By: Devin Holcomb, Reporter
OMAHA, Neb. – Auto body shops are facing an increase in price for supplies. Where car parts are having an average inflation rate of 1.87% per year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the price inflation for motor vehicle parts and equipment rose from an inflation rate of 4.76% in 2021 to 11.73% this year, 2022. Making the cost of replacement parts more expensive. Automotive Technician Mike Holcomb explains what prices look like today.
“In 1970 you could buy a fender for a for a pickup truck for you know sixty to seventy bucks now they’re two to three hundred dollars. But back then we were you know, 25% markup. Now it’s five, 10% markup because of the dollar amount.” (Mike Holcomb, Automotive Technician)
Not only is the increase in prices of paints and parts affecting auto body shops, but tracking down the materials needed for repairs has made it difficult for some auto shops, as well.
Ironmanz Collision Repair Manager, Roy Haynes said; “some manufacturers, it’s hard to get parts. It could be two weeks; it could be three months. Four months. Just all depends on the manufacturer and what vehicles are affected.”
This means that any damage that your car needs will take longer to fix.
According to Haynes they service about 30 cars a month and majority of that is insurance related clients, and simple maintenance can make your car last longer.
One tip to prolong your car’s life is washing your car. This cleans away contaminants that can cause corrosion to the body that affects the structure of the car.
However, if your car was in an accident, you are better off seeing a professional to get it repaired.
