OEM vs. Aftermarket…That is the Question.

When an accident sidelines your vehicle, which parts should be used to return it to like-new condition?  We will always recommend original equipment, but we understand that budget restraints don’t always make that practical.  You need to make a financially responsible decision AND think about the future of your vehicle all at the same time!

Here are a couple of things to remember –

1.  If the parts to be used in the repair are supplied from the original equipment manufacturer, a warranty must be included that guarantees the customer that the parts meet or exceed manufacturing standards.

2.  The use of a motor vehicle crash part NOT made by the original equipment manufacturer may invalidate any remaining warranties of the original equipment manufacturer on that motor vehicle part.

We want you to make the right decision for your budget and your family.  We are here to help with that as well as look for the best aftermarket parts available if that is your decision.  We are Arrow Body and Fender of Elmwood Park.  We have been getting cars back on the roads of Chicagoland since your grandfather’s Edsel.  Call us at (708) 456-9424.

10 things you might not have known about St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

10 things you might not have known about St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

(Click the link above for more information )

"St. Patrick's Day is on March 17, but Chicagoans will kick things off this weekend with a slew of events and activities. From dyeing the river green to festivals and parades, Chicago is famous for its spirited celebration of Ireland's beloved patron saint. But behind all these festivities is a long history of traditions (and some secrets) surrounding the annual holiday" 

Stop…Don’t Leave the Auto Body Shop Without a Checklist!

Nobody is perfect and here at Arrow Body and Fender we want you to have a checklist when you exit any auto body repair shop.  These are things such as checking the repair area close-up and from a distance.  Examine the paint for color matching.  Take a test drive.  Make sure that your vehicle is clean, etc.

Some of the pitfalls of auto body shops in Chicagoland are

1.  Poor alignment

2.  Clipping…an entire part has been taken from another car and welded to yours

3.  Was the airbag replaced if need be?

4.  What kind of parts were used?

5.  Torqued to manufacturers specifications.

We want you to know that Arrow Body and Fender of Elmwood Park checks all of these points and many more when repairing your “baby”.  We know that you want to take it back on the roadways of Chicagoland and drive it with pride.  Arrow Body and Fender has been proud to serve our area for seven decades.  If you need us, our phone number is (708) 456-9424.