This page provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about vehicle repair and service. We've thrown in some of our favorite tips and recommendations, too. Please call us or consult our Contact Us page for answers to your specific questions. We are happy to assist you!

General

• Am I required to take my vehicle to the repair shop that my insurance company recommends?
  No. State laws protect your right to have your car repaired at the shop of your choice.
• How long will I be without my vehicle?
  We understand the frustration of being without your own car, so we work hard to get you back on the road in the shortest amount of time. We will do our best to minimize the length of time that your vehicle "is in the shop".
• What if I need a rental car?
  Our staff can assist you in arranging a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. Also, check with your insurance agent to see if your insurance policy covers any of the cost of the car rental fees.
• What if I am not satisfied with the repair or if there is a problem with the repairs that I notice later?
  Before you choose a collision shop, make sure that you fully understand their warranty/guarantee policy. Each shop is a little different but most offer some type of guarantee for their workmanship. They should provide this information in writing. If the problem is related to the accident, not the workmanship, then you would contact your insurance company.
• Why do different collision shop repair estimates seem so much higher or lower than the rest?
  Sometimes this can be caused by differences in the materials or labor rates, but often a quote that is much lower than the rest will have skipped or missed a portion of the repair process. If you have questions about a quote that you received from our collision shop or another auto body shop we can help you decipher it. Make sure you are 100% satisfied with the written estimate before you commit to any shop.
• What is a deductible?
  The deductible is the portion of repair costs that are paid by the vehicle owner before insurance company starts to pay. Your deductible is spelled out in your insurance policy. Selecting a higher or lower deductible affects the price of your insurance.
• Who determines whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used?
  You will have the choice of whether OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or aftermarket (parts made by a company other than the original manufacturer). However, depending upon your insurance policy provisions, you could be required to pay the difference out of pocket if you insist on OEM and your policy requires use of cheaper aftermarket parts. It is wise to know your coverage before a claim happens. Contact your insurance agent if you are unsure of your policy details.
• Are you able to match my vehicle's paint color?
  Each vehicle has a manufacturer's paint code that identifies the specific color applied in the factory. The code is printed on a label that is affixed to the vehicle and can be used by collision shops to determine the correct paint-mixing formula that should be used. Proper paint-matching requires precision and patience since there are often slight variations that happened in the original production or due to aging, weather exposure etc. A highly qualified paint-tech will take the time to make sure your paint is the closest possible match and not just a "good enough" match.

Choosing a Shop

• My car is a lease. Do I have to use the dealership for the repair work?
  Good news! You get to choose where you have your car repaired even if it’s a lease. You are not required to use the dealership’s services. When you choose us, you get the benefit of personalized service, excellent craftsmanship and a local business that stands behind their work.
• What should I look for when choosing a collision shop?
  Like any industry, the quality of auto body work can vary dramatically. Some things to start with are the the basics. Look for a clean, organized shop with friendly staff. Qualified, trained technicians with ASE and I-Car certifications are often an indication of a good auto body shop. Ask questions about the quality of paint and other parts/materials that will be used. Does the shop feel well-managed overall? The collision shop you choose should feel like a trusted partner in the process.