Should I go to a 4S shop or a repair shop for a dent in my new car?
2 Answers
New cars usually have full insurance coverage. Since you can claim insurance, it is recommended to go to a 4S shop. Here is some relevant information: 1. Reasons to go to a 4S shop: If it's a minor accident for a new car, it's fine, but if it's a serious accident that damages the chassis or transmission, neither the 4S shop nor the repair shop can easily handle it. The 4S shop might subcontract such repairs to more professional technicians. Professional repair shops might do the same, but smaller ones might try to fix it themselves for profit, which is definitely less reliable. New cars usually have full insurance coverage, so it's better to go to a 4S shop if you can claim insurance. 2. Benefits of repair shops: 4S shops, especially those of mainstream brands in good locations, are often overcrowded on weekends or after work hours. If your car needs repairs after an accident, waiting for service and wanting to drive away immediately is often unsatisfactory. However, repair shops are different. To attract customers, if you are in a hurry to get your car back, the repair shop will definitely work overtime to fix it for you.
If your new car hits a pothole, I recommend going to the 4S store without hesitation. After all, it's a newly purchased car still under warranty, and random repairs outside might lead to the manufacturer refusing coverage. 4S stores use genuine parts, with advanced technology and equipment, capable of detecting hidden damages like body frame deformation, preventing future issues from escalating. After repairs, the color matching is excellent, preserving the car's value. I once went to a repair shop myself, only to have an incomplete fix that led to rust and rework a few months later. Spending a bit more is worth it for safety, especially with a new car—don't take risks. Also, clarify the repair records for future transactions. Overall, this investment is worthwhile.