FEATURED COVER STORY
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Car-Aid By Juan Curiel
ar-Aid, something that started as a side job, is now a family-owned, full-time collision repair shop. My wife and I started taking side jobs after our regular 8-5 jobs. We wanted to help people and make some extra money. We started with just buffing cars and repairing headlights. After a short time, clients would recommend our work to a friend, and that friend would recommend to another. Soon, it was not just buffing but repairing and painting. We were fortunate and blessed to have plenty of work, so another helper came along and slowly our production started to get busier. We are very thankful to those who helped us along the way, since Car-Aid did not own a paint booth or even a roof to do these side jobs! We continued to work hard until there was not enough time in the afternoons. We then started the search for a building to open Car-Aid full-time. Even though we had some bumps on the way, we did not stop there. We came across a small building on Morris Street and slowly began to acquire the necessary material and tools. Finally, in September of 2019, Car-Aid opened its doors for business. We would work early mornings until late nights, non-stop. The following year, as we all know, became hard. In March
26 // June 2022
of 2020, many businesses had to close for quarantine, but thankfully we were able to keep our doors open and still provide help to the community as needed. When arriving at Car-Aid, our priority is our customers and the assurance of your safety. We strive to continue to make sure you feel comfortable and safe driving what once was wrecked. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by three of our estimators—Stephanie, Juan, and Evelin Curiel—who are ready to check your vehicle and listen to your concerns. Once the vehicle arrives at the shop, it is inspected in order to learn what damages were made. Then, that’s where each employee’s task comes into play. Everyone has an important role that helps the shop function and make production work smoothly. Tylor A., Oscar T., and Juan L. work in taking apart the vehicle and getting it ready for bodywork, where Todd takes over. He can fix pretty much anything. If the frame, electrical or suspension needs adjusting, Rusty is our guy. He also helps with anything around the shop. Once it is ready for paint, Chris, our Lead Painter, finds the exact color to match your vehicle. You will also find Hugo assisting in prepping the vehicle—they make a great team! Once the
