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!

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.

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!

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.

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!