Category: Driving & Safety

Keep your Vehicles Running for Longer by Following Few Simple Steps

Post author By mann_admin
Post date December 14, 2021

Category: Driving & Safety

Over the years, the automobile industry has shown a considerable rise in manufacturing better quality components, so much so that the usual life span of vehicles in Canada has increased to 12 years from merely ten years. Even though carmakers are doing their part to give customers highly advanced vehicles to meet their needs, there are specific duties to keep their cars intact and in good shape.

Vehicle maintenance plays a pivotal role in deciding how long your machine would run on roads. Following a few simple steps may give you enough reason to get your vehicles serviced periodically.

Keep a Check on Tires for Seamless Functioning

Tires are the most critical components in vehicles, and hence proper care must be taken to maintain your car’s overall health. No matter how much you spend on accessories or fancy upholstery, not keeping a check on tires can ruin your car driving experience. Therefore, inspect tires for the minutest possibility of wear and tear and get them changed right away to avoid any road mishaps.

Most of the accidents on roads occur due to the poor quality of tires. When snow falls around the year, tires tend to deteriorate in colder countries, resulting in extreme wear and tear. So, ensure to check them before driving on long distances.

Keep a Close Monitoring on Engine Oil

Engine oil is vital for any vehicle sometimes; we miss out on how well our cars are lubricated, resulting in serious troubleshooting. Therefore, checking whether your vehicle has sufficient engine oil is very important. Mobile engine oils are used for faster lubrication of vehicle components and boost the engine’s cleaning power and overall performance.

Do your Homework – Don’t Restrict yourself to Checking only the Engine Oil.

Vehicles run on six different fluids, whether trucks, cars, or bikes. Engine oil, brake oil, coolant, transmissions fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. The absence of even one of them can raise the alarm in terms of smooth vehicle functioning.

Get Headlights Checked

Headlights need to be constantly signaling other vehicles during night and daytime. They play a pivotal role in the safety of your car and make your journey on the road safe. To check whether the headlights are working fine, switch on the ignition and leave the parking brakes on to have a clear view of both the lights working or not working. In the case of bad weather conditions, headlights give a visually better idea of the road and keep it safe.

Windshield Wipers

During the rainy season, wipers are used the most and therefore lose effectiveness with time. Replacing wipers on time is the key to keeping the car in shape. Bad quality wipers make the windscreen blurry and won’t solve any purpose. During heavy rains or snow, you need the wipers to get rid of the excessive snow and hail.

Car Paints Need Touch Ups

Paints on vehicles also play an essential role in maintaining vehicles. Harsh weather conditions sometimes make the pigments dull-looking resulting in loss of shine. Going for paint touch-ups at a regular interval will not just keep it looking fresh but will maintain your vehicle.

Always Ensure you Have Car Insurance.

Accidents can happen anytime, and owning car insurance is a must to settle claims seamlessly. Consult your car insurance agents and renew your insurance policy on time to avail of benefits and keep your cars running smoothly.

Driving & Safety

7 Most Common Types of Car Accidents in Ontario

Post author By mann_admin
Post date December 13, 2021

Category: Driving & Safety ?

Accidents are avoidable, primarily when responsible drivers ensure careful driving. However, it doesn’t change that accidents can still happen and occur more often than planned in places like Ontario. In fact, collisions have increased in Ontario, which means it is not avoidable news for the police department.

Although everybody hopes that the collision will no longer happen again, you should prepare for it when it does. If you understand the types of accidents and their causes, you can better use such a tip to address the situation if you are in one.

The Different Types of Car Accidents

One way to avoid and respond well to accidents is to learn about the different types of accidents.

Do you want to know what to do when accidents happen, keep reading these 7 common types in Ontario?

1. Hit and run

One of the most popular type of accidents you will find in Ontario is the hit and run case. In fact, in a good number of accident cases of this type of collision, the person at fault is always on the move as they don’t want to offer any help to the most concerned party. Sometimes, you might not even be in the vehicle when it was hit, making it a more frustrating experience. Regardless, when you are in the middle of a hit and run case, you need to report the situation to the police, especially if an injury is involved.

2. Rear-End Collisions

About 29% of the accidents on the road are rear-end collisions. This high percentage is due to the cause of this type of accident which is often distracted driving. It happens both in traffic and when the road is free because the distance left between cars is usually too small. That is why it is advised to give enough space between your vehicle and the one ahead because when you fail to brake on time, it can result in a collision. Note- This tip is beneficial in winter as the roads are more slippery and wet.

This common type of accident is also hazardous as it results in serious injuries that need to be attended to almost immediately. Hence, it is advised that the first line of action in cases like this is to check for injured and take necessary health steps before any legal or insurance involvement.

3. Single-Vehicle Accidents

Another common type of accident happens without any external car collision but just with a single-vehicle. The surprising thing about this type of accident is it takes about 59% of the types of car accidents in Ontario. This is an insane figure, but it is among the common types of accidents in Ontario.

The single -vehicle accident is often caused by driver’s error, such as driving when drunk, sleeping on the wheels, distraction and making wrong driving decisions.

Yet, not all single-vehicle accidents are the driver’s faults, as they could be beyond what they can control. That being said, when you are in such a situation, be quick to treat yourself of any injury. Also, check to see if other passengers are safe and report the crash like you would with different accident types.

T-Bone Collisions

When there is a T-bone collision, it means there has been T shape accident between two vehicles. That means the front of a car hits the side of another car to form a T-bone collision. This type of collision is common at intersections where one car jumps the road light. The number of crashes recorded on T-bone collision stands at above 20%, a large percentage also. The causes of this type of collision are the following, but many others are not listed.

Excess speed
Distraction when driving
Driving under the influence of something
Driving without yielding to another way

Rollover

A rollover occurs when a car overturns to its side or upside down. This doesn’t just happen when there is a collision, as a single vehicle can turn over without being hit. Unfortunately, this type of accident always results in more severe injuries. However, if the seatbelt is tightly secured, the effect will not be so fatal. Some of the causes of this type of accidents include:

Distraction while driving
Faulty vehicle
Bad weather or road condition
Maximum speed limit
Driving under the influence
Issues with tires

Sideswipes

This type of accident occurs when two parrallel cars driving at the same speed collide with one another. Often, the two drivers are not aware of themselves, and since the speed is high, they won’t be able to control the car when they become aware. This collision is most times fatal as there is no pre-informed thought or expectation of such collision.

This Side swipe accident can be avoided if drivers pay more attention to their surroundings. Also, when trying to change lanes, you must check carefully using your mirrors and reduce the speed before doing so. But if you find yourself in such an accident situation, pull over to safety and check for any form of injury. Then, contact the legal authorities to report the case.

Head-On Collisions

This is the least common type of car crash in Ontario, yet it is one of the most dangerous. When a head-on collision happens, two cars have collided with the front of one vehicle hitting another. Most of these crashes are caused by either drivers or one of them negligence. These crashes can lead to severe damage such as broken bones, brain damage and other minor injuries.

Though the effect of such a collision might not be obvious immediately after an accident, it is advised to go for a checkup whether you experience any discomfort immediately or not. Also, report it to the appropriate quarters for continuous follow up.

Most of these crashes are caused by either drivers or one of them negligence. These crashes can lead to severe damage such as broken bones, brain damage and other minor injuries.

What to Do Following an Accident?

After an accident, it is vital to know the best approach to take to get back what has been lost or to help improve your overall well being. Also, the steps you will take might help other people involved.

So what do you do?

Attempt to get yourself and everyone involved in safety
Try to keep the accident scene protected
Talk to the police and let them into all that you remember
Keep in touch with concerned parties and protect all information
Check-in with your medical doctor for treatment
Confirm with your insurance what has been confirmed
Start the repair process by getting an estimate for all car repairs
Choose the best auto body shop that is right for you

Get Your Car Repaired After an Accident

If you are looking for a good and reliable auto body shop in Ontario that can help with all auto-collision repairs, the Mann Auto Collision Centre is the one for you. We have been in the auto collision business for a long time and deliver outstanding services for all repairs.

We are not only certified, but we give value for all money spent on repairs. Our services are often prompt as our trained technicians provide the best in little time.

Driving & Safety

OEM vs Aftermarket Parts: Replacement Parts After a Crash

Post author By mann_admin
Post date December 13, 2021

Category: Driving & Safety ?

There are several options available to car owners to replace car parts after an accident. The first replacement option is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts used to restore your car to its original state. These parts are made from the manufacturer and are the original parts used for the damaged ones. The other option is the similar identical parts or aftermarket parts. These are not from the same manufacturer and not the exact lookalike of the damaged parts but can function as the OEM.

The two options are beneficial and have pros which makes choosing between them based on your need.

Before you make any repair, please consult with a collision expert as they will rightly guide you into making a good choice.

What Does OEM Mean?

OEM parts are those parts you find that are identical to those initially in your car before the damage. If you want the restoration of your vehicle to the same quality, then the OEM parts can give you that. These parts are often not widely available because just one manufacturer makes them, hence limited.

What are Aftermarket Parts?

The aftermarket parts are those that another manufacturer makes to function like the original. They are often more available than the OEM parts as they have different suppliers. Also, since other people make them, they do not always have the same quality as the OEM, and they also differ in prices from the original. Yet, they can be better or worse than the OEM parts depending on the manufacturer.

Pros and Cons of OEM Car Parts

The OEM parts have many benefits in choosing them, but they also have drawbacks that can be overlooked. However, most people still prefer these car parts because of their warranty instead of the unavailability and costly disadvantages.

Pros

When you opt for the OEM parts, you are sure of what you are getting, making the benefits relatable since you have experienced it with your previous car. The parts are identical to the ones damaged and will function the same way as the former, which is one advantage. Another is the quality you are buying when you choose OEM parts.

You are guaranteed quality because the manufacturer will produce the same thing for similar parts, and you also get a warranty. If you want to play safe when replacing any car part and don’t mind using extra cash to get this safety, the OEM parts are your go-to option.

Summarily, these are the pros of the OEM parts

The parts have a warranty
All parts are identical to the previous
Same quality as promised.

Cons

The fact that OEM parts are the perfect solution to your car repair issues is not arguable, but it does have some drawbacks, including its cost and availability. Because just one manufacturer supplies different people, these parts are often expensive as there is no competition to checkmate them. Sometimes, the aftermarket part can even be in good condition than the OEM part, and you might be spending more to get not too good quality.

The few drawbacks of using the OEM parts include:

The price is higher for the OEM parts than the aftermarket parts.
Their expense doesn’t guarantee better quality sometimes.
The availability of the parts can be limited.

Though the major drawback of the OEM parts, their expense, may seem like a good advantage for the aftermarket, the quality is a counter hindrance. Choosing the OEM parts is also a good option if you are caught in between and do not know which to go for. Or you can allow a good and reliable auto body shop to decide for you.

Aftermarket Car Parts

The aftermarket car parts are quite different from the OEM in terms of consistency in production. Some aftermarket products perform better than the OEM, and in other cases, they perform worse. It is therefore advised to get a good collision auto body shop to guide you better.

Pros

The major pro of aftermarket car parts is the money-saving advantage. However, other factors like model, quality and nature of repair of the car part can be a determining factor for a great pick. Yet, if you go for them, you can readily find the parts you want because of the many manufacturers. But still, trust a good auto body shop to help you pick a good aftermarket part for any repairs.

Summarily, these are the pros of the aftermarket parts

They are generally less costly than OEM parts
The number of varieties available for purchase are more.
The parts are mostly available than OEM parts.

Cons

When looking for the best option between these two, the seemingly better choice could be aftermarket parts, especially if you plan to save money. But consider quality and availability as these two will determine what option to choose. Don’t make any hasty decisions before consulting with a good auto body shop that will help get the right aftermarket parts for you.

Here are the few cons of aftermarkets parts you need to consider

They don’t always come with a warranty
Different products and varieties can be too much to bear.
Quality is never the same as different products have different manufacturers.

How to Distinguish OEM Parts from Aftermarket?

If you plan to buy any of these parts and do not know how to tell the difference between them, your best bet is to ask experts. In an experienced auto body shop, you will meet with professionals who have been in the business for a while and can spot out those differences other people will not see. Note that there are good aftermarket manufacturers and also fake OEM parts. So spotting the two out is vital if you want to enjoy your car. A good OEM part should have a unique code and ID number with a certificate of authenticity.

OEM vs Aftermarket Parts for Collision Repair

Anybody that wants to choose between OEM and aftermarket parts must realize that it is based on specific personal preferences.

The price, quality, appearance and vehicle owner will be based on the client’s likes. However, it will be best to allow a good auto body shop guide those preferences by considering some factors.

Those factors include:

Both types of parts availability
Performance
Manufacturer and model of the car
Price
Overall look
Parts mechanical fit

Can I Request OEM Parts?

Yes, you can request that. If you do not want the aftermarket part, you can always opt for the OEM part regardless of what your insurance is saying-all you may have to do is pay the difference.
In Ontario, some laws can help you with accidents repairs. These laws mandate insurance companies to help fix cars to their initial state before the accident. But, some companies can prove that it functions the same way with the OEM part, which may require you to pay extra to use the new OEM part.

Get Your Car Repaired The Right Way

If you want your car fixed carefully and perfectly, Mann Auto Collision Centre is your best go-to auto body shop.

We have several insurance companies that work within Ontario and can guarantee excellent service and high-quality repairs. You can trust us to choose the right parts your vehicle needs.

Give us a call today.

Driving & Safety

How to Safely Drive in Ontario During the Winter

Post author By mann_admin
Post date December 13, 2021

Category: Driving & Safety ?

Driving safely at any time of the year is always a necessity. It becomes even more demanding to take extra caution when winter draws near as the weather condition is often not predictable.

In Ontario, and neighbouring areas, the weather has proven unpredictable even for skilled meteorologists, which means every driver needs to prepare for the worse. What then should be put into place in cases like this?

We have highlighted a few tips to help every driver make informed decisions when driving during a storm or on a bad road. Also, general information on Canada driving conditions in winter has been carefully written for all to learn.

Ontario Driving Conditions During the Winter Months

The winter months in Canada are known to bring freezing rain and slippery roads with snowfall, resulting in a power outage that can last days. Many car crashes have been recorded in winter months, mostly because visibility is low and surfaces are slick. With the weather and road conditions being unpredictable in Canada, Ontario, drivers need to exercise more caution. Hence, this period is not one to be overlooked as every detail matters.

How To Prepare for Driving in Bad Weather

When the bad weather season approaches, there are certain things you need to consider as you prepare yourself for the storm. Why is that? Preparing yourself and your vehicle before moving out in the storm is highly important as it guarantees your safety.

However, you should stay clear of those icy roads during those winter months if you can. But if you have to go out for important reasons, take the bus so you won’t have to drive.

Yet, you can drive on rare occasions, and these are the things you need to make preparations for before leaving the house:

Check your car to be sure you don’t have any car warnings
Make sure you have sufficient gas for the journey.
Look at the head and taillights for faults and fix them.
Thoroughly clean the windows, mirrors and lights to enhance visibility.
Make sure your battery and fluids are in good condition.
Have an emergency kit handy which should contain basic needs such as food supply, flashlight, blanket and any other thing you would need.
Chain your tires before the snow comes in full force to protect them.
Take your well-charged phone along with you.
Confirm the weather condition before leaving to know what to expect.
Don’t forget to tell someone or as many people as you can find of your journey.

How to Adjust Your Driving for Safety in the Winter?

It is not advised to drive during the storm or on an icy road, but when you have to, you would need some extreme caution up your sleeves to navigate safely. Being careful cannot be overemphasized in this condition as there is always a great need to do so. Some of the proven tips you will find helpful when you drive on those slippery roads are listed below.

Driving should be done with great caution, which involves driving slowly.
Give more space between your car and the next one in front.
Don’t wait till you see a sign clearly before you brake; brake earlier.
Braking and turning immediately is dangerous, don’t do that.
Don’t stop listening to the weather forecast as you move to hear what places to avoid.
Consider the pedestrians and bicyclists carefully as you drive.
Learn from other cars on the roads to avoid what they did.
Another great tip is to utilize the interactive winter road maps available to those in Canada. Use the tools to drive through safe routes.

What do you do if your car skids or slides on ice?

When a car skid or slides, the first thought is to panic, but it always ends up bad if you take that path. Instead, even with the tips mentioned above, what you need to do is simple when accident happens. First, remove your foot holding the brake and also the gas. When you have done that, you will make the tires ready to move in the direction you have in mind, so look around for your best spot and steer the wheels. The secret is to be as calm as possible so you can use this tip well and get the best from it.

How To Drive Up a Hill on Icy Roads?

If you live in the hills, you will agree that the roads up there can be very icy to drive through in winter. So, the best bet for you is to park your call beneath the hills, so you won’t have to worry about driving it up and down. However, if you have to, you need to drive with a strategy. First, gather momentum as you move up and keep your foot off the gas until you reach the incline. If you put your foot on the gas at the middle of your ascension, it can cause the tires to spin and slide downwards, so avoid doing that.

You might want to try chaining your tires if the hills look insurmountable. It will be safer for you and your tires to do so.

Has Your Car Been Damaged in an Accident?

We’re Here To Help!

We must keep giving you tips on driving safely during winter and any other season, but if accidents occurs, we are here to help. If you need an auto collision repair shop that will give you the best, Mann Auto Collision Centre is a shop you can trust.

Mann Auto Collision Centre has been delivering excellent auto repair services In Ontario, Canada for 20 years, and we are still in business. If you have been involved in an accident, don’t let the stress get to you; instead, repairing it and moving it back on the road is an excellent way to make a difference. We help with the process and make it seamless and straightforward. Don’t worry; we will work with your insurance and do all the paperwork, so you won’t have to lift a finger!

Category: Driving & Safety

Always Ensure you Have Car Insurance.

Category: Driving & Safety ?

The Different Types of Car Accidents

What to Do Following an Accident?

Get Your Car Repaired After an Accident

Category: Driving & Safety ?

What Does OEM Mean?

What are Aftermarket Parts?

Pros and Cons of OEM Car Parts

Aftermarket Car Parts

How to Distinguish OEM Parts from Aftermarket?

OEM vs Aftermarket Parts for Collision Repair

Can I Request OEM Parts?

Get Your Car Repaired The Right Way

Category: Driving & Safety ?

Ontario Driving Conditions During the Winter Months

How To Prepare for Driving in Bad Weather

How to Adjust Your Driving for Safety in the Winter?

What do you do if your car skids or slides on ice?

How To Drive Up a Hill on Icy Roads?

Has Your Car Been Damaged in an Accident?

We’re Here To Help!

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