Most drivers feel unsure about what to do after a collision. There’s damage to deal with, insurance questions to answer, and a lot of mixed information about where your car should go for repairs. It helps to know one important fact right away.

In Kansas, you have the legal right to choose your own body shop. Your insurer can suggest a repair shop, but they can’t require you to use it. Your coverage stays the same no matter which shop you pick.

Collision Center of Andover helps drivers with this choice every day. They’ve served the Andover and Wichita area since 2006, follow OEM repair methods, and work with all major insurers. Their lifetime workmanship guarantee gives drivers a steady option when they need repairs done right.

Do I Have the Right to Choose My Own Body Shop in Kansas?

Yes. Kansas law gives every driver the right to choose any collision repair shop they trust. Your insurer can suggest a preferred repair shop, but they cannot force or pressure you into using it. Your coverage stays the same either way.

This right exists to protect drivers from insurance steering, which happens when an insurer tries to push you toward a shop that benefits their process more than it benefits your repair. Steering is not allowed because it takes control away from the vehicle owner.

Knowing your rights helps you stay confident and avoid pressure after a crash.

Can an Insurance Company Require Me to Use Their Preferred Shop?

No. An insurer cannot require you to use a preferred repair shop. They can provide a list if you want suggestions, but the final decision is yours. The law keeps the choice in your hands, not theirs.

Will Insurance Still Pay If I Pick My Own Body Shop?

Yes. Your insurance must cover repairs that fall under your policy, even if you choose an independent collision repair shop. The insurer cannot deny payment simply because you selected a shop outside their network.

Do I Need Multiple Estimates After an Accident?

No. Kansas does not require multiple estimates. One clear repair estimate from the body shop you plan to use is enough. If your insurer has questions, your chosen shop can speak with the insurance adjuster to explain the repair estimate and repair plan.

Why Insurance Companies Push Preferred Repair Shops

Insurance companies often work with Direct Repair Programs (DRPs). These are shops that agree to follow the insurer’s pricing, timelines, and repair guidelines. This system helps insurers manage claims quickly and control repair costs.

From the insurer’s point of view, DRPs offer:

• Predictable pricing
• Convenient communication
• Faster paperwork on their end

These benefits help the insurance company, but they don’t always guarantee the best repair for the driver. That is why Kansas law protects your freedom to choose a repair shop that focuses on quality, safety, and OEM repair procedures.

Common Insurance Tactics Drivers Should Be Aware Of

Some insurers use phrases that create pressure or doubt. These statements may sound helpful, but they often push drivers toward a preferred shop.

Common examples include:

• Delays: “It might take longer if you don’t use our shop.”
• Warranty threats: “We won’t guarantee the work if you go somewhere else.”
• Rental concerns: “Your rental may not be covered with another shop.”
• Repair speed claims: “Other shops take longer to finish the job.”

These tactics can make you second-guess your choice, but they do not change your rights. Your insurance must handle your claim fairly, no matter which auto body shop you choose.

Why Choosing Your Own Body Shop Matters

Your repair choice affects safety, repair quality, and long-term value. A shop you trust will follow OEM repair procedures, use better parts, and protect the structural integrity of your vehicle.

Safety

A proper repair keeps your airbags, sensors, and frame working the way they should. This protects you in future collisions.

Quality of Parts

Choosing your own shop gives you more control over:

• OEM parts
• higher-quality replacements
• clear information about what goes into your car

Better parts help your vehicle last longer.

OEM Repair Procedures

OEM repair procedures guide the correct steps for fixing structural damage, corrosion protection, and weld points. A shop that follows these methods reduces the risk of hidden issues.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Structural Integrity

Modern vehicles rely on ADAS systems and precise structural work. A qualified shop checks and calibrates these systems so they stay accurate and safe.

Long-Term Value

Good repairs protect resale value. Poor repairs can create visible flaws, repeated issues, and lower trade-in offers.

What Happens If the Wrong Parts or Repair Methods Are Used?

Incorrect parts or rushed repairs can weaken the structure, misalign panels, or interfere with sensors. These problems may not be obvious at first but can lead to safety risks and extra repair costs later.

How Poor Repairs Can Affect Resale Value and Safety

Low-quality repairs hurt value and safety. Buyers and appraisers notice paint mismatch, uneven gaps, or signs of structural work. Faulty sensors or skipped ADAS calibration can also create serious safety concerns.

What to Look For When Choosing a Body Shop

A good collision repair shop should give you clear information, use proper repair methods, and communicate through the entire process. The right shop protects your safety and the long-term value of your vehicle.

Key things to look for include:

• Certifications and training: I-CAR education, OEM repair knowledge
• OEM repair procedures: shops that follow factory guidance
• Quality parts: access to OEM parts when needed
• Warranty on work: a clear workmanship guarantee
• Insurance handling experience: a shop that can speak with the adjuster for you
• Consistent communication: updates you can count on
• Local reputation: steady reviews and long-term service in the area

At Collision Center of Andover, we meet these standards across the board.

We’ve served drivers in the Andover and Wichita area since 2006 and bring more than 125 years of combined collision repair experience.

Our team follows OEM repair procedures, uses quality parts, and works with all major insurers while keeping repair decisions in the customer’s hands. Every repair comes with a lifetime workmanship guarantee, which gives drivers confidence in the work long after they leave our shop.

Questions to Ask Your Collision Repair Shop

These questions help you understand the shop’s repair process and quality:

• Are you OEM-certified?
• Do you use OEM or aftermarket parts?
• Do you handle insurance communication?
• How long do repairs usually take?
• Do you offer a warranty on repairs?

Are Independent Shops Better Than Insurer-Preferred Shops?

Independent shops often have more freedom in how they repair the vehicle. They can follow OEM repair procedures without insurer limits on parts or repair time. This can lead to better structural repairs, better part quality, and clearer communication.

Should I Trust the Insurance Company’s Recommended Shop?

You can trust a recommended shop if it meets your standards. Still, a referral does not guarantee the best fit for your vehicle. Check the shop’s certifications, warranties, and repair methods before agreeing. The choice is yours, and your insurance must honor that choice.

Why Collision Center of Andover Is a Smart Choice for Kansas Drivers

Collision Center of Andover gives drivers a dependable place to turn after a collision. Since 2006, we’ve helped the Andover and Wichita community with safe, accurate repairs that follow OEM standards. We handle insurance communication, use quality parts, and stand behind our work with a lifetime workmanship guarantee.

You Have the Right to Choose!

Kansas drivers can choose any body shop they trust. Pick a shop that focuses on safety, clear communication, and proper repair methods. This protects your vehicle and helps the claim process run smoothly.

If you need an estimate or help understanding your options, Collision Center of Andover is here to guide you.

Customers Rave Reviews for Collision Center of Andover

“Super fast and easy! Got rear ended. Made claim and selected this shop. Was called immediately to set everything up. Dropped car off and was done in 6 days! They also handled the rental car.”

E.V. – Wichita, KS

Collision Center of Andover received that review in February 2023 on Google. This customer is like a lot of other drivers who has had the unfortunate experience of getting rear-ended.

There is never a good type of collision to have, but for getting rear-ended can be one of the most surprising ones to experience. We’ve probably all seen it happen, especially in certain parts of Wichita.

Rear Ended on Kellogg?

Imagine this. You’re driving along Kellogg during the rush-hour commute home. Just as you approach the short Hillside exit, suddenly a few cars try to squeeze into the bumper-to-bumper traffic in the right lane.

Cars suddenly break, yet one driver looks away for even the briefest of moments and misses seeing that all the cars are slowing down ahead. So, he hits the car in front of him, sending a cascade of vehicles rear-ending each other. Now the car in front has serious rear end damage.

The negligence or inattentiveness of one yahoo driver on Kellogg (or anywhere else around Wichita) is all it takes for a crash like that to happen. That’s why even “perfect drivers” are prone to rear-end collisions.

Wichita Car Accidents: Rear End Collisions on The Rise

You don’t have to wait long to hear about another rear-end crash in Wichita, Kansas. In fact, just recently many of these kinds of vehicle accidents have made the news.

In March of 2023, three people had to go to the hospital after their minivan was rear-ended on 1-135 in north Wichita. It happened late on a Wednesday morning near the K-96 junction. As they entered a work zone, the traffic required the minivan driver to come to a stop. But the driver in the new Ford truck behind her didn’t and so rear-ended the minivan.

And this isn’t the first time a rear end accident happened here. Just last fall during the evening commute, a young woman was yielding to traffic that had slowed down due to a different kind of wreck that had just happened there on I-135. But her 2021 Kia was suddenly struck in the back by a woman behind her in a Nissan Altima.

You don’t have to be in a small vehicle to be at risk. Even a Wichita Public School bus was rear-ended on Meridian Ave one early Thursday morning. Fortunately, no students suffered any serious injuries. But that goes to show, even distracted drivers may not even notice the vehicle in front is stopping, even when it is a huge bus!

What To Do if You Get Rear Ended?

If you find yourself in a rear-end collision, whether you were the one who caused it or not, there are some things you should know to best handle the situation including how to handle rear end damage.

First and foremost, get any needed medical attention. If anyone is possibly dealing with any type of injury, call the Sedgwick County 911 dispatch.

Even if it doesn’t seem like the injuries are severe, if anyone appears even slightly hurt, you should always call 911. Sometimes injuries aren’t immediately obvious, such as concussions or internal injuries. EMS will want to check out the situation and ensure everyone is okay or gets the necessary treatment.

Exchange information with the other driver, or drivers if this was a multiple vehicle rear-end collision situation. You will want to have the driver’s license and the insurance information of the at-fault driver. And if that is you, be prepared to give that information to the others involved in the crash. If the driver at fault does not have car insurance coverage, you may be able to get compensated from your own insurance company.

Consider looking for the name of a lawyer. Once you need to start dealing with insurance companies, you may find yourself in a legal mess, and one that only a good Wichita accident lawyer can really handle. You only need to look around at the billboards around town to find dozens of options for Wichita lawyers ready to help after a car wreck!

And of course, you will need to get your car repaired after a rear-end collision. That’s where Collision Center of Andover comes in. We have the area’s state-of-the-art autobody shop that handles everything after a vehicle is involved in a crash.

Rear End Car Repair for Andover & Wichita Area

From handling massive repairs to your suspension and frame to getting out the tiniest of dents and everything in between, Collision Center of Andover has the reputation of being the Wichita area autobody shop that gets your vehicle back to looking like new again!

Collision Center of Andover has been providing quality vehicle repair since 2006. We are one of the few Wichita area auto repair shops recognized by the collision repair industry as a Gold Class i-Card facility.

We are your one-stop shop for full line collision repair.

Give us a call at 316-733-9310 to fix your rear end collision damages. We even provide FREE auto body estimates from your phone! Just click here to our collision repair quote page to fill out the information and upload any photos.

Your rear end repair quote is just a few clicks away!

6 Steps to Fair Auto Collision Service for Women Around Wichita

“HANDS DOWN THE BEST COMPANY IN THE BUSINESS.
As a female I try to have my husband do all my car stuff, you know the bad raps that have been in place for ages: this company treated me fairly, Jeff was so nice and accommodating, his staff was just as pleasant. They were respectful and so sweet…”

Women Rate Collision Center of Andover 5-Stars!

That was a review Collision Center of Andover received – posted to our Facebook page. It was written by a recent customer named Pearl who came to us after someone backed into her vehicle and caused a lot of damage.

Pearl is like half of our auto body shop customers in the simple fact that she is a woman.

It shouldn’t surprise anyone to know that women make up about half of the customers going to auto repair shops for vehicle repair in the United S. Yes, there is a stereotype that guys take care of all the car work and decisions. But that’s just simply not the way things are anymore.

Bad Car Repair Shops for Women?

Most women take care of their own automotive needs, including which car to buy and deciding where to get their vehicle serviced. For a long time, auto repair shops have gotten a bad reputation for being unfair to women.

Unfortunately, shady car shops still exist. Women may still find they are overpaying for service or paying for unnecessary service by mechanics who think they can get away with it.

In a 2013 survey, 77% of car owners believe mechanics are more likely to sell women unnecessary repairs. And 66% believed women were charged more than men were for the same services. It’s no wonder that many women hate going to the auto repair shop more than the dentist!

Women Are a Driving Force – Literally!

While women may have not been driving as much as men for most of the last century, today women have more than made up for lost time.

Check out these current stats:

• More women have driver’s licenses than men do
• Women spend more time on the road
• Women spend more than $200 billion dollars buying & servicing their vehicles

Today, more women are taking care of their own vehicles and protecting themselves from a scam.

In a 2020 Survey among 2000 female drivers:

• 3 in 4 women do research on pricing and repairs before going to an auto shop
• 41% have refused a service because they didn’t think it was necessary

How To Ensure Getting Fair Car Repair Work

Any person looking to have a mechanic do work on their vehicle, whether you are male or female, can take proactive steps to make sure you are getting the proper service and price.

1. Find a reputable auto repair company with trained mechanics and autobody technicians with a proven track record of quality work. Ask friends and family who they have used and been happy with. Many of our customers have come to us because of referrals from our many satisfied customers!
2. Look for a neat and orderly facility. Here at Collision Center of Andover, we are proud to boast a well-organized state-of-the-art auto body shop.
3. Do basic research on the service you need. You can check out our wide range of helpful guides available on our site, including such issues as:
   • Dented fender replacement
   • Plastic bumper repair
   • Dented car door repair
   • When a paint job is necessary
4. Get a second opinion. If you can drive your vehicle to another facility and/or have the time to shop around, see if another mechanic would recommend different work or charge a different price. Collision Center of Andover provides a convenient way for you to request an estimate for repair work online.
5. Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to the people in the shop – from the customer service person at the front desk to the mechanic servicing your vehicle, be proactive in relaying any of your questions or concerns. Throughout the service of a vehicle, our team is often giving customers ongoing updates of the work and any updates to their vehicle’s repair.
6. Keep records of your vehicle along with any receipts for work done. If you run into any problems, these documents can help determine what is needed or if you were improperly charged.

Collision Center’s Commitment to Fair Vehicle Service to Women

Collision Center of Andover has been in business since 2006.

In the nearly 2 decades of providing professional auto services to the entire Wichita area, we have been committed to providing fair, quality service to all our customers – both men and women! Count on us for female friendly auto repair.

 Our team of qualified autobody technicians provides expert service with friendly customer care – suggesting ONLY the work that is needed. We will never recommend work that is not necessary.

We are one of the few Wichita area auto repair shops officially recognized by the collision repair industry as a Gold Class i-Card facility. We also guarantee the quality of our workmanship by providing a limited lifetime warranty on our work.

But don’t just take our word for it. Here is the rest of the glowing review from Pearl:

“They were very communicative about the process and where they were and what insurance was saying. They got my car in as soon as they could. It was done in the time frame they said it was, there was a minor kink and they immediately fixed it and were so nice about the whole thing.
The paint is 10000000% matched and absolute perfection.
I cried happy tears to have my car back and if not for the paper trail, you would’ve never known someone backed into my car.
I’ll go here over any other shop. Thank you for being so good to me and my sweet baby, still very happy with my car!”

You can find more customer reviews and testimonials for our expert car service here.

Give Collision Center of Andover a call for the autobody service or repair your vehicle needs. We are conveniently located just a few minutes away from east Wichita off Kellogg. We are proud to be the preferred auto body collision repair shop for customers in the Wichita area and beyond, including El Dorado, Benton, Augusta, and Rose Hill. Give us a call at (316) 733-9310 or send us a message online.

Diagnosing When a Car Pulls to the Side, Shakes, or Has Tire Wear

Let’s set something straight: it doesn’t have to take a collision for your vehicle’s alignment to be put out of whack. Simply driving around Andover or Wichita streets can be all it takes to cause an alignment problem. If you notice odd tire wear or your vehicle pulling to the left, that’s the right time to start wondering if you’ve got a series problem with its alignment.

Here at Collision Center of Andover, we regularly service and fix cars who have suffered alignment problems. And while there are many things that can cause your tires to become misaligned, there are three common ways that cause this damage other than an actual vehicle accident.

POTHOLES

Those annoying potholes that seem to pop up every day are a major source for causing alignment problems. You may think you’ve run over a pothole and think it wasn’t all that serious when even a small pothole could put your car out of proper alignment. If you do spot a big pothole, you can help keep other drivers on the road from running into it. The City of Wichita allows you to report a Wichita KS pothole online to help them be alerted it needs to be fixed.

CURBS

We have probably all done this. We accidentally go over a curb out of a parking lot or while making a turn. While it might not seem like a problem, unfortunately that could be enough to throw your vehicle’s alignment off.

DAILY DRIVING

Even if you manage to avoid all the potholes and curbs, your vehicle could still be in need of an alignment. Simply driving around normally can cause alignment issues for a vehicle. So just because you have never had any sort of accident or bump with your vehicle, you still should not ignore the signs of a car being out of alignment.

The signs are not always obvious. The parts that are out of alignment are probably all out of view. But there are some tell-tale signs that could mean your vehicle is in need of an alignment.

DO I NEED A VEHICLE ALIGNMENT?

Top 5 SIGNS Your Car is Out of Alignment

1. Your vehicle seems to be pulling to one side
2. Damage or wear patterns in certain parts of your tires
3. Steering wheel is crooked when you are driving straight
4. Gaps in body panels
5. Tires do not appear to be facing straight ahead

FIRST SIGNS OF POOR ALIGNMENT

The first thing you should do once you notice any of these signs of potential misalignment is to take your vehicle in to a mechanic and get it checked. If the problem is poor alignment, it is only going to get worse or turn into a bigger problem.

Not only that, but it’s also not safe driving a vehicle that is out of alignment. This problem can affect a lot of other components and could reduce your safety on the road. Your vehicle’s alignment affects your tires, your steering, and even how well you stop.

The Costs of Waiting to Get an Alignment

Delaying a needed tire alignment is only going to cost you more money in the long run. There are several ways that car out of alignment affects your wallet. It can reduce your fuel efficiency, sending you to the gas station more often than you normally would. But more likely you’ll find yourself needing to pay for new tires well before their time because of the abnormal wear they suffered from being unaligned.

Get it checked out right away and you may avoid the problem from getting worse. It can put added stress on your steering and suspension. Contact us at Collision Center of Andover and we’ll get your in to accurately diagnose any alignment problems. At our state-of-the-art autobody facility, we have the tools to quickly and accurately diagnose the exact problem your vehicle has. If your vehicle isn’t able to be driven, we have towing services to help.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF ALIGNMENT

Front-end Alignment: This is the most common type of alignment work and it is to address any misalignment with the front axle.

Thrust Alignment: This is combining the front-end alignment with the thrust angle, which is used to ensure the front wheels are aligned with the back wheels

Four-wheel Alignment: This is typically for four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles. This is the most comprehensive alignment and addresses both the front-end alignment and the thrust alignment.

FULL-SERVICE AUTO BODY REPAIR

Do not wait to get your vehicle looked at if you suspect an alignment problem. Bring your vehicle in to Collision Center of Andover and we will have your alignment checked. We provide Computerized Frame & Unibody Alignment services as well as flawless repair to any body damage your vehicle has. Give us a call at (316) 733-9310 or request a free alignment quote online. We are conveniently located just a few miles east of Wichita on Andover Rd.

VEHICLE ALIGNMENT FAQ

How often should I get an alignment?

• The standard recommendation for most vehicles is that you should get a wheel alignment every 2 or 3 years.

Can I align my own car?

• Depending on the owner’s capabilities, it is possible to handle some level of vehicle alignment as long as the steering wheel is properly centered. Some companies provide tools that let you check your alignment yourself.

Is an alignment needed when I get new tires?

• You don’t necessarily need an alignment done when you get new tires installed, but it is a good idea to also have it checked then.

Is a lifetime alignment worth the extra cost?

• Lifetime alignments can really be beneficial in the long run. However, it’s a cost waste for a lot of drivers who purchase the additional warranty and then neglect to actually use them.

Can a bad alignment cause my car to shake?

• A vehicle out of alignment can cause a shaking steering wheel, especially noticeable at higher speeds.

Is that little ding going to cost you a lot of money? Does your vehicle have minor damage that you’ve procrastinated getting fixed?

What are you waiting for? Don’t let the concern over an auto repair keeping you from getting your car back to looking like new. At Collision Center of Andover, we want to eliminate any barriers that may be keeping you from getting the auto body service you need.

For anyone in the greater Wichita area looking to get auto repair work done on their vehicle, we provide free estimates.

What’s Keeping You from Getting Auto Body Work Done?

You may think whatever small damage your vehicle has is only a small issue. The truth of the matter is that a lot of little dings, dents and scratches can lead to bigger problems. And these bigger problems will surely cost more to fix. A little scratch can lead to rust. A ding on a windshield can lead to a massive crack. Sometimes these little things that don’t cost much to fix will cost you a lot more by ignoring it.

Money is often the big barrier that a lot of people face. Any damage to your vehicle is an unwanted surprise, and one you probably didn’t budget for. It can be very stressful worrying about how expensive your car’s problem will be to fix. This worry can stop you from taking the necessary steps to get it fixed.

Free Estimate – Get a Virtual Quote!

Get an auto body repair quote from anywhere! At Collision Center of Andover, we don’t just use modern technology to get dents and scratches out of cars. We have made a way for you to send us information easily to get your free estimate quote request.

You can request a free estimate for Wichita area service with our interactive form online. It allows you to upload photos of your vehicle’s damage so we can see right away what sorts of repairs we may be dealing with. We may need you to come in to our shop just a few miles east of Wichita so we can better inspect it, but at least we have the information to give you a starting idea of the work your vehicle will need.

There is no risk and no reason to wait. You can upload a photo of your vehicle’s damage RIGHT NOW and you will be one step closer to knowing if and how you can get your car finally fixed!

No Surprise Cost

You should never be surprised by a big and unexpected total price tag to the work you need done on your vehicle. With Collision Center of Andover, we provide upfront price estimates so that you know what you can expect to pay on the work we do.

With our auto body free estimates, people all across Wichita, Andover and the surrounding area come to us knowing what they’ll pay and that they’ll pay an affordable competitive price.

Auto Body Work that is Fair & Reasonable

While we pride ourselves on the quality of work we do inside our auto body shop, we know one of the big things our customers appreciate is our fair price. With dozens of 5-star reviews across Google and Facebook, we have heard time and time again how much people appreciate both our free estimates and our competitive pricing. Read testimonials from many of our satisfied auto body customers!

“Their estimate was competitive with other centers, and they explained the entire process and showed diagrams of the assembly of my car. They said it would take one day — it did — and they called me when it was ready for pick up. Results were great — looks like it was never damaged to begin with. Very pleased.”

-Jan Dent

I have used them several times. Their work is professional, and they are friendly. Extremely helpful and very honest in their estimates. They will also help you through the insurance process. I would not go elsewhere.

-Jodee Hobbs

We are Wichita’s Auto Body Shop, Too

Don’t let our name fool you. Collision Center of Andover started in Andover in 2016 but we service drivers from all over Sedgwick and Butler counties. We are proud to know that our ability to provide high-quality auto body service has become known throughout the area. Every day people across Wichita and beyond rely on our expert car technicians and our state-of-the-art auto body shop. We are appreciative they’ve decided to go the few extra miles (a short drive down east Kellogg) to come to us for their auto body needs.

If you’re on the east side of Wichita, we’re just minutes away. From Towne East Square just take Kellogg for 8 miles, then turn left onto Andover Rd. You’ll find us just a couple of miles up the road on your right.

Heading from East Warren Theater off Greenwich Rd, just take 13^th street going east for about 4 miles, then turn right on Andover Rd.

Have car damage you want a free estimate on? Don’t wait. Request a free quote online or give us a call at (316) 733-9310.

7 Common Ways a Small Car Accident Can Cause Big Problems

It happens to just about all of us. We run over a curb, tap a pole in the parking lot, hit a deer, or even lightly bump into another car. When a little accident happens and you go check out the extent of the fender bender damage, you are likely to find some dents and scratches. While it’s never great to realize your vehicle has been damaged, it’s likely a relief to find out it’s minor. It may seem that your small fender bender didn’t create any significant damage.

But did it?

Fender bender accidents are very common. A minor collision may not seem like reason enough to go to an auto repair shop immediately, but there is a good reason that it is. Sometimes the damage to your car from a very minor accident can actually leave you with real damage that will need to be addressed.

Why are fender benders sometimes big problems? Because many people don’t see the problem. Or they underestimate the damage and ignore it.

Let’s say a person has a minor accident that appears to have left behind a few scratches. So they decide their vehicle doesn’t need to go to the auto repair shop. But in reality, the vehicle did suffer damage beyond the paint. And, being left ignored, this damage gets worse and causes even bigger problems for your vehicle.

Leaving fender bender damage ignored for too long is the wrong thing to do. What could have been a small and inexpensive repair can quickly turn into a major, costly problem.

What To Look For

A fender bender can cause a surprising amount of damage to your car. A lot of these problems are not immediately evident. But days or weeks (or even months) after some slight run-in, you may discover something is definitely not right with your vehicle. Here is a list of just some of the problems that can be caused by even the smallest of fender benders.

1. BUMPERS
   Your car’s bumper is designed to best protect your vehicle from damage when it runs into another vehicle’s bumper. But take a look at the different types and sizes of vehicles out there – from Smart Cars to Hummers – and you’ll see bumpers don’t always line up with each other. Bumpers do a bigger job these days. Not only is your vehicle’s bumper supposed to absorb a relatively minor impact, it’s also housing several important sensors.
2. SENSORS
   There are sensors on parts of your vehicle that could easily be impacted by a minor impact. These are the sensors that give you such assistance as your blind spot warning and cruise control information. You may have a minor fender bender one day to discover a week later that a lot of those high-tech components in your vehicle no longer work.
3. ALIGNMENT
   Sometimes a small accident can create a shift in your vehicle’s alignment. The impact may have put, even slightly, your wheels or suspension out of place. A slight amount of change can create large problems over time if left ignored. Your vehicle could have suffered structural damage from what seemed like a slight accident. That damage may be too minor to notice with a simple visual inspection, but structural problems could leave your vehicle less able to handle the impact of a future crash.
4. ELECTRICAL
   There are a lot of electrical components inside your vehicle. Even a minor fender bender could loosen some wires. Days or weeks after a small accident, you could suddenly find yourself with an electrical short somewhere in your car. Perhaps your power windows are stuck open or your locks are malfunctioning.
5. AIR CONDITIONER
   The air conditioner in vehicles is typically mounted in the front. An accident that affects the front of your vehicle could impact the AC. Over time, the condenser could leak refrigerant which will leave you in a hot car. But it could be worse than that. A damaged or broken radiator will likely leak coolant. Pretty soon you can find out that your engine is overheating.
6. RUST
   Did your vehicle suffer a little scratch or rubbed-off paint? Even this is likely to lead to bigger problems down the road. The underlying metal may now be exposed to the elements, causing it to rust.
7. WINDSHIELD CHIP
   A tiny chip or crack in your windshield is almost guaranteed to grow. And with it, the cost to fix it. Once you notice even a tiny crack in your windshield, you will want to get that replaced.

When Does a Fender Bender Require Repairs From an Auto Body Shop?

Well, the safest answer is that you should head to a mechanic after any run-in where you notice any possible damage. If you were jarred by some impact or bump, it’s always best to have a professional mechanic check under the hood and elsewhere along your vehicle to ensure everything is fine.

Best case scenario: you leave paying a minimal fee for the inspection with nothing wrong. Even better, you take it to our experienced auto body mechanics at Collision Center where we do NOT charge a fee if we find nothing wrong. The next best-case scenario: an auto repair technician finds something relatively minor wrong that they can fix easily and cheaply. With this small problem fixed, you’ve avoided being suddenly surprised by a major problem down the road.

At Collision Center of Andover, we’re the team of qualified auto body shop technicians in south-central Kansas to handle everything from cosmetic damage to suspension work. From chips in your windshield, and dents in your hood to full-line collision repair, everything is handled in our state-of-the-art auto body shop. We’ve been servicing vehicles for people in Wichita, Andover, and surrounding communities since 2006. Give us a call at (316) 733-9310.

What to Do When You Need a Tow in Wichita or Andover

There you are, on Kellogg, and suddenly your car breaks down. Maybe you’re driving up Andover Rd. when a pothole as big as the Wichita ditch brings your vehicle to a complete stop. Or perhaps you’re returning to your car from shopping at Towne East Mall only to discover your vehicle just won’t start.

It’s just about inevitable that at some point in your life, some problem or another will leave you stranded. Fortunately, this is exactly what a tow service is meant for. But if you’ve never had a need to call a towing company before, you may be unsure of how it all works.

6 Tips to Getting Towed

1. Find the number to call
2. Ensure you are safe
3. Call the towing company
4. Remove any items you need (or value)
5. Take photos
6. Know where to go

1. What to Do First When You Need a Tow

The first thing you need to do will sound easy, but it is sometimes more difficult than you’d expect.

Having your car break down can be very stressful, especially if it happens in the middle of night or in the middle of a freezing Wichita winter. You may think the first step is to call a tow truck driver. Nope. The first step is to know the phone number of a tow truck driver.

When you suddenly find yourself stranded and stressed out, finding a towing company that can service you right away – and one that is reliable – may be difficult at this exact moment. The good news is that this often stressful first step to getting towed can be alleviated by something you can do right now. It’ll only take you a couple of minutes. Find a towing company and put their number in your phone now.

Go ahead. Stop reading this blog post so you can do that. We’ll wait. Or we can speed up the process by recommending a Wichita & Andover towing service that thousands have relied upon for decades. Ours!

If you are like thousands of people across Wichita, Andover and south central Kansas, you’ve relied upon the team at Collision Center of Andover for your vehicle work. Did you know our Andover auto body shop also offer a towing service? Your search to finding a reliable local towing company can stop right now with us! The number to get a tow 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to areas across Wichita, Andover, and surrounding communities is (316) 719-2100.

2. Safety Comes First

Does it seem wrong that this is the second item on the list? If you’ve already prepared for the possibility of a potential car break-down with putting a towing service company in your contacts, then this becomes the very first thing you do when a break-down occurs.

Make sure you are in a safe place. If your vehicle is on the road, get out of your vehicle and wait on the shoulder or curb. If your vehicle is stopped in the road and posing a danger, you should call 911 so the Wichita or Andover Police Department can come out and ensure your vehicle isn’t a danger on the road. While you wait for officer assistance, put yourself in a spot that’s off the road and a bit to the rear of your vehicle to stay safe from a potential accident.

3. Call a Wichita-area Towing Company

Now that you’ve ensured your own personal safety, call for a tow. You will need to provide them with where you are located. If you can’t be sure of your exact location, provide the main cross streets you are near and which direction you are from that intersection. If you have a smart phone with a mapping app, open that to see where you are.

4. Take Out the Items You Need (and/or Value)

Now you need to get ready for the tow truck driver. Gather up the items you need such as your purse or your wallet. Grab your phone, perhaps also your car charger. If it’s winter, be sure to get your coat, hat, gloves, or whatever you need to stay warm. If it’s summer, hopefully you have a water bottle or something to drink in your car.

You probably don’t know how long you will go without your car that’s suddenly broken down. So if there are any items you’ll need in the next couple of days that is in your vehicle (maybe that library book that’s due back soon), be sure to gather those items up.

Do you keep anything valuable in your vehicle? Maybe some emergency cash in your glove box? A rosary on your rear-view mirror? If you can gather those items, do it. It’s not worth worrying about anything you deem valuable. Plus, this might precisely be the time when you need that extra cash and rosary.

WARNING: If you are in a position where you can’t wait inside your vehicle safely, you may want to avoid this step altogether. It’s not worth risking your life to save your wallet.

5. Take photos

In many vehicle break-down situations, this may not be needed. For example, there is probably no reason to get pictures of your dead car in the mall parking lot (unless that’s the sort of thing you want to Snapchat).

When should you take photos? If you believe someone else is to blame for your break-down, you will want photos to help prove your case. Hit a giant pothole on North Oliver? It’s possible the City of Wichita is liable for not repairing the pothole earlier and may cover the repair expense. So take photos of that massive street hole.

Another reason to take photos is for the repairs you will need. By sending those photos to local repair shops, you may be able to get estimates allowing you to shop around. We at Collision Center of Andover provide these estimates and offer a way for you to upload photos of your damaged vehicle to get a repair quote quickly.

6. Know Where You are Going

After dealing with a break-down and waiting for a tow, you are probably ready to just be home. But, unfortunately, you’ve got some arrangements to make.

What needs to happen to your car? And where is that? The tow truck driver is going to need to know where you want to tow it. Perhaps you have an auto repair shop in town you trust. If not, then you’ve got a limited time to determine where you want to go.

While you may know that Collision Center of Andover handles auto body repair, we also can handle more general vehicle repairs to get your car or truck back up and running. If you call our towing service, they can take you to our shop. However, it’s not required. Our towing service will take you to any vehicle repair shop of your choosing in Wichita or Andover.

Get Trusted Towing Service from Collision Center of Andover

We have you covered! Collision Center of Andover provides towing services to anyone in Butler Counter and the greater Wichita and Andover areas. Our towing service will bring you right into our shop or to any destination or shop of your choice. Call for a tow at (316) 719-2100. We are available 24 hours a day!

5 Causes That Can Make it Overcharge

While many of us have had to deal with the occurrence of a dead battery and the resulting problems of a car not starting, the opposite situation – having a battery with TOO MUCH charge – can result in big issues of its own and even lead to bigger problems then when dealing with a dead battery.

Not understanding much about a car’s battery and attempting to charge it by yourself is one reason why a vehicle’s battery could be damaged from being overcharged. Fortunately, this is a problem that is easy to prevent. And even if costs are involved, they are typically minor, especially if you’re able to prevent a slightly overcharged battery from getting worse.

5 Reasons Why a Car’s Battery Can Become Overcharged

1. Not Knowing how to use a Vehicle Charger
When you find out that your car won’t start and suspect it’s because of a dead battery, deciding to charge it seems like an obvious solution. Whether you have a charger yourself or you are relying upon a neighbor or friend to help you out, you will want to make sure that whoever is doing the charging knows what they are doing. It is a relatively simple fix that anyone can do as long as they have the basic information on how to properly do it. Leaving the battery on a charger for too long can overcharge it.

2. Faulty Battery Chargers
Even if the person who is charging your vehicle is knowledgeable and experienced, if you’re dealing with a defective battery charger, this itself could cause your vehicle to overcharge. Problems from a faulty battery charger is an easy thing to avoid. Testing your battery charger before using it to charge your car’s battery will let you know if it’s not working properly.

To test your car battery charger, plug it in without a battery in it. Put a multimeter across it that is set to the 20V DC range. A working charger should measure at about 13V.

3. A Faulty Alternator
The problem might actually be with your vehicle’s alternator. A broken alternator will stop creating electricity for the battery. But if a wrong or faulty alternator is placed into your vehicle, it could create too much charge for your car’s battery and cause it to be overcharged.
Some signs you are dealing with a bad alternator include:

1. • You noticed your lights becoming dim or flickering
   • Your Check Engine or ALT light on your dash is on
   • You have noticed odd noises like squealing, growling or a grinding noise

4. Problems with the Voltage Regulator
A voltage regulator is a part that works with your alternator to regulate the amount of voltage the alternator produces. It works to keep a steady flow of voltage to the battery, and so you can imagine that if it isn’t working as it should and is sending too much voltage, that could cause your car’s battery to overcharge. Replacing your voltage regular is relatively easy and inexpensive.

5. Heat
Hot weather can make overcharged battery issues worse. The time of year when your battery is getting overcharged could determine how much damage that could cause. An overcharged battery in the summer may result in bigger and more costly problems.

What Happens when you Overcharge a Battery?

Depending on how greatly you overcharge it, you could cause serious damage to your car’s battery. You could overcharge your battery to a relatively small extent that you wouldn’t even notice there was a problem. But even a relatively small amount of overcharging can lead to a shorter lifespan for your battery and make it work less efficiently.

A problem worse than that, but still not an expensive nor hard one to solve, is when overcharging causes your battery to completely stop working. While this is, of course, not a great situation to be in, it is still something relatively easy and affordable to fix.

The biggest danger from overcharged batteries comes from the gases and substances inside the battery, commonly known as battery acid. Overcharging the battery could cause the internal water and sulfuric acid to mix and boil. The result of this could be a battery melting, swelling up and/or leaking. And depending on the age of your battery, this could even result in your battery exploding. This risk is greater for newer batteries because they are sealed, compared to some of the older batteries that are vented.

Alternative Tool to a Battery Charger

Instead of using a battery charger, you could opt for a battery maintainer. These maintainers are devices similar to battery chargers, but they operate in a different way. Battery maintainers supply a small amount of electricity to your battery over a longer period. However these may not be feasible to use on a car you need to drive every day. These are ideal for vehicles that you do not use regularly, such as one that is kept in storage over the long Kansas winters.

What Happens When You Can’t Fix Your Car’s Battery Problem?

Call us at (316) 733-9310! At Collision Center of Andover, we can accurately diagnose whatever problem your car is having and make sure whatever is needed – a new battery, alternator, voltage regulator – will be quickly installed by our team of skilled car technicians. We are conveniently located on Andover Road just minutes outside of Wichita.

If you’re dealing with a car that won’t start, don’t worry. We have you covered! Collision Center of Andover provides towing services to anyone in Butler Counter and the greater Wichita and Andover areas. Our towing service will bring you right into our shop or to any destination or shop of your choice. Call for a tow at (316) 719-2100. We are available 24 hours a day!

From Estimate to Fixed: Factors determining how long your car will be in the shop

NOTE: Due to current supply-chain shortages, some supplies and parts face an unusually long delay. In some severe cases, it can take several months to procure the necessary parts. Check with our team to learn if current supply problems could affect your vehicle repair.

Having been the premiere auto body shop for Andover and Wichita since 2006, Collision Center of Andover are experts at putting your damaged car back to the way it was. Not only do our experienced car technicians know how to get the job done, we know how long this process can be expected to take AND all the factors that cause delays in getting your vehicle fixed as soon as possible.

The 1 question our customers ask the most: When will my car be ready?

When people need us to get their vehicle back in perfect condition, there really is just one question we get asked more than any other. You want to know when your car will be done. After all, it can be quite an inconvenience to not have your own personal vehicle. You probably know exactly where things are in your car: your umbrella, your ice scraper, your cup of change for a Spangles mudslide. We definitely understand your rush to get your car back and deal with as little auto repair time as possible. And so, we make every effort we can and anticipate every hurdle to get you back in your car or truck as soon as possible. In the meantime, while your vehicle is with us, we can arrange for you to have a rental. We are a concessionaire shop for Enterprise and have their vehicles on site for you to rent. We will make sure to have a vehicle here for you and will arrange the insurance billing at your request.

So, what’s the answer? When will we get your vehicle done?

We wish we could give you an exact answer. But the fact is, we can’t. And believe us, we really, really wish we could. The simple fact is we just don’t know. It almost pains us to tell you that. With a team of car guys with decades of experience fixing cars day in and day out (heck, Jeff alone has nearly 30 years’ experience!), you would think we would be the local auto body shop to know this answer.

There is a good reason why we can’t predict with 100% accuracy how long it will take for us to repair your car. Actually, there are 9 reasons. And many of those reasons are outside the control of our technicians and repair shop, at least until we learn how to control mother nature.

9 Factors that Determine Auto Repair Time

1. First, what time of year is it?
   Is it a nice spring day, or is it the day after central Kansas’ first ice storm of the winter season? If our area’s first mix of ice and sleet covered roads from Andover to Goddard, there are likely hundreds (or more) of other people across the Wichita area who are taking their car or truck to the repair shop at the same time as you. While we want to get to work on your car right away, you may be waiting in line… at ANY repair shop across the area.

2. Who is your insurance?
   Depending on your answer, this could be the most substantial delay to work getting done. We have great experience in the entire process, and that includes working with insurance companies to avoid delays. But the truth is, each insurance company operates differently. While Collision Center technicians can get started without any delay when certain insurance companies are involved, other insurance companies may require an extensive approval process, taking days or every several weeks! While we can’t control how long some insurance companies will take to allow us to get your car repair started, you can trust Collision Center of Andover to do what it takes to help insurance companies expedite their process whenever we can.

3. Is there more damage hiding?
   Once we get the insurance approval, we can get straight to work on repairing your vehicle. That often starts with us tearing down your vehicle. This is where new issues can arise. It’s very possible that while we are getting a closer look inside your vehicle, we will find additional damage that wasn’t visible until AFTER we took it apart. If that happens, we will work quick to handle any new orders for parts or any further coordination with the insurance company.

4. Does your vehicle need to go to the dealership?
   There are times when a repair job will require work to be done by the dealership. This may be because of insurance requirements or warranty specifications. In any case, taking your car to a dealership means the repair is temporarily out of our hands. Just as we effort to expedite work with insurance companies, we are quick to work closely with your dealership to avoid any unnecessary delays. Once they can get their part of the work done, we are ready to take over.

5. What’s the weather like in other parts of the country?
   Even if Kansas isn’t currently dealing with bad weather, a storm in our neighboring states could still affect how long it will take your car to get done. Fortunately, many parts are available here in the Wichita area. But sometimes parts needed for repairs come from outside Kansas, such as from Denver, Oklahoma or Texas. Usually when we need to order parts, we can have them on hand in a day. But as we’ve seen happen, roads like I-70 are prone to be shut down during and after a big snow storm and can delay how soon your parts get to us.

6. What type of car do you have? Is it uncommon?
   If you’re driving a foreign car or some other less common vehicle, we may need to order parts that could take a while to get delivered to us. But if you drive a Ford, Chevy, Honda or other common vehicle on our roads, delays for parts are usually minimal, if at all. Also, if your car is rather old (more than 10 years), it may require parts that aren’t as common and quick to receive. And having a vehicle that isn’t being manufactured anymore (like an Oldsmobile or Saturn) could also mean a delay in getting your car’s parts.

7. How high-tech is your car?
   The more technology your vehicle has, the more there is for us to fix. Nowadays, there are some cars with sensors everywhere. So that little dent on your bumper that used to be a quick fix to smooth out, now comes with the complication of us needing to address all the technology that has been installed into that bumper.

8. Let’s talk weather again: Has it been raining?
   If it has, and your vehicle’s repair job is going to require painting, that could add time. Paint dries slowly in humid conditions. Although we are so close to being done at this point, it is possible rainy conditions mean one more day of waiting for you.

9. And lastly – it’s the little things.
   Because we are going to make sure that your car is put back to the way it was before the accident, we take care of all the details. From the air bag light to the trim pieces – for every little issue that could be broken or affected by the wreck, we check it and we fix it.

Bottom line, for us at Collision Center of Andover, it’s about getting your car back in shape AND it’s about getting you back on the road in your car as soon as possible. Know that we will work quickly to repair your vehicle and know that you can trust we won’t cut any corners. We even offer a lifetime guarantee of the work we do.

When can we Guarantee a Delivery Date?

While we may not be able to give you an exact answer when you first bring your vehicle in for repairs, after the vehicle is inspected and parts are sourced, we can give you a delivery date. We will contact you immediately after repairs are done and our quality inspection is complete. Preference of being contacted by phone, email or text communication can be requested when you drop off your vehicle.

We Have a Habit of Delivering on Time

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, and that is why you will see on Google that we are filled with 5-star reviews! In fact, many of those glowing reviews thank us for doing excellent work in the time we estimated it would take. Here are just a sample of recent reviews from Collision Center of Andover customers extremely satisfied with their wait time and repair work.

We hope you call on us for your next repair. We are just a few minutes’ drive outside of Wichita on Andover road. Call us at (316) 733-9310.

What To Do After a Deer Accident

It can happen in an instant. You see a blur, an object suddenly ahead of you on the road. There’s no time to avoid it. You’ve hit a deer. And now your vehicle has probably suffered damage from hitting a deer. It happens to more than a million of us every year in the U.S.

Here in the Wichita area, we see a lot of vehicles come in to Collision Center of Andover damaged by a deer accident. While there’s not much you can do to prevent it, there are some basic steps every driver needs to know to do if this startling situation happens to them.

What’s the cost?

The average collision with a deer ends up costing each driver on average about $3000 – $4000. But some collisions can end up costing as much as $10,000 or higher.

When am I at the greatest risk for hitting a deer?

Watch out especially on your way to the pumpkin patch or out to Thanksgiving dinner. In Kansas, during the fall and early winter is when you face your biggest risk for hitting a deer. Dawn and dusk are the two times of day when deer are most active and most likely to run out on the road.

After I hit a deer, what do I do?

1. Pull your vehicle off to the side of the road or other safe place. Be sure it’s at enough of a distance from other drivers. Chances are this accident happened at dawn or dusk, when the light isn’t great to see everything around you.
2. Call the police. If the collision resulted in injury or damage to your vehicle or other property, you may need to fill out an official report. This report may be helpful for your insurance claim.
3. Get out your cell phone’s camera. While now is not the time for a selfie, it is definitely the time to take photos. Be sure to get plenty:
   1. Damage to your vehicle
   2. Damage to any other property
   3. The roadway and your surroundings
   4. Injuries you or your passengers sustained

   Be sure you’re watching the road and your surroundings so that you are staying safe while you are taking these photos.

4. Is the animal still alive? Steer clear of it. An injured and frightened deer could cause you damage with its legs and hooves.
5. Take a pause before pulling back out on the road. Your car might not actually be safe to drive. Look for broken lights, leaking fluid, tire damage or other safety hazards. If anything seems off making it not safe to drive, call us for a tow. The Collision Center of Andover provides 24/7 quick, full-service towing to Wichita and Andover, towing any passenger vehicle to any destination or the shop of your choice. Call (316) 719-2100.
6. Contact your auto insurance agent so they can start work immediately on your claim. Deer collision claims are usually covered under comprehensive insurance, not collision. Or to make things easier, when you call our shop just ask for Insurance Claims Assistance and we’ll work to help handle the process.

Animal collisions of any kind are unfortunate. The key to minimizing the damage is to follow the basic steps for your vehicle and others around you to make sure you aren’t put into any more danger. The best things you can do in advance is to check your insurance and see if you’re properly covered if you were to hit a deer. Also be sure to have a trusted repair shop ready to call if an accident happens to you. Better yet, find a repair shop that also will handle your towing!

Collision Center of Andover offers high-quality, reliable repair and towing service. Check out our before-and-after examples to see how we can completely fix your dented car from a deer collision or other accident. From full-line collision repair, paintless dent repair to mechanical repairs and more, count on the auto repair experts to get your vehicle running and back in shape.