April 2025

Great question — Advanced Repair Planning (ARP) comes with some real benefits, especially if you’re looking for a smooth, stress-free repair experience. Here’s a breakdown of the top advantages: ✅ 1. Faster Repairs Since everything (like parts and labor) is planned before repairs begin, there’s less waiting around for parts or MPI approvals mid-repair. That means: Fewer delays Quicker turnaround time ✅ 2. Fewer Surprises ARP involves a deep inspection (including hidden damage). So they catch issues early, not halfway through the job. That helps: Avoid unexpected costs Prevent repair rework Keep things on schedule ✅ 3. Accurate Parts Ordering They know exactly which parts are needed — and can order them ahead of time, including any OEM-specific parts. This avoids: Delays from backordered parts Incorrect or unnecessary part shipments ✅ 4. Better Insurance Coordination Since the plan is thorough, it’s easier to get quick approvals from MPI or other insurers — fewer back-and-forths, and repairs can start faster. ✅ 5. Higher Quality Repairs With a full plan in place, technicians can focus on doing the job right the first time, using manufacturer guidelines and proper procedures. This helps: Maintain your vehicle’s value Keep warranties intact Ensure safety and performance ✅ 6. Clear Communication You’ll know: What’s being fixed How long it’ll take What to expect from start to finish In short, Advanced Repair Planning helps you get back on the road faster, with fewer headaches and better results.

MPI Direct Repair is a program from Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) that lets you skip the in-person MPI estimate and go straight to an approved body shop — like Crown Autobody & Glass — to get your damage assessed and repaired. Here’s how it works: 🚗 What is MPI Direct Repair? It’s a streamlined repair process where approved auto body shops (called Direct Repair facilities) handle the damage estimate and the repair — all in one place. Instead of going to an MPI Service or Claim Centre first, you go directly to the repair shop after reporting your claim. 🛠️ How the Process Works Report Your Claim to MPI (online or by phone) If eligible, you’ll be given a Direct Repair eligibility code Choose a Direct Repair shop (like Crown Autobody) The shop: Does the damage estimate Submits the estimate to MPI Starts repairs once approved ✅ Benefits of MPI Direct Repair No MPI appointment needed Faster repairs Convenient — everything handled in one location You choose the repair shop you’re most comfortable with Approved shops meet MPI’s quality and training standards It’s basically MPI’s way of making the repair process quicker and more customer-friendly. Let me know if you want to check if a specific claim type qualifies for Direct Repair — not all types do, but most collision and comprehensive damage claims are eligible.

Great question — choosing the right repair shop makes a big difference, and Crown Autobody & Glass stands out for a few strong reasons. Here’s why it’s often the right choice for MPI claims or any vehicle repair: 🛠️ 1. They’re an MPI Direct Repair Facility That means: You can skip the MPI appointment Crown handles the estimate and repairs in one place Faster turnaround and less hassle for you 🚘 2. OEM-Certified Repairs Crown is certified by major manufacturers like: Honda, Toyota, Ford, Kia, Nissan, FCA (Chrysler), and more That means they: Use manufacturer-approved repair procedures Install genuine OEM parts Have trained technicians who understand your specific make/model This protects your vehicle’s safety, performance, and resale value. 🔍 3. Advanced Repair Planning Crown uses a super-detailed planning process to: Identify all damage upfront (even hidden stuff) Order parts early Keep you in the loop and avoid delays Repairs get done faster, more accurately, and with fewer surprises. 💬 4. Excellent Customer Service They’re known for: Friendly, professional staff Clear communication throughout the repair Helping you with your claim, rental, and glass needs too You’re not just a number — they actually care about your experience. 🧼 5. Clean, Modern Facilities Their shops are clean, high-tech, and well-organized — a reflection of their quality work. Plus, you often get your car back detailed and spotless. 🏆 6. Locally Trusted They’re part of the Crown Auto Group, a well-respected name in Winnipeg. Lots of customers and dealerships trust them, which says a lot. ✅ In Short: Crown Autobody & Glass offers: Certified quality Fast, efficient repair planning Direct MPI processing Great service Peace of mind

OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer parts) matter a lot in collision repair — especially if you want your vehicle to be as safe, reliable, and valuable as it was before the accident. Here’s why they’re the gold standard: 🔧 1. Perfect Fit & Function OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that built your car — so they: Fit exactly as intended Work like the originals Maintain your car’s factory finish and performance No weird gaps, poor alignment, or off-color panels. 🛡️ 2. Safety You Can Trust Your vehicle’s safety systems — like airbags, crumple zones, and sensors — are designed to work with OEM components. Using aftermarket or generic parts might compromise: Crash performance Airbag timing Sensor accuracy OEM = factory-tested safety. 🚘 3. Maintains Vehicle Value OEM parts help you: Protect resale value Avoid red flags on vehicle history reports Keep warranties intact (some automakers may void warranties if aftermarket parts are used) This is especially important for newer or leased vehicles. ⚙️ 4. Backed by Warranty OEM parts come with a manufacturer warranty — if something fails, it’s covered. Many aftermarket parts have little or no warranty, or questionable quality control. 🧠 5. Peace of Mind Using OEM parts means you’re getting: The exact same quality your car had when it rolled off the lot Repairs done to manufacturer standards Confidence that your vehicle is restored properly In short, OEM parts aren’t just about looking good — they’re about performance, protection, and preserving your investment.

Rust on your vehicle is usually caused by a combination of moisture, oxygen, and road salt — all of which are super common in places like Manitoba. Here’s a breakdown of why your car might be rusting and what you can do about it: 🌧️ 1. Exposure to Moisture Rain, snow, and humidity provide the moisture rust needs to form. Even washing your car and not drying it properly can leave moisture trapped in seams or under trim. 🧂 2. Road Salt in Winter Salt is great for melting ice — but terrible for metal. It accelerates the rusting process by lowering the activation energy for corrosion. Salt gets into tiny cracks and scratches and stays there, especially if not washed off regularly. 🧹 3. Scratches, Chips, or Dents When your paint is damaged, bare metal is exposed. Without that protective paint layer, moisture and oxygen can go straight to work. Small rock chips or door dings can become rust hotspots fast. 🔩 4. Poor Drainage or Trapped Moisture Clogged drain holes (especially in doors or rocker panels) can trap water. If water can’t escape, it pools and speeds up rusting from the inside out. 🏗️ 5. Age & Wear Older vehicles, or ones that haven’t been maintained, naturally develop more wear and tear. Older undercoatings may have worn off, exposing the metal underneath. 🧪 6. Substandard or Aftermarket Repairs If collision repairs were done without proper sealing or OEM parts, water may seep in behind panels or through poor welds. 👎 7. Lack of Protection No rustproofing or undercoating Not washing your car in winter (especially the undercarriage) Not addressing chips or scratches early 🚫 How to Fight It: Wash regularly, especially in winter Touch up paint chips ASAP Get undercoating or rustproofing (especially in places like Manitoba) Inspect drains and seams Dry your car well after washing

Great topic — knowing what to expect before visiting an autobody shop can save you time, money, and surprises. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about the cost of autobody repairs before you bring your vehicle in: 💰 The Cost of Autobody Repairs: What You Need to Know 🔍 1. Damage Type & Location Matter Most The cost of your repair depends heavily on: The extent of the damage (minor dent vs. structural damage) Where it’s located (a bumper scratch is cheaper than a quarter panel replacement) If hidden damage is discovered during the repair process A small dent might cost $200–$500, while a full panel replacement with paint can run $1,000+. 🛠️ 2. Labor is a Big Part of the Bill Labor costs include: Disassembly and reassembly Painting and refinishing Frame straightening Glass or mechanical work Shops typically charge between $80–$150/hour for labor, depending on the job and certifications. 🧩 3. Parts: OEM vs. Aftermarket OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts cost more but are exact fits Aftermarket or recycled parts are often cheaper but may not match quality Your insurance company may only cover certain parts, unless you request OEM and pay the difference 📋 4. Insurance vs. Out-of-Pocket If you’re going through MPI or private insurance, your deductible is what you pay — MPI covers the rest if approved Out-of-pocket repairs depend on the damage, but some shops will work with your budget Always ask if you can review the estimate before work starts 🔧 5. Advanced Repair Planning Helps Shops like Crown Autobody & Glass use Advanced Repair Planning to: Diagnose all visible and hidden damage up front Build an accurate, detailed repair quote Prevent cost surprises mid-repair This can save you money by reducing rework and unnecessary delays. 💬 6. Ask These Questions Before Approving the Work Is this a free estimate? Will the parts be OEM, aftermarket, or recycled? What is the guarantee or warranty on the repair? How long will it take? Can you help with a rental or courtesy car? 🛡️ 7. Quality Matters — Not Just Price Cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to safety, resale value, and long-term durability. Shops that are OEM-certified or part of the MPI Direct Repair program usually meet higher standards. 📌 Final Tip: If you’re unsure about cost, start with a free estimate and ask for a breakdown. A good shop will explain everything clearly and help you make informed choices.

A total loss in a collision is when your vehicle is damaged so badly that repairing it costs more than it’s worth — or close to it. In that case, your insurance company (like MPI) will write off the vehicle and pay you its actual cash value, instead of repairing it. 💥 How It Works (In Simple Terms): You get in a collision The body shop or MPI does a damage estimate If the repair cost + salvage value is more than the vehicle’s value, it’s declared a total loss 📊 Formula MPI Might Use: Repair Cost + Salvage Value ≥ Actual Cash Value (ACV) Then → Total Loss For example: Your car is worth $10,000 Repair cost is $8,500 Salvage value (what’s left of it) is $2,000 $8,500 + $2,000 = $10,500 → more than ACV → total loss 🧾 What Happens Next: MPI gives you a settlement offer based on market value (ACV) You can choose to: Accept the payout and give up the car (they take it for salvage) Buy back the vehicle as a “write-off” and repair it yourself (if eligible) 🚫 Common Reasons a Car Becomes a Total Loss: Severe frame or structural damage Airbags deployed in older vehicles High repair costs for mechanical + body work Expensive parts (like for luxury or electric cars) 💡 Pro Tip: If you disagree with MPI’s value of your car, you can negotiate or provide evidence (like recent maintenance, upgrades, or sale listings of similar vehicles).

Seasonal weather has a big impact on your vehicle — not just on how it drives, but also how it ages, wears down, or even develops damage over time. Here’s what you should know for each season, especially in places with harsh winters like Manitoba: 🌨️ Winter: Your Car’s Toughest Season ❄️ Road Salt & Slush Causes rust and corrosion, especially on undercarriage, wheel wells, and brakes Stays stuck in cracks if not washed off regularly 🧊 Cold Temps Tires lose pressure — lower grip and fuel efficiency Battery power drops (batteries can die faster) Fluids like oil and antifreeze thicken, making the engine work harder 🌫️ Visibility Salt spray can fog up headlights and smear windshields Icy windows can cause defrosters and wipers to wear faster 🌸 Spring: Wake-Up Call for Hidden Damage 💦 Melting Snow = Moisture Traps Rust may begin to show where winter left moisture trapped Potholes from freeze-thaw cycles can cause suspension or alignment issues 🌱 Debris Buildup Leaves, twigs, and dirt may clog drain holes or cabin air filters ☀️ Summer: Heat Can Be Brutal 🌡️ High Temps Overheating risk increases, especially if coolant is old or low Interior components like dashboards and leather can crack or fade 🛣️ UV Rays Can fade your paint and headlights Rubber seals and wiper blades may dry out and crack 🚗 A/C Strain Older A/C systems may struggle — and repairs can be pricey if ignored too long 🍂 Fall: Prep Season 🍁 Temperature Swings Cold mornings and warm afternoons can mess with tire pressure Foggy mornings = more reliance on your defogger and wipers 🛠️ Time for Maintenance Great time to inspect brakes, tires, fluids, and rust before winter hits again 🧼 Year-Round Tips to Protect Your Vehicle: Wash your car regularly, especially in winter Wax or seal your paint to protect from sun and salt Rustproofing or undercoating helps long-term, especially in snowy climates Seasonal tire swaps improve grip and safety Keep up with fluid checks and battery testing

Keeping your vehicle clean isn’t just about making it look good — it actually plays a big role in preserving your car’s condition, value, and safety. Here’s why a clean car is a happy (and smarter) car: 🛡️ 1. Prevents Rust & Corrosion Dirt, salt, and grime trap moisture and cling to your car’s body and undercarriage Especially in winter, road salt can eat through metal and cause rust to spread fast Regular washing helps keep rust from forming in wheel wells, rocker panels, and brake components 🎨 2. Protects Your Paint Dust and debris can scratch your paint when rubbed or wiped off Bird droppings, bug splatter, and tree sap are acidic — they’ll damage paint if left too long A clean car + a good coat of wax = a protective barrier against the elements 💰 3. Maintains Resale Value A well-maintained, clean vehicle looks newer and more appealing to buyers Faded paint, rust spots, and stained interiors can drop your vehicle’s value by hundreds or even thousands 👀 4. Improves Visibility & Safety Dirty headlights reduce night-time visibility Grimy windshields and mirrors can blur your view Clean cameras and sensors (especially for newer cars) work better for safety features like backup cams and lane assist 🚗 5. Better Interior Health Dust, allergens, and bacteria can build up in seats, vents, and carpets Regular vacuuming and wiping surfaces improves air quality and comfort — especially for those with allergies 🔧 6. Easier Maintenance A clean engine bay makes it easier to spot leaks or worn parts Mechanics can work faster (and more accurately) if they’re not digging through grime 🧼 Pro Tip: Wash your car every 2–3 weeks, or more often in winter Don’t forget to clean the undercarriage Apply a wax or sealant every few months to protect the finish

The difference between dealership collision centres and independent body shops often comes down to technology, training, and trust. Here’s why dealership-affiliated centres (like Crown Autobody & Glass) are often considered more advanced: 🏭 Why Dealership Collision Centres Are a Step Ahead 🔧 1. OEM-Certified Repairs Dealership collision centres usually have OEM certifications from brands they sell — like Honda, Toyota, Ford, etc. That means: Factory-trained technicians OEM parts only Repairs done to the exact standards of the manufacturer Independent shops may be certified, but dealership centres often must be to keep their brand reputation. 🖥️ 2. Access to Proprietary Technology Dealership centres often have access to manufacturer scan tools, repair databases, and software updates This is crucial for: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Sensor calibration Complex diagnostics Most independents don’t have this tech unless they specialize or invest heavily. 👨‍🔧 3. Factory-Trained Technicians Technicians at dealership centres receive ongoing training from the automaker They’re up to date on: New materials (like aluminum or carbon fiber) Modern repair procedures Hybrid/electric vehicle repair Independent shops might not stay as current unless they’re part of a certified network. 🛡️ 4. Warranty Protection OEM-certified repairs at a dealership collision centre can protect your factory warranty Some automakers may not honor warranties if non-OEM parts or unapproved repair methods were used elsewhere 🔩 5. OEM Parts Priority Dealership shops get first access to OEM parts, directly from their parts department Independent shops might use aftermarket or recycled parts, unless you request otherwise 💼 6. Integrated with Your Dealership Experience Easier coordination if your vehicle is leased or under warranty Better recordkeeping — your service and collision history is in one place If you’re trading in or selling later, having dealer-recorded repairs helps maintain value 🧼 7. Often Includes Extras Many dealership centres offer: Advanced repair planning Detailing before pickup Cleaner, more modern facilities 🆚 What About Independent Shops? There are excellent independent body shops out there too — especially if they’re MPI Direct Repair or OEM-certified themselves. The key is whether they: Use OEM parts Follow manufacturer guidelines Have up-to-date tools and training