- I just had an accident! What do I do next?
- First, contact your insurance company, no matter who is at fault. If there was a police report, your insurance company will need that. Next, choose the shop you wish to have repair your vehicle. At that time, the shop will negotiate, on your behalf, with the insurance company. Then, we will contact you and discuss the details of the repairs.
- Do I have to get multiple estimates for my insurance company?
- No. You do not have to waste time running around getting estimates. All you need to do is pick the shop of your choice and let them do the negotiating with the insurance company. Nowadays, most insurance companies have their own adjuster and do not review estimates you may have collected.
- My insurance told me to go to a certain shop. Do I have to go?
- No! By state law, you have the right to have your vehicle repaired at the shop of your choice. Steering and/or leading you towards a certain shop by an insurance company is illegal. Once you choose a shop, the insurance company will negotiate repairs with that shop.
- How can I get a rental car?
- Insurance companies will allow you a rental car if it is in your policy or if you are the claimant. Check with your agent and/or insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage. Enterprise is the local car rental company we recommend!
- How long will my repairs take?
- Repair times vary. After we receive the initial OK from the insurance company, we will order the parts we need and begin repairs. We will give you an estimated completion date, although, through the course of your repairs, this date may change. Often times, there is hidden damage, back0ordered parts, and/or other situations that may occur that could affect the projected due date.
- How and when do I pay my deductible?
- Your deductible is due when your vehicle’s repairs are complete. We accept cash, checks and credit/debit card (Mastercard and Visa).
- Is there any warranty on my vehicle?
- Yes. Regardless of which insurance company is paying, Mike’s Custom Paint & Body Shop has a warranty for your repairs for as long as you own the vehicle.
- What does “LKQ” and “aftermarket” parts mean on my estimate?
- LKQ means “like-kind quality” or used, original parts removed from another vehicle with the same make and model as yours. Aftermarket refers to parts made by a 3rd party company that is not the original manufacturer. If we find that the LKQ or aftermarket parts do not fit our standards, we will contact your adjuster and request a supplement for factory parts.
- If my frame is damaged, will it ever be the same?
- Years ago this was a problem when having your vehicle repaired. Today, with state-of-the-art frame machines and new technology, your frame can be repaired back to factory specifications.
- Can you match the color of my paint?
- Yes. Mike’s Custom Paint & Body has made major investments in professional paint mixing machines and constant technology upgrades and training. We always take the next step to ensure a factory paint match.
- How do I need to wait before washing my car?
- You can wash your car at any time. We recommend not using a commercial car wash for the first 30 days. As for waxing, we recommend a 90 day wait, to allow your vehicles paint to harden and cure.
- What does “total loss” mean? What are my options?
- A vehicle is deemed a total loss when the cost of repairs exceeds the insurance company’s determined value of your vehicle. This vehicle belongs to you. You have the right to accept the insurance company’s payment for total loss, or you may negotiate prices and terms with them to keep your vehicle.