The Difference between a Collision Repair Tech and a Mechanic

Let us face it – in today’s busy world, most of us do not have time to devote to gaining knowledge and experience in working on cars ourselves. Going back through history, that is a simple matter of specialization of labor, and it works. So when something goes wrong with our cars, most of us just take them in to a garage and don’t think much more about who works on it or how. However, depending on what is wrong with your car, you will be dealing with two different types of specialized fields.

The Auto Mechanic Field

For most of your general vehicle upkeep, you are looking at a standard car mechanic who knows the ins and outs of an engine and all the parts that make your car “go” (or not go!). These professionals change oil, do tune-ups, recommend services, diagnose problems based on sounds or vehicle behavior, replace parts, etc. It is very technical, and requires an understanding of machinery, tools, equipment, and even the science of an engine to help them get to the real root of a problem and fix it effectively. It is advisable to research well before consulting any mechanic. Taking reviews and suggestions from people around may be of immense help. One can also try doing some research online. Do not trust anyone with your vehicle blindly. As no one would his or her vehicles to be damaged and treated badly.

The Collision Repair Field

Collision repair entails some aspects of the auto-mechanical sector of expertise, since they have to be able to diagnose potential engine problems and electrical problems after a crash. Getting vehicles repaired from an expert is the best thing. Never trust a rookie with your vehicle. No person wants to keep spending money on repairs every time. However, collision repairs entail more of the cosmetics and non-mechanical aspects, too. When you take your car to a mechanic to get your brakes fixed, they are not dealing with aesthetics and making sure your car “looks” like it is in good condition. You could say half the job of a collision repair specialist is getting a car to look functional, while the other half is making sure it functions, as it should. Experts know well what has to be done with a vehicle and so it is always better to take advice from an expert than a complete rookie. When one does not have the time to look after their vehicles at regular time intervals, it is good to consult and hire them keep checking the vehicle whenever required. It is usually very beneficial.

Really, these are both sides of the same coin, and there is a lot of crossover in knowledgebase, training, and practice, as well as a keen eye for diagnosis and cost estimation. Know well about the mechanic before handing over your vehicle. Do not be disappointed later. With regular checks one will not face many difficulties and problems.

Dan Pellegrino is the author of this article on auto shops near me. Find more information, about auto body repair here.