FAQs

Facts You Should Know

• The law does not require you to get more than one estimate.
• You are not required to use any particular shop. You choose the body shop to perform the repairs.
• There is a difference in body shops. A lower estimate may overlook details like aligning the front end, aiming the headlights, etc. It is your car...make sure it is repaired to your satisfaction.
• You are the only one who can authorize repairs on your car. Do not sign any releases until you are sure that the insurance company will cover the cost of the repairs.
• You should know that your car is being repaired for you as the owner. You are expected, therefore, to be able to pay for the repairs upon completion. To avoid paying with your personal check, arrange to have the insurance company releases signed and back to the paying company in time for them to get a check back to you. If a lien holder is named on the check, be sure to get his endorsement. By making these arrangements in advance, you will help the repair shop to get you back on the road in a minimum of time.
• Auto Art will provide you with the finest workmanship at a reasonable price. We will work closely with you to insure your complete satisfaction. This is our pledge to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where do I get a claim number?
  Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Be sure to bring it in with you when you come in to start the repair process, Auto Art will do the rest.
• 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 standard collision, you will have to pay your deductible regardless of whether you were at fault. If you carry broad collision, and you were not at fault, your insurance company most likely will waive your deductible. Insurance companies will 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 us and we'll tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or if you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.
• Whom do I pay the deductible to?
  If your deductible is not waived, it will be your responsibility to pay Auto Art when you pick up your vehicle. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call us and we can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or not.
• What forms of payment do you accept?
  We accept personal checks, cash and major credit cards.
• What is a "direct repair" facility?
  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 weekends?
  We are open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and Saturdays by appointment only.
• How long will the repairs take?
  Our staff can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete the repairs to your vehicle.
• Can I get a ride home after dropping off my car?
  We are happy to provide this service to you. We want each customer's experience to be a positive one and work diligently towards that goal.
• How can I get a rental car?
  We offer Enterprise rental cars, among others so if you need a rental car we can help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy. Check your policy and/or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and what your specific limitations are.
• Is there a warranty on the repair work performed?
  Absolutely, Auto Art offers a written warranty on all repairs for as long as you own the vehicle.
• Can you match my car's paint color?
  We take special pride in our ability to match factory finishes as the final step in the restoration process. Auto Art has 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.
• How long before I can wash my newly painted car?
  Within the first 30 days of having your car painted, it is best to hand wash your car with cool water using a mild soap using a soft cloth or sponge. Do not wax or polish the vehicle for 90 days, this will allow the finish to dry and harden completely.
• Will the parts be ordered before I drop my car off for repair?
  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. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.
• If my vehicle frame is damaged is the car a total loss?
  No. A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance companies determined value of your vehicle. Nowadays, most cars are built using uni-body construction. Our highly skilled technicians, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section will simply be replaced.