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With many different body shops available for automotive repairs, it can be a little overwhelming to choose the right one. Unless you are a professional automotive body technician or work in the industry, it can be a daunting task when you need to have your vehicle repaired. Here are eight steps to help you make an informed decision of which body shop to visit. more Visit Our Body Shop Chat With an Expert Listen To Word-of-Mouth Image via Flickr by jrladia There are many advertising outlets such as radio, email, and television, but word-of-mouth advertising may be the most reliable of all. Some of the best body shops are the ones you don't see on billboards or hear about every time you watch TV. Body shops with an excellent local reputation are mostly advertised through word-of-mouth, which speaks volumes about their quality of work and customer satisfaction. Research the Body Shop When you find a body shop you are interested in, a little research can go a long way. Useful information about a body shop includes how many years it has been in business, any Better Business Bureau ratings, examples of its work, and references. You can also check on the body shop's certifications. Both general certifications and OEM-specific certifications are important indicators of the body shop's ability to help you restore your vehicle. When you take the time to look into these things, it can reveal a lot about a company and help you decide if you are willing to allow them to work on your car. Learn About the Body Shop's Overhead and Location Cost of labor may seem like a simple hourly rate charged for the work being completed, but it can be a sign of overpricing. Two factors influencing labor costs are the company's overhead and location. If a body shop has a front-office with extensive office workers, prices will be higher to cover those employees' salaries. Though some people are more confident in companies with receptionists, managers, and shop foremen, the costs associated with those positions may cause your bill to be higher than a body shop with less overhead. Location can also play a role in higher costs. Body shops in areas with a higher cost of living will charge more for services rendered than those in areas where the cost of living is lower. Taking these two factors into consideration when choosing a body shop may help you save money. Compare Estimates Don't settle for the first estimate you get, shop around and find the best quote. If a body shop offers to do the job for an insanely low price, you may want a few other opinions before accepting this as the right choice. Body shops will often price match to gain your business, and this can be a good sign, letting you know they are willing to negotiate to have you as their customer. Ask Necessary Questions A warranty should cover the bodywork on your car, and the body shop should explain the details of such coverages before rendering the repairs. Complete paint jobs are typically warrantied for three years, while the bodywork is usually covered for two years. A one-year warranty is typically the minimum for this type of work. To ensure you are getting the best possible deal, you will want to ask questions such as: Is there a written copy of the warranty? How long will the warranty last? What is the warranty covering? Is the body shop carrying fire and theft insurance? How long has the body shop been in business? Will they use new, used, or aftermarket parts? How many coats of paint and clear coat will be used? These questions will help you better understand how the body shop works and the quality of workmanship you can expect. They will also help relieve any concerns or worries you may have about entrusting your car's repairs to the shop's technicians. Asking questions is a crucial aspect of choosing the right body shop for you. Ask for Your Mechanic's Opinion Unless you work in the automotive or a related industry, you won't have common knowledge of which body shops are the best in your area. This is where someone like a trusted mechanic comes into play. Mechanics consistently deal with body shops and have enough experience with different shops to determine which ones are the best. Even when you get an outside opinion, don't drop your guard and use the previous list of questions to help you make a final decision. Pay Close Attention to Customer Service and Qualifications You will benefit from rating a body shop's customer service. If they are impolite, don't return calls in a timely fashion, and seem to have no concern for your needs, you may want to walk away. You will also want to determine if their technicians have experience by asking how long they have been in the business. First Impressions Ultimately, the decision of which body shop to use is yours. After doing your due diligence to research, visit, and ask questions, you can make an informed decision you are comfortable with. There are cases where you do all the legwork but still don't feel satisfied with a particular body shop. When you feel like this, it is best to go with your gut instincts and find another business where you can feel confident in their ability to perform the work. When visiting a body shop, take note of how busy they are. If there are only a few repairs taking place, it could be a sign of poor services resulting in less business. Don't hesitate to ask for examples of their work. Most body shops keep detailed records of repairs and photos to promote the quality of their services. First impressions can be a significant deciding factor to consider during your research. Contact Rydell Auto Body & Glass Dents, scratches, and cracks are not only unsightly but can reduce the value of your car. Besides, who wants to drive a vehicle with these types of damage? Your vehicle is an investment worth caring for, and when it is damaged, you should seek out the best body shop to restore your car to its former glory. Contact us at Rydell Auto Body & Glass for professional, certified body shop expertise.

UNPLUGGED - Virtual Concert Grand Forks musicians Lacey Schuler and Dave Berger will take over the entertainment stage at the Ralph Engelstad Arena this Giving Hearts Day. Join them by tuning in for this fun and uplifting 30-minute show. Consider giving to CVIC and provide hope, safety and healing to families. Gifts made during the performance will be matched by Rydell, up to $2,500. Schuler is well-known to UND hockey fans as the voice of the national anthem and Berger sings all your favorites as the lead vocalist and a maestro with the Downtown Horns. Don't miss them live and unplugged! UNPLUGGED EVENT Giving Hearts Day Giving Hearts Day is more than one day. It leads to a lifetime of Generosity. Individuals, businesses, and schools alike are called to share in the joy of giving. We encourage you to immerse yourself in the celebration, whether it be through your time, talents, or voice. With nearly 500 charities participating, there is an abundance of ways to help. We have the resources for you to maximize your efforts with the charity(ies) your heart chooses. Find your role in the wave of giving that is flooding the region. Give wholeheartedly this Giving Hearts Day. Giving Hearts Link

What do a rock, a tree branch, and a shopping cart have in common? They can ruin your car's exterior without the slightest provocation. Nearly every car owner has had one of these three things put an unsightly dent in their car's hood, fender, or door at some point. Worse yet, there are hundreds of other ways your car can be dented without ever being in an accident. Hail, a stray baseball, or even another car door can easily cause your car damage. Many people simply live with the dent, believing it too expensive or too much of a hassle to fix — but it doesn't have to be either. At the Rydell Body Shop, we have a skilled team of factory-trained professional technicians and body repair specialists ready to fix that pesky little dent. We've dealt with dents of all kinds and will have your vehicle looking like new in no time. Keep reading to learn just how easy and inexpensive it can be. more Schedule Dent Repair in Grand Forks Chat With an Expert What Is a Dent? Image via Flickr by shrff14 Let's start with the basics of what a dent actually is. It's an indentation on your car's exterior surface that was caused by something striking it with force. It could be caused by the tree branch or shopping cart mentioned above, or it could be something else entirely. Your car's exterior is either aluminum, steel, or some other alloy that is firm, but not so rigid that it breaks when hit by something. Instead, the metal gives way leaving the dreaded dent. Dents come in all shapes and sizes. Dents can be shallow and small, or they can be large and leave creases in the metal. The size of the dent is usually the biggest factor in determining the cost to repair it, though there are a few exceptions. Any significant damage to your car's paint will impact the cost as well. A shopping cart might strike your door panel and cause a dent. It might also hit at an odd angle and leave a scratch or crease running off the dent, which will make the damage more costly to repair. The quality and condition of your car's original paint is a factor as well. Older cars will often have paint that chips or cracks when the vehicle is dented, compounding the problem. Older cars may also be made of thicker metals that are less flexible and resist being reshaped. Traditional Dent Removal The traditional method to repair a dent would consist of pulling the dent with a tool that actually causes more damage to the metal panel. Even without any additional damage, the process doesn't leave a smooth surface to work with. Body fillers would be used to smooth out the imperfections still there. After that, a sanding of the entire panel, hood, or whatever part was affected is necessary. Then you must paint the entire part, first with a primer and then with a finish coat or two to achieve the proper color. Sometimes the part must be removed to paint; other times you would need to tape up the neighboring parts of the car. Either way, it's labor-intensive and costs money and time. Anticipate it taking anywhere from 2 days to a week or longer. Paintless Dent Removal Assuming there is no significant paint damage to your vehicle and all you need is to repair a dent, you should consider paintless dent removal. This is a less involved process than the traditional dent removal practices of years gone by. This is because today's vehicles are built with thinner gauge metals and polyurethane paints that are much more pliable. At Rydell Auto Group, our technicians use special tools designed to reshape the metal without harming the paint in the process. The job is done from the inside so there's no additional damage to your exterior. When the job is done, there is no sanding, painting, or body fillers. Your car is back to its original shape, and your paint is still intact. What Types of Dents Can Be Repaired With Paintless Dent Removal? As long as there are no signs of paint damage, the process can work on almost any size dent. Hail damage can usually be repaired this way, as can dents caused by road debris like rocks or gravel. Minor parking accidents and fender benders can effectively be repaired with paintless dent removal, as can a ding from another car door. There are a few types of dents that cannot be fixed with paintless dent removal. Any dent that involves cracked or missing paint can't be fixed entirely with this method. The dent may be removed, but fresh paint will be required to fully restore your vehicle. A double-walled metal panel can't be repaired this way either. Because this job is done from the inside, the interior wall will obstruct the process. Any sharp edges or creases that were created by the impact cannot be repaired with paintless dent removal, either. These creases and edges have compromised the metal so that it cannot be returned to its original smooth shape. The Cost to Repair a Dent As we said earlier, several factors come into play. Paintless dent removal is by far the least expensive way to repair a dent. It also takes less time and maintains the structural integrity of your vehicle's design better than alternative repair methods. You can expect a small dent to cost as little as $75 or as much as $500 depending on the size and location. At Rydell Auto Group, we have one of the largest body repair shops in the region. All of our technicians are factory-trained to work with all types of vehicles. Our shop is an ASE and I-Car Gold certified body shop. We are also an OEM certified body shop for Nissan, Acura, and Honda and are Ford and Cadillac Aluminum certified. Schedule Dent Repair at Our Grand Forks Body Shop You can schedule your repair online or call us at 701-792-2846 with any questions you might have about our process. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will answer any questions you might have regarding your repair. We can even work with your insurance company to help cover the claim.

Besides plenty of interesting tourist attractions, Grafton, North Dakota, also offers a wide array of sports and recreational activities throughout the year. If you enjoy playing hockey or figure skating, you can find many places to indulge in your favorite activity. Check out this list of indoor and outdoor ice-skating rinks in and around Grafton, courtesy of Rydell Cars. more Leistikow Park Image via Flickr by hernanpba Leistikow Park is one of the best options if you plan to go ice skating in winter with your family. This park features a relatively large outdoor rink that attracts skaters of all ages. The rink is only meant for recreational skating as it doesn't allow hockey pucks and sticks. If you're new to skating, you'll feel right at home at this place because it's a popular destination for inexperienced skaters and kids. When you feel like taking a break from the cold, you can rest in the warming house located next to the rink. Other than ice skating, Leistikow Park provides excellent opportunities for many other activities. You can take a stroll or go for an intense run on one of several walking trails, do snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the snow-covered trails, watch your children play at the playground, or spend a night or two at the campground. There are also a number of shelters where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Leistikow Park is located at the northwestern part of Grafton on West 5th Street. Its outdoor skating rink is open until 11 p.m. every day. Centennial Center If you're looking for a good place to play hockey in Grafton, head down to Centennial Center. Located on West 15th Street, this hockey arena is part of the Grafton High School campus, but it's open to the public. It's a clean and up-to-date facility with a fully equipped hockey rink. There's a spectator viewing area on one side and a concession stand that offers a variety of food and beverages. If you're going to Centennial Center alone or with a couple of friends, it's a good idea to join the pick-up hockey league, which holds games on a regular basis. On the other hand, if you have a large group of friends and want to organize your own games, you can rent the entire rink at a reasonable rate when it isn't in use. Besides hockey games, the arena also hosts figure skating lessons and practice sessions. Hill Avenue Outdoor Rink Image via Flickr by bortescristian Hill Avenue Outdoor Rink is probably the best outdoor hockey rink in Grafton because of its well-maintained surface and good amenities. It has a short brick wall along its perimeter to stop errant pucks, lights for evening games, and a warming house. Situated in Schumacher Park, this rink is open until 11 p.m. daily. In the evening, you'll find hockey players of all skill levels participating in pick-up games at Hill Avenue Outdoor Rink. As such, you'll have many opportunities to enjoy some friendly competition and improve your hockey skills. At times when there aren't hockey games going on, you can use the rink for recreational skating. Dylan Arena If you don't mind taking a short drive out of town, you may want to check out Dylan Arena in Drayton. This outdoor rink is a busy place during winter evenings and weekends, attracting a large number of figure skaters and hockey players. You can practice your skating moves or play impromptu hockey games until late at night. This facility has an ice resurfacer to keep its rink floor smooth and a well-insulated warming house to provide shelter from the elements. Dylan Arena is located in Schumacher Park on West Wallace Avenue in Drayton, which is about 15 miles northeast of Grafton. It's open to the public at all times. While you're at this outdoor rink, you should take the opportunity to enjoy the relaxing environment in Schumacher Park, which has a picnic area, shelters, a playground, a campground, and a veterans memorial. Town Square Ice Rink The Town Square in Grand Forks serves as the venue for a weekly farmers market and outdoor concerts in summer. However, during winter, it's transformed into a wonderful multi-purpose ice rink that draws skating enthusiasts from near and far. This rink features a flat and even surface, benches for changing into skates, skate helpers for beginners, lights for night-time skating, and an awesome snow fort designed by accomplished local artist Adam Kemp. It's sizable enough to accommodate more than 60 skaters and suitable for both skating and hockey. Located on Demers Avenue in downtown Grand Forks, which is about 40 miles southeast of Grafton, Town Square Ice Rink is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends. There's no admission fee, but you can contribute to the donation box near the rink. The great thing about skating at the Town Square Ice Rink is that you can conveniently visit the famous attractions and enjoy the great shopping and dining opportunities in the downtown area. ICON Sports Center If you want to ice skate or play hockey in a well-equipped, advanced facility, you should go to ICON Sports Center in Grand Forks, home of the Rydell Ice Sheet. This state-of-the-art arena is one of the leading venues for local, regional, national, and international skating competitions and hockey tournaments. It features two NHL-sized hockey rinks, hundreds of seats at each rink, a community room with a viewing deck, two training rooms, lower and upper concessions areas, and a pro shop. The facility is open to the public year-round and offers ice rentals when it isn't hosting any competition or special events. ICON Sports Center is situated on 47th Avenue in South Grand Forks. It's open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. Contact Rydell Cars So, that's the list of the best ice skating rinks around Grafton from the staff at Rydell Cars. If you know another great ice rink in the area that we didn't mention, feel free to contact us and let us know. We'll surely add it to our list.

Thief River Falls, Minnesota, is a great place to live or visit with your family because it offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities. If you're looking for a restaurant that caters to both adults and children, you're in luck because the area offers many wonderful options in this regard as well. Here are the top five family-friendly restaurants in Thief River Falls according to the staff at Rydell Cars. more 1. Las Ranitas Image via Unsplash by taisc aptures Las Ranitas isn't only a great place to enjoy authentic Mexican food, but it's also one of the most popular family restaurants in town. Its vibrant yet cozy decor, colorful tables and chairs, friendly service, and delicious food make it a hit with people of all ages. On the regular menu, you'll find an extensive selection of Mexican dishes, including nachos, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostados, enchiladas, and fajitas. If your children are picky eaters, you can choose something from the kids' menu, such as a cheeseburger, chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, or mini corn dogs. The restaurant also offers family-style meals that provide great value for money. It's a good idea to order the Super Sampler, which allows you to try a few dishes at the same time. Las Ranitas is located next to the parking lot of Walmart Supercenter on U.S. Route 59. It's open from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. from Monday to Saturday and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. 2. Black Cat Sports Bar & Grill Image via Unsplash by fifernando Although it's a sports bar, Black Cat Sports Bar & Grill is a favorite among local families. Established more than 40 years ago, it serves classic American food in a lively and neighborly environment that features interesting Arctic Cat snowmobile memorabilia, flat-screen televisions, and a pool table. This restaurant is best known for its mouthwatering, handcrafted burgers, which are made with top-quality ground beef. It's recommended that you try the signature Black Cat Burger, Ultimate Cheese Burger, Western Cat Burger, or the Crusty Burger. There's also a wide selection of salads, soups, sandwiches, and wraps for you to choose from. If you're here for dinner, order the famous Walleye Dinner because it's simply exquisite. This joint also has a kid's menu that includes familiar items such as hamburgers, chicken strips, and grilled cheese sandwiches, all of which are served with fries or chips and a drink. Situated on Highway 32 South, Black Cat Sports Bar & Grill is open from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. from Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. 3. China King If you're in the mood for Chinese food, head to China King. This restaurant has been the go-to restaurant for Chinese food lovers in Thief River Falls for a long time. It features a spacious and relaxing dining room that's ideal for a family meal and a warm and attentive staff that makes sure you have a satisfying experience. Depending on your preference, you can either order chow mein or fried rice for a simple meal, or try one of the chef's specialties, such as the Fong Wong Chicken, Subgum Wonton, or Happy Family. Combination specials such as Mongolian Beef and Pork Fried Rice, Beef and Broccoli and Sweet and Sour Shrimp, and Green Pepper Steak and Pork Foo Young are also available. Alternatively, you can opt for a special family dinner, which comes with two entrees, one egg roll, and a soup. The restaurant also offers sandwiches and burgers for kids who aren't fans of Chinese food. China King is located just a couple of blocks from the downtown shopping district on East 3rd Street. Its open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 4 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. 4. Sundance Dining Sundance Dining is a great option if you're looking for a restaurant that serves good old-fashioned American food. This restaurant may look simple from the outside, but it delivers a wonderful dining experience with its cozy ambiance, excellent service, and delectable food. It uses locally grown vegetables and the freshest hand-cut meats to ensure you'll have a top-quality meal. Additionally, some of its dishes are made with recipes that have been handed down through generations. This restaurant's menu comprises appetizers, salads, burgers, chicken dishes, steaks, seafood, and pastas. Some of the recommended items include Chicago-style filet mignon, charbroiled rib-eye, Cajun bleu burger, Greek chicken, the walleye basket, and Italian meatballs. There's also a nice selection of children's meals, including hamburgers, grilled cheese, chicken strips, and house-made macaroni with Monterrey Jack cheese. These meals come with either french fries, sweet potato fries, or waffle fries. Located in the Quality Inn on Highway 32, Sundance Dining serves dinner from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday. You can park your vehicle at the hotel's parking lot. 5. River Walk Public House Whether you're a Thief River Falls resident or visitor, you don't want to miss the chance to dine at the historic River Walk Public House. This restaurant has an inviting, rustic dining room and a relaxing patio that offers nice views of the beautiful L.B. Hartz Park. Eating at this place after spending a fun afternoon at the park makes for a great family day out. River Walk Public House mainly serves American food, but it also has a number of dishes from other parts of the world. If you prefer something familiar, consider ordering the River Walk burger, TR wrap, fish and chips, filet mignon, or bacon ranch chicken breast. On the other hand, if you're feeling a little adventurous, go for the jalapeno wontons, Oriental chicken salad, or chicken Kiev. There's also a good selection of kids' favorites, such as macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese, and chicken strips. Situated on Highway 32 South, River Walk Public House is open from 2 to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Contact Rydell Cars So, these are the best family-friendly restaurants in Thief River Falls according to Rydell Cars. If you know any hidden gems that you think should be included on our list, don't hesitate to contact us and let us know. We'll be happy to share it with our readers.

Road salt, sand, and other chemicals are necessary to keep us safe on icy winter roads, but they take a toll on your vehicle, causing rust and corrosion and dirtying carpet and upholstery. You can take measures to limit costly damage caused by road salt that will also increase safety and save you money long-term, preserving your vehicle investment. Wintertime washing has special challenges, including having a source of fresh water and making sure doors and windows don't freeze shut. You can find options out there for do-it-yourselfers as well as car wash and car detailing services that are equipped to handle winter conditions. Here's more on how to clean road salt off your car. more Visit a Rydell Car Wash Visit the Rydell Detail Center Chat With an Expert How Does Road Salt Damage a Vehicle? Image via Flickr by Hasan Basri AKIRMAK Steel, aluminum, plastic, rubber, vinyl, and carpeting can all be damaged by road salt, sand, and other chemicals used to keep the roads safe during winter. Salt causes both cosmetic and safety issues. It speeds up the rusting process and can cause visible damage to doors and body panels as well as invisible damage to components like suspension and braking systems. Brake and fuel lines are especially susceptible to rusting out, resulting in hydraulic system failure and leaking fuel. Salt lowers the freezing point of water and requires some water to activate it, which is why trucks pre-treat roads with a mix of salt and water called brine. Water and salt also create a chemical reaction that accelerates the rusting process on metal. It's best to keep salt on the roads and off your car. You can take measures to limit salt damage by waxing your vehicle and installing all-season floor mats. Waxing the entire vehicle's surface protects it from corrosion and staining, helping prevent salt from permeating surfaces. This is best done before the wintry weather hits, but it can be done at any time. When driving in winter weather conditions, avoid puddles and driving behind plows, both of which are sources for increased salt exposure. How Do You Remove Road Salt? Road salt and other contaminants need to be removed from the exterior, interior, and undercarriage of your vehicle. Salt can adversely affect cosmetics and the safety of your vehicle, not to mention its resale value. Here are some tips to help you limit these negative effects. Exterior Spray water all over your vehicle, making sure to clean the grille, wheels, wheel wells, and other spaces salt can accumulate. Once everything is sprayed, use soap and a sponge to scrub away the film of road salt, harsh chemicals, and dirt. Winter washing requires extra scrubbing. Spray down the car again with fresh water and dry, being mindful of water in windows and doors that could freeze them shut. Spot clean any remaining stains with a little bit of soap and water. Interior Carpet, upholstery, and floor mats can get caked with salt. Remove and shake out the floor mats, and tackle the floor debris with a vacuum cleaner. Clean remaining debris with a spray bottle filled with half warm water and half distilled white vinegar. Being careful not to get electrical connections wet, spray the solution on stained areas and soak up with a clean, dry towel. Make sure the surfaces are able to air dry thoroughly. Undercarriage The undercarriage should be cleaned once every 10 days during the winter months to prevent buildup and corrosion. Spray water directly under the vehicle to clear salt and other debris from hard-to-see areas. Undercarriage components that are at risk from salt include the exhaust, coil springs, subframe, fuel lines, and brake system. Even though the undercarriage isn't seen, damage to your vehicle's unprotected underside can cause safety and performance issues. Undercarriages may be treated with a specialty oil solution or salt neutralizer for an added layer of protection. How Often Should You Wash Your Car in the Winter? During the winter, it's best to wash your car's body and undercarriage every 10 days. Frequent washes remove the accumulation of salt, chemicals, and dirt, halting the damage. Before winter, it's recommended to wax the paint, treat the undercarriage, and have a mechanical inspection done. Once winter is over, a thorough cleaning and detailing should be done to remove any salt accumulation outside and inside your vehicle. How Much Does Salt Removal Cost? Salt removal costs vary from minimal for home and basic car washes to a couple of hundred dollars for top detailing services. Car washes that tackle the undercarriage are between $10 and $20. For a variety of car wash options, stop at one of the two Rydell Car Wash locations in Grand Forks, where they offer three car wash levels and unlimited monthly passes. For winter, the two options that feature a special underbody rinse are recommended to ensure that salt is properly removed. The state-of-the-art equipment at Rydell features heated air dry, body sealant, spot-free rinse, and a tire/wheel cleaner. The underbody rinse and hot wax options provide the extra winter protection your vehicle needs. Exterior and interior detailing at Rydell ensures your vehicle is clean from top to bottom. Detailing improves appearance, resale value, and extends vehicle life. Rydell's options include express detail with a car wash, complete interior detail, and complete exterior detail. Detailing service options include removal of surface contamination, polishing, waxing, and carpet shampoo. Having your car detailed is a good way to bring back its shine and remove salt remnants inside and out, especially at the end of winter. Road salt, sand, and chemicals shouldn't be ignored. They cause cosmetic damage and safety issues. Be sure to wash the salt off your vehicle frequently, ideally, every 10 days, making sure to clean the undercarriage to protect vital suspension and braking components. While this can be done at home, weather conditions and the difficulty of thoroughly reaching the nooks and crannies of the undercarriage can make it challenging. That's why it's best to go to a good carwash. Wash Road Salt, Sand, and Chemicals Off Your Car in Grand Forks In the fall, detailing can provide a protective coating of wax for the winter ahead. At the end of the winter, a good detailing can remove any salt remnants and provide a new protective coat of wax. Whatever the season, Rydell offers services to protect your investment and keep you and your family safe. Contact us today!

If you've recently had the misfortune of being in an auto accident, your insurance company has probably directed you to a repair shop they've certified to make repairs. The problem is, insurance companies find the least expensive way to meet their repair obligations. This will often come at the expense of quality, OEM parts, and repairs. In contrast, the auto industry has been under increased pressure to meet higher standards for quality and safety, and this includes repairs. The intended result is to provide more OEM-certified repair facilities but the fact is, few body shops meet the strict standards required. At Rydell Auto Body and Glass in Grand Forks, North Dakota, we pride ourselves on being certified by a long list of OEMs, making us the only OEM-certified body shop in the city. more Visit Our Body Shop Chat With an Expert What Are OEM-Certified Parts and Repairs? Image via Flickr by Nick Ares OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. Auto manufacturers are held to strict quality standards when building their vehicles. So when you purchase an OEM part you can be confident that it is the same part, made by the same company, that was installed in your car the day it rolled off the assembly line. The benefit of OEM parts is you get an exact replacement part for your car. It is guaranteed to fit properly, work to the exact specifications, and will come with the factory warranty. You can rely upon the quality craftsmanship and performance of OEM parts. The same holds for OEM-Certified repairs. Like the parts coming from the original manufacturer, repairs are done to the manufacturer's specifications and with only OEM parts. What Are Aftermarket Parts and Non-Certified Repairs? An aftermarket part would be any part made by a company other than the original manufacturer. They can be body parts, mechanical parts, interior and exterior furnishings, fitting, trims, high-performance parts, and specialty accessories. When looking at an aftermarket part you might not notice any difference in size or shape. You will see a generic label versus an OEM label, but otherwise, they often look identical leading many to believe they are the same. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case. Because aftermarket parts manufacturers aren't held to the same quality standards of production they can be, and often are, different. An aftermarket part only has to fit or work, but not to the exact specifications set by the original manufacturer. This fundamental difference usually results in parts made with less expensive materials. What results is a shorter working life of the part leading to premature failure leaving you broken down or in some cases causing an accident. Another common occurrence with aftermarket parts is a poor fit. One reason for this is the part might be replacing multiple brands, not the lone OEM brand it was made for originally. So you might get a part that is slightly longer or wider than it's original but functions the same. So it works but doesn't properly fit. The poor fit might make it difficult to install in tight places, or a mounting bracket hole is slightly off, or it might not fit at all. OEM-Certified Repairs are the same as the parts. OEM-Certified means the technician has been factory-trained and that all the parts used will be OEM parts. If your body shop isn't OEM-Certified you run the risk of getting someone working on your vehicle without the proper training and getting substandard parts. The insurance companies save money with aftermarket and non-certified repairs. If it doesn't fit properly, work right, or last as long who is the one who suffers? What's more is if you ask, most mechanics and body shop technicians will tell you OEM is the way to go. Rydell Auto Group Is OEM-Certified At Rydell Auto Group we take pride in using only factory-certified OEM parts and factory-trained technicians to perform all your body shop repairs, from fixing bumpers to removing dents. We know the parts will fit, work, and are backed by factory warranty which means we know you'll be happier. I-Car Gold Class Certification Rydell Auto Group is an I-Car Gold Class Certified body shop. This prestigious designation is achieved only through constant training of our team, from managers to technicians. By continuing to educate our staff we stay up-to-date on all the latest OEM repair techniques and quality products from the manufacturers. Nissan Collision Repair Network Certification We've also received certifications like Nissan's Collision Repair Network Certification. Our technicians have all received factory training and because our body shop is in the same facility as our dealership, we can confirm the parts are OEM and get them faster than other shops if they need to be ordered. ProFirst Certified Collision Repair Facility Honda has certified our body shop as a ProFirst Certified Collision Repair Facility. All of our technicians have received Honda-specific training, use the proper tools, and maintain high customer satisfaction marks to receive this certification. GM Certified Service Provider As a GM Certified Service provider, we have all the factory training, specialty tools, and OEM parts necessary to repair your GM vehicle. Cadillac Aluminum and Ford Aluminum Certified Body shop We are a Cadillac Aluminum Repair Network facility and a Ford Aluminum Certified body shop too. Repairing aluminum requires unique training, tools, and techniques, and our certifications mean we've met these strict requirements from the manufacturers. Independent Verification Rydell Auto Group is proud to say we've received independent verification of our body shop and service department from two separate, nationally-recognized organizations. VeriFacts is an independent company that performs random inspections of our overall quality, training, skills, and techniques. We are also Assured Performance Network Certified which is another independent organization grading our skills, techniques, and quality. Insist on Quality OEM-Certified Repairs Your insurance company may send you to one of their "certified" body shops, but if the shop isn't "OEM-Certified" you should insist upon using one. At Rydell Auto Group we are OEM-Certified in multiple brands so you can be confident your vehicle will be repaired right the first time. Schedule Certified Auto Body Repair in Grand Forks Feel free to contact us online or call us at 701-792-2846 to schedule certified auto body repair. Or, if you prefer, you can come visit our body shop in person and receive an estimate immediately on any repairs you might need. Our friendly professional staff has experience working with many insurance companies and can help you navigate the process. Our goal is your 100% satisfaction and our OEM-Certified facility is ready to do just that.

When you invest in a vehicle, the last thing you want to worry about is getting in a collision that leaves a sizable dent in the exterior. However, it's something that can happen any time and without much warning – especially with icy roads during the North Dakota winters. Knowing your options can help you determine how to move forward with the dent repair. One cost-effective option is paintless dent repair, which can eliminate the damage to the vehicle. We perform paintless dent repair at our auto body repair shop in Grand Forks. Learn more about paintless dent repair, and then schedule your dentless repair appointment at our North Dakota body shop. more The Process of Paintless Dent Repair Image via Flickr by donielle Paintless dent repair is an effective method for dealing with minor dents, scratches, and dings in your vehicle's exterior. It begins with an analysis of the damaged area, during which a certified auto body technician can make sure the dent qualifies for this type of repair. From there, the process involves dealing with the damage from the inside of the car. The technician working on your vehicle will remove the panel that sits behind the damaged area, providing access to the posterior side of the dent. After getting access to the impacted area, the technician will apply slow, continuous pressure to the posterior side of the damage. This process must be done slowly to avoid overcorrecting, or pushing the dented area out too far, leaving a protrusion. Technicians who offer paintless dent repair also understand the importance of applying continuous pressure to both sides, which helps work the dent out and leaves the affected area of your vehicle looking as good as new. Because this type of dent repair is less intrusive than other methods, it can be done quickly and efficiently, helping you get back on the road sooner. Traditional repairs often require technicians to order factory-approved automotive parts and paint that matches the exterior color of your vehicle, but paintless dent repair doesn't require special components or paint. In many cases, the job can be completed in one day or less. Paintless Dent Repair vs. Traditional Dent Repair The process of repairing a dent involves filling in damaged sections with body filler or paint and then repainting the entire area to match the rest of the vehicle's exterior. If the damage is extensive enough, you might have to replace entire panels and parts, which becomes expensive and time-consuming. Filling in the dents might resolve the issue from an aesthetic perspective but isn't a long-term or sustainable solution. The impacted area might be more susceptible to further damage if you get involved in a collision. What Qualifies for Paintless Dent Repair When determining whether your vehicle's damage qualifies for dentless paint repair, the first thing to look at is whether the exterior paint job has been damaged. Cracks or chips in the paint require more extensive repairs. Plus, this type of damage can worsen if you don't have it repaired right away, as it can leave the metal frame or components exposed, putting them at risk of rusting or corrosion. However, many dents don't impact the paint and can be repaired via the paintless repair process. A number of situations can leave your vehicle looking worse for the wear. You might come back to your vehicle in a parking lot, only to find that a rogue shopping cart has crashed into the side of the car or that a careless driver has bumped their door into yours. Even a hailstorm can lead to damage to the exterior of a vehicle that might qualify for paintless dent repair. Paintless Dent Repair Limitations As mentioned, paintless dent repair only works on damage that hasn't caused significant cracks or chips in the paint job. It is also best suited for smaller dents. Many technicians will only provide this service on automotive damage that is no larger than the size of a balled fist and no deeper than half an inch. The reason for the size limit is that the process of working the panel out from the inside and outside of the car can cause damage to the metal if the dent is too large. You could end up with stretched metal components that cause more extensive and costly damage. Advantages of Paintless Dent Repair One of the key benefits of paintless dent repair is the cost advantage. Traditional dent repair could cost several thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the damage and the type of vehicle you drive. An upscale or imported vehicle could garner an even higher repair bill at the auto body shop. Paintless dent repair, on the other hand, often costs an average of several hundred dollars. The cost savings could be substantial if your vehicle qualifies for this repair option. The time it takes to perform the repair is another advantage. Leaving your vehicle in the shop for days can be frustrating, especially as you try to juggle other responsibilities that require getting from one place to another. For a small dent, the paintless dent repair process might take only a few hours, similar to having new tires put on your car. You'll be in and out quickly, allowing you to continue with your obligations from the comfort of your own vehicle. Does Insurance Cover Paintless Dent Repair? Your automotive insurance policy might cover paintless dent repair, although you may want to compare the out-of-pocket cost of the repair to the potentially increased premiums you might face by having your policy cover this cost. Because paintless dent repair is cheaper than traditional body repair work, it might benefit you financially to pay for it yourself, avoiding the jump in insurance premiums that can come when you file a repair claim. Schedule Paintless Dent Repair in Grand Forks If you're interested in finding out whether your vehicle's damage qualifies for paintless dent repair, bring it to Rydell Auto Group. We have multiple locations to serve you, each of which is staffed with experienced, professional automotive technicians. During your vehicle's stay at our auto body repair shop, we'll treat it with care and help get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Contact us online or call us at 701-792-2846 to learn more or to request an estimate for paintless dent repair.

When you think about Grand Forks, North Dakota, images of prairie landscapes likely come to mind. But Grand Forks also has a dynamic cultural side with a thriving local music scene, performing arts community, and talented creative professionals. Grand Forks, home of Rydell Cars, invites residents and visitors to explore its cultural offerings throughout the year. more Performing Arts The performing arts in Grand Forks showcase the best of classical and contemporary instrumental and vocal music and dance. Learn more about the community's performing artists and the ensembles that engage with their audiences. North Dakota Ballet Company Image via Unsplash by davidhofmann Since 1962, the North Dakota Ballet Company has served as the premier nonprofit dance organization promoting classical ballet and other dance styles in Grand Forks and the surrounding areas. Its programming focuses on training children and adults by exposing them to the artistry of movement, musicality, and dance. Through its Academy Dance Classes, North Dakota Ballet Company offers children ages 7 to 18 opportunities to learn various performance styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and pointe. The Youth Ballet Company gives children a foundational education in ballet with an emphasis on technical performance and training. Dancers participate in three annual performances: holiday ballet, Spring Story Book Ballet, and the Academy Concert. Adult dance programming delivers a dynamic mix of dance class options. For example, the Elite Dance Crew is Grand Forks' hip-hop performance troupe, and its dancers perform at various events in the region. Those seeking to advance their dancing skills can participate in the pre-professional division. This division is open to adults ages 18 and older. Grand Cities Children's Choir Grand Cities Children's Choir offers a performance-based music education program to students in the third through ninth grades. Created in 2002, the choir allows students from the Grand Forks and East Grand Forks areas to develop their vocal mastery as they learn and perform music from various styles and historical periods. The choir welcomes the participation of children from all ethnic, social, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Four ensembles make up the Grand Cities Children's Choir. Children who participate in the respective choirs that comprise the organization are grouped based on age and musical development. Additionally, high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors contribute to the children's choir by providing mentorship and support to younger students. Community performances are held in September and April of each academic year and occur at various locations in the Grand Forks area. Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra For more than a century, the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra has performed scores of classical and modern symphonic works. Under the leadership of renowned musician and musical director Alejandro Drago, the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra delivers musical excellence on stage with every performance. Local and regional musicians contribute their talents to the orchestra's body of professionals. The symphony orchestra performs main-stage concerts at the Grand Forks Masonic Temple and the Empire Arts Center, located in downtown Grand Forks. A fall 2020 concert highlighting Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 and Tchaikovsky's "Serenade for Strings" featured acclaimed pianist Dr. Nariaki Sugiura. The symphony orchestra aims to connect its personnel with the community by reaching out with its Random Acts of Music initiative that delivers one-of-a-kind performances and programs to Grand Forks residents. Visual Arts Image via Unsplash by steve_j When you explore the art galleries and museums of Grand Forks, you'll discover extraordinary works that enrich the community through paintings, sculpture, and other artistic creations. Browning Arts When you enter Browning Arts at 23 S. Fourth St. in downtown Grand Forks, you'll find an exhibition of fine works of arts from more than 50 area artists. Browning Arts offers an enriching experience with art in diverse forms, from ceramics and computer art to jewelry, painting, and sculpture. Discover antique and vintage maps, Native American art and jewelry, antique and vintage telephones, and fiber arts. If you have a valuable piece of art that you'd like to have framed or reframed, the knowledgeable staff can assist you in the process. Whether it's needle art, a painting, historic documents, a family heirloom, or a print, you can rely on the wealth of experience from Browning Arts to help you preserve your art treasures. Hughes Fine Arts Center Located on the University of North Dakota's campus, the Hughes Fine Arts Center is home to the art and design and music departments. The center houses the American Indian Leaders of Distinction exhibit in the Anna Mae Hughes Gallery. Painted in the early 1980s, the mural inside the center has inspired art and design students for generations. The Hughes Fine Arts Center hosts periodic shows that feature graduate students' work and the talents of master artists. Visit the art and design department's website for more information. North Dakota Museum of Art Exhibiting contemporary, international art in all media, the North Dakota Museum of Art preserves the Northern Great Plains region's visual history. Located on the University of North Dakota's campus, the museum's collection reflects cultural diversity. Contemporary Western art from 1989 to the present is exhibited with works from the Northern Plains' early residents. You can also explore art from ancient Egypt, Africa, and the Southern Hemisphere. Artists such as Nicolas Guagnini, Ana Tiscornia, Sara Maneiro, and Juan Manuel Echavarria have contributed works to exhibitions the museum later purchased to add to its ever-growing collection. In 2013, the museum opened Barton's Place, a 21st-Century Artist's Studio, housing the late New York City artist and collector Barton Benes' collections of African, Egyptian, and Amazonian art as well as taxidermy, mystical objects, and 20th-century religious art. A collaboration between the museum and Spirit Lake's Cankdeska Cikana Community College has permitted the museum to fund commissions and art purchases by and from American Indian artists to create a collection of Native American art. The North Dakota Museum of Art is open to visitors each day. Although the museum does not charge an admission fee, the suggested donation is $5 for adults and loose change from young visitors. Did We Miss Something? Let Us Know Rydell Cars is pleased to share this summary of the institutions that support the Grand Forks community's vibrant cultural life. Are you aware of more cultural organizations that call Grand Forks home? Contact us and let us know so that we can add them to our list.

IMPACT Academy In 2019 Officer Jay Farmer and Cpl. Jessica Thorlacius created a summer program for Middle School students called the GFPD IMPACT Academy. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Partnership, Accountability, Community and Tenacity. Our goal is to help create leaders and role models in our community. We want our kids to build skills that help them to mature into successful adults. We plan to do this by helping our students to be active, contributing members of our community. By seeing the impact that they can make, in a positive way, it will help them be more responsible with their decisions. We keep busy with a variety of different activities throughout the summer, including bike riding, swimming, volunteering, gardening, safety lessons, and a concluding trip to the Character Challenge Course in Park Rapids, MN. The Grand Forks Park District generously provided free passes to Choice Health and Fitness, as well as the outdoor pools. They allow us to use the Blue Line Club Arena as our “Home Base” for the summer, which is where we start and end each day. Cities Area Transit also generously provides each student with a bus pass, which they use all summer. We spend a lot of time on bicycles, and have some that can be borrowed, if your child doesn’t have access to one. Safe Kids also be provides each student with a free helmet, and we conduct some initial safety lessons with all students at the program. We eat our lunches in the park each day, which are provided for free by St. Joseph’s Social Care. As a way to give back, students help to prepare and serve those lunches as well. We take a trip to the Character Challenge Course in Park Rapids, MN, which is paid for by the Fraternal Order of Police. Our Academy wouldn’t look complete without matching shirts, which are provided by Gemini Custom Brands. Our program was canceled in 2020, due to COVID-19. This has given us an opportunity to focus on making 2021 an amazing summer! We have also been selected as the recipients of the 2021 Rydell Car and Bike Show funds, which will help us to make sure the IMPACT Academy is better than ever! If you have a Middle School student that would be interested in participating in the IMPACT Academy, please have them speak with their School Resource Officer (SRO). You can also reach Officer Farmer and Cpl. Thorlacius by phone or email. Officer Jay Farmer jfarmer@grandforksgov.com 701-215-4413 Cpl. Jessica Thorlacius jthorlacius@grandforksgov.com 701-740-8079 Learn More: Grand Forks Impact Academy The Grand Forks Impact Academy - Moving Forward Rydell Cars is pleased to announce that Grand Forks Police Department IMPACT Academy will be this year’s recipient of the 15 th Annual Rydell Car and Bike Show Charity Event.  The Rydell Annual Charity Benefit Car & Bike Show is a time for the Rydell "family" to give back to the community they are proud to be part of. Each year, the Rydell employees vote on a local charity that will be the beneficiary of the charity event. 100% of all money donated at the show goes to the chosen charity including a Rydell company match of up to $40,000. No money is taken out to cover the expenses of the show. Since 2007 the Rydell Car and Bike Show Charity Event has raised $835,426.67 for local organizations. Update: For the health and safety of our team members, our customers and our community, we have decided to postpone the Rydell 15th Annual Benefit Car and Bike Show. We look forward to seeing you at our show next year on September 19, 2021. Subsequently, all vehicle registrations will automatically be applied and transferred to next year’s event dates. The Grand Forks Police Impact Academy will be next years benefactor. Thank you.

To all of our guests, team members, and friends We take the safety of our guests and employees very seriously and we want you to know that each of our Rydell locations are places you can visit, with the peace of mind of knowing that we have taken every effort to ensure you are in a sanitary and safe environment. We cannot stress enough that we are very committed to making sure we do our part to help keep our guests, team members and communities safe during these uncertain times. Rydell Auto Body & Glass Updates Rydell Digital Curbside Estimate Program All of us here at Rydell would like you all to know that we are here to help with your auto body repair, while minimizing your exposure. We would like to introduce everyone to the new Rydell Digital Curbside Estimate Program. Here is how the Rydell Digital Curbside Estimate Program Works: Contact us through phone, online form, or Facebook messenger. Our experienced estimators will then be able to walk you through what pictures they will need you to send them and ask a few questions about the damage and gather insurance information. If, for some reason, we need you to bring your vehicle in for further pictures or inspection, we will have you stay in the comfort and safety of your vehicle, and we will come out to you. Upon completion of the estimate, you can set up an appointment to have your vehicle fixed. On the day of your appointment our team can pick up your vehicle from either your work or home and upon completion of repairs, deliver it back to you. For any questions on our digital curbside estimating process, please reach out to us at 701-792-2846 or visit online at rydellcars.com. Rydell Service Updates Updated Service Hours All of us here at Rydell want to make sure we are providing the best service that we can to everyone in our community. We are currently requesting that the drop off hours of 7am-8am in our service department be reserved for seniors, those with a compromised immune system, or anyone that may otherwise be at a higher risk for COVID-19. Additionally, we will be temporarily changing our service department hours of operation. Until further notice our service department will close at 8pm. We will also continue to offer our afterhours drop off. Rydell Service Delivers If you live in the Greater Grand Forks Area and you need vehicle repair work completed, but do not want to come in, then let Rydell Delivers help you. We will pick up your vehicle from your home or work and then deliver it back to you once work has been completed. Pick Up and Drop Off Hours will be Monday through Friday from 9am to 11am & 4pm to 6pm At Rydell we want all of our guests to feel safe and comfortable during this time, so let Rydell Delivers help you. For any questions on our updated service hours or Rydell Delivers, please reach out to us at 701-772-7211 or visit online at rydellcars.com. Rydell Quick Lane – You Can Now Stay In Your Vehicle We understand that during this time many people are wanting to limit their exposure to others. For this reason, we will be offering an optional modified oil change in our quick lane. Currently, you will no longer have to get out of your vehicle for an oil change at Rydell if you do not want to. This modified oil change will not include some of the normal services that we include in all of our oil changes. We will not be able to check your cabin air filter or vacuum your vehicle, and for the safety of our staff we will not be checking brakes or rotating tires. All of us at Rydell want to continue to offer first class service to all of our guest, and that includes making sure they feel comfortable and safe. Please let us know how we can continue to serve our community during this time. Rydell Delivers For those in the market for a new vehicle, you can now shop online at RydellCars.com and take advantage of our Rydell Delivers Program. With Rydell Delivers we can come right to you. First, contact us however is most convenient to you, whether it be by phone, email, website form submission, text message, or Facebook messenger. Let us know which vehicle you are interested in; or let our expert staff help you find the perfect vehicle that fits your budget and lifestyle needs. We can provide you with photos and a video walk around of any vehicles you are interested in. Then, let us know if you are planning on trading in your current vehicle; if so, we will then step you through our simple remote trade evaluation process. We will then discuss different payment and financing options that best fit your budget. At this point, if you would like to test drive the car or truck, we will schedule a time that is most convenient for you, to bring the vehicle out to you to test drive. We will bring all necessary paperwork with us at the time of the remote test drive, this way you do not have to come into the dealership if you do decide to purchase the vehicle. For any questions on our updated service hours or Rydell Delivers, please reach out to us at 701-772-7211 or visit online at rydellcars.com. Updated Sales Hours Starting on March 24th our sales floor hours will be adjusted at all three of our locations. Our new hours will be: Monday  - Thursday: 9am-8pm Friday:  9am-7pm Saturday: 8am-5pm Our Customer Care Sales Department will still be available to answer any questions through email, phone, text, or Facebook Messenger. They will be available: Monday - Friday: 8am-8pm Saturday: 8am-5pm Please let us know how we can continue to best serve our community during this time. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us at 701-772-7211. 2700 South Washington St. Grand Forks, ND 58201 | 701-772-7211

To all of our guests, team members and friends: Like many of you reading this, we have spent the last several days and weeks learning more about the coronavirus (a.k.a. COVID-19) and how it is impacting humanity. We want to reassure you that nothing is more important than the health, safety and well-being of our guests, our team members and our communities. We are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with state and local government and health officials to continue to assess the situation. Rydell is also monitoring Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidance for responding to Coronavirus. The evolving nature of this event requires us to be flexible in how we respond and provide service to you, our guests. Here are some of the ways we are taking action: Additional hand sanitization stations have been added in high trafficked locations Increased frequency of disinfection and cleaning of public restrooms and high-touch indoor areas, such as bathrooms, door handles, tables, food and beverage areas, cashier counters, communal computer workstations and guest lounges Employees who appear symptomatic have been asked to stay home We take the safety of our guests and employees very seriously and we want you to know that each of our Rydell locations are places you can visit, with the peace of mind of knowing that we have taken every effort to ensure you are in a sanitary and safe environment. We cannot stress enough that we are very committed to making sure we do our part to help keep our guests, team members and communities safe during these uncertain times. We also understand that some of you may not be able to come into our facilities at this time. In that case, we do have another option in which to help serve you. Our Rydell Delivers Program will allow you to conduct research, test drive and even purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle from the comfort of your own home or place of work. We want to make it as simple as possible to shop for or service your current or future vehicle(s). Thank you for taking the time to read this important message. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us at (701) 772-7211. Thank you, Your friends at Rydell.