Here’s an easy way to remember where you should go if your car is having an issue:
If it’s out-of-the-ordinary or cosmetic, go to an auto body shop. If it’s normal wear and tear occurrence or internal, go to an auto repair shop.
For example, if you have hail damage, you’ll want to go to an auto body shop—it’s out-of-the-ordinary and cosmetic. On the other hand, if you’ve been driving your car normally for a while and it suddenly starts shaking, you should take it to a mechanic. That is considered normal wear and tear, and is internal.
There can be some exceptions to this, however. There are a few body shops that can perform engine work, even though most don’t. It’s always a good idea to call first to make sure the place you want to go to can do what you need.