United States
Bryan Dinger
(603) 772-0214
https://accofexeter.com/
Original Source: https://accofexeter.com/collision-repair/was-collision-repair-done-properly-exeter-specialists-explain-what-to-check/
