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If you want the short answer, it's a resounding yes, your tire tread does affect your car's ability to safely stop when you hit the brake pedal. But, this is a situation where the short answer doesn't quite tell you everything. There's much more to unpack and many more questions to answer, so let's go over what safe tread depth looks like, how it relates to your brakes, and why you need to replace your tires when their treads are no longer safe. The Connection Between Tire Tread and Braking Distance Here are a few questions we commonly get asked about tires, stopping distance, and how they affect each other. What is Tire Tread Depth? Tire tread depth is the distance between your tires' deepest grooves and their highest peaks. These depths are measured in 32nds of an inch. Most new tires have a tread depth of 11/32 or 10/32 of an inch, depending on the specific type of tire. As you drive your car around, the road and other elements slowly eat away at the rubber, reducing tread depth over time. It's often recommended that you replace your tires when they wear down to 3/32 or 4/32 of an inch. Most tire shops will strongly recommend a replacement once it gets down to 2/32 of an inch, because by that point, the tires are getting very little traction. Tread depth matters because those grooves help deal with debris, water, snow, and other precipitation by ensuring that the tops of the tires' surfaces can hit smooth ground and move the car forward safely. As your tire treads get lower and more worn out, the grooves are less able to squeeze those potential problems out of the way. That means the tires can't meet the road as effectively and create the friction needed to make the car move, or stop when you apply the brakes. What is Braking Distance? Braking distance—also known as stopping distance—is the time it takes between the moment you apply your car's brakes and the moment your vehicle comes to a full stop. Your vehicle's braking distance is affected by tire tread depth, speed before braking, brake system's condition, and the overall weight of the vehicle and its payload. The road's condition also impacts your braking distance. These things all combine to determine how easily and quickly your car can stop. What's the Relationship Between These Things? While tread depth is just one of several factors that influence your braking distance, it can have a large impact on it. An organization called Hunter Engineering Company recently studied how long it takes cars to stop with different tread depths. Here's what they found: It took 10/32-inch tires 234 feet to stop a car. With 6/32-inch tires, the car stopped 253 feet after the brakes were applied. With 4/32-inch tires, the car came to a halt after 282 feet. On 2/32-inch tires, which are nearly worn out, the car stopped 356 feet after a driver applied the brakes. For those of you who aren't all that fond of math, that means that in this particular scenario, the tire tread depth altered the car's braking distance by 122 feet. Obviously, this is significant, and understanding its importance can mean the difference between getting into a collision and driving away unscathed. How Can You Keep Your Tires at a Safe Depth? Once your tires wear down, the only thing you can do is replace them since, unlike hair or fingernails, they don't grow back to their full depth. When your tires wear down, McCarthy Auto Group has quality replacements for sale, and we have multiple locations around the Greater Kansas City area. We'll help you choose the correct tires for your vehicle and swap them out so you can stop your car safely and effectively. Our certified collision centers also perform wheel alignments.

No one wants to be Googling "Car Paint Shops Near Kansas City" the morning after a night of fun firework-fueled festivities. What's even worse is to realize that the damage will be severe enough to require maintenance. If you're the unfortunate owner of a firework damaged car, have no fear, because McCarthy Collision Centers have the solution. Finding firework debris on car roofs is no new phenomenon, but it's surely an unwelcome one. So, no matter how you ended up with car paint damage or a cracked windshield from a firework, we're here to help. What To Do if your Car was Hit by a Firework: Follow these steps if you suspect your car was hit by a stray firework, or stop by any McCarthy Collision Center location to get a free repair estimate: Determine if the damage is from a firework or another source, then determine the severity of the burn. Sometimes, when fireworks hit a car, they leave a lot of soot and residue, but damage the paint's veneer is minimal. Do your best to determine who is at fault for setting off the fireworks who damaged your car. It might also be wise to pull any security camera, Ring doorbell, or dashcam footage that could've caught any of the action. If needed, ask some of your neighbors if they happened to get any firework lightings on tape. Consider making a police report, especially if no one admits to shooting off the fireworks. We suggest treating the situation like a hit and run accident. Some car insurance companies will require you to make a report before they will even consider covering the cost of damages. Begin discussions with your car insurance provider (and your favorite local collision center) to see what the price tag looks like for this festive mistake. Cleanup could range from needing a simple paint touchup to requiring an entirely new bumper or window to be installed. Our staff at your nearest McCarthy dealership would also be happy to discuss whether the firework damage would be covered under your car's extended warranty. Bring your car in for a free repair estimate at any of McCarthy's Collision Center locations across the Kansas City region! Our staff will be happy to provide you with a wide range of services available to remedy your situation at any budget. And if you decide to go solo with your firework car paint removal, let us give you some additional pointers. How to Remove Firework Residue from Car Paint We recommend first attempting to simply buff the mark out with an automotive-safe rag or microfiber cloth. Once the paint is cleared of any soot, you'll quickly be able to see the full extent of the damage. If the damage is minimal, you shouldn't have much more work to do to remove all the soot and ash from your car. Lucky you! But if there's a small scratch left to the paint underneath the debris, take your car into our shop to have the scratch repaired, fast. Even a small bit of exposed metal can quickly start to rust if left untreated. If the paint is beginning to badly flake at or near the damaged area, it might be time to take your car into a body shop, as additional buffing might only make the situation worse. For help with keeping your car's paint from additional peeling or flaking after cleaning off that pesky firework residue, click here. And if there's still significant visible damage after your best attempt at cleaning, consider checking out our expert advice on when to repair and when to replace a car part. For Auto Body Work in Kansas City, Choose McCarthy Collision Centers For all auto body damage queries, count on McCarthy Collision Centers to get you back on the road. With collision center locations in Blue Springs, MO, Olathe, KS, Overland Park, KS, and Lee's Summit, MO, our service techs are proud to serve communities on both sides of the MO/KS line. For towing, a free repair estimate, an answer to a complex autobody question, or help following an accident, folks across Kansas City know to "Call 911, and then call 800-NEW-AGAIN."

If you had to pick the single most important thing about a car, what would it be? A lot of people would say money-oriented things like price or fuel economy, while others might say interior space, and others may even say technology or style. In our opinion though, the most important aspect of vehicle design is safety. After all, what good is a ton of cargo room or the best infotainment system if it can't protect your most precious cargo in an accident? As the foremost experts on collision repair in Kansas City, we've seen a lot of cars that have been in wrecks. So, we figured we'd list some of the safest cars, trucks, and SUVs on the road today, and to back it up, we've included expert safety scores from the IIHS. IIHS Awards: How Do They Work? The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety has been handing out its Top Safety Pick awards for nearly two decades. The award is based on tests conducted to determine crashworthiness and crash avoidance and mitigation. Cars are put through the crash tests and then assigned one of four ratings based on performance (Good, Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor). For 2024, the Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards are based on five categories: Small overlap front Moderate overlap front Side Headlights Pedestrian front crash prevention Now that we all know how it all works, let's check out some of the winners. Cars with the Best Crash Test Ratings Generally speaking, smaller vehicles are considered less safe in a crash than larger ones because of their lighter weight and less rigid body construction. But even though a car is smaller than other vehicles on the road, there are still plenty who took home impressive ratings. 2024 Toyota Prius The Prius doesn't exactly have a reputation for being a tank, so it may come as a surprise that it earned the highest distinction of Top Safety Pick+. It received a Good rating on the small overlap, moderate overlap, and side crash tests (although the updated moderate overlap test was amended to an Acceptable rating). It also got a Good rating for frontal crash prevention thanks to the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 package. To top it off, it won a Good+ rating for its rear child seat anchors, making it among the safest cars for people with kids in car seats. 2024 Honda Accord Honda's bestselling sedan has been scooping up safety awards for decades, which may be part of the reason why it's one of the most popular cars in the world. It dominated the IIHS's crash testing, earning a Good ranking in every category, as well as a Good rating for its factory headlights, which provide solid visibility in all conditions. 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6 If you're worried about electric cars being unsafe compared to their gas-powered counterparts, you can put those worries to bed, because the IONIQ 6—along with its big brother the IONIQ 5—won the Top Safety Pick+, making them some of the safest EVs on the market. The IONIQ 6 performed especially well in the pedestrian frontal crash prevention test thanks to its robust driver assistance features and high beam assist. SUVs with the Best Crash Test Ratings These vehicles tend to be somewhere between petite cars and large trucks on the overall crashworthiness scale, but their size makes them drivable for almost anyone, meaning these tend to be some of the safest vehicles for families and young drivers. 2024 Honda HR-V The plucky Honda crossover earned some of the most impressive crash test scores on this whole list, with a Good rating on nearly every metric in the small overlap, moderate overlap, and side collision categories. It also got a Good rating for front prevention thanks to the Collision Mitigation Braking system, which is standard across all trims. 2024 Nissan Pathfinder If you're going to cram eight people into an SUV, you've got to take extra special care to design the safest ride possible, and the Pathfinder delivers handsomely. Standard auto E-braking with pedestrian detection gives it ample stopping distance for crash prevention, and the child seat anchor options are ample, with two in the second row and one in the third row, which netted it a Good+ rating in that category. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee After a few years with no accolades, it's nice to see the Grand Cherokee back on top following its recent redesign. Despite a less-than-ideal updated moderate overlap test, its structure and safety cage held firm, and it grabbed a Good rating in all other crash categories. 2024 Subaru Ascent With four different LATCH positions, the Ascent may just be the most kid-friendly SUV on the road—or, at least in this article. It also got a perfect score on the small overlap test, a near-perfect score on the moderate overlap and side tests, and a Good rating for its headlights and standard EyeSight crash prevention technology. Trucks and Minivans with the Best Crash Test Ratings As the biggest automobiles on the street, these tend to be the hardiest in a major collision, which makes them the overall safest for drivers and passengers, broadly speaking. 2024 Toyota Sienna Safety is crucial in all vehicles, but it's perhaps especially important in minivans because the vast majority of owners regularly have kids on board. Good thing the Sienna received such strong marks for its small overlap and side tests, and also won a Good rating for its headlights and high beams. It also won a Good+ rating for its LATCH system placement, which offers six total available places to hook up a car seat. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Hyundai's funky fresh pickup carries the distinction of being the only small truck on the market to grab a Top Safety Pick award this year. It got a Good rating on the small overlap, moderate overlap, and side crash tests, and also got a super strong headlight rating. 2024 Toyota Tundra The Tundra won not one but two Top Safety Picks—one for the crew cab, and one for the extended cab. Both body styles got Good ratings in all of their crashworthiness tests, and nearly all trims got a Good rating for their headlights. The Tundra is also the only non-electric large pickup to win the award in 2024. Stay Safe, Kansas City! Picking the safest car possible is important, but no matter how good the safety ratings on your vehicle are, accidents happen. If you've been in a crash and need auto repairs in Kansas City, we have multiple locations all around the city, and we also offer free estimates. Stop by one of our convenient locations and let us do the rest.

Getting a professional tint job done on your windows can add a little extra layer of style to your ride, but is it the right decision for you? Before you run out to get a tint job done, there are a few factors to consider. What kinds of tints are there? Is it safe to drive with? Is window tint illegal or legal where you live? If you're one of the many folks on the road thinking about having tint film added to your car windows, here are some basics to get you started. What Kinds of Window Tint Are There? Most of us have a general understanding of what window tint is—it's a film of material that's applied to automotive glass. It can be done for any number of reasons, including for protection from the elements, privacy, or just because it looks cool. There are actually a few different types though, and they each have their own benefits and drawbacks. Dyed: This common type has colored dye between the protective layers. It's a great way to achieve a dark shade with decent visibility, but it tends to be one of the cheapest types, and often doesn't last as long as others. Metalized: These tints are characterized by a reflective metallic look, hence the name. They hold up well and provide solid protection, but some drivers don't like the mirrored look. Some professionals also claim that it can mess with the signals of electronic devices because of the metal particles suspended in the tint. Carbon: These tend to have the classic matte look that many people associate with tinted windows. They provide great protection and privacy, but they tend to be on the more expensive side. Ceramic: This variety offers the best heat insulation and protection from UV rays, which can be very beneficial in hot and sunny climates. Broadly speaking, this is usually the priciest type of tint. Hybrid: A good all-around tint, which is comprised of a mixture of dyes and metallic particles, giving a decent mix of benefits without major downsides. What Are the Benefits of Window Tint? One of the most obvious perks of window tint is that it affords a little extra privacy because it makes the windows harder to see into. This is quite beneficial because it can deter vehicle break-ins. Quality window tint also blocks ultraviolet light from the sun, and this can help to regulate the temperature inside the car, which saves your A/C from having to work quite as hard. It can also prevent fading and other forms of interior sun damage. And, of course, plenty of people get their windows tinted because they just dig the way it looks. Is Window Tint Safe? The most important aspect of a good tint job is ensuring that it still affords proper eyesight in all conditions. Window tint shouldn't cause any unnecessary glare in direct sunlight, and it shouldn't be so dark that it reduces visibility. Many professional tinters recommend ceramic for the best visibility. But, no matter which kind you get, the most important factor in preventing accidents is making sure the tint isn't too dark, which why it's strictly regulated by the percentage of light it transmits. If your window tint doesn't allow enough light transmission, it makes it difficult to see out the windows, especially at night or in bad weather. It can make it impossible for drivers to signal other vehicles as well. In certain instances, window tint can also make it more difficult to break the windows if one needs to escape in case of a crash. Aftermarket tint can be very hard to rip without a knife, and it can also render window breaking tools ineffective. So, when considering having your windows tinted, it's important to be aware of the risks and always adhere to local laws. Is My Window Tint Legal? Each state regulates window tint laws a little differently. According to Kansas Highway Patrol, all windows must allow 35% light transmission, the tint must be non-reflective, and it can't be red, yellow, or amber in color. Tint on the windshield also must not extend below the AS-1 line, which is located a few inches below the top of the front glass. Many cars have factory tint here, and most states allow for AS-1 windshield tint, which professional tinters call an "eyebrow." Window tint laws in Missouri are a little different. Per the Missouri highway Patrol, the front-side windows must allow for 35% light transmission, but back-side and rear windows are unregulated. Windshield tint above the AS-1 line is allowed as long as it's 35% or more. The state also issues special permits that allows for darker front tint if the driver has a valid medical reason. Knowing your local window tint laws is crucial, especially if you live in an area like Greater Kansas City where you may routinely drive between state lines. Penalties for breaking window tint laws can include significant fines, and if your vehicle is tinted too dark, you could be held responsible in the event of an accident. Stay Safe, KC! Did you overdo it on the rear window tint and back into something? No need to stress, because McCarthy Collision Centers has multiple shops across town. We offer free estimates, assistance with insurance claims, and paintless dent repair in Kansas City. Check out our locations to find an auto body shop near you.

It's becoming more and more common to see people out and about with some kind of headphones on or earbuds in. We all probably know at least one person who wears headphones as a constant fixture (or maybe you are that person). We're not here to judge. There are plenty of places where wearing earbuds makes sense—working on the computer at the office, going on a bike ride, at the gym, ignoring your younger siblings, etc. However, one place we don't recommend wearing them is while you're driving. Why, you ask? Well, not only is it potentially dangerous, but in some states, it's downright illegal. Is Driving With Earbuds Safe? No, not really. Before we address the legality of things, let's get one thing out of the way: don't drive with headphones on or earbuds in. Doing so presents a potential distraction, even if you're not actively using them, because if they're connected to a smartphone or other device, any random ding in your ear or notification could divert your attention from the road. According to the NHTSA, distracted driving was ruled as the cause of over 3,500 deaths in the United States in 2021, with countless more nonfatal accidents. Even if you're not being actively distracted, playing audio through headphones reduces your ability to hear road noises like emergency vehicle sirens, other cars and pedestrians, and even your own car. It's certainly possible to drive if you're hearing impaired, but it's irresponsible to drive with earbuds otherwise. As a viable alternative, you can utilize your vehicle's infotainment system. Many states also have laws prohibiting handheld phone usage while driving, but they allow for hands-free communication. So, while it's still not perfectly safe, if you're able to link your device with your vehicle, or use voice-activated commands, it's a good idea to do so. Is Driving With Earbuds Illegal? As with many laws in the U.S., it depends on which state you live in. Here's a down for all 50 states, as of this writing (note: there are some states where it's illegal to have earbuds in both ears, but there are exceptions). Illegal for Both Ears (One ear can be in for a phone call): Colorado Florida Georgia Illinois Massachusetts New York Ohio Pennsylvania Rhode Island Illegal In General: Alaska California Louisiana Maryland Minnesota Legal: Alabama Arizona (Except for licensed childcare and school bus drivers) Arkansas Connecticut Delaware Hawaii Idaho Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Maine Michigan Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico North Carolina North Dakota Oklahoma Oregon South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Washington D.C West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming For those of you not counting at home, driving with earbuds is legal in 34 states and the District of Columbia, and 9 more states allow provisions for specific circumstances, so it's only fully illegal in 7 states. Still, it's not unlikely that the number of states prohibiting headphone use while driving will rise in the coming years, as more traffic data continues to come to light. What Are the Penalties of Driving With Headphones in Illegal States? As with the laws themselves, the consequences of breaking said laws can vary across jurisdictions. In the case of being pulled over simply for having earbuds in, you may simply receive a warning. However, the most likely penalty is a moving violation, which usually results in a ticket with a fine attached, as well as potential points on your operator's license. If you're caught multiple times, you may face steeper consequences, including having your license suspended. Doesn't really seem worth it, does it? Things can get even hairier if you're involved in an accident while wearing headphones. You may be charged with reckless driving, and even if you get into a wreck in a state where it's technically legal to drive with headphones, there's a chance that you could catch a lesser charge like negligent driving. Additionally, if you're found at fault for a collision due to distracted driving, your insurance may not cover damages, and your premiums may go up. Drive Safe, Kansas City! Using headphones while driving may technically be legal in Missouri and Kansas (for now) but that doesn't mean bad things can't happen because of it. If you get in an accident and your car is damaged, contact McCarthy Collision Centers at one of our multiple locations around Kansas City. We offer round-the-clock towing, help with insurance claims, free estimates, and more.

Do you consider vehicle history reports as you shop for vehicles? Does your interest in a vehicle lessen if you notice an accident on its history report? That perceived decrease in value is an example of the concept of diminished value, and it has a big impact on drivers around Lee's Summit and Kansas City. Diminished value is the difference in the fair market value of a vehicle immediately before an accident and immediately after that accident. A diminished value claim may help you recover some of that difference, and the McCarthy Collision Centers team wants you to better understand the causes and impacts of diminished value claims, and to help you prepare to file one in the event of an accident. None of the content in this blog is legal advice, and you may wish to consult a lawyer before moving forward with a diminished value claim. Causes and Impacts of Diminished Auto Value Accidents are by far the most common cause of diminished automotive value for Kansas City area drivers. Imagine two identical vehicles – same model year, trim level, optional equipment, color, and mileage. One of them has a clean vehicle history report (CarFax or Autocheck) with impeccable service records and no damage reported. The other vehicle has an identical vehicle history report except it shows something ominous sounding like: "Front end impact. No airbag deployment." (Catches your eye, right? And NOT in a good way. It would make me wonder exactly what was involved in that front end accident.) Many buyers will hesitate as they consider that second vehicle with the damage report, and their demand for that vehicle may decrease – they may even walk away from the vehicle. The seller, whether an individual or a dealership, may have to decrease the asking price of the vehicle to keep the customer interested. A vehicle with damage, even after being professionally repaired and restored to "Like New" status, is basically always worth less than an identical vehicle with no history of damage. The diminished value claim is a way to be reimbursed for some of that difference in value. Who Can File a Diminished Value Auto Claim to Insurance After a Wreck There are limits on the situations in which you're likely to successfully receive a diminished value claim after an accident. Was the other party at fault? You're unlikely to receive a diminished value claim if you caused the accident. Is the car titled as salvage or rebuilt? You may not be able to file a claim. Do you own the vehicle? You may not be able to file a claim if you're leasing your vehicle. In which state do you live / in which state did the accident occur? Not every state allows diminished value claims with the same terms. What are you driving? If your vehicle is higher value, you are more likely to secure a diminished value claim than if you're driving an older vehicle with a collisions and repairs. Missouri allows diminished value claims, so if you're around Lee's Summit you should be good to go. Build your case as we suggest below and see if you can get that bag! (Consult a lawyer!) How Do I File a Car Diminished Value Claim? Your diminished value claim will be submitted to the at fault party's insurance company and there are three stages of this process. Secure the services of a qualified independent appraiser to determine the after-accident value of your vehicle. You will also want to provide as much paperwork about the incident as possible: police reports, pictures, and anything else you have on hand. You want to be overprepared as the filing process can vary among insurance providers Work quickly and submit your claim as soon as possible after repairs are completed Negotiate the insurance company's offer or collect your settlement Diminished Value Claim Resources Near Lee's Summit The Missouri Department of Insurance is a great resource in the pursuit of a diminished value claim. Their Department of Insurance Financial Institutions and Professional Registration (DIFP) published an auto claim brochure called "Understanding your auto claim" that will provide fantastic guidance. There are of course multiple sources of legal guidance around the Kansas City area when it comes to your diminished value claim. Remember this blog does not constitute legal advice and you may wish to consult with a lawyer during this process. Finding Auto Repair in Kansas City Our team members unfortunately aren't card holding members of the bar association in any state and can't help you file your diminished value claim, but McCarthy Collision Center's talented technicians are incredibly accomplished at fixing collision damage. We're here to get your vehicle back on the roads around Lee's Summit with timely, professional, and complete repair of the damage to your vehicle. We have 4 convenient body repair shop locations in Lee's Summit, MO, Overland Park, KS, Blue Springs, MO, and Olathe, KS which makes us the automotive collision repair choice near you. We also partner with multiple trustworthy towing companies in the Kansas City area to offer "Round the Clock" towing services. As the McCarthy Collision Center team always says: "When you're in an accident… Call 911 & then 800-NEW-AGAIN"! We look forward to being your automotive collision repair partner in the Kansas City area!

Car doors are something most of us expect to just work - they should open and close without concern whether your vehicle is brand new or has a quarter million miles on it. Unfortunately, that flawless execution we anticipate is not always the case, and there is a huge list of possible reasons your door isn't shutting or latching properly. The McCarthy Collision Centers team is serious about our work, but we also like to have a little fun, so we've compiled a list of reasonable causes for your vehicle door refusing to shut and added a couple of fun scenarios at the end. If you have any questions about what might be keeping your door from shutting, or any other body repair questions, reach out to the team at our multiple body repair shops near Olathe Kansas and Kansas City. The McCarthy Collision Centers team is here to help! Why Won't My Car Door Close or Latch? There are many common reasons that a vehicle door will refuse to latch or close fully. We'll talk briefly about accidents a bit further along in this article, but we will start this article with a breakdown of common causes. The weather – if your doors freeze in these frigid Kansas City winters, you may find yourself with a door that won't fully close. There could be ice keeping the moving parts from functioning or, in extreme cases, the rubber seals and gaskets may freeze which could keep the door from sealing properly. Extremely hot weather can also affect those seals and gaskets which could keep the doors from sealing properly, but we recommend staying near Olathe and away from Death Valley to avoid this problem. Internal component failure – your vehicle's door is far more complex than you imagine and there's the possibility of one of its many moving parts failing. If the wrong piece, or the wrong combination of pieces, break you may find yourself with a malfunctioning door that looks perfectly fine. Alignment – this type of issue is more likely to happen after an accident, but issues of alignment can be caused by normal wear on your door or a failure in a hinge. You may be able to spot this problem by looking for slightly misaligned body panels. Unexpected objects – it's common for items to find themselves lodged in the door way or door latch and cause issues closing the door. Your blog author has occasionally had their seatbelt end up in the door, but we've also had our coats get stuck over the door latch and leave us momentarily frustrated. We will have a little fun with this possibility further down. Latch or striker concerns – these external parts ensure your doors securely close, and they're also subject to damage or other failure. These are easier to spot than the internal failures, but you may still want to seek professional guidance in repairing them. If your car door hinge is stuck, your car door won't latch, or there's some other problem with any of your vehicle's doors, then it's time to call the team at McCarthy Collision Centers. We're experts in fixing truck and SUV doors that won't latch, and we'll get you in as quickly as possible at our body repair shops around Olathe, KS and Kansas City. What if My Car Door Won't Close After an Accident? Accidents are frightening and frustrating intrusions into our lives, and we hope you've come away from yours unharmed. There are plenty of accidents that seem minor at first but that can leave your vehicle unsafe to drive. It's possible for the frame of your vehicle to be thrown badly enough out of alignment that your doors won't close, and you must not drive that vehicle if all doors don't fully latch. Check all your vehicle's doors (including the trunk or hatchback) before you leave the scene of an accident. If any of them won't close fully, or don't stay shut, the safest thing to do is call a tow truck and have your vehicle taken to a body repair shop. The McCarthy Collision Centers are a good choice, and we have collision repair centers around Olathe Kansas and Kansas City. Why Won't Your Honda Odyssey or Other Minivan Door Close? Every 2024 Honda Odyssey minivan is equipped with power doors, but both power and manual sliding doors in any minivan can become jammed or unable to properly close for a variety of reasons. We know hauling a family can introduce weird items to your van's interior so we have compiled a list of serious (and light-hearted) reasons your minivan sliding doors won't close. It's possible the motor which powers the door has failed. There's a seatbelt lodged in the tracks. There's a backpack or bag strap looped or otherwise stuck somewhere in the mechanism. If you're trying to operate the door with your key fob and it's not working, the battery might be dead, or the fob may be malfunctioning. Most of an order of fast food fries have fallen into the track and hardened into an unmovable mass. It's possible the motor which powers the door has failed. There may be a fault in the safety sensor that prevents the door from closing. The locking mechanism could be stuck in the closed or locked position. There are many reasons, aside from a collision, that might keep your minivans sliding doors from closing. The McCarthy Collision Centers teams are happy to take a look and help you figure out what's wrong so you can go back to worrying about what's important: getting your kids to their next activity! Why Won't Your Jeep Door Close? Jeep owners know that life is interesting, and the McCarthy Collision Centers team knows there are similarly interesting reasons behind a Jeep door that refuses to fully close. We're sticking with just fun possibilities for this list of things could cause your Jeep door to not fully latch and swing wildly during your off-roading and overlanding adventures. Is there a log in the door? What about a good-sized tree branch? A big rock? Did your recovery shovel fall and get stuck in the door? Have 2 or 3 rubber ducks found their way from your dashboard into the doorway? You may notice a squeaking if this is a problem for you. What about mud? Jeep drivers are always flinging mud all over the place, and it's certainly feasible that a big chunk has worked its way into your door latch mechanism. Did you slide or roll the Jeep into a large tree or boulder and bend one of your doors badly out of shape? Is there a hungry grizzly bear or moose keeping the door open while it tries to locate the food you forgot to take out of your vehicle? There's a good chance your Jeep's doors are easily removed and replaced if they get damaged, but you'll want to take care of any of the possible problems above before you install your replacement door. We want you to safely enjoy your escapades in the mud. Finding Quality Car Body Repair Near Olathe Kansas Are you having trouble with your vehicle's doors not closing, or any of the many other problems with a vehicle that will require professional repair? The McCarthy Collision Centers are here to help whether you were involved in a low-speed fender bender of a more serious collision, and we're just a phone call away. Our repair specialties include: Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) Airbag replacement Suspension repair Auto glass repair / replacement Rust repair Frame repair Scratch repair and repainting The McCarthy Collision Centers body shops are available in several locations around Kansas City and Olathe and our team at each vehicle repair shop is ready to help. When you're in an accident – call 911 and then (800) NEW-AGAIN. We look forward to being your body shop of choice near Olathe.

The holiday seasons can be incredibly frantic in Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit, and we imagine you’re going to find yourself in some absolutely packed parking lots as you gather your gifts and prepare for those big family gatherings. There’s a chance the combination of Kansas City’s slick roads, frantic gift shopping runs, and packed roadways end up causing a few fender benders in the Kansas City area and the McCarthy Collision Centers team wants to make sure everyone is prepared for the worst. We hope any parking lot incidents are happily handled the moment they occur, but experience tells us there are going to be some hit-and-run incidents around Kansas City. After all, some people may not even notice they hit your vehicle. (We’re not making excuses, but accepting a reality.) We’ve prepared a quick guide for Kansas City drivers on how to deal with three variations of a hit-and-run accident. If you find yourself needing a new bumper for Christmas, or some other work a Blue Springs or Lee’s Summit area body shop can do, reach out to our Kansas City body shops to get your repairs professionally addressed. My Car Was Hit While Parked Imagine a frustrating scenario that develops as you finish your day of shopping at SummitWoods Crossing in Lee’s Summit: your family is happily walking back to the car loaded down with hot drinks and holiday gifts and you notice something a little off. Your heart sinks as you realize that “Something off” is a new body line in the wrong paint color on the driver’s side of your vehicle – and it’s a doozy that runs from the front wheel all the way to the rear quarter panel. There aren’t any strangers standing around waiting for you, and no note on the windshield to guide you. You’ve become the victim of a hit-and-run collision, and your day unfortunately just became a lot longer. We know you’re going to eventually trust McCarthy Collions Centers in the Kansas City area to repair your vehicle, but there are plenty of things you must address while you’re still in that parking lot. Call The Police on their non-emergency line. You’ll want to file a report with them and let them do the heavy lifting when it comes to finding the vehicle that hit your family’s transportation. Assess Your Damage: take plenty of pictures of your vehicle as well as anything that might be left on the ground around it. You might find evidence that helps track down the hit-and-run offender. Contact Your Insurance – let them know about the hit-and-run collision as soon as possible. They’ll provide you with your next steps in dealing with this problem. If the damage to your vehicle is cosmetic, and you’ve taken care of the appropriate initial steps, then load your family up and get back to enjoying the holiday season around Kansas City. If your vehicle is severely damaged and appears unsafe to drive you can contact the McCarthy Collision Centers towing partners to ensure your vehicle ends up at a trustworthy body repair shop near Kansas City. My Vehicle Was Hit While Driving We’ve focused so far on a parking lot or other type of hit-and-run accident where your vehicle isn’t moving and you may never encounter the other driver, but there are plenty of situations where drivers around Kansas City experience hit-and-runs while cruising the area’s roadways. Our guidance does not change much, but we’re adding more tips to consider if you’re hit while driving: Call 911 if you or someone in the car is injured. Get as much information regarding the other driver and vehicle as possible. Make notes (or take pictures) of the vehicle’s make, model, and color. Get the license plate if you’re able. Notice the direction they’re traveling as they leave the scene. Seek information from witnesses and secure their contact information. DO NOT follow the other vehicle. You have no idea of the driver’s condition and may put yourself in a dangerous scenario. We want you safe and not possibly escalating the situation A hit-and-run while driving is particularly terrifying and dangerous, so get off the road as soon as possible, park your car somewhere well lit, take a few moments to collect yourself, and then tackle the situation. What if I Hit a Parked Car? Mistakes happen all the time on the roads and parking lots near Kansas City, Blue Springs, and Lee’s Summit, and you may eventually find yourself in the unenviable and frustrating situation of hitting a parked vehicle. This is not the end of the world, but there are steps you must take to properly handle this situation. DO NOT drive away. You’re responsible for the damage you’ve caused, there are likely cameras and witnesses to the accident, and leaving could quite easily result in you being brought up on hit-and-run charges. Find the owner. If you’re in a retail center you can likely have the vehicle make, model, and color paged over the intercom. The staff at a restaurant will likely be able to help, a small local business will be happy to assist you, but you may have trouble finding the owner at a Chief’s game. If you’re striking out when it comes to finding the owner you may choose to leave a note with your complete contact information and insurance details. Document everything – take advantage of cloud storage and take pictures of your vehicle, the other vehicle, the surrounding area, and their license plate. You can call the police if necessary. This will likely be determined by the severity of the damage to the vehicles involved. They’ll begin a report and add another layer of documentation. Accidents happen, and we hope this brief guide helps you determine your approach if you find yourself having hit a parked vehicle somewhere on the roads around Kansas City. Auto Body Work in Kansas City The McCarthy Collision Centers teams are here to help drivers around Kansas City and Lee’s Summit whether they’ve been involved in a hit and run, had a more “standard” accident, picked up a door ding or three during the holiday shopping season, had something fall on their vehicle in the garage, or need something else repaired on their vehicles. We have locations in Lee’s Summit, MO, Blue Springs, MO, Overland Park, KS, and Olathe, KS and our collision repair teams are ready to ensure you receive prompt and professional service. If you need your vehicle towed in the Kansas City area keep our McCarthy Collisions Centers Towing Service in mind to ensure your vehicle is brought to the best collision repair center near you. If you’re involved in a hit and run, remember our slogan: “When you’re in an accident… Call 911 & then 800-NEW-AGAIN.”

There aren't many things in life that beat the feeling of finishing a big project after weeks or months of hard work—ask anyone who's ever remodeled their home, run a marathon, or finished a 10,000-piece Lego set. Restoring an old car or truck is another such project that can scratch that itch. Lots of folks dream of bringing a classic vehicle back to life, but few actually take the leap. It seems like such a massive undertaking, but we're here to tell you that you don't have to be a master mechanic to get it done. You just have to have passion, grit, and determination. Also, money doesn't hurt either. We'd be here all day if we got into all the nitty-gritty of how to restore a vintage car, and the process is different for each one, so we won't go too deep into it here. Instead, let's focus on some basic classic car restoration guidelines and general pointers for all of you dreamers out there. Without further ado, here's our list of car restoration how-to tips. Pick the Right Car for You Bringing an old beater back to life is always going to be a lot of work, but no two restorations are going to go the same, and some vehicles will take a lot more work than others. If this is your first restoration, consider picking something that isn't too old—restoring a '72 Chevy Nova sounds killer in theory, but restoring '94 Chevy S-10 is going to be a heck of a lot easier, and it can be just as rewarding. The longer a car has been around, the more likely it is that it'll have extensive rust, which is incredibly difficult and expensive to repair. Certain cars are also exceedingly hard to source parts for, especially if they weren't very popular to begin with. Best-selling models with high production numbers are more likely to have support from quality aftermarket part manufacturers, and it'll also be easier to source OEM parts from resellers. Other cars might not even be all that old or uncommon by classic car standards, but they may still be an enormous headache to restore due to engineering quirks that require specialized tools or niche technical know-how. One such car, for instance, is the Toyota MR2. For more examples, check out this list from HotCars. Set Your Budget—Then Double It Start digging around the internet, and you'll find endless posts and comments asking some variation of the question, “How can I restore a classic car on a budget?” Every time someone asks this question, a credit card gets its wings. We're kidding. Mostly, sort of. We aren't saying budget car restoration can't be done, because it absolutely can, especially if you or someone you know can work on the mechanical aspects of cars or do professional body work. What we're really saying is, don't underestimate the potential for replacement parts and service bills to eat a hole in your wallet rather quickly. Nobody ever called car restoration a cheap hobby, so it's best to have a realistic expectation about what you might be in for, and at least a few grand of disposable income to start out with. The Internet Is Your Friend We live in a remarkable age where almost any question you can think of has already been asked and answered on some forum or message board. Sometimes, finding an answer is as easy as Googling, “How to restore an old truck,” followed by the make and model, and boom, you've got your answer. Many popular vintage cars and trucks also have diehard car collector communities for them, and some like the famed Chevy Corvette even have entire websites dedicated to their restoration. These types of sites should be one of your main resources for knowledge. Find a community online and start asking away. Building relationships with people who are restoring a similar make and model will be invaluable, and if you get lucky, you may even find people in your own local community who can help you in person. As an added bonus, you might even make a few new friends. Make Sure You Have the Right Tools and Facilities If you're planning on wrenching an old car, you're going to need a lot more than just an actual wrench. The tools you'll need will depend on just how much work you plan to do yourself, as opposed to outsourcing to a professional shop. Some basic tools you'll want to have on hand include: Socket set and wrench (metric and imperial) Pliers Screwdrivers (Philips and flat) Rubber mallet Vice grips Dent puller Air compressor Voltage meter Floor jack WD-40 Penetrant, or some other spray to loosen rusted bolts Of course, power tools like an impact wrench will make life easier in some instances as well. Certain jobs will require much larger equipment as well, like a hydraulic lift or transmission stand, which will require either a hefty monetary investment on your part or a professional shop. Speaking of shops: you'll want plenty of space to spread out so that you can keep any large parts that you remove organized. The more space you have, the better. If you don't at least have a two-car garage with a high roof, you'll probably end up having to take it to a larger shop for major projects like paint restoration. Working outside is possible, but not advisable, because it exposes the car to the elements. Make a Checklist and Tackle One Project at a Time It's easy to look up how to rebuild an old car; it's quite another thing once the old car in question is sitting in your garage. This is where the gravity of the task at hand can become paralyzing, as you look at this thing you bought and realize just how much work there is to do. The best way around this is to take a deep breath, break out the pencil and paper, and start making a list of tasks you want to accomplish, big or small. Once you have everything organized and written out in front of you, you'll be able to better visualize the best way to proceed, and things won't seem so daunting. After you've made your list, pick a problem, and fix it. It's just that simple. Keep doing that, and in no time at all, you'll start to see some great progress. Don't Be Afraid to Seek Help from a Pro Unless you're already a mechanic yourself, chances are, you're going to run up against some problems that are beyond your expertise—especially when you start to deal with issues like frame rust and body repair. In these instances, it's usually best to consult a professional service center. While paying for service will cost more cash in the moment, going to a professional body shop can actually save you money in the long run. Having a certified technician assess and fix the issue will ensure that the job is done right, which will greatly reduce the chance that you have to re-fix the problem down the line. Plus, it'll save you tons of time, and as they say, time is money. Think of It as an Investment After a while, you may start to break into a sweat when you tally up the dough you've spent on your project. In these moments, it helps to think of your car restoration as an asset. Generally speaking, classic cars are pretty much done depreciating, meaning they can only go up in value. Every repair that you make will increase the car's resale value, so assuming you didn't overpay when you first bought it, your car will be worth more as you put more work into it. Restoring a car isn't just an investment of money either—it's an investment of knowledge. As you tinker with it, you'll gain more and more insight into the restoration process, so if you do decide to sell it, you should be able to get back close to the amount you put into it. Then, if you want to try again with another car, you'll still have all the experience to draw on for the next project. Keep All Service Records and Receipts We can't overstate this: maintaining records of all the work done and money spent is an essential part of the car restoration process. Keeping detailed records will help you keep everything straight in your head and allow you to form a clear vision of what still needs to be done. Remember the checklist we mentioned a minute ago? That's just the beginning. Make it a habit to keep meticulous notes on every little thing, from restoring the paint on your old car, to fixing the exhaust, to squeegeeing the windshield. All loose parts should be bagged and labeled. Over time, you'll figure out a system of organization that works best for you. Having organized records will also come in handy if you decide to sell your project car because you'll be able to present these records to potential buyers, which will increase your negotiating power when the time comes to talk price. Most Importantly: Don't Forget to Have Fun After all, if you're not having a good time, what's the point? Whether you're looking for car restoration in Kansas City, or just need to fix a few dents on your late-model Chevy SUV, McCarthy Collision Centers are happy to help. We have locations all across Greater Kansas City, including ones in Olathe, Lee's Summit, and Overland Park. We also offer free estimates on body work, windshield repair, painting, rust repair, and more.

Wouldn't it be grand if Santa Claus made an extra trip around Thanksgiving and managed to get a Douglas Fir into your living room without being seen or heard? What if you woke up on the fourth Friday of November with a tree ready for your family to decorate? It would be amazing, but the reality is that most of us who want a home filled with the smell of a pine tree will have to find a way to transport it ourselves. Santa's just too darned busy. That's a simple task if you're already driving a truck around the streets of Lee's Summit – just drop the tailgate and throw your perfect tree in the bed. But how can those of us in sedans, coupes, SUVs, minivans, and crossovers get our trees home? The obvious answer is to throw it on the roof, toss some twine over it, hope your knot-tying skills are up to par, and make the trip home at 10 to 15 MPH under the speed limit. But that approach is practically guaranteed to cover the roof of your car in sap and scratches. The team at McCarthy Collision Centers will be happy to fix any of those scratches, but we have put together a few tips to make sure your tree gets home, and your vehicle goes undamaged in the process. How to Wrap a Christmas Tree for Safe Transport Wrap a tree? That's going to take a lot of paper! Don't spend 30 minutes walking around the Christmas tree lot, pick your tree, and immediately secure it to your vehicle with limbs going everywhere. Say “Yes” when the cashier offers to have someone put a fresh cut on the trunk and wrap it up for you. They'll likely run your tree through a simple device that wraps it in a thin plastic or fabric net and secures the limbs for transport. (That net won't stop needles from going everywhere though, so beware and have a vacuum ready)! They'll probably even carry it to your vehicle – the best Christmas tree stores around Lee's Summit will, at least. That wrapped tree's still a scratch threat to your clear coat though, so what can you do to protect the roof of your vehicle? How to Haul a Christmas Tree? Put a Tarp Under It We're willing to bet there's a tarp sitting unused somewhere in your house – maybe tucked away down in the basement or in the attic like Clark Griswold's forgotten presents. If you don't have one, we recommend picking up an inexpensive 5'x7' to begin your collection. (Be the tarp person in your neighborhood if you dare)! Tarps are surprisingly flexible in their applications, and they work great at protecting your vehicle's paint job from scratches while transporting a tree. You're going to want to tie your tarp down to the vehicle to keep it from flapping about, and that will involve more twine being threaded through the metal grommets on your tarp. If the edges of your tarp aren't secured and flap violently enough, those metal grommets could do more damage to your roof (or sides of the car if your tarp is quite large) than even the most determined Christmas tree. A tarp is a good solution, but is there a gentler approach we could use? How to Bring a Christmas Tree Home? Pack a Blanket A nice thick blanket is an upgrade from a tarp in your tree-hauling endeavor, as it would be a strange blanket indeed that had metal grommets, and we know you've got one or two extra lying around your house. (My household has at least 14 blankets available at any point in time). The right blanket will keep even the pointiest limbs from getting through to your paint job – we recommend bringing a thick flannel or fleece blanket on your tree-shopping excursion. You'll still want to tie your blanket down to prevent it from flapping wildly, as too big a blanket could possibly obscure visibility, but a clean blanket poses no scratch threat to your vehicle's paint. You can always check out our blog on DIY Scratch Removers if your Christmas tree adventure mars your vehicle. Avoid the roof entirely Another way to eliminate the chances of scratching the roof of your car is to avoid your roof entirely. This will only apply to folks driving larger SUVs, crossovers, and vans as it requires putting your tree inside your vehicle. Sedan drivers may, of course, shove a small tree in their trunk if they're feeling particularly self-destructive. If your vehicle has seats that can be folded down, folded flat, stowed away, or completely removed, you may be driving the ultimate Christmas tree-hauling machine. You can fit a pretty sizeable tree into most of the vehicles mentioned earlier, and your storage space is even greater if you leave the hatch or tailgate open and tie it shut with more twine. (Have you bought your Christmas tree twine yet)? It's also arguably less awkward to get a heavy tree from inside a full-size SUV than it is to safely pull that same tree down from the roof. We've covered a few great options, but what can a Christmas tree shopper near Lee's Summit do if they don't want to mess with putting a tree on their roof at all, or end up with pine needles all over their interior? Looking to Add Utili-Tree? Pick Up a Utility Trailer If you drive a sedan or pickup truck, or don't want to find pine needles in your vehicle over the next 6 months, you might consider having a Class II trailer receiver added to your vehicle. That might seem like overkill when it comes to getting a Christmas tree home, but a utility trailer will come in useful at plenty of other times in the year. Need some topsoil for your garden? Picking up a used table saw on Facebook marketplace? Helping your friends move across town? Even a small 4x8 utility trailer will let you do all those things, and more, even if you're pulling it behind a 4-cylinder sedan like your friendly blog author. Just make sure you're not exceeding your vehicle's payload capacity. You're not going to haul 500 Christmas trees behind your vehicle, but one tree on a small utility trailer will be no problem. Christmas Tree Stores and Farms Near Me Not sure where to find your family's ideal Christmas tree around Lee's Summit? We've got a few ideas for that as well: Head to Pleasant Hill, MO and check out Pumpkins and Pines to select and cut down your tree Big Box/home improvement stores are guaranteed to have trees available Many churches sell Christmas trees around Lee's Summit Kennedy's Country Farm in Greenwood, MO will open tree sales the day after Thanksgiving Christmas Tree Car Scratch Repair Around Kansas City The team at McCarthy Collision Centers hopes this list helps you pick out and transport your family's perfect Christmas tree without making a mess of your vehicle or causing any scratches in your paint job. We're here to help repair those scratches or to professionally repair any other damage your vehicle has experienced. If you're in an accident or need other work done, give us a call at (800) NEW-AGAIN. We look forward to working with you! Drive safely this winter!

Everybody agrees that nothing's worse than waking up to an unexpected mess on your car. And the only thing worse than a bird pooping on your shiny, new car is having a bunch of eggs smashed onto it by some neighborhood kids. So, if you're looking for how to remove egg from a car, you're in the right place. If you've ever been in this situation, you know just how literally sticky it can become. Eggs contain enzymes that help baked goods and other foods bind ingredients together when combined. Because of this binding effect, eggs are particularly difficult to clean off, especially if they've been left to sit overnight or if they baked in the hot sun while smashed all over your car. Without taking the proper precautions, broken eggs on a car can quickly begin to destroy your car's paint. So… Here are some steps we developed to minimize damage and maximize results: If the egg is on your car's paint, we recommend trying one of the following: Shell Pick-up: Start by simply picking as many eggshells out of the eggy mess as possible. This is done to minimize scratching your car's paint. Once you remove as many shells as possible, use an old, wet washcloth, and carefully blot at the egg on your car. By blotting at the mess instead of wiping, you can, again, minimize damage to your car's finish. Dish Soap Method: Using a spray bottle, combine a tablespoon of dish soap with a cup of warm water. Liberally spray the solution on the egg mess. After letting the solution soak for five to ten minutes, wipe or scrub the egg away with a rag or sponge. Finally, rinse away any soap residue with plain water to prevent the dish soap from damaging your car's paint. Alcohol Wipe Down: As a last resort, consider using rubbing alcohol to get off any stubborn pieces of egg. But be careful! Be gentle and make sure to rinse the excess rubbing alcohol off extremely well. We wouldn't recommend using anything harsher than rubbing alcohol to remove some dried-up egg goo on your car's beautiful paint job. Getting egg off a car without damaging the paint is no easy task! But what if you have eggs on your windshield? Select one of these expert methods instead… DIY Sponge Solution: Using a spray bottle, combine vinegar, water, dish soap, and baking soda to make your cleaning solution. This DIY cleaning solution should be sprayed onto your egg-covered windshield and left to soak for about ten minutes. After the solution has had some time to set, carefully use a sponge to wipe the mess away. Yet Another Use for WD-40: Spray WD-40 directly onto and around the egg on your car's windshield and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, wipe away the eggy mess with a damp rag or sponge (Note: Check to make sure that all the egg is off your windshield before turning on your wipers for the first time!) Baking Soda Sprinkles: Sprinkle baking soda over the egg until it's completely covered and let the baking soda sit for fifteen minutes. The baking soda should soak up any remaining egg liquid (and it helps to remove that dreaded egg stench). Finally, wipe away the egg with a damp cloth. Be careful to not scrape your windshield in the process! We hope that these tips gave you a good starting point for cleaning up your eggy mess. If it makes you feel better, many people around Kansas City have found themselves in this same exact situation. It's an oddly common dilemma! Fortunately, most cosmetic problems caused by eggs can be fixed with a thorough car cleaning, a trip to the autobody shop, or a fresh coat of paint. If your car's paint or windows did happen to get damaged or nicked, head over to the McCarthy Collision Center for a courteous, quick, and comfortable autobody repair experience.