FAQs
AUTO BODY REPAIR & REFINISH SINCE 1942
WHERE DO I GET A CLAIM NUMBER?
Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, we will do the rest.
WHAT IS A DIRECT REPAIR SHOP?
A direct repair facility is a body shop that works directly with your insurance company as a preferred shop. Body shops earn the right to be in preferred shop programs by meeting certain requirements. These include having certified technicians, using the proper equipment, and most importantly, having a record of satisfied customers. When you use a preferred shop, the repair process is streamlined. A preferred shop actually writes the estimate, orders the parts, and repairs your vehicle without having to wait for an insurance adjuster. Insurance companies constantly monitor their preferred shops to ensure quality repairs.
ARE YOU OPEN ON SATURDAYS?
Yes, by appointment only. Please contact us to schedule your appointment.
WILL THE PARTS BE ORDERED BEFORE I DROP MY VEHICLE OFF FOR REPAIR?
Absolutely. We generally order your vehicle’s parts at the time that we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off a couple of days later unless your vehicle is found unsafe to drive, then we would help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.
IF MY VEHICLE'S FRAME IS DAMAGED, IS THE VEHICLE A TOTAL LOSS?
No. A vehicle is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company’s determined value of your vehicle. Nowadays, most vehicles are built using unibody (frame and body as one) construction. Our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of the-art computer measuring system, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can simply be replaced.
CAN YOU MATCH MY VEHICLE'S PAINT COLOR?
Today’s modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. We have made a major investment in the finest paint system available and constantly upgrades its technology and equipment to ensure that each vehicle’s paint matches. We take special pride in our ability to match factory finishes as the final step in the restoration process.
Can I get other work done on my vehicle while it is in the body shop?
Yes. Just let your advisor know what other work you would like done so that he or she can make the necessary arrangements.
How long will the repairs to my vehicle take?
Your advisor can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete the repairs to your vehicle. Be sure to check with your advisor for the specifics on your vehicle.
Can I get a ride home when I drop off my vehicle?
Yes, we would be happy to provide this service to you. We want each customer’s visit to be a positive experience and will work diligently towards that goal. We provide a pickup and delivery service.
How can I get a rental vehicle?
How will I know when my vehicle is done?
You will be notified by our repair facility when your vehicle has been completed and ready for pickup. We will also keep you updated as your vehicle goes through our repair steps.
Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?
Yes. We guarantee all repairs with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Do I have to pay a deductible?
The amount of deductible that you will be responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. If you carry broad collision, and you were not at fault, your insurance company most likely will waive your deductible. Insurance companies determine fault by your account of the accident when you make the claim, and by reviewing the accident report filed with the police department. If you aren’t sure about your deductible, you can call your agent and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.
Who do I pay a deductible to?
If your deductible is not waived, it will be your responsibility to pay us when you pick up your vehicle. If you aren’t sure about your deductible, you can call your agent and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether it will be your responsibility.
What forms of payment do you accept?
The easiest and most convenient way to pay for your portion of the repairs to your vehicle is to endorse your insurance claim check and submit it to the shop. Of course, cash and checks are always welcome. Credit cards may be used, however, there is a bank charge fee for any transaction over $1,000.
What are betterment charges?
Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use (i.e., tires, batteries, and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. These betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle.
Can I wash my vehicle?
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 30 DAYS
DO · Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge. · Always use clean fresh water. · Wash your vehicle in the shade
DON’T · Do not use a commercial car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface. · Do not “dry wipe” your vehicle. Dry wiping can scratch the finish. · Do not drive on gravel roads. Chipping the finish is easily done in the first 30 days. · Avoid parking under trees and utility lines which are likely to attract birds. Bird droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface. Also, tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface. · Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish. · Do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 90 DAYS
DON’T · Do not wax or polish the vehicle. This will allow the finish to dry and harden completely.