8 tips to clean bird poop off car paint
Bird droppings, dookie, scat, excrement, poo-poo, feces—whatever you call it, bird poop is one of the most common causes of automotive paint damage in Kansas City and the world. With a pH between 3 and 5, bird poop is high in uric acid, a corrosive element that can quickly damage your vehicle’s exterior. Left for too long, dried bird droppings will degrade your clearcoat and may even bleach the paint itself. Yikes!
So, the next time a bird goes kersplat on your car’s bright red hood, be sure to wash that sucker off before it etches itself into the paint! But what’s the best way to clean bird droppings off a car? Here are a few tips to get your vehicle un-poopified.
Soaked Cloth
To clean dry bird poop that has been on your car since the Reagan administration, soak a microfiber cloth in a vehicle-safe cleaning solution – ask your Kansas City auto body shop for recommendations, if needed – and leave the cloth on the stain for 15 minutes. Gently rub it away, repeating the task on seriously stubborn bird poop stains.
Once you’ve cleaned all the bird droppings off, smooth out your vehicle’s paint with a clay bar or a small amount of polish, buffing it to match the rest of the vehicle.
Seltzer Water or Club Soda
Semi-fresh bird poo can be easily wiped away with a microfiber cloth and some seltzer water. The carbonation from the seltzer water helps to break down the poop’s natural acidic qualities. Splash some on the fresh avian turd, let it sit for a few minutes, and swipe it all away in one quick Karate Kid motion.
Note: It’s not recommended that you use carbonated cola or sugary sodas as an alternative! They’ll leave sticky residue everywhere and can even further damage your paint job, wax, and rubber sealants.
Specialty Bird Poop Wipes
Made of biodegradable, composite bamboo materials, Drop Wipes do an admirable job of ridding your vehicle of birds’ unsightly turds. The company’s patented cleaner neutralizes the acid in the poo, allowing you to simply swipe and go. If you frequently park under trees or near ponds, be sure to keep a pack in your glove compartment.
Car Detailer Spray
The best tool to prevent wrinkled etching caused by bird poop is a specialty car detailer spray. A few spritzes will dissolve bird droppings in seconds, and a moist cloth or towel will remedy bird poop etchings and stains completely. The biggest benefit of using car detailing spray is that it won’t harm your vehicle’s paint or wax coating – that’s its purpose, right? – but rather restore its shine. For advice on a quality auto detailer spray, speak with a member of our McCarthy Collision Centers.
Baking Soda
If you didn’t know, baking soda is pretty awesome. Not only does it deodorize fridges and clean your teeth, but it also helps to remove bird poop from cars. A simple mixture of baking soda (2 tablespoons), dish soap (a teensy squirt) and hot water, spritzed from a spray bottle onto the droppings and left to soak for 10 minutes, should clear off most stingy bird crud. Rinse with a hose and repeat.
WD-40
Did you know that the amazing, multipurpose WD-40 spray can be used to clean off dry bird poop? It’s true! In about the time it takes for Thanos to snap his fingers, WD-40 will loosen dry bird droppings, enabling you to eliminate stains with a single wipe or rinse from the hose. Plus, you won’t need to get your hands dirty! (Check out WD-40’s additional 200-plus automotive uses too.)
Unscented Laundry Detergent (on Upholstery)
Maybe you were dumb unlucky enough to keep your sunroof open or top down as you went grocery shopping. Maybe a flock of ducks, 45 minutes after their last meal, decided to fly directly over your vehicle while you were comparing cans of refried beans. (You get where we’re going…)
To clean bird poop off your car seats, upholstery, or even a fabric convertible top:
- Let it dry. While that may seem counterintuitive, dry bird poop on car upholstery is easier to clean compared to wet poop, which can smear and spread.
- Once dry, pick the bird droppings off with a plastic scraper, nail file, your fingernails—anything that won’t rip the fabric.
- A chalky residue or white stain will remain. Treat these stains with a drop of unscented liquid laundry detergent, and gently pat with a damp cloth.
- Rinse the cloth and slowly scrub until the stain and detergent are gone.
- Air dry, away from bird flight paths.
Get Help From a Professional Car Detailer
In the case of a really disgusting bird-poop bombing, it may be in your best interest to let a pro detail your car. After a thorough wash, wax, and polish, your vehicle will look brand new. If you need help repainting your car in Kansas City, visit one of our auto body shops in Missouri or Kansas. We offer a variety of auto body services, including detailing and paintless dent repair. Take that, Tweety Bird!
Sources:
https://www.nsford.com/blogs/2500/car-detailing/5-surefire-ways-to-get-dry-bird-poop-off-your-car/
https://www.audubon.org/news/how-live-bird-poop
https://www.dropwipes.com/
https://carfromjapan.com/article/car-maintenance/bird-poop-on-car-how-to-recover-car-paint-damage/
https://www.wd40.com/uses-tips/automotive/all
Some newer vehicles use fancy key fobs, touchpads, and remote-unlock sensors that all but guarantee you won’t get locked out. But what of the millions of unfortunate souls who still lock and unlock their cars manually? Is their future plagued by prybars and broken car windows?
With a bit of patience, practice, and even more patience, getting your keys out of a locked vehicle is entirely possible—and you probably won’t have to visit an auto body shop near you to get your window replaced afterward. Here are a few tips to safely get inside your locked car. (Nefarious persons needn’t continue reading.)
1. Get Your Spare Key
When you purchase a new vehicle from your car dealer, they likely gave you a pair of car keys. If this sounds familiar, and you’re at home, you might want to try to find that spare first.
2. Load Up Your App
Newer cars may also be remotely unlocked using your auto manufacturer’s mobile app. You’ll need to sign up and pair the vehicle to your account prior to your lockout, but doing so right when you purchase your vehicle will prevent lockouts in the future. Here’s a short list of lockout apps for popular vehicle brands:
- myChevrolet – Acts as a remote key fob to lock or unlock your GM vehicle, start or stop its engine, sound the horn, and even locate the vehicle, among others.
- Hyundai Blue Link® – Allows you to unlock, lock, start, stop, and activate headlights and the horn of your Hyundai.
- NissanConnect® – Services include lock/unlock, Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts, and connectivity to Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Toyota App – Enables you to lock and unlock the doors, find your Toyota, receive recall alerts, and access maintenance info.
- MySubaru – Via STARLINK, the MySubaru app locks and unlocks your vehicle, remote starts and stops it, and even immobilizes the vehicle when it’s stolen.
3. Unlock Manual Locks with String or Fishing Line
Have an old vehicle with manual locks? Become MacGyver: grab a few feet of shoestring, fishing line, or twine, fashion a loop in the middle of the string, and work it into the door’s opening. Hook the loop onto the locking mechanism and pull up.
4. Unlock with a Wire Clothes Hanger
Hollywood makes this method look easy; we assure you that it is not. However, a wire hanger can unlock your car door via its power lock/unlock button. Straighten out your hanger, insert it into the door frame’s seal, just above the unlock button, and gently fiddle with it until the metal hanger slides in. Guide it to the unlock button.
5. Unlock with an Inflatable Pump Wedge
If you happen to lock yourself out of the car regularly, it might be a good idea to invest in an inflatable wedge kit. These “auto entry tools” will help you avoid damaging the vehicle’s paint, which can sometimes happen when using metal tools. The wedge creates space between the door and jamb, allowing you to insert access tools or rods that disengage the lock.
6. Unlock with a Strip of Sturdy Plastic
Many autobody novices will use makeshift door wedges out of spare plastic strips. These can be bent and slid through the cracks of the car door to trigger most manual locks.
7. Call AAA or a Locksmith
When you can’t get your shoestring, wire hanger, or wedges to work, it’s time to make like Robin Hood and call the locksmith. Service providers like AAA are also good options; they have special lockout tool kits for this very occasion. The downside is that you’ll have to pay for someone to unlock your car.
8. Call the Police
Officers, manning a slim jim, used to provide assistance with vehicle lockouts. However, some police officers today cannot assist if your vehicle is a newer model. If your situation is particularly dire, contacting the authorities is a good idea. Unless you’ve locked a baby or animal inside a hot car and need assistance ASAP, we suggest calling a non-emergency line rather than dialing 9-1-1. View this list of non-emergency Kansas City Police contact numbers.
If you absolutely must break your window to get inside the car, don’t worry! Auto glass replacement is quite affordable, and most work can be done in an afternoon. For additional tips or to schedule a visit at one of our Kansas City body shops, dial 800-NEW-AGAIN or request a tow online. Trust McCarthy Collision Centers to give you free estimates and even work with your insurance company to submit claims. We’re here for you.
Sources & Photos:
hyundaiusa.com/bluelink/index.aspx
nissanusa.com/connect
chevrolet.com/my-chevrolet-mobile-app
toyota.com/connected-services/toyotaapp/
subaru.com/engineering/starlink.html
quora.com/Why-don-t-cops-help-unlock-your-car-anymore-They-used-to-if-you-locked-your-keys-in
kcpd.org/contact-us/department-directory/
Robert Orr, a resident of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, never expected his dashcam footage to go viral in July 2017. However, that’s exactly what happened when his camera captured footage of a Lowe’s semi-truck running a stop light and colliding with a car. After the accident, Orr’s video footage was given to law enforcement and insurance companies, providing a clearer picture of how the accident unfolded. Now, Robert Orr is convinced everyone and their mama should have a dashboard camera.
Dashboard cameras, also known as dash cams, are growing in popularity. No longer just for law enforcement, everyday drivers purchase dash cams for recreation and protection. But are they legal in Missouri, and if so, are they more cool than useful? See answers to all your common dash cam questions below, or call one of our Kansas City collision centers for our opinion (it’ll be the same).
Are dashboard cameras legal in Missouri?
Yes. There are no restrictions on dashboard cameras in the state of Missouri.
Many other states prohibit dashboard cameras altogether or restrict their use. For instance, Illinois, one of Missouri’s border states, allows dash cams but has restrictions on where it can be mounted. Typically, dash cams mount onto the vehicle’s windshield, not the actual dashboard. This leads to concerns about driver visibility. The general rule is: a dash cam cannot obstruct more than a 5-inch square on the driver’s side.
How do they work?
Dashboard cameras record video and store it to a removable video card inside the camera. Designed to be completely hands-off, dash cams start and stop automatically. Some cameras have the ability to continue recording in what is called “Parking Mode”.
How much do dash cameras cost?
Dashcams range in price, from $60 for a low-end model to $200 and up for a top-of-the-line brand.
Features vary based on price point, as well, with options like video resolution, single or dual channel, night visibility, specialty sensors, and GPS detectors on the menu. It’s imperative to first decide the reason behind a dash cam purchase; some of these features may be nice to have in an emergency, but a basic dash cam meets the needs of most drivers. Read dash cam reviews for a better idea of which one you might want.
What are the benefits of dashboard cameras?
People purchase dash cams for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Support your case in the event of an accident
- Protection for your parked vehicle
- Protection from insurance fraud
- Report road rage or aggressive drivers
- For business owners, monitor your employees and vehicle fleet
- Record holiday and weekend trips as well as scenic routes
Can dash cams help when making an insurance claim?
Yes. Dashboard cameras can provide video evidence in the event of an accident to support an insurance claim. According to the Hershewe Law Firm in Joplin, Missouri, dash cam evidence can be helpful when disputing or reporting:
- Aggressive driving
- Unlawful driving, including missed stop signs and red lights
- Distracted driving (another driver looking at or texting on a phone)
- Hit-and-runs (with license plate information)
- Hostile drivers after an accident
While some insurance companies have been slow to warm up to dashboard cameras in the claim process, video footage is admissible in Missouri courts with a judge’s approval.
It is important to note that, as of late 2017, no U.S. insurance company offered discounts to drivers who installed dash cams in their vehicles.
How do I install a dashboard camera?
While installing a dash cam may be easy for someone who knows their way around cars and technology, it’s always best to have a professional hardwire the camera for maximum stability and performance. Basic installation of a dash cam involves:
- Deciding on the dash cam’s location
- Locating the vehicle’s fuse box
- Routing the power cable
- Identifying a “hot-in-start” fuse (which will allow the camera to automatically record when starting the vehicle)
- Installing new circuit power cable
- Locating a ground point
- Typing up excess wire
- Testing installation
Can you help me install a dashcam?
Unfortunately, the technicians at our collision centers near Kansas City don’t offer dash cam installation service at this time. The future may bring better news!
We do, however, offer a complete menu of auto body repair services; if you’re ever in an accident around Blue Springs or Sedalia, we can help with your repairs. Simply dial 800-NEW-AGAIN to request immediate tow service to one of our local auto body shops near Kansas City.
Sources:
https://www.semissourian.com/story/2430631.html
https://lifehacker.com/will-a-dash-cam-actually-help-you-after-a-car-accident-1732054157
https://www.lifewire.com/are-dash-cams-legal-534879
http://h-law.com/news/single/how-a-dash-cam-can-protect-you-in-a-car-accident-claim
How Do Dashcams Work?
https://dashboardcamerareviews.com
http://h-law.com/news/single/how-a-dash-cam-can-protect-you-in-a-car-accident-claim
Dash Cam Insurance Discount
http://www.thedashcamstore.com/advanced-dashcam-installation/
Top 10 Most Insane Car Crash Test Videos
As Kansas City autobody technicians, we’ve dealt with the aftermath of lots and lots and lots of car crashes over the years. Some are fairly minor—bent fenders, dented doors, busted windows—while others are absolutely devastating and, frankly, unsalvageable.
Yet with every new decade, we see fewer of the latter and more of the former, which is a testament to the auto industry’s commitment to safety. And with the way modern technology is advancing, overall vehicle crashworthiness should continue to climb, and the worst crash test videos below may be a relic of the past. Enjoy (and please drive safely).
1. 2018-21 Ford Explorer
For a model with an infamous safety history (remember the rollover recall in the early 2000s?), you’d think newer Ford Explorers would have crash performance under control. But as we see here, the 2018-21 model doesn’t hold up well to small overlap testing on the passenger side, receiving a “poor” rating.
2. 2001 Ford F-150
The 2001 F-150 was one of the most popular trucks in America at the time—and one of the most dangerous. In the year’s IIHS 40-mph crash test, the F-150 crumpled under the pressure. Airbags: deflated upon impact. Door: nearly removed from this plane of existence. Front tire: up the driver’s crotch. Heck, the truck’s body even gets propelled off its chassis.
To be fair, trucks like the F-150, Silverado, and Sierra are far better and far safer than they were 20 years ago. But this was one big reason why pickup trucks had a bad reputation in the early noughties.
3. 2010 Geely CK-1
We introduce you to the CK-1, a Chinese-manufactured sedan that was mostly sold in China, Russia and Turkey. Earning a reputation as one of the least-safe vehicles to ever be produced, the Geely CK failed all IIHS and NHTSA crash tests, as well as the Latin New Car Assessment Programme’s (LNCAP) tests. In fact, it has the distinction of being one of the only vehicles to ever earn a LNCAP zero-star score.
All you need to know about the CK-1 comes from the LNCAP press release: “…The structure of the car is so bad that even an airbag would not improve the situation.”
Luckily, Geely ceased manufacturing these deathmobiles in 2016.
4. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport
For the sake of family vans everywhere, it’s a shame that the Pontiac Trans Sport existed. It gave minivans a bad name due to severe safety concerns after its IIHS crash test (above), including:
- Its steering wheel snapping off and decapitating the crash-test dummy;
- The left foot and ankle of the dummy getting unrecognizably crushed; and
- The cabin collapsing severely, leaving “little survival space for the driver.”
Fittingly and appropriately, this second-generation Trans Sport was the last of its kind.
5. 2000 Citroen Saxo
The French like small cars, which is likely why they mass-produced the Citroen Saxo. Marketed as a “supermini,” the Saxo was originally a first cousin to the Peugeot 205 but stickered as a budget car. Equipment was sparse, as were its listed safety features, which included seatbelts, a driver-side airbag—and that’s it. You even had to pay extra for a passenger-side airbag.
As you would guess, the Saxo failed just about every safety test. In frontal crash tests, it became an accordion. In side-impact crashes, the driver would likely suffer broken arms, crushed ribs, and many other life-threatening injuries.
6. 2000 Fiat Seicento
If you’re a professor of physics, show this video to your class. The Fiat Seicento, yet another small car, proves why it’s important for car companies to utilize flexible materials when designing crumple zones (these transfer kinetic energy after an impact). Instead of the roof caving in, as is seen in the video above, the materials absorb the impact and spread that force out throughout the vehicle’s structure.
7. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air
If you’ve ever been told that older cars are more structurally sound and can protect passengers better than newer vehicles, watch the video above. The newer Malibu (silver) plays a game of chicken with the ‘59 Bel Air (gold-ish), and it’s easy to see who wins.
8. 2019 Jeep Wrangler
Rollover risk is real if you drive a large SUV. In IIHS’s driver-side crash testing, few SUVs fared worse than the 2019 Jeep Wrangler in that department. In fact, the driver-side crash test isn’t set up to measure rollover damage, which is a concern considering what happened to the Wrangler.
9. 1992 Commodore
This is probably the most disturbing crash test video we could find: The 1991-92 Holden Commodore. While it’s not a true crash test—the vehicle was fitted with sandbags to increase weight, for one thing—it’s truly a frightening sight to see a car transform into a flattened cardboard box.
10. 2019-20 Honda HR-V
Let’s end on a high note, shall we? Although the 2016 Honda HR-V failed to meet Honda’s stringent safety standards, its 2019-2020 HR-V model did. (Note the models’ A-pillars in the video above.) Safety is a moving target, so it’s encouraging to see automakers learn from their mistakes and make potentially life-saving improvements.
About McCarthy Collision Centers
While our Kansas City body shops can’t fix any of the cars seen above—they’re all completely totaled, let’s be honest—we are certainly able to perform autobody work on dings, dents, chips and the occasional snap, crackle and pop. We’ve been doing it for years, and we’ll continue until Kansas City no longer has to worry about car wrecks.
To get a free quote on collision repairs in Kansas City, contact your nearest McCarthy Collision Center by dialing 1-800-NEW-AGAIN. We’ll get you set up with a tow to our facilities and then back on the road in no time.
“Boy, that was some nasty storm last night,” you say to yourself as you’re grabbing a steaming cup of joe to fortify your morning. You turn on the local news and, sure enough, the weatherman (er, weatherperson?) reports that last night’s storm that rolled through Kansas City was a doozy all right. There were even reports of golf ball-sized hail in some areas.
Suddenly, you get a queasy feeling in your stomach. You think: “Did I forget to park the car in the garage AGAIN?” You hurriedly get dressed and go outside. Oh no! Your worst fears are confirmed. There’s a big crack in the windshield and several dings on the roof, hood, and trunk lid.
Unfortunately, this scenario plays out all too often when spring storms pummel the greater Kansas City area. They leave many people having to deal with significant hail damage to their vehicles, especially hail damage to windshields and rear windows.
Now it’s time to find a repair shop to fix all the hail damage that Mother Nature has so unkindly wrought on your poor vehicle. So, how do you go about selecting the best hail-damage auto repair shop in Kansas City?
Before selecting a local Kansas City auto repair shop to fix your hail damage, you should first ask the following questions:
- Does the repair shop have a good reputation?
- Does the repair shop specialize in hail damage and windshield repair?
- Does the repair shop take your insurance?
- Is the repair shop conveniently located?
- Does the repair shop warranty its works
Fortunately, at McCarthy Collision Centers, the answer to all those questions is: Yes!
Five-Star Reputation
Let’s start with reputation. Our full-service auto body shops near Overland Park, KS have been serving Kansas City motorists since 1999. We’ve worked hard to earn our five-star reputation with consumers. But don’t take our word for it. Check out the many positive Kansas City auto-repair testimonials we’ve received from satisfied customers.
We Specialize in PDR & Windshield Repairs
Our highly trained auto-body technicians at McCarthy Collision Centers specialize in Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) and are experts at repairing windshield and auto-glass damage, whether from hailstones or other causes. We offer prompt and reliable automotive windshield replacement throughout the Kansas City area.
We Deal Directly with All Insurance Companies
If you’re vehicle’s body, windshield, or rear window have been damaged by hailstones, the last thing you need to worry about is hassling with your insurance company. That’s where we come in. We deal directly with the insurance company, so you don’t have to.
It’s good to know that you have a right to take your vehicle to the body shop of your choosing. Since we work with every major insurance carrier, we can handle your auto insurance claim in Kansas City even if we’re not listed in your insurance company’s program. Let us help negotiate your auto insurance repair claim and get your car back on the road again, good as new.
We also offer the convenience of free online auto-repair estimates to help get the repair process started from the comfort of your home.
Five Convenient Locations to Serve You
From Olathe to Blue Springs, there are five conveniently located McCarthy Collision Centers throughout the greater Kansas City metro area:
OLATHE, KS
1610 E Prairie St. Olathe, KS 66061BLUE SPRINGS, MO
3000 NW South Outer Rd. Blue Springs, MO 64015
SEDALIA, MO
Sedalia, MO 419 Thompson Rd. Sedalia, MO 65301
OVERLAND PARK, KS
9201 Metcalf Ave. Overland Park, KS 66212LEE’S SUMMIT, MO
945 S.E. Oldham Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 64081Limited Lifetime Warranty
McCarthy Collision Centers offer the ultimate in peace of mind with our exclusive Limited Lifetime Guarantee. We stand by the quality of our body, paint, and windshield repair work in writing. It’s a no-hassle policy ensuring that any workmanship defects will be corrected free of charge for the life of your vehicle.
Put 800-NEW-AGAIN on Speed Dial
For hailstone windshield repairs or any other auto-body repairs in Kansas City, the only number you need in your smartphone is 800-NEW-AGAIN (800-639-2424). Call us today or visit us at 800newagain.com/ .
What to do After Your Car Is Broken Into
I had a friend – let’s call him “Chris” – who lived in a seedy part of Kansas City during college. Over the course of two semesters, Chris’s old Civic was broken into three times. The first time, Chris left his car unlocked overnight, and thieves ransacked the cabin, stealing his iPod (remember those things?) and stereo system. The second instance, they broke the side window and ran off with his new stereo, leaving everything else in order. The third and final time, they once again smashed the side window and, like clockwork, stole his new-new audio system, along with a gym bag full of stinky clothes (who does that?) and the spare tire. In total, without adequate insurance coverage, Chris spent nearly $3,000 on repairs and replacements.
What’s the moral of the story? As it turns out, there are several:
- Don’t live in shady parts of town.
- Thieves must really like music – or absolutely hate Civics.
- Get good vehicle and renters/homeowners insurance coverage.
- Dealing with a car break-in is not fun.
We’re here to help you with that last bit. If you’ve been the victim of an auto theft, or if some hooligans shattered your window to steal your personal items (and stereo), here’s what you should do.
1) Assess the damage and identify missing items
Make note of all damage done to your car. This likely includes auto glass damage, tears, broken panels, and scratched or bent car doors.
Create a list of all stolen items. Do your best to be as detailed as possible – write down the item’s brand and product name, color, and purchase price, if able – as this will aid you when you file your police report and insurance claim.
2) Call the Po-Po
Always phone the police after a vehicle break-in, even if the damage is minimal or the theft is negligible. Notifying the authorities will put them on high alert, and your tip might stop another car break-in in your neighborhood. Plus, you cannot make an insurance claim without a valid police report.
3) Cancel any credit cards or bank accounts
If the thieves stole any of your identifying information, you should take it seriously – identity theft isn’t a joke, Jim – and close all your accounts and put a fraud alert on your credit reports. Don’t risk it.
4) Gather all documents before reporting an insurance claim
Before you make your car theft claim, you’ll do yourself a favor by having important paperwork nearby. This isn’t always necessary, as some insurers will already have your info on file, but it never hurts to be thorough. The documents and information you’ll want to have include:
- Certificate or Title
- Names and contact info of all people who have regular access to your vehicle
- A full description of your vehicle (make, model, color, etc.)
- A list of all the items that were stolen or damaged
- Your financing or leasing company contact information
- The police report number
5) File a claim
Once you’re ready, call your insurance company to start your claim. It’s important to note that your car insurance may not cover any theft of personal items; you may need to file a renters or homeowners insurance claim, instead. Check with your insurance agent if you have questions or concerns about the claim process.
6) Contact your loan or lease company, if necessary
A call to your leasing or financing company should be your next step if your vehicle has been stolen. They can work directly with your insurance company to expedite the claim process and stop any monthly payments from incurring. Of course, if you owe more than the car’s worth, or if you don’t have gap coverage, you may need to pay the remainder of your balance. Speak with your representative for additional details.
7) Call for a tow or make an autobody repair appointment
While it’s fairly safe to drive with a broken side window, you can opt to have your vehicle towed to a local body shop instead. The collision center you choose will also work with your insurance company to come to a consensus on repair costs. In many cases, replacing broken car windows cost less than insurance deductibles, but there could be other types of autobody damage that needs attention. Your car body shop will inspect and assess those damages, then discuss their findings with your insurer – all on your behalf. (They’re here for you!)
8) Check with your neighbors
With the technological advancements of the 21st century, more and more car thieves are getting caught. That’s because of doorbell video cameras like Ring. If any of your neighbors have these video cameras, the footage may show the perpetrator in action, which may be useful to law enforcement. (You can also try the Nextdoor app and ask people if they witnessed anything unusual in the area.)
9) Take steps to prevent future break-ins
Don’t take the chance of another auto theft or break-in from happening. Prevention is key.
- Park in well-lit areas
- Park in populated, visible areas
- Bring all your personal items inside
- Keep your car locked and its windows up
- Don’t buy pricey, aftermarket stereo systems (just kidding)
- Buy a car with a good alarm system (or one that can track stolen vehicles)
Call Your McCarthy Collision Center After a Break-In
If you need auto body service in Kansas City after an auto break-in or theft, dial 800-NEW-AGAIN or make an appointment at any of our McCarthy Collision Centers in MO or KS. We’ll gladly work with you and your insurer to fix any broken auto glass, damaged stereo systems, or dents and dings. And if the damage doesn’t meet your insurance deductible, we offer several self-pay body repair options – just ask us!
When you bring a new vehicle home for the first time, you’re making a commitment and welcoming it as a member of your family. You’re going to clean it, keep it fueled, get it checked up once or twice a year, buy nice things (new tires!) to keep it happy, introduce it to all your friends, and take it almost everywhere you go. You may also, eventually, experience the pain and frustration of not knowing what to do when it breaks down on the way to work or gets into a car accident in I-435.
As experts — at least when it comes to autobody repair in Kansas City – our team members have racked their brains to compile this list of 5 common scenarios in which their customers might wonder: “Do I need to call a tow truck near me for this?”
Here’s our “Tow or No” guideline:
No – Minor hail damage
The weather here in the great plains of the Midwest often brings hail that’s just aggravating enough to ruin your day, yet not so bad that it breaks a windshield or headlight and ultimately makes your vehicle unsafe to drive.
Minor cosmetic damage to the body panels of your SUV typically isn’t a reason to request a tow truck, but you’ll still want to call our team to schedule an appointment for some paintless dent repair. Minor hail damage can cause rusting, paint chipping, and just looks icky. The McCarthy Collision Centers team will provide an estimate, help you make an insurance claim, pop those dents, and have your vehicle looking as good as new in no time.
Tow – Major accident
This is the big one, the experience we all dread: an accident on the highway with lots of obvious damage, glass and debris everywhere, and airbags deployed. There are a few steps to handle right away, if you’re able:
- Check on all the passengers.
- Call 911 to get medical and support professionals on the way.
- Make sure people and vehicles are out of traffic if possible.
- You should then call McCarthy Collision Centers at (800) NEW-AGAIN to arrange a tow to one of our good body shops around Kansas City. You’ll want your estimate performed by an experienced team and help with your insurance claims, as well as quick and professional repair service.
No – A gentle parking lot encounter
You had a plan to make some memories with the family this Saturday. You loaded the family into the minivan and headed out for a day of hiking, shopping, and fast food. Everyone was happy, their bellies full, and you were all belted up and ready to head home.
Unfortunately, someone was a little too tired and misjudged the distance between your vehicle and the black convertible in front of you, which resulted in a minor fender-bender. You and the other drive agree there’s no need to call the police. The next step is, of course, to swap insurance and contact information with the other driver – but what comes after that?
This isn’t a situation where you need to call a tow truck, but you should call our Kansas City body shops to schedule a free estimate to repair any damage.
Tow – Airbag deployment
Your vehicle’s airbags are deployed when one of its various sensors determines a sudden deceleration—a crash, basically—was severe enough to deploy them. These sensors are incredibly trustworthy, but it’s possible for them to fire an airbag (or 6) in a scenario where the vehicle might still seem drivable. You may have rubbernecked an accident where the car seems perfectly fine, but the airbags are all visible and there’s a tow truck pulling up to the scene.
A general rule is that airbags are crucial to your safety, and you should never drive a vehicle with any airbag deployed. The team at McCarthy Collision Centers will arrange a tow, perform a professional replacement of your airbags, and fix any other damage caused in an accident.
Tow – Broken windshield
We’ve replaced a lot of windshields. Aside from hail breaking windows, a surprisingly common reason to require windshield repair is a deer deciding to personally introduce itself to the driver. Even if you’re able to drive away from the crash with half a doe on the hood of your sedan and a windshield-less windshield, you shouldn’t. (And you don’t want to recreate that scene from Tommy Boy.)
Please call us for a tow instead, as the windshield plays a critical role in protecting you from road debris and keeping your visibility high. (It’s also illegal to drive without a windshield.) Trust the team at McCarthy Collision Centers to replace your windshield and fix any dents in your grille or hood.
Our McCarthy Collision Centers around Kansas City are filled with professionals who are authorities in autobody repair. If you need to call a tow truck in Kansas City, tell them to send your vehicle to any one of our Kansas or Missouri body shops. Or dial 800-NEW-AGAIN and we’ll arrange a tow for you!
Will That Damage Your Car? Vehicle Damage FAQ
Cars are designed to take a beating, but that doesn’t mean you should beat it up on purpose. After all, you spent good money on that vehicle! Get to know what types of things can damage your car—plus tips to help you avoid a visit auto body and repair fairies.
General Vehicle Damage
Will Tree Sap Damage My Paint?
Tree sap will damage car paint, yes. However, it won’t hurt your vehicle overnight. When left to dry—over the course of a week or longer—it can etch into your car’s paint and clear coat, causing it to stain. At that point, re-painting is the only real solution.
Read some useful tips to remove tree sap from your vehicle’s paint.
Does Bird Poop Stain Cars?
Dried bird droppings will etch into auto paint and stain quite quickly. This is because bird poop is high in uric acid—the corrosive enemy of car paint and wax. Therefore, it’s important to clean bird droppings off your vehicle’s finish ASAP. If it’s not removed in a timely fashion, the bird poo will eat through any sealant or wax.
Get more info about cleaning bird poop off your car.
Do Eggs Damage Car Paint?
Vandals, particularly around Halloween, will T.P. houses, destroy pumpkins, and knock over mailboxes. However, the cruelest prank of all is egging cars.
Eggshells can chip paint. Egg whites can act like glue—and we all know glue and cars are a recipe for disaster. Worse yet, egg yolks are high in fat, which will speed up the destruction of a vehicle’s clear coat. Together, egg yolks and whites will certainly destroy a vehicle’s paint job in no time.
If your car’s been vandalized and egged, the first step is to carefully remove eggshells by hand. If you attempt to wash or wipe away the egg before removing the shells, you’ll almost certainly scratch your vehicle’s paint. Then you’ll need to tackle the dried egg with a cleaner and thorough wash. If you don’t clean the egg off fast enough, you may need to visit an expert auto detailer or body shop.
Stay tuned to read our detailed cleaning tips for an egged car.
Can My Car Fade in the Sun?
Automotive wax protects your vehicle’s paint from UV ray exposure. If you don’t keep up with regular car waxing, however, the sun can fade and oxidize your paint. This damage may not sprout up very fast, but over the course of a few years, under the intensity of the sun, your car will definitely begin to look faded.
View some ways you can prevent auto paint damage caused by the sun.
Can Silly String Ruin Car Paint?
Although non-toxic, Silly String can certainly do damage to vehicle paint and clear coats. Made of liquid resin, Silly String will immediately stick to your car and dry within minutes, especially when exposed to the sun. If it’s not promptly cleaned off, it will be difficult to remove. Silly String can eat at your protective clear coat and eventually etch into the underlying auto paint. This foam can also damage vinyl dashboards and leather seats; it will easily stain lighter-colored fabric and materials.
The solution: Don’t spray Silly String on your car. But if you’ve been the victim of a vandal, cleaning Silly String off your car right away is the best solution. Clean, warm water, sponges, microfiber cloths, and some soap will do well on fresh stains.
Will a Pressure or Power Washer Take Paint Off a Vehicle?
Power washers make quick and very satisfying work of stains and residue, but they’re also dangerous machines that should be used with care and caution. Not only can they hurt people and animals—seriously, they can take off a toe—but they can also strip away auto paint like it’s baby powder.
Pressure washers that are set to the incorrect PSI can chip off paint and even dent sheet metal, both of which can lead to vehicle rust damage. The only relatively safe area of your vehicle to power-wash is the undercarriage, but we recommend getting a carwash to be safe.
General Vehicle Damage
Will Driving Through Water Damage My Car?
Driving through any large body of standing water is very risky. If water gets into your engine, consider it toast; this is sometimes referred to as hydrolock, or hydrostatic lock. Hydrolock occurs when a contaminant—in this case, water—enters the engine and prevents its pistons from compressing and operating properly. Once this happens, the entire engine stalls.
This type of water damage happens most often during flash floods or after hurricanes, like the recent storm in Kansas City.
Does Road Salt Cause Rust?
Salted roads make winter driving safer, but at what cost? This salt lowers the freezing point of water, allowing car tires to reach and gain traction on the asphalt. Due to its chemical nature, however, winter road salt will accelerate vehicle rust and corrosion, and may even cause problems with hydraulic brakes, rotors, axles, and frames. The slush from snow, mixed with these chemicals, can stay under the car, eating away at the underbody over the winter season.
The best solution is to get frequent car washes with under-sprays, at least once per season. Better yet, get a car wash after every major winter storm.
Tire Damage
Will Parking on a Curb Damage My Tires?
If your tires are properly inflated, parking on a curb overnight probably won’t do much harm.
However, an extended stay on a curb can cause issues. The curb can pinch your tire’s sidewall, and if your tire is old, damaged, or improperly inflated, this could force you to lose air pressure quickly. Additionally, the physical act of parking on a raised curb may damage your suspension, ding your oil pan, or harm your front-end.
Review other symptoms of tire damage caused by curbs.
Will Driving Through Glass Pop or Damage My Tires?
Running over broken auto glass, such as windshields or even side mirrors, will rarely cause your tire to pop or get pierced. This type of glass is manufactured to shatter into gravel-like granules that don’t harm car tires. In fact, as vehicles constantly run over auto glass, the glass crumbles into smaller pieces and becomes even less dangerous, especially to cyclists.
Other types of broken glass, like that of mirrors (not vehicle mirrors), window panes, and even beer bottles, can sometimes give you a flat tire. Although rare, a sharp piece of glass, combined with really bad luck, could potentially do some damage.
If you think you’ve popped a tire after driving through glass, stop in a safe place and inspect the tire for visual damage and check the PSI. If there’s no issue, drive for a while and re-check when you get to your destination.
What Damage Can Potholes do to a Vehicle?
If you’ve ever driven through Kansas City in the winter, you realize how bad the potholes can get. These nasty holes in the road can cause a tremendous amount of damage to car tires. Bent rims, flat tires, and wheel alignment problems are common after hitting a pothole; and the more potholes you slam into, the more likely you are to experience these types of damage.
In addition to tire damage, potholes can also break axles, puncture oil pans, crack mufflers and exhaust systems, and more. Review some more info about pothole damage, including who to call in Kansas City to request pothole road repairs.
Why Are My Tires Losing Air?
There are numerous reasons why you’re seeing either rapid or slow tire pressure drops. Punctures—even nonvisible ones—poor seals, and deteriorated fill valves are common causes of lost air in tires, though there are several others. Read through our list of other common reasons why tires may lose air.
Can I Drive with a Damaged Axle?
If your vehicle’s axle is broken, your car’s tires won’t spin. But if your axle is bent or going bad, the vehicle might still operate.
Don’t let that fool you – driving on a bent axle is incredibly dangerous! It could snap when you go over a bump or make a turn, and once that happens all bets are off. Your wheels will seize up or even fall off, forcing your vehicle out of control and increasing your risk of rolling over.
Suspect that your car axle is breaking? Read more about the signs of axle damage.
Windshield Damage
Do Windshield Repair Kits Work?
DIY repair kits for windshield chips and cracks work when the damage is minor. An autobody repair shop should be contacted if you have major auto glass damage, including bullseye chips, pits, spiderweb cracks, or any combination breaks. For more details, read our detailed post about windshield repair kits.
What Size Hail Causes Damage to Windshields?
Normally, pea-sized hailstones won’t do much damage to your car’s body or windows. When the diameter of hail approaches 0.5 inches, damage to body paint and windshields is more likely. Hail over the size of 1 inch will likely break auto glass. Read more about hail damage restoration.
Will Hot Water Shatter a Frozen Windshields?
This is mostly an urban legend. Pouring boiling water will not crack or break intact windshields, as modern auto glass is laminated and resistant to expansion in extreme temperatures. However, cracks and chips in a frozen windshield can cause cracks when exposed to boiling water. It’s best to get your auto glass chips repaired. The process is cheap—some auto insurance companies even cover it for free—and can be performed at an auto glass repair facility in less than an hour. Read more about uncommon causes of windshield damage.
Do you have a question about a specific type of vehicle damage or auto body repair? Contact our Kansas City body shops at 800-NEW-AGAIN to speak with our experts. We’d be happy to assist you.
When is a Car Considered Total? Common Signs
You got into a crash. Your airbags deployed. Other than your pride, you’ve not suffered any injuries. So, now it’s time to figure out if your insurance adjuster will give your car a clean bill of health or label it as a complete loss.
Ultimately, determining if your vehicle is totaled is in the hands of your insurance company’s adjuster. However, before you get the official diagnosis, you can make an educated guess based on the condition of your car, some basic research, and common sense. If you notice any of the following, you may come to a safe conclusion that you’re about to be in the market for a new car:
- The vehicle won’t turn on
- The vehicle will turn on but won’t budge
- Fluid is leaking
- The frame is bent, cracked or damaged
- The front of your vehicle has been crushed and impacted the engine
- Your wheel and axle have snapped
- There’s significant damage to the engine
- The vehicle caught fire
Autobody damage, like broken bumpers and bent hoods, can be fixed, for the most part, at a professional collision repair center near you. However, a vehicle with significant damage to its frame that can’t be fixed with suspension repairs, for instance, might be a lost cause. (Essentially, your car may be totaled if there’s any damage to a mechanical part that would make for unsafe driving conditions if it failed.)
Vehicle age also plays a big role in determining your initial ACV prior to the accident. ACV is basically your vehicle’s resale value; an older car with excessive mileage will have a lower ACV than a newer model. If that ACV is lower than the estimated cost to repair your car, as well as its “salvage value,” you’ll be looking at a totaled vehicle.
Let’s look at the chances of your vehicle being totaled based on its age:
1–3 Years
Newer cars have a higher ACV than older cars, of course. If the car crash didn’t cause extensive damage to your vehicle, it’s unlikely to be a total loss.
Chance of a total loss: < 10%
4–6 Years
At this age, a vehicle will have lost a majority of its value already. ACV will drop significantly if the vehicle has a high odometer reading or was in poor condition prior to the crash. Many modern, affordable compact sedans may be a total loss (they’re cheaper to buy), while higher end luxury vehicles could be repairable.
Chance of a total loss: 25–40%
7+ Years
Any vehicle, with the exception of some very high-end luxury models, will be totaled if they’re more than 7 years old. Unless the car crash repairs are cheap, you can safely assume that your insurance adjuster will give your older vehicle a salvage title.
Chance of a total loss: > 75%
As always, if an insurance adjuster informs you that your vehicle is totaled, it’s important to get towed to a good autobody shop and mechanic. They may be able to help by providing a lower repair estimate—or go over your other options, which may include buying your vehicle as-is. (While buying your totaled car isn’t recommended, there are situations in which it is a good idea.)
5 Uncommon Causes of Windshield & Auto Glass Damage
Have you ever been the victim of a windshield crack that appeared out of nowhere? Unless you
hit Casper on your way to work, that windshield damage must have been caused by a rock or something falling from
the sky—right? Unfortunately, the mystery of your busted car window may not be so easy to solve. Here are 5
possible causes of that broken glass.
5. Bad Installation
If you drive an older vehicle that has had a few owners, a poorly installed windshield may be
to blame. Factory-installed auto glass is typically fine, but when you must replace that auto glass, defects
will usually be the result of improper installation. If the glass isn’t seated or beaded properly and precisely,
gaps can form between the frame and glass. Each time you drive over a bump, pothole, or curb, those gaps can
cause the windshield to shatter or crack suddenly. That’s why it’s important to pay for an auto glass specialist
to repair or reinstall windshields after an accident or hail damage has occurred.
4. Extreme Temperatures
Pouring boiling water on your windshield during the winter probably won’t crack or ruin the
glass, as most automotive glass is tempered and resistant to heat. However, if your windshield is already
sporting a chip or pit, hot water could cause those spots to expand and, eventually, break. Just scrape your
windows the old-fashioned way.
3. Pressure Changes
Ears pop when adjusting to higher altitudes or pressure changes. Car windows can do the same,
though they can’t chew gum to ease the discomfort. If you are driving up to Mile High City and back to Kansas
City every weekend, those frequent changes in altitude may cause a broken window. It’s highly unlikely, as
modern automotive glass is manufactured to adjust to altitudes properly, but stranger things have happened.
2. Poor Glass Quality
Not all windshields, car mirrors, and auto glass are created equal. Some products are cheap
because they’re cheaply made, and that means out-of-factory defects are well within reason. At McCarthy
Collision Centers, we use reputable auto glass made by reputable auto glass manufacturers to ensure our
customers don’t end up needing even more windshield repairs.
1. Previous Damage
What’s the most common uncommon cause of windshield damage? Stress: It can affect car windows
just as much you. Windows that have been chipped, even if slightly, or abused will eventually form stress cracks
that grow and grow until—CLASH—it shatters. Tempered glass, or safety glass, can handle a lot of abuse, but
unlike human skin, it can’t heal. It takes an auto glass doctor to help. So, contact your nearest Kansas City windshield repairer
before your car leaves you a glass-shard surprise. Contact McCarthy at 800-NEW-AGAIN to schedule an appointment
to fix your windshield cracks and chips this winter. We have body shops
throughout the Kansas City area and offer free estimates.
The new year is fast approaching, and now’s the time to establish your 2020 resolutions. And
if you’re a driver, your car should be at the top of that list. A little TLC can go a long way to help you
conquer that New Year’s resolution. With a bit of dent repair and routine maintenance, you can make sure that
your car looks, feels, runs and even smells like new. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Paintless Dent Repair
PDR, or paintless dent repair, can be done without having to repaint a vehicle. This
provides a faster and more affordable service so that you can get rid of the little dents and dings on your car.
If your vehicle has suffered through a hail storm,
for instance, PDR may just be the solution. By scheduling professional paintless dent repair service, your car
can be restored to its factory beauty in no time at all. Plus, it ensures that paint doesn’t have to be matched,
giving you a pristine look from front to back.
Need to repair a
dent in Kansas City? Contact one of our McCarthy Collision Centers to get a free quote on PDR.
Repair Windshield Chips
Chips in your windshield can decrease visibility; you don’t want to run the risk of not being
able to see when you’re driving down the road. It’s important to remember that glass expands in the heat and
contracts in the cold. This means that a chip from a rock or other debris could cause the crack to spread in the
winter, leaving you with zero visibility on your hands—let alone a massive safety hazard to deal with. Windshield damage can be
repaired so that you’re not left having to replace the entire windshield.
Detail Your Car
Detailing your car can allow you to get a great look inside and out. You can make sure
that debris is vacuumed away through the interior, stains are cleaned up, and other surfaces are protected. With
a thorough cleaning, it’s going to smell like new, too.
The added benefit of detailing your car is that the exterior is cleaned thoroughly. With less
dirt on the outside, it helps with aerodynamics for fuel-efficiency. A full detail also enables you to get a
clear picture of your vehicle, allowing you to identify any dents or damage that may need to be fixed. This way,
the exterior will look as good as the day you bought it.
Change Out Your Windshield Wipers
Many people forget to change out their windshield wipers before and after every winter. Rather
than waiting until the wiper blades are dull, chipped, and smearing your windshield, you can use the start of
the new year as your reminder. With new windshield wipers, it’ll be easier to clear away snow, ice, rain, and
anything else that might get in the way.
Focus on Winter Preventative Maintenance
The cold and snow can take a toll on your car. So, it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle into
your trusted body shop or service
center for some preventative winter car maintenance. It may be necessary to change to 5W-30 oil—it flows quicker
in cold weather, giving your engine a performance boost—fill up your windshield washer fluid, change the air
filters, and add air to your tires. You may also want to swap your tires for all-weather ones so that they can
provide a better grip on the icy roads.
With so many ways to give your car some TLC, you’ll be ready to make a New Year’s resolution
that you can really keep. For any necessary winter autobody repairs in Kansas City, contact the pros at McCarthy Collision Centers. We
have locations throughout Missouri and Kansas, and we’re ready to help you start the new year on the right foot.
Sources:
- statefarm.com/simple-insights/auto-and-vehicles/important-winter-car-care-tips
- csmonitor.com/Business/2011/1217/Ready-for-winter-Six-tips-to-winterize-your-car/Change-the-engine-oil
- glassdoctor.com/blog/how-to-stop-a-windshield-crack-from-spreading
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