When you pick up your car after a repair, it’s crucial to ensure that everything has been done correctly and to your satisfaction. Whether your vehicle was in the shop for a minor dent removal or major collision repair, a thorough inspection is essential for maintaining its value and functionality. At Teddent, we pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you inspect your car post-repair, ensuring that the work meets your expectations and Teddent’s high standards.
Initial Walk-Around
Start with a visual inspection of the entire vehicle. This is best done in daylight or under bright lights to spot any discrepancies easily.
Exterior Check
- Body Alignment: Ensure that all panels of your car align perfectly. There should be equal spacing around doors, trunk lid, and hood. Misalignment can indicate issues with the frame or improper installation.
- Paint Match: Check the color match of the painted areas. The new paint should blend seamlessly with the existing paint, without noticeable differences. This includes checking for any overspray on windows, trims, or other unintended areas.
- Finish Quality: Look for any signs of runs, sags, or orange peel in the paint that might detract from the smoothness of the finish.
Glass and Lights
- Glass: Ensure there are no cracks or scratches on the windows that weren’t there before the repair. All glass elements should be intact and properly installed.
- Lighting: Test all lights—headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators—to ensure they work correctly and are aligned properly.
Tires and Wheels
- Condition: Check that your tires haven’t suffered any damage during the repair process. Also, ensure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Alignment: Be on the lookout for any signs of uneven tire wear, which might indicate a misalignment problem.
Interior Inspection
Once the exterior has been thoroughly inspected, move to the interior of the car.
Cleanliness
- Interior Cleanliness: The interior should be clean, without any dust or dirt left over from the repair work. Check under the seats and in other out-of-sight areas.
- Odors: There shouldn’t be any unusual smells, such as those from paint or solvents, which could indicate incomplete airing out post-repair.
Functionality
- Electronics: Test all electronic components including the dashboard, radio, windows, and air conditioning to ensure everything is operational.
- Seats and Seatbelts: Adjust the seats and test all seat belts. They should function smoothly without any hitches.
Under the Hood
Checking under the hood is critical, especially if mechanical repairs were part of the service.
- Fluid Levels: Verify that all fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid) are at the correct levels.
- Leaks: Look around for any signs of leaks. Fresh stains or drips on the engine or under the car can be a red flag.
- Battery: Ensure the battery has no corrosion and is secured in place.
Road Test
No inspection is complete without a road test. Drive your car to check for any abnormal noises or vibrations and ensure that the car handles properly.
- Brakes: Test the responsiveness of the brake system. Listen for any unusual noises when braking.
- Alignment: While driving, check for steering wheel alignment. The car should not pull to one side.
Post-Inspection
After completing your thorough inspection, if anything does not meet your expectations or you have concerns about the work performed, contact Teddent immediately. Our commitment to excellence means we’re dedicated to resolving any issues quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
A detailed inspection after any repair is key to ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition and continues to serve you well. At Teddent, we understand the importance of trust and reliability in auto repair. We strive to meet your highest expectations with every job we undertake, providing not just repair services, but peace of mind.
Feel free to reach out to us through our website if you have any questions or need further assistance with your vehicle’s care. Remember, your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.