Post Repair Inspection

When your car gets fixed after a crash, the repair shop is supposed to check it to ensure they fixed all the marked damages. But sometimes, mistakes happen, or shops do not follow the OEM Repair Procedures or just cover things up and the repaired car might have issues. That's when a post-repair inspection is important. But what is a post-collision repair vehicle inspection? Let's look at what it involves, why it matters, and when you should think about getting one. Have more questions? Reach out to Collision Consultants of North America.

What Is A Post Collision Repair Vehicle Inspection?

A post-repair inspection is a thorough examination conducted after completing auto body work. While the repair shop often carries out the initial inspection, consumers can request a post-repair inspection if they suspect inadequate repairs. This inspection serves as a second layer of certainty, ensuring the vehicle is road ready.

Why Should I Get a Post Collision Repair Inspection?

Post-repair inspections are crucial for several reasons:

• Ensuring Proper Repairs: Making sure the car was fixed correctly and is safe to drive.

• Quality Assurance: Checking the overall quality of the repair work.

• Identifying Issues: Spotting any changes in how the vehicle performs or looks after repairs.

• Appraisal for Diminished Value: Necessary for evaluating any drop in the car’s resale worth.

In summary, a post-repair inspection protects against improper fixes that could harm the car’s structure or reduce its resale value. Studies indicate that a considerable number of repaired vehicles on the road may still have safety concerns. Make sure to schedule a post-repair inspection promptly after collision repairs to ensure your safety on the road.

What Happens During a Post-Collision Repair Inspection?

The post-repair inspection process includes these careful steps:

• Document Review: The Post Repair auto body shop compares the insurance estimate with the shop that did the repairs estimate.

• Quality Assessment: They evaluate replacement parts and the overall repair quality.

• Panel Alignment Check: Every vehicle panel is inspected to ensure it’s correctly aligned.

• Paint Inspection: They use a paint thickness meter to check application and finish.

• Interior Examination: Panels and carpeting are removed to inspect hidden repairs like rust protection, alignment, and welding.

• 3D Measuring: We do the proper measuring on your Frame, Suspension, Body Panels etc. to ensure your vehicle was repaired correctly.

• Proper Parts: We check all parts that were replaced to make sure they 1. Are what is on your estimate 2. Are in line with the OEM Position Statements 3. Are properly installed and aligned with adjacent panels 4. Push Pins, Clips, Guides etc. are correct, the right amount and installed correctly.

• Video and Photos: Of all procedures are done to give you a portfolio of the repairs. This helps ease your mind, helps for resale or in the uncertainty of having to go to court to be made whole.

If issues are found, the technician suggests solutions. Most customers have their vehicle repaired by us to make sure it is correct. We will also help you collect for the repairs prior to. The auto body shop confirms the vehicle is roadworthy if everything’s okay.

When Should You Ask for a Post-Repair Inspection?

Think about a post-repair inspection if you notice:

• Paint that doesn’t match or is flaking.

• Dings or dents that are still noticeable.

• Changes in how your car drives.

• Noises or rattles while driving that were not there prior to repairs.

If your car seems worse after repairs, a post-repair inspection could definitely help.

Will the Insurance Company Cover a Post Repair Inspection?

Typically, insurance companies do not cover post-repair inspections. However, if it is a supplement needed or correct part the liability could be split by the insurance company and the shop that did the repairs. If we find damages, misaligned or incorrect parts, welds, clips and fasteners, frame damage or items not repaired and just covered up we will assist in going after the one that is responsible for the Inspection and the repairs. Additionally, insurance reimbursement may be possible if a third-party repair shop identifies issues missed by the initial repair shop. It is definitely possible if it was done at an insurance Direct Repair Shop.

Get Your Post Collision Repair Inspection Today at Unique Automotive partnered with Collision Consultants of North America.

Fast-tracked repair processes can lead to mistakes and compromised quality. Don’t risk substandard repairs. Schedule your post-repair inspection today at Unique Automotive for peace of mind. Our commitment to excellence ensures repairs are done correctly, meeting the highest industry standards. Trust Unique Automotive (Certified Auto Body and Mechanical)—your reliable auto body shop in Macomb County, conveniently located near 10 mile and Hoover in Warren on Kaltz Ave.

Success Story - Chevy Blazer 2026.

A couple purchased a 2026 Chevrolet Blazer that had a clean title but was disclosed as being rebuilt after a collision; the dealership claimed the repairs were complete. Suspicious, the buyers hired Collision Consultants of North America (CCNA) to verify the vehicle's condition. CCNA performed a comprehensive post-repair inspection, which included progressively disassembling the front structure, taking hundreds of comparison photos, and measuring the frame against General Motors' published dimensions. They discovered that the vehicle was never actually repaired to factory standards: the main damaged frame rail was still buckled and never replaced, the structure was significantly out of alignment, and damaged parts were simply left in place or modified to fit.

Armed with CCNA's detailed written report, the buyers were able to confront the dealership and get the situation resolved without needing to file a lawsuit. The dealership completely unwound the purchase, returning the buyers' trade-in vehicle, paying $700 for their rental car, and reimbursing the $1,500 cost of the inspection. In the end, the buyers were made entirely whole, saving a total of $38,200.