Few things are more frustrating than being stranded on the side of the road due to car trouble. The thought of your vehicle breaking down, leaving you in a bind, can cause a lot of stress.  Understanding the common car issues that often lead to needing a tow can help you better prepare for these…

Rust has a way of creeping up on you. One day, your car looks pristine, and the next, you spot the telltale signs of corrosion. It starts as a tiny chip, maybe a small scratch, but left unchecked, it spreads like wildfire, compromising the structural integrity of your vehicle.  The worst part?  Once rust takes…

Have you ever wondered how a paint and body shop manages to perfectly match the paint on your car after a repair?  It’s not magic, but it is a fascinating blend of science, technology, and artistry. Getting the right color isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about restoring your vehicle’s value and ensuring a seamless repair…

A fender bender. A sideswipe. A deer jumping out of nowhere.  These are the moments that send your heart racing, and the aftermath can be just as stressful. When you’re searching for “collision repair near me,” your mind is likely flooded with questions about insurance claims, repairs, and getting your life back on track. Don’t…

You’re stranded on the side of the road, engine sputtering, steam billowing from under the hood. Panic sets in. Do you try to fix it yourself, risking further damage, or do you call for help? It’s a decision every driver dreads, and one that could have costly consequences.  Next time you search Google for “towing…

An auto accident is stressful enough. The aftermath – dealing with insurance, finding a reputable repair shop, and worrying about getting your car back to its pre-accident condition – can feel overwhelming.  But it doesn’t have to be. Knowing what to expect and understanding your rights can make the auto body process far less daunting.…

The quest for the perfect finish on a vehicle is something of an art form, a testament to the owner’s style and the skill of the paint and body shop tasked with bringing that vision to life.  In recent years, the auto paint industry has seen a surge of innovation, with new techniques and materials…

When your vehicle needs a facelift or repair after an accident, the process can seem shrouded in mystery.  What exactly happens behind the closed garage doors during the collision repair? Understanding this transformation process can ease the anxiety of handing over your car for repairs and give you insight into the craftsmanship and meticulous work…

The art of shaping metal is a mesmerizing dance of fire and force, where a seemingly inflexible material is transformed into beautiful, intricate designs. The mastery of this craft by paint and body shops requires not only creativity but also a deep understanding of the various challenges involved. From choosing the ideal metal to ensuring…

In the world of auto repair, one thing remains constant: the relentless march of progress. From traditional hammer-and-dolly techniques to laser-precision alignment tools, the collision repair industry has undergone a seismic shift over the years.  But what does this evolution mean for professionals in the field? And how can one keep pace with these rapid…

The moment of impact in a car collision forces a halt on regular life, thrusting drivers into an unexpected, tumultuous journey. And while your vehicle bears the visible brunt, the invisible toll, marred by stress, financial implications, and safety concerns, silently yet significantly, weighs heavy. As paths diverge towards restoring normalcy, one element is non-negotiable:…

Oh, the sheer thrill of transforming your car with a fresh, vibrant color that speaks volumes about your personality! Imagine pulling into the driveway with a color that not only turns heads but also resonates with your soul. Diving into the world of automotive colors at an auto body shop near me might seem like…

You’re cruising along the highway when a sleek, fiery red sports car zooms past you, its vibrant color demanding attention. Almost instinctively, you associate the driver with a bold, spirited personality. Ever wondered why? Our brains are wired to connect colors with emotions and personalities. It’s why some folks walk into a paint and body…

Imagine this: It’s late, the road is nearly empty, your car suddenly stalls, and you’re stranded. The quiet hum of your failed engine is the only sound you hear, and the weight of unease settles in. Who do you call? Will they be trustworthy? Are they going to charge exorbitantly? Thoughts like “I wish I…

Picture the scenario: a sunny day turned into a nightmare with a single collision. An unexpected car crash not only rattles your nerves but leaves your vehicle looking far from its former glory. When facing this distressing predicament, your mind might race to the question: “Where can I find exceptional collision repair near me?” It’s…

Think back to the first time you laid eyes on your vehicle, with its freshly applied, perfectly uniform paint. Whether it was a sun-catching red or a sleek and mysterious black, the flawless coat probably had a significant impact on your purchase. But what happens when that color starts to fade, or worse, gets damaged?…

Imagine this scenario: you’re driving home after a long day at work, and suddenly your car breaks down on the side of the road. You’re stranded, it’s late, and you’re not sure what to do next. Before you start panicking or searching “towing service near me” on Google, consider the benefits of a 24/7 emergency…

Have you ever found yourself frantically searching for an “auto body shop near me” on Google to address a small dent or scratch on your beloved vehicle? It’s common to underestimate the importance of regularly maintaining your car’s bodywork, but proper maintenance can bring countless benefits to both you and your vehicle’s well-being. In this…

Car accidents can be a traumatic experience, and the last thing you need is to worry about finding a reliable auto body repair technician. When your car gets damaged, the first thing you might do is to search for “towing service near me” to get it to a repair shop. But selecting a dependable and…

Auto accidents are regrettably inevitable. So when it comes time to search google for “auto body shop near me”, the sheer number of possibilities can make your search difficult. To ensure you select the ideal shop for your specific requirements, here’s a list of key questions to remember to ask before making an appointment. What…

If you’re looking for a towing service in Augusta, GA, look no further than Rick’s Paint & Body! But before we dive into discussing common towing scams and how to avoid them, let’s just quickly go over how to find us – just search “towing service near me” in Google and you’ll see us come…

When your car needs auto repair, it’s important to choose the right company to get the job done. You don’t want to take your vehicle anywhere that you don’t feel comfortable with, and you certainly don’t want to go through the hassle of dealing with a shady business. So, how do you choose the right…

From certifymyshop.com At Rick’s Paint and Body, collision repair is a family affair. Assured Performance was able to connect with owners, Katie and Tyler Smith, and discuss their Augusta, Georgia based Certified body shop. Forefront on their minds was how they maximize their shop’s Certifications and prioritize using the best tools and technologies. Their emphasis on…

2020 has been quite the year for many things, making history being the biggest. The Coronavirus outbreak has affected so much of our lives and daily routines. Even moreso than usual, it is important to focus on the positive during these times. Fortunately, good things will always arise from difficult situations.  Times of crisis tend…

The biggest headline currently in the Augusta, GA area and all over the world is COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus. It is equally as terrifying as it is talked about. The novel coronavirus is something that’s affected countless people, businesses, events, and schools alike. Coronaviruses are viruses that commonly affect humans and animals, usually…

We couldn’t be more thankful for the recent years of growth that we’ve been experiencing here at Rick’s Paint & Body in Augusta.  Our team here has grown substantially, and consequently, it was time for our facility to grow as well.  The building next door to ours here on Bobby Jones Expressway was recently made…

We’re a paint and body shop in Augusta – so why would we be posting about axles and tires? The simple answer is that they often lead to accidents that require our services. Think about it this way: Your car, truck, van, SUV, or whatever you drive has to make contact with the road to…

Whether you’re heading to Grandma’s, stealing away to the mountains, or looking forward to catching some rays on the beach, you’ll need to get there. And for the vast majority of us, that’ll be by driving, with all of our luggage and family in tow. As so many of us hit the road, it’s a…

Statistically, it happens to us all once every 17-18 years (on average). You may have read that and grumbled “Wish I was average.” But at some time, it will likely happen to you: An accident. When a car accident occurs, many things have to happen. Checking for injuries, surveying the damage, and then waiting for…

No matter who you choose for your car insurance – from State Farm, Allsate, Progressive, GEICO, SafeAuto, or someone else – it pays to do some research and look around. Even if you’re happy with your plan, it could end up driving your monthly premiums down! Here’s a few steps to get the best possible…

As temperatures in the Augusta, Ga. area continue to rise and the humidity only ratchets higher, it’s common when driving to take measures to keep your vehicle – especially the interior – as cool as possible. This also helps protect your car’s paint, which has a glaze to withstand high temperatures but will help it…

It’s a fair question, and while it may seem obvious to many, a good paint and body shop in Augusta like ours offers excellent service, quality of work, and in a timely fashion – and they’ll stand behind their work. We’re here to provide complete service if an accident or damage occurs to your vehicle!…

We’re a paint and body shop in Augusta, so naturally, we do a lot of retouching and focusing on getting a vehicle’s exterior to look like new (in addition to the many repairs we perform!). Sometimes, though, we see damage that really never has to happen. One of those issues stems from washing and waxing.…

According to a recent Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) update, the number of fatal car crashes in the United States dipped below 30,000 for the year 2014, the latest year data has been reported. In short, as the nation’s population continues to grow, the rate of crashes keeps declining slightly. Men are, statistically, far…

In March of 2015, many publications – including USA Today – posted articles regarding a study done by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety on which old cars, trucks, and SUVs had the most driver deaths from 2006-2009. These stats could be handy for people shopping for older used cars. Two takeaways were of interest.…

We in the United States typically refer to a minor accident as a fender bender. It doesn’t cause too much damage or keep the car from working properly, but it does make your vehicle look worse for wear. As a body shop in Augusta, we see all kinds of vehicles after fender benders – and…

Sometimes, you just want your car to look its best. It’s nice getting into a clean car that feels great on the inside and looks stunning on the outside. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes with simple decisions that keep their car from being as great as it can be. Here’s a few: Using the wrong…

Have you ever driven down Washington Road at rush hour? It’s just as bad as a lot of well-known areas of tense driving, with bumper-to-bumper traffic and cars cutting across multiple lanes in a hurry to reach their turn. It definitely escalates the chances of a rear-end collision. The easiest way to avoid causing one…

Shopping for insurance is never fun – but having auto insurance is the law. Having the wrong auto insurance for you, however, both wastes your money and leaves you vulnerable when the worst-case scenario strikes. First, the deductible is massively important. The higher deductible on your plan, the more you’ll pay if you’re found to…

It’s time to leave for work, you’re running around in a hurry, and then you realize something – your car is covered in frost, and you’re going to be late to work because of it. It’s normal to want to try the fastest fix possible. But some ideas can damage your car and lave you…

Last winter, AAA projected nearly 100 million would travel 50+ miles to get to their holiday destination. Over 90 percent do so by car. That’s a lot of traffic, and plenty of risk as roads become more clogged with people trying to hurry to their long-distance destination. Many people are driving for hours on end,…

With Christmas and the peak of the holiday season in full swing, people will travel more in the next few weeks – mostly by car. We want everyone to have a safe holiday season, so here’s a few tips to stay safe and keep your car running well: Take breaks! Your back and legs will…

1.5 million. That’s how many deer, elk, and moose are struck by cars on average each year, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. And according to State Farm’s website, Georgia ranks 19th in your chances for having the unfortunate occur – 1 in every 128 drivers, and that rate has gone up in…

It’s hot.  We’ve packed up the parkas, and pulled out the tank tops.  You’ve changed out of your boots, and into your favorite flip flops.  You’re doing everything you can to keep cool.  What about that car out in the driveway?  What have you done to get it ready for the summer heat? The only…

Did you know that Rick’s offers a wide variety of glass service?  Collision repair isn’t our only specialty.  These services include replacement and repair, and we can even diagnose those pesky regulator and/or motor issues for moveable glass. This time of year, we at Rick’s see a rise in windshield replacement.  A simple chip can…

The azaleas are blooming.  Most every surface is covered in pollen.  The streets are being swept, and lawns are painstakingly manicured.  You’ll even notice schmancy golf carts are starting to be strategically placed at businesses in high traffic areas.  What does that mean for us here in the CSRA?  Love it, or hate it, the…

Do you dread pulling up to the gas station to fill your tank?  I think it’s safe to say we’re all suffering from high gas prices right now.  We see the effects in our wallets, in our daily habits, and it’s even a large part of current political discussions right now.  It’s even affected us…

Choosing a repair facility can be a difficult process for anyone.  It can be especially stressful when you own a luxury vehicle.  There’s a good chance your local dealership doesn’t have repair facility for collision repair.  While we haven’t yet had a visit from Jay Leno, Carroll Shelby, or Wayne Carini, we understand the requirements…

I mentioned in my last post that we now use DuPont Cromax Pro, a waterborne paint.  With Cromax Pro no matter what color you came in, you’ll leave a little greener.  It’s one of several ways that Rick’s Paint and Body has taken steps to reduce our environmental footprint.  I’d like to touch on things…

Just as each collision repair is unique, so is each of our customers concerns.  While we here at Rick’s strive to provide the highest level of service, our customers individual needs are very important to us.  While quality is crucial to each customer, other factors come into play with each repair. Finish: Does your vehicle…