The Importance of Testing a Vehicle Before Creating an Estimate

Testing a vehicle before creating an estimate is crucial for several reasons. The process of testing a vehicle allows our estimator to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and identify any existing damage or issues that may affect the repair process. This information is then used to create an accurate & fair estimate for the repairs needed, ensuring that our customer receives a fair price for the repairs.

Modern Testing Today

In today’s fast-paced automotive industry, testing has become an essential part of ensuring the safety and performance of vehicles. With the advancements in technology, vehicles are becoming more and more complex, requiring specialized equipment and skilled technicians to diagnose and repair problems. As a result, testing has become a whole area of expertise in the industry.

Auto repair shops are now using more expensive equipment and the most highly skilled labor to perform testing on vehicles. This is a significant shift from the traditional approach of relying on diagnostic tools to identify issues. Diagnostics involve connecting a device to the vehicle’s onboard computer to retrieve error codes and diagnose problems. While this method can be useful, it does not always provide the full picture, and more often than not, additional testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis and fix the problem.

With the increased use of testing, auto repair shops are now charging customers an initial hourly testing fee, which can vary depending on the vehicle’s make and model. In some cases, additional time may be required to complete the testing, and additional fees may be charged. This additional testing can be due to the complexity of the vehicle or the type of problem that needs to be diagnosed and repaired.

The use of testing is becoming more prevalent in the automotive industry as it provides more accurate and complete information about the vehicle’s condition. This helps mechanics identify issues that may have been missed using diagnostic tools alone, making repairs more efficient, and ultimately saving customers money in the long run.

Benefits Of Testing

One of the most significant benefits of testing is that it helps mechanics avoid unnecessary repairs. With diagnostic tools, mechanics may be tempted to fix problems that do not exist, which can be costly for the customer. Testing, on the other hand, allows mechanics to confirm the diagnosis before proceeding with repairs, reducing the risk of unnecessary repairs and saving customers money.

Some Examples Of Testing

Visual Inspection

The first step in the testing process is to conduct a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. This includes examining the exterior, interior, and undercarriage of the vehicle for any damage or issues. We also pay attention to the vehicle’s paint and finish, as any damage to these areas will need to be repaired or refinished. Additionally, we will check the condition of the tires, brakes, and other mechanical components to ensure they are in good working order.

During the visual inspection, our estimator will also take note of any aftermarket or non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts that may be on the vehicle. These parts can affect the repair process and may require special attention or procedures.

Test Drive

Once the visual inspection is complete, our estimator will take the vehicle for a test drive. This will allow us to evaluate the vehicle’s performance and identify any mechanical issues that may have been missed during the visual inspection. The test drive should include a variety of road conditions, such as highway and city driving, to simulate the different types of driving the vehicle may encounter. Our estimator will also pay attention to the vehicle’s handling, braking, and acceleration during the test drive.

Safety Features

It’s also important to consider the safety features of the car, especially if it’s involved in a collision, and make sure the vehicle will be returned to its pre-accident condition. This includes making sure that all the safety features, such as the airbags, seat belts, and crumple zones, are in good working order and that the vehicle’s alignment is properly set.

Testing a vehicle before creating an estimate is an essential step in the repair process. It allows the estimator to gather the necessary information to create an accurate and fair estimate for the repairs needed. By thoroughly inspecting the vehicle, taking it for a test drive, and considering the safety features of the vehicle, the estimator can ensure that the customer receives a fair price for the repairs and that the vehicle will be returned to its pre-accident condition. Not only that, but it also can prevent future issues or complaints, as well as any safety concerns related to the repair process.

With the advancements in technology and the increasing complexity of vehicles, testing has become necessary to ensure the safety and performance of vehicles. Auto repair shops are now using specialized equipment and skilled labor to perform testing on vehicles, which is a significant shift from the traditional approach of relying on diagnostic tools. While testing does come with an additional cost, it ultimately provides more accurate and complete information about the vehicle’s condition, helping mechanics avoid unnecessary repairs and saving customers money in the long run.

Andres Auto Service Can Test Your Vehicle Today

Andres Auto Service in Chicago, IL knows how important it is to thoroughly test a vehicle before creating an estimate of repairs and maintenance needed. Testing the vehicle saves us and our customers time and money by ensuring that an accurate assessment has been made before scheduling any work. We put quality first and always test each vehicle to the highest standards so that our customers know they are getting top-notch service. Whether it’s a simple oil change or a more complex repair job, Andres Auto Service promises that attention to detail is at the heart of every service offered.