Why You Should Choose A Certified Auto Body Shop

Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop

If your vehicle needs repairs, it’s essential to choose a certified auto body repair shop. Here’s why certification matters — and why it could save you time, money, and stress.

Certified Technicians You Can Trust

Certified shops ensure their technicians have up-to-date training and credentials to meet strict industry standards. These experts know how to handle the latest vehicle designs and materials, using approved tools and techniques for every repair.

Genuine OEM Parts Only

A certified shop uses Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, which means your replacement components are factory-made—engineered for exact fit, safety, and long-term reliability.

Access to Advanced Technology

Certified auto body shops invest in state-of-the-art diagnostic and repair technology. This ensures repairs are not only accurate but meet the original manufacturer’s specifications—especially important for newer vehicles.

Why Choose Mathews Auto Body?

At Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick, WA, we’re proud to be a certified collision repair facility. Our shop has served the Tri-Cities for over 40 years, earning a reputation for quality, integrity, and personalized service.

✔ Family-owned and locally trusted
✔ Certified technicians
✔ OEM parts and latest tools
✔ Free estimates—no appointment needed

📞 Need certified collision repair?
Contact Mathews Auto Body today or stop in for your free estimate!

Why Immediate Dent Repair Matters

Close-up of dented vehicle panel in need of auto body repair in Pasco.
Close-up of dented vehicle panel in need of auto body repair in Pasco.

It might be tempting to delay fixing a small dent, especially if your vehicle still drives fine. But ignoring dents can lead to costly consequences later. Here’s why it’s important to get professional dent repair as soon as possible.

Hidden Damage Beneath the Surface

Even if the dent looks minor, it could be a sign of deeper issues like:

  • Frame misalignment
  • Suspension or steering damage
  • Cracked paint or exposed metal

Delaying repair may also increase your risk of:

  • Rust and corrosion
  • Paint fading from sun exposure
  • Trapped debris causing more wear

Higher Repair Costs Over Time

A small dent is typically easy and affordable to fix. But over time, dents can spread or worsen, leading to:

  • More expensive bodywork
  • Larger surface repairs
  • Potential repainting of entire panels

Lower Resale Value

First impressions matter when selling your car. Dents, rust, or paint damage can:

  • Turn buyers away
  • Reduce your trade-in value
  • Suggest poor vehicle maintenance

Taking care of cosmetic damage shows pride in ownership—and helps retain value.

Need Dent Repair in Kennewick or the Tri-Cities?

Let the experts at Mathews Auto Body restore your vehicle’s appearance.

✅ Over 35 years of trusted auto body repair
✅ Paintless dent removal & full dent restoration
✅ Free walk-in estimates – no appointment needed

Contact us today to schedule your dent repair or stop by our Kennewick auto body shop!

Contact us Today!

How to Find the Best Auto Body Repair Shop

If you’ve been in an accident, finding the right auto body repair shop is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re dealing with minor dents or major collision damage, choosing a shop that’s skilled, reliable, and transparent can make all the difference.

Not sure where to start? Here are some simple tips to help you research auto body shops with confidence:

Compare a Few Auto Body Shops

Don’t settle on the first shop you find. Compare a few options in your area to see who offers the best reputation, service, and pricing.

Read Detailed, Verified Reviews

Look beyond short or generic reviews. Choose shops with thorough customer feedback that explains the quality of work and customer service. Prioritize platforms that verify their reviews—this helps you avoid fake or spammed testimonials.

Look for Relevant Repair Experience

Need frame repair, dent removal, or collision repair? Look for shops that have proven experience in those specific services.

Check for Professional Responses

See how the business interacts with reviewers. A professional shop will respond to both positive and negative reviews courteously and constructively.

Prioritize Recent Feedback

Focus on reviews from the past 6–12 months. These offer the best insight into how the shop currently operates and treats its customers.

Trust Mathews Auto Body for Your Repairs

At Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick, we’ve been helping drivers across the Tri-Cities for over 35 years. From minor cosmetic repairs to full-frame straightening and collision repair, we offer honest service, expert craftsmanship, and a lifetime warranty on all repairs.

Stop by today for a free estimate—no appointment needed. We proudly serve Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and surrounding Benton County areas.

What To Do With A Totaled Vehicle

Auto body repair in progress at a clean, modern collision repair facility in Kennewick.
Auto body repair in progress at a clean, modern collision repair facility in Kennewick.

Was your vehicle recently declared totaled? You’re not alone—and you have options. Whether you’re dealing with a major collision or extensive auto body damage, here’s a breakdown of what to do next.

1. Accept Your Insurance Payout

This is the most common and hassle-free route. Your insurer will offer a settlement based on your car’s actual cash value. If you accept, they’ll take ownership of the vehicle and issue your payment (minus your deductible).

2. Dispute or Appeal the Settlement

If you feel the insurance company’s offer is too low, you can appeal the decision. Gather comparable vehicle values, receipts for recent repairs, and other evidence to support your case.

3. Keep the Totaled Vehicle

Is the damage mostly cosmetic? You may choose to keep the car, especially if it’s still drivable. Just keep in mind that your insurance provider may label it as a salvage vehicle, which can affect future coverage and resale value.

4. Get It Repaired at an Auto Body Shop

Want to keep your vehicle on the road? Choose to repair it yourself or pay the difference not covered by insurance. In many cases, insurers will cut you a check for the car’s value (minus your deductible), and you can take it to an auto body repair shop you trust.

At Mathews Auto Body, we can help you evaluate whether repairing your vehicle is worth it—and we’ll work with your insurance company to simplify the process.

5. DIY Repairs

Do you have experience making repairs on vehicles? It’s not required to take your vehicle into a professional, do it yourself! This can save money, but be cautious—safety must always come first, especially with structural or frame damage.

6. Donate the Vehicle

Don’t want to deal with repairs or insurance disputes? Consider donating your vehicle. Many organizations offer free towing and your donation may even be tax deductible.

7. Sell It for Parts

If the vehicle is beyond repair, sell it for scrap. Local salvage yards or auto recycling centers may pay cash for usable parts, especially engines, transmissions, and tires.

Need Help with a Totaled Vehicle

Contact Mathews Auto Body today. With over 35 years of experience, our certified collision repair specialists can help guide you through the repair or claims process.

We proudly serve Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and surrounding Tri-Cities areas. Whether you’re looking for auto body repair, frame straightening, or a second opinion on your totaled vehicle, we’re here to help.

Visit us or call today for a free estimate!

What To Do After A Fender Bender

Collision damage on a blue vehicle awaiting auto body repair in Pasco, WA.

A fender bender is a minor car accident—often stressful but usually manageable. If you’ve just been in one, here’s what to do next.

1. Get to Safety

Move your vehicle off the road if possible. Turn on hazard lights and make sure everyone is safe. If injuries are involved, call 911 immediately.

2. Call the Police

Even if it’s minor, report the accident. A police report can help during your insurance claim process.

3. Exchange Information

Swap contact, license, and insurance details with the other driver. Take photos of the damage and the accident location for your records.

4. Look for Witnesses

If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact info. Witness statements can help clarify fault if needed.

5. Report to Insurance

Call your insurance provider and start the claims process. Provide all photos, documentation, and the police report if available.

6. Schedule an Inspection

Bring your vehicle to a certified auto body repair shop like Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick, WA for a professional estimate.

Prevention Tips:

  • Avoid distractions while driving
  • Follow all traffic signals
  • Drive carefully in poor weather
  • Maintain safe following distance
  • Get regular vehicle checkups

Ready to Get Back on the Road?

If you’ve recently been in a fender bender, don’t wait. Contact the expert team at Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick, WA for a free estimate.

With over 35 years of experience, we specialize in:

Trust our certified technicians to repair your vehicle safely and efficiently.

Contact us Today!