Can I Repair My Own Car After An Accident?

Being involved in an automotive accident can sometimes mean your vehicle requires repairs. Most people don’t think twice about visiting their local auto body repair specialist for an assessment and comprehensive repairs. After all, they can take care of your vehicle from start to finish so you can get back on the road as soon as possible.

However, some people ask the question: Can I repair my own car after an accident? While every state has different laws, rules, and regulations, the overall answer is: It’s complicated. Read on to learn the factors you must consider when considering repairing your own vehicle.  

Legal Considerations

There can be many legal factors to consider if you wish to repair your own car after an accident. If there is a lien on your car, you may not be able to fix the vehicle yourself. After all, it’s your lender’s money on the line, and they would likely prefer that you take your vehicle to a certified repair shop. 

Your insurer may also require you to visit an auto body repair specialist for an assessment and repairs so they can be sure your vehicle meets safety standards post-repair. Not all insurance providers will cover DIY repairs, and they may even reduce their payout if they do. 

Liability can also be a concern. If you ‘DIY’ your repairs and they result in another accident, you may be held liable. 

Damage Complexity

Damage complexity is undoubtedly something you should keep in mind if you’re thinking about repairing your own vehicle after an accident. You may decide to fix minor cosmetic damage like scratches and dents yourself, especially if you’re not making an insurance claim. 

However, these flaws, combined with much larger problems like damage to frames, engines, brakes, and airbags, can mean an approved auto body repair specialist can be required.

What’s more, most repair businesses also have the necessary tools and expertise required to repair your vehicle to a high standard, whereas the average vehicle owner may not. 

Resale Value

Most vehicle owners want to be able to sell their vehicles for as much as possible. However, you may not receive as much as you expected if you perform accident repairs yourself. Most vehicle owners want peace of mind knowing any vehicles in an accident have been restored to a high standard. Taking them to approved and certified vehicle repair specialists can offer that peace of mind. 

Warranty Requirements

Many new vehicles come with generous warranty periods. These warranties often mean that you’re covered for repairs under your vehicle’s dealership if your vehicle experiences failures due to faults and defects. 

If you were to be involved in an accident and repair your vehicle’s components yourself, you may void your warranty. If anything were to go wrong with parts in the future, your dealership may choose not to cover the costs. 

Your Time and Effort 

Alongside the peace of mind that comes with taking your vehicle to a collision specialist, you can also enjoy saving your time and effort. Rather than being tucked away in a garage making repairs for hours on end, you can hand that job to trained professionals so you can carry on with everyday life.

Performing DIY repairs means giving up that luxury. Vehicle repairs may end up consuming much of your free time. 

Enjoy Quality Car Repairs from Master Collision 

Being involved in a vehicle collision doesn’t have to be the stressful experience you expect. When you take your vehicle to a collision repair specialist like Master Collision, they can take the lead and get you back on the road.
Choose Master Collision for comprehensive repair services, including OEM-certified repairs, auto painting, bumper repair, fender repair, paintless dent repair, and more. We’re the auto body repair team you can trust.