How To Spot an Auto Glass Scam
Windshield health is an essential component of car safety. The glass panel keeps rain and debris out. It also prevents collapse in case of a rollover. Maintain it with the help of certified experts in trustworthy shops. It is the best way to ensure structural integrity and excellent performance. Avoid scammers who are trying to make a quick buck no matter what. They squeeze money out of unsuspecting individuals by offering unnecessary, overpriced, and substandard services. These people are everywhere. As a car owner, you need to know how to spot an auto glass scam and deal with them appropriately. Read on to learn more.
What are the Common Tactics in Auto Glass Scams?
Contents
Keep reading to explore some of the more common auto glass scams.
1. Postings at Vehicle Hotspots
Scammers go to places with high vehicular traffic, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and car washes. It is all about efficiency. They can approach dozens of motorists and convince them to get windshield repairs. Most will say no, but a few might say yes. After all, scammers are great at sales talk. They know which words to say and buttons to push to get what they want out of their victims.
2. Free Auto Glass Inspections with a Big Catch
Windshield scams may start with harmless offers for free inspections. Motorists tend to lower their guard when given such an opportunity. It catches their attention and holds it long enough for the scammers to say their convincing spiels. The inspectors never fail to find damaged areas. If the glass is pristine, they might even inflict damage themselves. They make the smallest imperfection seem like the biggest sign of danger. Even if a repair is sufficient, they will push for immediate windshield replacement to charge higher fees.
Related Article: The Role of Windshields in Car Safety
3. Use of Low-quality Materials
Victims are usually unaware of the current industry rates. They might think that they got a bargain even if they were overcharged. In most cases, scammers obtain insurance information and charge the company. Car owners are happy to drive away with a freshly installed glass panel, not knowing that the scammers used low-quality materials. The glass may break, and the adhesive may come undone in a few weeks. They could try to call the installers, but they will probably be long gone by then.
4. Multiple Insurance Claims
Scammers will make it look like they called the insurance company in the presence of their victim to make it seem like a legitimate transaction. However, they are only pretending to talk to an agent. Once the motorist is away, they may charge the insurance company multiple times for their work. They can also charge much higher than the average for windshield repairs and replacements. The insurance company shoulders the cost now, but the motorist will pay higher premiums later.
How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Auto Glass Scams
1. Beware of Aggressive Sales Tactics
Legitimate businesses do not chase their customers. They do not need aggressive sales tactics to generate revenue because people come to them without prodding. Their excellent reputation fosters trust, and their quality service ensures loyalty. Be alert if strangers start approaching you in parking lots and gas stations. Dismiss cheap on-the-spot windshield replacement offers because those are not optimal places to perform the delicate procedure. Beware of free inspections because there is always a catch.
Related Article: Do’s And Don’ts Of Car Windshield Repair
2. Insist on a 3-Way Call for Insurance Claims
Auto-glass shops should not talk to the insurance company without your knowledge. Do not let them initiate a call that excludes you because you need to listen to the conversation. Insist on having a 3-way call for the insurance claim. The company will ask you questions about the windshield and the installer. Your presence is vital in ensuring the accuracy of the information and the efficiency of the process.
3. Check the Company’s Background
Do not let anyone work on your car without checking their background. A quick keyword search online should reveal pertinent information about the company. See if they have an official website, social media accounts, and online reviews. Ask for proof of insurance and certification. These will reduce risk by guaranteeing their financial capacity and technical competence. You can hire them with confidence.
Related Article: 7 Tips For Making Your Windshield Replacement Last For As Long As Possible
4. Do Not Provide Personal and Bank Information
Be careful about the information you give to strangers. Scammers may ask for your insurance details even before you agree to get their services. They could also try to obtain your personal and bank details. You could become a victim of identity theft if these get into the hands of the wrong people. Remember that they have no business asking for your bank information. Never provide these to the installers.
5. Learn About Windshield Repair or Replacement Costs
It will be easier to spot anomalies if you know the basics of windshield repairs and replacements. Learn about the usual problems such as cracks and chips. Figure out how they appear so that you can avoid them in the first place. Note that minor damage will only need repairs. Get familiar with the standards to have the confidence to say no to scammers. If your glass requires replacement, insist on genuine parts to guarantee compatibility and longevity. Get estimates from several shops to see the fair rate for these services. The cost differs depending on the area.
Related Article: How Long Does It Take To Replace A Windshield?
Conclusion
Some people will do anything to make money. They might even run an auto glass scam on unsuspecting motorists. Their aggressive sales tactics and free offers are big red flags. Dismiss them immediately. If you are unsure about a company, check its background before making any transaction. Liberty AutoGlass enjoys an excellent reputation in Leighton, PA. If you live around the area, you can drop by the shop for high-quality services at affordable rates.
For Superior Auto Glass Repairs, Call Liberty AutoGlass
Liberty AutoGlass offers auto glass repair using the highest quality materials and the most advanced auto glass technology to repair your auto glass correctly and quickly. We offer mobile services so we can repair your damaged auto glass at the convenience of your home or office. This means that we come to wherever your vehicle is parked, and you can go about your day as you would normally. We fix windshields, back glass, door glass, vent glass, and quarter glass. We also can handle your insurance claim from start to finish, making the process easier for you! Call Liberty AutoGlass today to find out more!
Contact us today or give us a call at (610) 377-7787 or (877) 90-GLASS if you have any questions. Click here to view our complete mobile auto glass service area in Pennsylvania.
