How do I select a collision repair facility?

What is an estimate?

Am I required to obtain more than one estimate?

Should I make an appointment to have my car looked at?

Will you work with my insurance company?

How will I pay for the repairs?

Do I have to pay my deductible?

How long will it take to repair my car?

What type of parts will be used on my vehicle?

Will your paint match my car?

What if I need a rental car?

Will my car look like it did before the damage occurred?

How should I care for my car after it is repaired?

Question: How do I select a collision repair facility?
Answer: Choosing a shop that makes you feel comfortable is very important. Look for qualities such as sincerity, competence, and a pleasant staff attitude.

You should feel comfortable with your selection. After all, a car is one of the largest investments you will make. As a consumer, you have the right to take your vehicle to the repairer of your choice.

Remember: If you car has been damaged, it may be unsafe to drive.

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Question: What is an estimate?
Answer: An estimate is a quote of the approximate repair costs based on visible damage to your vehicle. Repair shop estimators and insurance appraisers are both qualified to assess damage on a vehicle. Estimates are based on visible damage only. In some situations, the customer’s vehicle will be placed on a lift where we can further assess the damaged areas. We will disassemble and remove the damaged parts and look for any additional damage that may be present.

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Question: Am I required to obtain more than one estimate?
Answer: No. There are no laws that require a person to get more than one estimate. If you have received quotes from other collision repair shops, we will be happy to review them with you. We will gladly assist you in explaining any differences that may be found.

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Question: Should I make an appointment to have my car looked at?
Answer: It is not necessary to make an appointment. Walk-in customers are always welcome. However, we realize that people’s schedules are busy. To ensure that our estimator can give you the time you need, we encourage you to make an appointment. Once you arrive at one of our locations, the estimating process will take approximately 20 minutes.
Our shops are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am - 5:30 pm.
If an insurance company will be involved, please bring all related information.

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Question: Will you work with my insurance company?
Answer: Yes. If an insurance company is involved, we will serve as your liaison with their adjuster. Our experienced staff will communicate with the insurance company’s staff, thus expediting the claim process. We work with many different insurance companies and understand their procedures.

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Question: How will I pay for the repairs?
Answer: White Auto Body accepts the following forms of payment: MasterCard, Visa, Discover, debit cards, personal checks (up to $5,000), insurance checks, cash, money orders, certified bank checks, and cashier’s checks. If there is a deductible, it must be paid at the time of delivery.

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Question: Do I have to pay my deductible?
Answer: Yes. It is the customer’s responsibility to pay the deductible charge when they pick up their car. From time to time, collision repair shops are asked to “bury the deductible.” This practice constitutes fraud against the insurance company and is illegal. If a collision repair facility is willing to cheat an insurance company, they will be equally willing to cheat the car owner. If the shop agrees to “bury the deductible” it has to take short cuts in the repairs and the vehicle owner will get a second-rate job, which depreciates the value of the car at trade-in time. A body shop never really absorbs the deductible and the value is taken right out of the job. The car owner will ultimately suffer the loss.

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Question: How long will it take to repair my car?
Answer: The time it takes to repair your vehicle is dependent upon the nature of the damage. When you schedule your car for repairs, our estimator will give you an approximate date of completion. Our staff will contact you with updates during the repair process.

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Question: What type of parts will be used on my vehicle?
Answer: Three types of parts may be used during the repair process:

1. Original Equipment Manufacturer(O.E.M.) - Brand New
2. Like Kind and Quality (L.K.Q.) - Used
3. Aftermarket - Non-O.E.M.-Certified Replacement

The type of part used is determined by the customer and their insurance company. Many insurance contracts or policies specify how collision repairs are handled. The staff at White Auto Body will work with the insurance representative on the customer’s behalf to restore the car to the customer’s satisfaction. As a consumer, you are entitled to have your vehicle restored to pre-accident condition with respect to safety, function, appearance, and value.

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Question: Will your paint match my car?
Answer: Yes, we can duplicate the color. Our paint refinish professionals can reproduce the finish on your vehicle. We use the highest quality paint manufactured by Sikkens Car Refinishes. Your satisfaction is guaranteed!

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Question: What if I need a rental car?
Answer: We can assist you with your rental car needs. Representatives from Hertz Local Edition are available at both White Auto Body locations. At the time of your estimate or when you schedule repairs, please let our staff know if you need to make rental car arrangements.

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Question: Will my car look like it did before the damage occurred?
Answer: Yes. Our technicians use the most advanced collision repair equipment available. Following repairs, your vehicle will look as good if not better. We guarantee it!

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Question: How should I care for my car after it is repaired?
Answer: During refinishing, paint is baked onto the vehicle. While the paint is still curing, it is safe to wash your car but do not wax it for the first 90 days after the repair. Avoid running your vehicle through an automated car wash unless it is brushless.

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If you have any other questions or would like more information go to our contact page and fill out a form.