Congratulations to Robert for being this month’s employee spotlight! He is a Detailer for Schaefer Autobody Centers in Webster Groves, MO.

Continue reading to learn more about this month’s employee spotlight, Robert.

Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A: A Firefighter

Q: What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?

A: Move somewhere new

Q: What’s your ideal way to spend your weekends?

A: Watching hockey and basketball

Q: What animal best represents you?

A: A Cat

Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game” – Babe Ruth

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: Bacon Pizza

Interested in becoming part of our Schaefer Autobody Centers team? Visit our Careers page to apply online. We also have openings at our affiliate company, SOS Auto Glass & Calibration.

What is Paintless Dent Repair?

Paintless dent repair is a technique used to remove minor dents from the body of a car without needing to repaint it. Skilled technicians use specialized tools to carefully massage the dented panel back to its original shape. This process preserves the vehicle’s factory finish, which can be a major advantage in maintaining its original look and value.

PDR is particularly effective for smaller dents, such as those caused by hail, parking lot mishaps or minor impacts. It works best on newer vehicles with high-quality paint finishes that are less likely to crack.

The Benefits of Paintless Dent Repair

Cost-Effective

Traditional dent repair methods can be expensive due to the labor-intensive nature of sanding and repainting. PDR is generally more affordable because it doesn’t involve those steps. The streamlined process and reduced labor make PDR a cost-conscious choice for minor dent removal.

Faster Turnaround Time

Paintless dent repair can often be completed in a matter of hours, depending on the size and number of dents. This is a huge advantage over traditional repair methods, which can leave you without your car for several days or longer. With PDR, you can get back on the road quickly without compromising quality.

Maintains Original Paint

Since PDR doesn’t involve repainting, it helps preserve the vehicle’s original paint job. This is beneficial for several reasons: your car will retain its factory finish and you won’t have to worry about inconsistencies in the paint color or texture.

Environmentally Friendly

PDR is a green solution because it doesn’t use harmful chemicals or paints that traditional repair methods often require. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option for dent repair, helping you reduce your vehicle’s carbon footprint.

Increases Resale Value

Any kind of body repair work can adversely affect a vehicle’s resale value. However, because PDR is non-invasive and preserves the original paint, it can often be undetectable once completed. This means that your car retains more of its value compared to a vehicle that has had more extensive bodywork done.

When is Paintless Dent Repair a Good Option?

While PDR is versatile and effective, it’s not suitable for all types of dents. Here are a few considerations:

• Size and Depth of the Dent: PDR works best on smaller dents and dings, particularly those with no paint damage. Deeper dents may not be ideal for PDR and could require a more traditional approach.

• Location of the Dent: Dents on flat surfaces are generally easier to repair with PDR. If the dent is located on the edge of a panel or in an area that is difficult to access, PDR may not be feasible.

• Condition of the Paint: If the paint on your car is cracked or damaged, PDR might not be the best option. The process relies on the flexibility of the paint, so pre-existing damage can compromise the results.

Finding a Qualified Paintless Dent Repair Technician

PDR requires specialized training and experience, so it’s essential to find a qualified technician. Look for a business with certifications and positive reviews, as this can indicate a higher level of skill and reliability. A good technician will be able to assess the damage and recommend the most effective course of action for your vehicle.

Paintless dent repair is an excellent solution for minor dents and dings, offering several benefits over traditional repair methods. Next time you notice a dent, consider calling Schaefer Autobody for a PDR fix as a convenient and smart solution for restoring your car’s look without breaking the bank. If you’re interested in learning more about paintless dent repair or need assistance with your vehicle, feel free to reach out to a Schaefer Autobody Centers near you.

Congratulations to Amy for being this month’s employee spotlight! She is a Front Desk Receptionist for Schaefer Autobody Centers in Crestwood, MO.

Continue reading to learn more about this month’s employee spotlight, Amy.

Q: What’s one thing that can instantly make your day better?

A: A kind word from a stranger, customer or co-worker.

Q: What do you do outside of work to unwind?

A: Read, play with my Grandbabies and visit with my friends.”

Q: How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

A: Helpful, Reliable, Authentic, Teachable and Thoughtful.”

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: CHOCOLATE

Q: What would the title of your autobiography be?

A: Been There!!

Q: If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what
would it be?

A: BEACH-TIME…to spend with all of the people I love, respect and admire.

Interested in becoming part of our Schaefer Autobody Centers team? Visit our Careers page to apply online. We also have openings at our affiliate company, SOS Auto Glass & Calibration.

While we understand why this is the most important question for people, there are a lot of other important questions that need answered in the auto body repair process in order to ensure your experience is as easy as it can be.

We’ve selected a few questions that we feel are the most important to ask your auto body shop when it comes to helping you with your auto body repair experience.

1. My car repairs will take several days. Does auto insurance pay if I need a rental car?

Yes, if your auto insurance policy carries rental car coverage. Not all insurance policies cover the entire cost of a rental car, so be sure to check with your insurance company to see what percentage of rental car fees will be taken care of by your policy.

2. Do I have to arrange for my rental car separately, on my own?

No. As a matter of fact, we can help you with that. We can arrange to have a rental car ready for you at any of our St. Louis and Columbia area locations for your convenience, so that you don’t have to take additional time out of your day to get back to your regularly scheduled life.

3. Can I have my car repaired anywhere I want or do I have to use the auto body shop that my insurance company chooses?

The choice of where to have your car repaired is entirely yours. Your insurance company is available to offer suggestions if you do not know where to start, but it is ultimately up to you which auto body shop does your repair.

4. When the insurance company says my car is a total loss, what do they mean?

When your car is listed as a total loss or “totaled,” this means that the cost of repairs exceeds the value of your car. The insurance company makes the final determination. The estimated value of your car is based on several factors including age, mileage, and resale value.

5. What happens if my car is totaled?

Depending on your insurance policy and loan status, you will be paid for your car in certain ways. If you no longer owe money on your auto loan, your insurance company will issue payments directly to you, possibly minus any deductible you have depending on your policy. If you still owe on your auto loan, payments are typically issued to both you and the lender to be allocated properly. Lenders are usually paid first, with remaining amounts issued to you.

6. Can I keep my car if it is totaled?

You can maintain ownership of the car if it is totaled. Your insurance company will assist you if you choose to retain the vehicle.

7. Who issues the claim number?

In most accidents there will be a separate claim number for each insurance policy/vehicle involved. When dealing with auto damage that is the fault of another driver, you will typically be using the other driver’s insurance and claim number to handle your repairs.

8. How do I protect my best interests while working with another driver’s insurance company?

Communication! Contrary to some stereotypes, when another driver is obviously at fault in an accident, their insurance company will be eager to quickly and kindly help you get your car back in working order. As you field calls from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, don’t hesitate to ask questions about what you can expect from them. Clarify if you have access to a rental car. Let the insurance company know where you’ll be taking your car for repairs. If there is ever a point where you are feeling confused or uncertain, request additional information or reach out to your own insurance agent for assistance. Then, once your car is in our care, we’ll work directly with the insurance company to keep them in-the-know about timelines and payment.

9. How do I keep up with the status of my repairs so I know when my car is ready?

At Schaefer we offer our customers multiple ways to keep them informed of the status of their auto body repairs. These updates can be sent to you in the method you prefer, either by telephone, email, or text.

10. Is there a warranty on the repairs to my car?

Yes. We maintain the highest standards of quality in the St. Louis area when it comes to auto body repair. We believe in the work that we do so much so that Schaefer Autobody guarantees the repairs on your vehicle for the life of the vehicle so long as you are the owner.

We’re hoping this answers some questions you may have had about the ins and outs of getting your car’s auto body damage repaired. As always, our goal at Schaefer is to minimize the inconvenience for our customers and help you make it like it never happened, as fast as we can.

Schedule a repair or estimate with Schaefer Autobody today.

Congratulations to Austin for being this month’s employee spotlight! He is a Parts Coordinator for Schaefer Autobody Centers in Wentzville, MO.

Continue reading to learn more about this month’s employee spotlight, Austin.

Q: Do you have any hidden talents or skills? What are they?

A: I do music as a hobby.

Q: What’s your favorite time of the year and why?

A: Spring time. I like storm season and chasing tornadoes.

Q: Which famous TV character do you most associate with?

A: Anyone sarcastic.

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

A: Teleportation. It would make travel so much easier.

Q: What’s the best advice you were ever given?

A: Simple: to always keep your head up.

Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: When I was working at Wendy’s, a customer once handed us a rock she painted that said, “Keep on keepin’ on.”

Interested in becoming part of our Schaefer Autobody Centers team? Visit our Careers page to apply online. We also have openings at our affiliate company, SOS Auto Glass & Calibration.

In this brief overview, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take if your vehicle has been impacted by a natural disaster. It’s important to note that every disaster is unique, and safety is your priority.

1. Safety First, Always

Before you even think about your vehicle, ensure your personal safety and the safety of your loved ones is attended to. If the disaster area is unsafe due to downed power lines, flooding or unstable structures, avoid returning to your vehicle until it’s deemed safe by local authorities. A weather radio is a great tool to keep current on happenings in your immediate area.

In the aftermath of a natural disaster, the risk of injury from environmental hazards is incredibly high, so it’s crucial to prioritize safety above all else.

2. Initial Assessment After a Natural Disaster

Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe to approach your vehicle, perform a quick assessment of the damage. Start with a visual inspection for any obvious issues such as dents, broken windows or water intrusion. Check the ground for fluid leaks, inspect your tires and look for debris that may have become lodged under the vehicle. If your vehicle is accessible, test basic functions such as the lights, horn, brakes and steering to determine if the vehicle is operable.

3. Documentation for Insurance

Documentation is key when dealing with insurance claims. So, now is the time to get out your phone and open the Camera app! Take clear photos and videos of the vehicle from multiple angles, capturing all visible damage you noted in Step 2.

It’s important to document the condition of your vehicle as soon as possible, as some insurance companies require immediate reporting of damage following a disaster. Make a detailed list of damages, noting the time, date and location of the disaster, and contact your insurance company to start the claims process.

4. Assessing Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common issues that vehicles face after natural disasters like floods and hurricanes. Start by checking the interior for signs of water intrusion, such as wet seats, soggy carpets or condensation inside the windows. Inspect the engine bay for any signs of water exposure, including waterlines or debris around the engine components.

If your vehicle was submerged in water, even partially, it’s critical to determine the extent of the damage—whether the water reached the tires, doors or higher. The signs of water damage are apparent to a trained eye, but may be unnoticeable to someone not familiar with the affects.

5. Preparing for Repairs

After your initial assessment, it’s time to involve the professionals. Contact a reputable auto body shop, like Schaefer Autobody Centers, to schedule a comprehensive estimate to determine necessary repairs. Depending on the extent of the damage, your vehicle may not be safe to drive and may require towing.

In many states, it’s your choice of where to get your vehicle repaired. If your insurance carrier suggests a repair shop, ask if you can go somewhere you’re familiar with. Having your car repaired by technicians who are trained and certified by the vehicle manufacturer helps ensure your vehicle returns to the road in pre-accident condition.

6. Dealing with a Total Loss

In some cases, the damage may be so extensive that repairing the car isn’t economically feasible. A total loss occurs when the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the vehicle. If this happens, your insurance company will guide you through the process of determining the payout amount based on the pre-disaster value of your vehicle. You’ll then have to decide whether to accept the payout, salvage any parts or begin searching for a new vehicle.

As with any unfamiliar situation, ask lots of questions. The “total loss” scenario described here can greatly impact your finances, especially if you aren’t prepared to take on a new car payment.

7. Preventative Measures for the Next Natural Disaster

While natural disasters are unpredictable, there are steps you can take to better protect your vehicle in the future. If you live in an area prone to flooding, hurricanes or other severe weather, consider reviewing your insurance policy to include comprehensive coverage that specifically addresses natural disasters.

Other preventative measures include, investing in garage or covered parking, relocating your car from under or near large trees, parking on higher ground, researching durable car covers, and always keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle.

Dealing with vehicle damage following a natural disaster can be overwhelming, but taking prompt and informed action is crucial. Start with a safety check, document the damage and contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help for repairs and consider preventive measures to minimize damage in similar situations. Your vehicle is a significant investment—protect it by being prepared and proactive.

Perform basic maintenance tasks

These tasks include regularly scheduled oil changes, getting your tires rotated and checking fluid levels. These are tasks that you should be keeping up with throughout the year, but they’re especially important as you prepare for increased daily driving and/or a long drive to college.

Oil changes are particularly important for cars that make frequent short trips or drive in mostly stop-and-go traffic, and that includes the pick-up and drop-off lines at school. Getting a regular oil change is essential not just for the listed service, but also for the other maintenance items that are typically performed, including checks for fluid levels as well as your car’s brakes, lights, air filter and battery, among other things.

In addition to getting your tires rotated, you should keep an eye on tread wear and air pressure throughout the year. Encourage your student driver to check their air pressure monthly to ensure the best fuel efficiency and decreased wear and tear on the tires.

If the car’s wiper blades haven’t been replaced this year, or you can’t remember when you last replaced them, now is a good time. Windshield wiper blades typically need to be replaced every 6-12 months.

Perform essential maintenance or repair

If your car, or your student’s car, is due for service, have it taken care of before the school year starts to ramp up. Familiarize yourself with your car’s and your student’s car’s recommended maintenance schedule. A lot of eventual repairs can be prevented by following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

If you’ve had a warning light go off this summer, get it checked out and taken care of sooner rather than later. Responding to issues as soon as a warning light or other sign is present will prevent costly repairs in the future and keep you and your children safe on the road.

Stay organized

Staying organized is something that helps everyone during the school year, but the organization shouldn’t stop at your vehicle. Car organizers and bags can help you and your students cut through the chaos of a car filled with textbooks, sports equipment, snacks (and wrappers) and other school supplies. To ensure you and your children know where things are stored helps the family run as smoothly as your car.

Make sure your (and your student’s) car is emergency ready

Even if you’ve kept up with repairs and maintenance, accidents can still happen. Keep an emergency kit stocked in your car, and make sure your student’s car has everything they need for emergencies and regular maintenance. This kit could include an ice scraper, blankets, led road flares or hazard triangles, a flashlight, a tire repair kit, a first aid kit, a basic tool kit, jumper cables, a phone charger, non perishable snacks and any other essentials.

Lastly, make sure your student is prepped and prepared and knows what to do if they’re in an accident or experience any other kind of car trouble. With a little planning, the road to school can be somewhat less scary. From your friends at Schaefer Autobody Centers, we wish you safe travels on the roads this fall.

Congratulations to Tristen for being this month’s employee spotlight! He is a Parts Coordinator for Schaefer Autobody Centers in O’Fallon, MO.

Continue reading to learn more about this month’s employee spotlight, Tristen.

Q: How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

A: Hardworking, focused, humble, adaptable and competitive

Q: What would the title of your autobiography be?

A: “Life of Tristen”

Q: If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?

A: Monster Energy Drinks

Q: What’s one thing that can instantly make your day better?

A: Coming home to my girlfriend, dog and cat

Q: What do you do outside of work to unwind?

A: Listen to music

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: Chicken Alfredo

Interested in becoming part of our Schaefer Autobody Centers team? Visit our Careers page to apply online. We also have openings at our affiliate company, SOS Auto Glass & Calibration.