When it comes to having your car repaired, many people wonder what they need to do in order to streamline the process. However,  having your car fixed is about more than finding a repair shop and working with your insurance company to pay for the improvements. Here are three things you may not know about collision repair, and how this information could help you to improve your car's outcome. 

1. You Can Choose Your Collision Repair Provider

After an accident, you may contact your insurance company to keep them abreast of the situation and to ask what to do next. While many insurance companies offer a list of "recommended" collision repair providers, it is important to note that you are in full control over who you use to fix your car. 

Instead of just going with whoever your insurance company recommends, you can do your own research to find a business that has the experience and tools necessary to take care of the repairs properly. Visit with different collision repair specialists, check reviews, and get estimates for the repairs before you decide on a provider—but remember, the choice is yours. 

2. You Can Request OEM Parts

Much like other industries, there are name-brand parts and generic parts made for automotive repair. Although many generic parts are designed to perform like original components, there has been some controversy about the efficacy of these components. However, as a consumer, you are allowed to request OEM parts or Original Equipment Manufacturer parts. 

While these name-brand components may or may not be covered by your insurance company, you have the right to protect your vehicle by asking for name-brand items. Before you have repairs conducted on your vehicle, talk with your collision repair specialist about whether or not they use OEM parts, and request them beforehand if they aren't automatically used. 

3. Good Repairs Should Return Your Car to its Original Condition

Although you may wonder how effective repairs to your car actually are, the fact of the matter is that proper repairs should return your car to its original condition. This means your vehicle should be just as strong, safe, and attractive after repairs are made as the car was before your accident. 

Additionally, by choosing a great auto repair business and using OEM parts, you can have records showing that you had the proper repairs performed, protecting the value of your car. 

By doing what you can to have your car repaired, you can help to protect your investment and stay confident in your vehicle. The next time you find yourself involved in a fender-bender, talk with services such as Exoticar Paintworks Inc.