Where to Repair a Car After a Rear-End Collision?
3 Answers
If the traffic police determine liability and the other party does not cooperate, after the car is repaired, go to the traffic police handling the accident. They will notify the other party to make the payment. If the other party still does not cooperate, the traffic police will have measures to address the situation. 1. First, regarding the repair: Check if the other party has insurance. If they do, the insurance company needs to take photos at the scene and then proceed with the claim. If there is no insurance, the other party should directly go to the repair shop and cover all the costs. 2. Next, regarding lost wages and transportation expenses: If your vehicle is not a commercial vehicle, lost wages and transportation expenses should be calculated together. For example, if the repair takes 3 days, estimate the cost of renting a similar-level vehicle and other related expenses for those 3 days. This amount represents the lost wages and transportation expenses. 3. Finally, regarding depreciation costs: This depends on the extent of the damage. Generally, rear-end collisions are not too severe, as the rear of the car does not contain critical components. You can estimate the depreciation yourself or consult a valuation center.
Once my car was rear-ended, and the rear bumper was cracked. I went straight to the 4S shop for repairs. The reason was simple—they use original factory parts, and after the repair, it looked almost like new. After the accident, I immediately stopped to take photos, called the traffic police to handle it, and then contacted the insurance company. The other party was fully at fault, and the insurance claim process went smoothly, with the 4S shop handling everything. The repair took three days, including a full chassis inspection and repainting to ensure safety and no hidden damage. Looking back now, although the cost was higher, the quality was absolutely worth it. I also get regular maintenance done there for peace of mind and convenience, avoiding potential issues later on.
As someone who's seen plenty of repairs, I recommend taking rear-end collision issues to professional auto shops. Their specialized equipment and efficiency beat 4S stores' long queues. First assess the damage - rear impacts may affect the frame, requiring disassembly for inspection. Reputable independent shops can complete painting and part replacements in a day at lower costs, even using quality aftermarket parts. Remember to file an insurance claim first, then choose a partnered shop for convenience. Always check rear lights before driving to prevent secondary accidents - safety comes first.
