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!

What To Consider When Getting Your Car Painted

Technician preparing car for paint at Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick.
Technician preparing car for paint at Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick.

Thinking about a fresh coat of paint for your vehicle? Repainting your car can boost its value and appearance, but there’s more to it than picking a color. Here’s what you should know before scheduling your paint job.

Paint Doesn’t Fix Everything

Paint is great for restoring shine, but it won’t cover up major damage. Deep scratches, dents, rust, or gouges often require bodywork before painting. A reputable auto body repair shop like Mathews Auto Body will assess your vehicle first, remove old paint, and repair any underlying issues before applying the new coat.

Repainting Can Boost Value

Planning to sell or trade in your car? A fresh paint job can increase its value—especially if your current finish is faded or scratched. A quality repainting job helps your vehicle stand out and look well-maintained.

It Takes Time

Auto painting isn’t a quick process. Expect your vehicle to be in the shop for at least a week. Proper prep is crucial: technicians remove oxidized paint layers and may even remove interior components like seats, the dashboard, or console to ensure full protection during the repainting process.

Considering a Paint Job After a Collision?

A fresh coat of paint may be part of your post-accident repair plan. Whether it’s full repainting or spot paint matching, our certified technicians at Mathews Auto Body are here to help.

Why Choose Mathews Auto Body?

  • Over 35 years of experience
  • Serving Kennewick and the Tri-Cities
  • Specializing in auto collision repair, frame repair, dent repair, and more!
  • Free estimates—no appointment needed!

Contact us today to schedule your vehicle’s evaluation and let’s bring back that showroom shine.

Protect Yourself When Having Your Car Fixed

Wheel and rim refinishing during a high-end car detailing service in Kennewick by Mathews Auto Body
Wheel and rim refinishing during a high-end car detailing service in Kennewick by Mathews Auto Body

Taking your car into an auto body repair shop? Protect your time, wallet, and vehicle by following these smart tips to avoid confusion or unexpected costs.

Talk About Pricing Up Front

Discuss your budget and expectations early. Research average repair costs online or get multiple quotes from other auto body shops. Just remember—cheaper isn’t always better.

Consider the differences in:

  • Warranty coverage (some shops include it, others don’t)
  • Quality of parts, paint, and labor
  • Whether parts are repaired or replaced
  • Extra work that might be needed

Request a Written Estimate

Always ask for a detailed, itemized estimate. A professional auto body repair shop should provide this without hesitation.

Not sure about something on the estimate? Ask! A trusted shop like Mathews Auto Body will explain every charge so you feel confident. And comparing quotes from other shops may help you uncover missing or extra charges.

Keep in mind: an estimate is just that—an estimate. More damage may be revealed once repairs begin. A reputable shop will always call you to approve any additional costs before continuing work.

Ask the Right Questions

Take time to review your estimate. Then ask:

  • What parts and paint quality will be used?
  • Is there a warranty on the work or materials?
  • How long will repairs take?
  • Are there any potential hidden costs?

Being informed now helps avoid surprises later.

Searching for an Auto Body Shop You Can Trust?

Contact Mathews Auto Body today to speak with our certified, customer-first team.

Whether you’re maintaining your new car or dealing with unexpected damage, Mathews Auto Body is here to help. With over 35 years of experience, our certified team specializes in:

Visit us for a free estimate—no appointment needed.

5 Signs You Need Paint Repair Services From An Auto Body Shop

Collision repair spray technician finishing a bumper repaint in Kennewick.
Collision repair spray technician finishing a bumper repaint in Kennewick.

Your car’s paint isn’t just about looks—it protects your vehicle’s body from rust, corrosion, and long-term damage. If you’re noticing any of the following signs, it may be time to visit a trusted auto body repair shop.

1. Scratches That Won’t Buff Out

Surface scratches can often be buffed, but deeper ones may expose the base layer or metal beneath. A professional technician can assess the damage and recommend whether paint touch-up or a full panel repaint is needed.

2. Damage After a Collision

Even minor accidents can leave behind chips, dents, bubbling, or paint cracks. These exposed areas are vulnerable to rust if left untreated. Have your vehicle inspected after any fender bender to catch hidden paint damage early.

3. Faded or Dull Paint

Years of sun exposure can dull your vehicle’s paint. If your car looks worn despite regular washes, repainting can bring back its vibrant finish—and boost resale value.

4. Peeling or Bubbling Clear Coat

Peeling paint or bubbling along the surface means the clear coat is failing. Once this protective layer is compromised, the base coat and metal underneath are exposed to the elements. Act fast to prevent larger paint failures.

5. Rust and Corrosion

Look for signs of rust around wheel wells, bumpers, panel seams, and undercarriage areas—especially after winter. Road salt can accelerate corrosion, so routine inspections and repainting can help prevent serious structural issues.

Protect Your Investment

Repainting or refinishing your vehicle isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a proactive way to protect your car’s body for the long term.

Need Paint Repair Services?

Contact the expert team at Mathews Auto Body today for a free estimate.

Proudly serving Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and the entire Tri-Cities area.

With over 35 years of experience, our certified team specializes in:

Contact us Today!

Keeping Your Car’s Exterior in Pristine Condition

Want to maintain your car’s showroom shine? Follow these simple steps to protect your vehicle’s paint and keep it looking its best year-round.

1. Wash Regularly and Properly

Handwash your car to gently remove dirt, grime, and debris that can wear away your paint over time. Use microfiber towels and the two-bucket method—one for rinsing, one for soap. Don’t forget the undercarriage, especially in winter months when road salt can cause rust.

2. Wax Every 6 Months

Add a protective wax layer twice a year. This not only enhances shine but shields your paint from sun, rain, and pollutants.

3. Fix Scratches Fast

Even small imperfections can lead to rust and worsen over time. Take care of scratches or dings early to prevent costly repairs later.

4. Cover Your Car When Possible

Whenever you can, park in a garage or under a carport. Harsh sun, rain, hail, and snow all damage paint. UV exposure can fade your paint, while moisture can lead to oxidation and rust.

Notice some dents, dings, or scratches?

Keeping your car in perfect condition takes effort—but you don’t have to do it alone.

Mathews Auto Body is here to help. With over 35 years of experience, our certified team specializes in:

Contact us Today!

Tips for Preventing Car Scratches

Keeping your car in top condition can be a challenge. Even a small scratch can lead to bigger problems if left untreated. Here are some effective ways to help prevent car scratches and protect your vehicle’s finish.

1. Be Smart About Parking

When entering a parking lot, park farther from building entrances. Fewer cars nearby means fewer chances of dings, scratches, or door bumps.

2. Wash Your Car the Right Way

Hand washing is best. Automatic car washes often use rough, unclean brushes that cause micro-scratches, also known as swirl marks. These can dull your paint and worsen over time.

3. Protect Your Car from Daily Wear

Avoid setting objects on your car or leaning against it. If possible, park in a garage or under a covered space to shield your paint from the elements, tree sap, and bird droppings.

4. Scratches Happen — Get Them Fixed Quickly

Even with care, scratches are hard to avoid. When they do occur, it’s best to get them professionally repaired before they worsen or cause rust.

Need Scratch Repair?

Contact the skilled technicians at Mathews Auto Body today for a free estimate!

With over 35 years of experience, our auto body repair experts are proud to serve Kennewick and the Tri-Cities with high-quality scratch, dent, and collision repairs.

Contact us Today!

Spotting Issues After Auto Body Repair

Mathews Auto Body technician in Tri-Cities working on suspension and collision repair.
Mathews Auto Body technician in Tri-Cities working on suspension and collision repair.

Just picked up your car from the shop? Don’t drive off too quickly — it’s important to inspect your vehicle after a repair to make sure everything was done properly. Even certified auto body repair technicians can make mistakes, and catching them early helps avoid future issues.

Here’s a simple checklist you can follow after your vehicle has been repaired:

Do a Full Visual Inspection

Carefully examine the repaired areas — look for uneven surfaces, leftover damage, or signs of rushed work.

Test All Functions

Make sure the following systems are working properly:

  • Turn signals and lights
  • Windows and lock switches
  • Windshield wipers
  • Hood and doors (they should open and close easily)

Check Panel Gaps and Paint Color

  • Compare gaps between panels — they should be uniform.
  • Step into sunlight and check for paint color mismatches.

Interior Condition

When you pick up your car, the interior should be clean. Shops like Mathews Auto Body return your vehicle vacuumed and washed.

Check for Alignment Issues

Drive for a few days and watch for:

  • Uneven tire wear
  • Car pulling to one side
  • Vibrations or odd steering

This could indicate missed alignment or frame damage.

Look for New Warning Lights or Sounds

Check the dashboard for new warning lights. Listen for unusual noises while driving — these can signal loose parts or mechanical issues.

Trust Mathews Auto Body for Quality Repairs

At Mathews Auto Body in Kennewick, WA, our certified auto body team has over 35 years of experience delivering high-quality, thorough repairs. We back every repair with a lifetime guarantee and make sure your car looks and drives like it should.

Serving Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and all of Benton County.

Walk in today for a free estimate—no appointment necessary!

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!

Why Summer Is The Perfect Time For Auto Body Repair

Team performing front bumper alignment and body work in Kennewick.
Team performing auto body repair and body work in Kennewick.

Don’t wait to fix those dings, dents, or scratches on your car. Summer is the ideal season to schedule your auto body repairs—and here’s why.

1. Get Ready for Winter Driving

Summer is the perfect time to fix any scratches, chipped paint, or minor damage. Cold, wet winter conditions can turn small issues into major problems. By repairing damage now, you’ll prevent moisture, salt, and debris from causing rust or further deterioration.

2. More Flexibility in Your Summer Schedule

With school out and family vacations on the calendar, summer offers more flexibility for many vehicle owners. Whether you’re a student, parent, or just have more downtime, it’s a great opportunity to get your vehicle into the shop without disrupting your routine.

3. Faster Repairs & Fewer Delays

Dry, predictable summer weather helps auto body repair shops move more efficiently. Unlike winter, there’s less risk of shipping delays due to weather, and paint cures more consistently in warmer temps—resulting in quicker, more reliable repair times.

4. Avoid Bigger Problems Later

Even small dents or chips can lead to bigger issues if left untreated. Moisture, UV rays, and daily wear can quickly make a minor scratch worse. Don’t procrastinate—taking care of minor damage now will save time and money in the long run.

Looking for a Local Auto Body Repair Shop?

Mathews Auto Body is your trusted source for high-quality collision repair in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, WA. Our skilled technicians bring over 40 years of hands-on experience, and we proudly offer:

  • Free walk-in estimates
  • Work with all major insurance providers
  • Lifetime warranty on repairs
  • Certified auto body technicians
  • Friendly, transparent service

Visit us in Kennewick or contact us today to schedule your repair. Get your car summer-ready—and road-ready—with the help of Mathews Auto Body.

Contact us Today!

Essential Car Care Tips Every New Vehicle Owner Should Know

If you’ve just purchased a new vehicle, you might be wondering how to take care of it beyond just filling up the tank. Proper maintenance not only keeps your car running smoothly but also protects your investment, ensures safety, and extends the life of your vehicle. Here are some essential car maintenance tips for new owners to help keep your ride in top shape.

1. Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly

Maintaining the correct tire pressure improves fuel efficiency, handling, and overall safety. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge and refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find the recommended PSI. Don’t forget to check tread depth and rotate your tires every few thousand miles for even wear.

2. Replace the Air Filter as Needed

A clean air filter improves your engine’s performance and fuel economy. Check your manual for how often to replace it—usually every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and reduce your car’s power.

3. Pamper Your Paint and Interior

Protect your vehicle’s exterior by washing it regularly—hand washing is best. Use polish and wax to shield the paint from sun damage, road salt, and grime. Inside, vacuum and wipe down surfaces to prevent odors, stains, and deterioration.

4. Inspect and Replace Brakes

If you hear squeaking or grinding sounds while braking, it’s time for an inspection. Have your brakes checked every 6,000 miles or sooner if you notice performance changes. Staying ahead of brake wear improves both safety and long-term maintenance costs.

5. Change Spark Plugs Periodically

Spark plugs affect your car’s fuel efficiency and overall performance. Replace them according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule—or if your car feels sluggish or misfires. This small maintenance task can have a big impact.

6. Monitor and Top Off Fluids

Keeping your fluids in check is key to smooth operation. Be sure to:

  • Change your oil every 3,000–5,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and oil type
  • Check coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid regularly
  • Use the fluid grades and intervals recommended in your owner’s manual

7. Schedule Regular Service

Your owner’s manual is your best friend when it comes to long-term maintenance. It outlines when to change oil, replace belts, flush fluids, and more. Address any dashboard warning lights promptly—don’t ignore them.

Need Auto Body Repair in Kennewick, WA?

Whether you’re maintaining your new car or dealing with unexpected damage, Mathews Auto Body is here to help. With over 35 years of experience, our certified team specializes in:

Located in Kennewick, WA, we proudly serve the Tri-Cities area with expert care and transparent service.

Visit us today a free estimate and get your vehicle back to looking and performing like new.

Contact us Today!