
Collision FAQs
Because the repair process is very different from other automotive processes, we want to help you develop understanding of the various checkpoints through which each vehicle must pass before completing the cycle. Learn more about the repair process here
During your initial consultation, an estimator will provide you with an estimate of when we expect to have the vehicle ready for you. If you've reviewed our repair process, you can see that restoring a vehicle to like-new condition is complicated. So, while it may take some time to complete, what's more important in the end is that your vehicle is as close its original state as possible.
Sometimes, yes. Depending on the availability of the parts, the extent of the damage and the length of your insurance company's estimation process, the time it takes to repair the body damage to most vehicles can be significantly longer than that of a service repair. Make sure to speak with your estimator if you have any questions and, of course, your estimator will keep in touch with you regarding any new developments during the repair process.
Your car will drive the same, feel the same and look the same as it did prior to the body damage.
If the part you need exists anywhere we will find it. We have the ability to contact any retailer in the country to help locate a part. In some instances, however, a part is either rare, or not currently in production. In this case, an order will be placed with the factory to reinitiate production. Occasionally, but not often, this may take longer than expected.
We provide a lifetime warranty on paint and workmanship for every vehicle we repair.
In order to obtain approval from the insurance company on an estimate, we must leave the vehicle in the exact condition it was in when first brought to us. After approval, our technicians begin to disassemble the vehicle. At this point, it is likely that we will find additional damage to parts not visible during the initial estimate. We must then schedule another estimate review with the insurance company to obtain further approval before proceeding. Depending on the depth of the damage, this process may need to be repeated several times.
There are a couple of possible reasons for this: First, not all body shops use factory-certified parts. When repairing a luxury vehicle, it is imperative that no unauthorized manufacturer parts be used in the repair or the manufacturer warranties could be voided. Second, our body shop has been certified to work on your vehicle because of the factory tools, equipment and training we provide our technicians. While this involves additional expense, it is something we would never consider operating without. Make sure to speak with your estimator regarding any questions you may have about the estimation process or your repair quotation.
Yes. However, please understand that we may require your assistance in encouraging your insurance company to work with us in a timely manner-and being responsible for the final payment. As with any business, it is important that we collect the appropriate fees for our services. While we certainly do not require payment up front, payment from you or your insurance company is due upon picking up your repaired vehicle.
- Stay as calm as possible.
- Check for injuries. Life and health are more important than damage to vehicles. When in doubt, call an ambulance.
- If the accident is minor, and there are no injuries, move the vehicles to a safe place out of traffic. Many insurance companies recommend calling the police.
- Notify your insurance company immediately.
- Make notes about the accident including specific damages to all vehicles involved. Write down the names, driver's license numbers, and license plate numbers for all involved. Get witness information if possible.
- Be polite. Allow law enforcement officials and the insurance company to determine who is at fault in the accident. Always be honest.
- If you have a camera or camera phone, take pictures if it can be done safely. iPhone users- Many insurance companies now have iPhone apps!
- Contact the repair facility of your choice to schedule your vehicle in for repairs or assistance in having your vehicle transported from the scene of the accident. Let the collision repair center help you. They can make the arrangements to make things easier for you.
- Call or visit the repair center once you have claim information. You will need to sign a work authorization to begin the repair process.
- No, you do not need to get three estimates.Many repair centers offer free estimates. However, there are specific requirements based on the insurance company involved and the type of coverage you have that require certain types of parts and labor rates to be considered for providing an accurate repair estimate. Estimates written without this information may make this process seem confusing.The most important thing is for you to select a repair facility you trust and inform your insurance company.
- Yes
- You should obtain approval from your insurance company before repairs begin. Your insurance company will authorize repairs, parts types used, payments, and written /digital photo documentation before and during the repair process.
- DRP simply means Direct Repair Program.
- Benefits of these programs include additional warranties, more timely repairs, cost savings, and peace of mind for you.
- Insurance companies can provide you with a list of their preferred or Direct Repair Providers in your area.
- These chosen providers have met specific requirements in the areas of; training, quality, customer service, and possess the state of the art equipment necessary for the best possible repair to your vehicle and experience for you.
- Ask people you trust.
- Who does your insurance company recommend?
- Have any of your friends, coworkers, or family members ever used this collision repair center's services?
- Look for evidence of teammate training, industry certifications, and participation in customer satisfaction measurement programs.
- Collision repair providers with lifetime warranties, multiple locations, and a substantial number of years in business are a good consideration.
- Insurance companies refer customers to collision repair providers they have a good working relationship with and they trust with their customers.
- An auto accident and repair process is an inconvenient occurrence at best. The way you and your repair experience are handled is often a reflection on the insurance company.
- Your insurance company most likely offers a warranty on repairs if you use one of their preferred or Direct Repair Providers.
- The collision repair center is ultimately responsible. You should choose a provider with a warranty on all work performed.
- As the vehicle owner, you make the decision. You have the right to select the repair center of your choice.
- There are specific laws that give you this right and prevent anyone from requiring you to use a specific repair facility.
- The vehicle owner is ultimately responsible for payment for all repairs.
- You may instruct your insurance company to make payment directly to the repair center on your behalf. Usually an initial payment is made for the repair estimate and then during the repair process a supplemental payment will be issued for additional hidden damages or parts cost that are discovered during repairs.
- The collision repair center can assist you with clarification on any payments that may be issued. This can also get you back into your own vehicle in a timelier manner.
- Remember to clarify any deductible amounts or questions you may have as early as possible. Your portion (if applicable) is not required until the completion of repairs and you pick up your vehicle.
- Rental car coverage is an optional coverage available from your insurance company. Verify your coverage and the amount covered per day for a rental vehicle while filing your initial claim.
- If your repairs are being paid for by the other parties' insurance company, you should be provided with a vehicle similar to your own vehicle during the time your vehicle is in for repair.
- We have Uptown Rent-a-car on-site for your convenience.
- Insurance deductibles are due at the completion of the repair process to the repair center. Your insurance adjuster can answer any questions you may have regarding your policy, coverage, and applicable deductibles.
- Be cautious of anyone offering to save you the cost of your deductible! Ask specific questions on how they plan to absorb this cost. Will all repairs be made per industry standard and will all the proper parts be used? This is not usually an offer with your best interest in mind or the protection of the investment you have in your vehicle.
- Review your itemized final repair order. Complete a walk-around inspection with your Service Advisor and have him/her explain the repairs that were made to your vehicle.
- Look at the paint color and finish, all exterior trim, and proper operation of items involved, such as handles, mirrors, and other moving parts.
- Choose a repair center that measures customer satisfaction and satisfaction is guaranteed before any payment is made.
Collision CENTER HOURS
Monday | 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Tuesday | 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Wednesday | 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Thursday | 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Friday | 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Saturday | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
Sunday | Closed |