Auto Body Shop in Arlington, TX

Safety first: move to a safe spot if possible and call 911 for injuries. Document the scene—take clear photos of all vehicles, plates, damage, and road conditions. Exchange insurance/contact info without admitting fault. If you need towing, contact Ray Newton Collision or your insurer for a preferred tow to avoid storage fees. Save witness info and file a police report when required. Bring all photos, the police report, and insurance info to the shop to speed the claims and estimate process.

After inspection, the shop generates a detailed estimate listing parts, labor, and photos. Your insurer may send an appraiser or accept the shop’s estimate. Differences are negotiated—ask the shop to document hidden damage and approvals. You’ll sign an authorization to begin work once coverage and deductibles are confirmed. Keep communication open: the shop should update you on changes and get insurer approval for additional repairs discovered during disassembly to prevent later disputes or delays.

Accurate color matching uses OEM color codes, spectrophotometers, and blending techniques onto adjacent panels for seamless transitions. Proper prep, controlled booth conditions, and correct clearcoat layering matter. If only part of a panel is repainted, blending adjacent areas avoids visible lines. Ask for before/after photos and inspect in natural light. A high-quality finish requires time for proper sanding, priming, basecoat, and clearcoat cure — rushing this step compromises longevity and appearance.

Structural repairs start with a computerized frame measurement to identify misalignment, using OEM tolerances. Straightening uses hydraulic benches and fixtures to restore geometry, followed by verification measurements. Critical welds and metal repairs are inspected for strength and corrosion protection. A trustworthy shop documents before/after measurements and provides photos. For major structural damage, get a second opinion and request written confirmation that factory specifications were met before accepting the vehicle.

Collision repair often requires suspension and steering checks. Technicians perform wheel alignment, inspect control arms, tie rods, hubs, and wheel bearings, and replace worn components found during repair. Mechanical diagnostics are included when related to the collision; unrelated wear is quoted separately. Proper alignment prevents uneven tire wear and ensures safe handling. Ask for alignment printouts and test-drive notes. Ensuring these systems are corrected is as important as cosmetic repairs for long-term safety.

Yes — many shops coordinate with preferred tow services to bring your vehicle safely to the repair facility and sometimes assist with rental car arrangements through insurers or local vendors. Confirm whether towing or rental is covered by your insurance policy and whether the shop helps with paperwork. If your policy includes diminished value or loss-of-use, keep rental receipts. Quick coordination reduces time in limbo and prevents extra storage fees.

Warranty coverage varies—parts carry manufacturer warranties; workmanship warranties are offered by shops and typically range from 12 months to lifetime for specified work. Always get warranty terms in writing, including what voids coverage (aftermarket parts, subsequent damage). Ask how to file warranty claims, whether follow-up inspections are included, and which components are covered. Keep invoices and photos — they’re essential for warranty or insurance disputes and demonstrate proper maintenance.

Technicians should remove valuables and disconnect batteries only when required, using anti-static precautions for electronics. For vehicles with data-rich systems (infotainment, telematics), shops follow OEM procedures to avoid resetting or corrupting modules. Remove personal devices and logins before drop-off. Request documentation of any module resets or reprogramming performed. Secure key and keyless-entry protocols should be followed to protect your vehicle and personal information during the repair cycle.

A vehicle is “totaled” when repair costs exceed a percentage of its value (varies by insurer). If declared a total loss, the insurer typically pays market value and handles salvage title processes. Ray Newton Collision can assist with damage documentation for insurer review and may help coordinate salvage pickup if you retain the vehicle. Ask your insurer about retained salvage options, potential title changes, and exact settlement calculations before accepting offers.

Before drop-off: remove personal items, provide all sets of keys and remotes, leave necessary registration/insurance info, and note pre-existing damage. Provide any repair authorization contacts and preferred communication method. If possible, take photos and list concerns (noises, warning lights). Clear access to the vehicle helps technicians start faster. The more organized the handoff, the quicker estimates, approvals, and initial teardown can occur — speeding the overall repair timeline.