United Collision & Customs

For vehicle owners in Lockport, IL, and the surrounding areas, United Collision & Customs presents itself as a multifaceted establishment within the "Auto Repair Stations" category, located at 3003 S State St, Lockport, IL 60441, USA. This business aims to be a "one-stop shop" offering a blend of auto body repair, custom aftermarket installations, and general mechanical work for all makes and models, both foreign and domestic. They are I-CAR platinum certified and Better Business Bureau accredited, suggesting a commitment to industry standards and ethical practices.

The environment at United Collision & Customs, as implied by its services, would typically encompass a well-equipped auto body shop capable of handling complex collision repairs, including frame work, auto painting, and panel replacement. For custom work, this would involve specialized areas for precise installations of aftermarket parts, requiring a clean and organized space to ensure quality and prevent damage. Their dual focus on both collision repair and custom work suggests a versatile facility with various bays and tools to cater to different automotive needs. However, the customer reviews provide contrasting perspectives on the operational environment and its impact on service delivery.

United Collision & Customs offers a range of services designed to address both vehicle damage and customization desires:

• Auto Body Repair & Collision Work: This is a primary service, encompassing repair of accident damage, including structural repair, sheet metal work, and restoration to pre-accident condition. This would typically cover dent repair, scratch removal, and major collision reconstruction.
• Custom Aftermarket Installations: A significant service highlighted by a positive review is their capability for custom work. This includes installing aftermarket components such as fog lights, rear spoilers, custom grills, and underbody lights. This caters to enthusiasts looking to personalize and upgrade their vehicles.
• Auto Painting: As part of collision repair and custom work, they provide professional auto painting services, which would include color matching and clear coat application for a factory-like finish.
• Towing Service: As stated on their website, they also offer towing services, which is convenient for customers whose vehicles are immobile after an accident.
• Mechanical Work: Beyond body and custom work, they also state they handle general mechanical work, including brake work, tune-ups, and tires, positioning themselves as a comprehensive auto service provider.

The features of United Collision & Customs, as gathered from the provided customer feedback, present a mixed picture. On the positive side, a satisfied customer praises their ability to perform quality custom aftermarket work. The review highlights "Very professional and quality work" for installations like fog lights, a rear spoiler, custom grill, and underbody lights on a Dodge Charger R/T. This indicates their expertise in customization and the ability to meet specific aesthetic and performance demands of car enthusiasts. The customer's intent to "definitely be bringing my car here for all my custom needs!" and being "a part of a car club" suggests strong capability and satisfaction in this niche.

However, another review raises significant concerns regarding their collision repair services and overall customer experience. This negative feedback points to several critical issues:

• Extended Service Timelines: A vehicle towed on April 16th was not ready for pickup until August 17th, indicating an extremely long repair duration.
• Theft of Personal Items: The customer reported that "all of the items were stolen from my car" while it was at the shop, a serious security and trustworthiness issue.
• Post-Repair Mechanical Issues: Immediately after pickup, the car "immediately started to over heat." This suggests either a new problem introduced during the repair process or a pre-existing issue that was not properly addressed during the collision repair.
• Misdiagnosis and Unresolved Issues: Despite being told a "thermostat" was replaced and the issue fixed, the car continued to overheat, with an AutoZone diagnostic confirming the thermostat as the problem. This implies a lack of thoroughness in diagnosis and repair, or dishonesty.
• Dispute over Responsibility: The shop allegedly "lied and told the insurance company it was the water pump that wasn’t working so they won’t be responsible for repairing it," which indicates potential fraudulent practices and avoidance of accountability.
• Unfinished or Faulty Bodywork: The front bumper "has come completely off my car" shortly after pickup, demonstrating poor quality workmanship on the body repair itself.
• Poor Communication and Avoidance: The customer states that "George is avoiding my phone calls," highlighting a severe breakdown in communication and a lack of willingness to resolve post-repair problems.

Based on this conflicting information, any promotional information should be considered carefully. While the custom work aspect seems to be a strong suit, the negative experience regarding collision repair is a critical factor for potential customers. Given the stated issues, promotional efforts for United Collision & Customs would ideally focus on addressing and mitigating these concerns, while highlighting their strengths.

• Highlighting Customization Expertise: Emphasize their proven track record in aftermarket installations and custom vehicle modifications, perhaps with a dedicated portfolio or gallery. This is their clear strength.
• Transparency and Communication Policy: If they wish to improve their collision repair reputation, they would need to implement and strictly adhere to clear communication protocols, providing frequent and proactive updates to customers. This could be promoted as a core value.
• Guaranteed Workmanship: Offering a clear warranty on all repairs, both custom and collision, and committing to resolving any post-repair issues promptly and without dispute.
• Security Measures: If addressing the theft concern, they could promote enhanced vehicle security measures within their facility.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Process: For collision repairs, emphasizing a thorough diagnostic process to ensure all related mechanical issues are identified and addressed before vehicle return.
• Customer Service Training: Ensuring all staff, especially those in client-facing roles like "George," are trained in conflict resolution and proactive customer service.

In conclusion, United Collision & Customs in Lockport, IL, positions itself as a versatile "Auto Repair Station" with capabilities spanning custom aftermarket installations and comprehensive collision and mechanical repairs. While they have demonstrated proficiency in custom work, the significant negative feedback concerning long repair times, theft, unresolved post-repair mechanical issues, and poor communication highlights areas requiring critical improvement to maintain their reputation and trustworthiness within the community for all aspects of their service.