Body language

Since the shop, operated by Gary Webster Sr. and his son Gary Webster Jr., opened in 1961, it has built a solid reputation as the place to have dings, bumps, dents and other minor body work done.

“I would say that 95 percent of our business is from word-of-mouth and repeat customers,” said Webster Jr. “Sometimes we?ll have people go to another place for work and then tell us ?I won?t do that again.?”

The reason, said Webster Jr., is the quality provided at Gary?s Body Shop. Attention to detail, down to the nuts, bolts and clips, has made the Websters? names.

“We are real sticklers for that,” said Webster Jr. “We also make sure cars are clean before they leave us.”

Webster Jr., who joined the business in 1984, offered these words of advice for those who are considering having body work done on their cars:

Q What is the best way for people to choose a body shop?

A Word of mouth. Find out who others recommended and learn about their past experiences. That?s the best way to find out about reputation.

Q Is it important that the people doing the work have special certifications?

A You can send people to school and they come back with certificates and don?t know anything. I?d say reputation is more important. Also, making sure that the shop is insured.

Q Is it really important to get minor dings and bumps fixed right away?

A It?s important if it has a jagged edge or is deep enough that can lead to rusting and corrosion. Rust will only continue to spread, and that will affect resale [values].

Q What are the biggest misconceptions people have when they get body work done?

A The amount of time it will take and the amount of money it will cost. We get people who can?t understand why work can?t be done in one day instead of five or seven. You have to consider different aspects of a body shop and the quality you will get. It?s like choosing a restaurant ? you can choose to eat at McDonald?s, or you can choose a fine restaurant.

Gary?s body shop

17025 York Road, Parkton

410-329-6410