ICS Collision Services Blog

When it comes to auto body repairs, the focus is often placed on fixing dents, matching paint colors, and restoring the vehicle’s original look. However, one crucial element that often goes unnoticed by vehicle owners is the clear coat. This transparent top layer is a vital part of modern automotive paint systems, and its role extends beyond aesthetics. Whether you're having a small touch-up or a full respray, applying a high-quality clear coat is essential to achieving lasting and professional results. Here’s why the clear coat matters so much in auto body repairs. Provides Protection Against the Elements The clear coat acts as a shield between the colored basecoat and external elements like sunlight, rain, snow, and pollutants. Without it, the paint underneath would quickly fade, peel, or become damaged by UV radiation and moisture. The clear coat prevents oxidation and corrosion, helping maintain the integrity of the vehicle’s body. Especially in areas with extreme weather and high sun exposure, a durable clear coat is key to preserving the paint and protecting the vehicle from premature wear. Enhances the Vehicle’s Appearance A high-quality clear coat adds depth, gloss, and shine to a vehicle’s paint, giving it a smooth, polished finish. This visual enhancement not only makes the vehicle look newer and more attractive, but also plays a major role in color matching during repairs. A flawless clear coat helps ensure that new paint blends seamlessly with the surrounding panels, helping to restore the original appearance after damage is repaired. Improves Resistance to Scratches and Contaminants While no coating is completely scratch-proof, the clear coat does provide a significant layer of defense against everyday hazards like dirt, debris, bird droppings, and minor abrasions. It’s easier to buff out surface imperfections in the clear coat than to repair damage that penetrates the base color. This protective layer helps extend the life of your paint job and keeps your vehicle looking well-maintained with less effort. Supports Easier Cleaning and Maintenance Vehicles with an intact and well-maintained clear coat are easier to wash and detail. The smooth surface resists dirt and grime buildup, making it easier to remove road contaminants. Waxing and polishing are also more effective on a clear-coated surface, allowing you to maintain that showroom shine and enhance the vehicle’s overall appearance with less work. Auto Body Repair in Derby, KS For top-quality auto body repair in Derby, KS and the surrounding area, contact ICS Collision Center at  316-217-8115  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

After an accident, getting your vehicle properly repaired is crucial for both appearance and safety. While many auto body shops deliver high-quality work, some cut corners that can compromise the integrity and longevity of the repair. If you’ve recently had collision work done—or are inspecting a used vehicle that’s been in a crash—it’s important to recognize signs that the job wasn’t done right. If you suspect that your car received low-quality bodywork, you can bring it to our team of experts at ICS Collision Center for an inspection. Here are four tips for spotting subpar collision repairs. Inspect the Paint Quality Closely One of the easiest ways to identify poor repair work is by checking the paint job. A quality repair should result in a seamless blend between old and new paint. If you notice differences in color shade or texture between panels, that’s a red flag. Also, look for signs of overspray, which is paint that has landed on areas it shouldn't, such as trim, windows, or headlights. Uneven finishes or visible paint lines suggest a rushed or inexperienced job. Check the Panel Gaps and Alignment Proper panel alignment is key to restoring a vehicle’s structural integrity and aesthetic. Uneven gaps between the hood, fenders, doors, or trunk can indicate that body panels were reinstalled without precise alignment. Panels that don’t sit flush or appear crooked may also suggest underlying frame damage that wasn't fully repaired. Run your fingers along the seams to feel for inconsistencies that your eyes might miss. Look for Mismatched or Non-OEM Parts Subpar repairs may involve the use of mismatched or non-original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Check to see if replacement parts have a different texture, color, or finish than surrounding components. In some cases, aftermarket parts might not fit correctly or may deteriorate faster. Using non-OEM parts can reduce your car’s value and might even compromise its safety in future collisions. Pay Attention to Unusual Sounds or Driving Feel Even if the car looks good on the surface, the way it drives can reveal problems. If you notice unusual vibrations, pulling to one side, or inconsistent braking, it could be the result of a misaligned frame or improperly mounted components. These issues not only affect driving comfort, but could also pose serious safety risks if not corrected. Collision Repair in Derby, KS For expert collision repair in Derby, KS and the surrounding area, contact ICS Collision Center at  316-217-8115  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

When your vehicle is involved in an accident, the way it's repaired can significantly impact its future value. While it may be tempting to cut corners or choose the lowest-cost option, investing in high-quality collision repairs helps ensure your car remains safe, looks great, and retains as much resale value as possible. At ICS Collision Center, we provide expert collision repair in the greater Derby, KS area. Here’s a look at how proper repairs make a big difference when it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle. Preserving Structural Integrity One of the most critical aspects of collision repair is restoring the vehicle’s structural strength. Poor repairs can leave a vehicle weakened and unsafe, especially if the frame or unibody isn't returned to factory specifications. Buyers and dealerships are often wary of vehicles with accident histories, and improper repairs only increase their concerns. Proper repairs performed by certified technicians help maintain the vehicle's structural performance, giving future buyers peace of mind and increasing the likelihood of a strong resale price. Ensuring Visual Consistency Even minor imperfections in paint matching, panel alignment, or bodywork can be noticeable and raise red flags for potential buyers. Proper collision repairs involve advanced techniques and equipment that help ensure a seamless, factory-like finish. Skilled technicians will carefully blend paint, align panels, and restore the vehicle’s exterior so it looks just like it did before the accident. A vehicle that looks well-maintained and free from obvious signs of damage will always be more appealing to buyers and command a higher price. Using OEM Parts One of the most important decisions in the repair process is whether to use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or aftermarket alternatives. OEM parts are made by the vehicle’s manufacturer and are designed to fit and perform exactly like the original components. Using OEM parts ensures that the repaired areas meet the same safety, quality, and performance standards as the rest of the vehicle. Many buyers prefer cars that have been repaired with OEM parts because they provide greater assurance of reliability and quality, which helps protect resale value. Providing Documentation and Transparency A properly repaired vehicle comes with thorough documentation that outlines the work performed and the parts used. This transparency can increase buyer confidence and support a stronger resale price. A clean, professional repair history demonstrates that the car was well cared for and that any damage was addressed the right way. Collision Repair in Derby, KS For expert collision repair in Derby and the surrounding area, contact ICS Collision Center at  316-217-8115  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When your vehicle is involved in a collision, the quality of repairs is critical for ensuring safety and performance. While aftermarket parts may sometimes be cheaper, original equipment manufacturer (OEM ) parts provide superior quality and reliability. At ICS Collision Center, our techs understand the importance of using OEM parts during collision repairs. Here are four important reasons why choosing OEM parts over aftermarket alternatives is the best decision, especially when it comes to safety. Guaranteed Fit and Compatibility OEM parts are designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model, ensuring a precise fit. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, may not fit with such precision, which can lead to improper installation and alignment issues. A poorly fitting part can affect your vehicle’s structural integrity and safety features, increasing the risk of failure in the event of another accident. By using OEM parts, you can be confident that your vehicle will be restored to its original specifications. Maintained Safety Standards Vehicle manufacturers conduct extensive crash tests to ensure that their OEM parts meet strict safety regulations. Safety components such as crumple zones, airbags, and reinforced frames are designed to work with OEM parts, so using aftermarket alternatives could compromise their effectiveness. Prioritizing safety means choosing OEM parts that are built to withstand impact and protect passengers. Higher-Quality Materials and Durability OEM parts are constructed with high-quality materials that match the original components of your vehicle. This ensures durability and long-lasting performance. In contrast, aftermarket parts are sometimes made with cheaper materials to reduce costs, which can lead to premature wear and failure. When it comes to critical safety components, using subpar materials can weaken your car’s ability to absorb impact, potentially putting you at greater risk. Preserved Vehicle Value Choosing OEM parts helps maintain your vehicle’s resale value because it ensures that all components remain true to the manufacturer’s original specifications. If you use aftermarket parts, it could lower your car’s value, as potential buyers may be wary of non-standard repairs. Using OEM parts is the best option for maintaining your vehicle’s resale value. Collision Repair in Derby, KS For expert collision repair in Derby, KS and the surrounding area, contact ICS Collision Center at  316-217-8115  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!