Crunch! That's the sound of your new car being hit. But there is hope.
For a fraction of the cost of a new car, auto repairers can save your investment
and get you on the road again. They'll straighten bent bodies, replace or
repair parts and remove dents.
Automobiles are built with specific alignment specifications. Autobody
repairers ensure that cars are aligned correctly -- without proper alignment,
cars could run poorly or be unsafe to drive.
Repair professionals are surrounded by cars 40 hours a week. They work
in an automotive shop crammed with computerized diagnostic equipment, hydraulic
lifts and tools. "With today's technology, computer skills are a must," says
Eddy Lai, general manager of an autobody shop.
Automotive shops are typically noisy and dirty. Although shops are ventilated,
there can be some exposure to dust and paint fumes. Automotive repairers must
be capable of crawling around in cars to make repairs. Hazards like cuts,
burns, bruises and power tool injuries are possible.
"Working with chemicals can be a hazard. But if you use the proper respirator,
it's not a problem," says David Nashwinter, a New York-based automobile collision
specialist.
Autobody repairers use a wide variety of tools to get cars back on the
road. These include common hand tools -- wrenches, hammers and torches --
as well as specialized diagnostic and alignment machinery.
"We use air sanders, drills, wrenches, wire-feed welders, resistance welders,
power posts and computers," says Elizabeth Cordrey, owner of an autobody repair
shop.