A&R Auto Body Repair Frequently Asked Questions
We know that you may have many questions regarding auto body collision repairs in Ventura County. The following are answers to some of the most common frequently asked auto body repair questions asked by our customers in Ventura County. We hope you find this information helpful. The information has been gathered through our experiences working with customers and insurance companies. We do not offer legal advice and recommend that you contact your attorney for any legal information.
You may contact us via phone or email if you have any questions not outlined here. Feel free to give us a call at (805) 486-3654.
General Auto Body Repair Questions
Q: Do I need an Auto Body Repair estimate first?
A: In order to provide an accurate auto body repair estimate, your vehicle will need to be disassembled of its damaged parts. For this reason, the first thing you need to do when your vehicle is damaged is to determine who will be paying for the auto body damage. This is because the process of obtaining an estimate depends on the paying party. You do not have to go and get auto body repair estimates on your own. We will help you with the process and the handling of your claim. For some, it is better to leave the car with A & R Auto Collision in order for the insurance company to inspect it with us. This is to ensure that the process runs smoothly and the repairs are not delayed.
Q: Do I need to contact more than one shop for an auto body repair estimate?
A: No, only one estimate from the auto body repair shop of your choice is required unless your insurance policy states otherwise. California State law requires you be given a written estimate before starting repairs.
Q: What information do I need to bring?
A: The only information you need to bring with you when you visit us is your insurance company claim number and the name of the insurance company representative handling your claim. We will take care of the rest.
Q: Do I need an appointment for an auto body repair estimate? Is there a cost?
A: We recommend that you make an appointment with us for an estimate; however you can come in at any time during the hours of operation. We provide free auto body repair estimates and the process of getting an estimate can take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Most estimates depend on the extent of the damage.
Q: Should I have my car repaired where I purchased it?
A: Having your vehicle’s body repaired at the same place you purchased it does not ensure that the repairs are completed accurately and with quality. Your dealer may not know the best solution for your vehicle, may not have the right technology, techniques or equipment. It is important to shop around for a high quality auto body repair facility to handle collision repairs.
Q: How long will it take to repair my car?
A: Every vehicle is different and there isn’t a standard amount of time for repairs. The nature of the damage, the timeliness of your insurance company, and the availability of parts will determine how long repairs take. Here at A & R Auto Body Collision, we work very hard to complete repairs as fast as possible and with quality. We have a reputation of providing on-time delivery thanks to our large facility, number of technicians, high quality equipment and Chief Genis Velocity Measuring SystemTM .
Q: What results can I expect?
A: You can expect top-notch service and high quality craftsmanship at A & R Auto Collision. We carry factory assembly equipment, advanced technology and factory trained technicians. We also have all the knowledge, tools and expertise to complete all auto body collision repairs. We do not deliver a vehicle unless it meets the highest industry standards. We aim to bring back the value in your vehicle.
Q: Is it difficult to match my paint color?
A: While matching paint colors is difficult, we have all the resources and knowledge to ensure that your new paint color matches the original. We follow very specific steps to match the final finish to the original paint color. We look at a specific paint code found under the hood of your vehicle. This code identifies the color of your vehicle and is used in the formula for mixing paint.
If the final finish does not match the original color, we will first tint the color or change parts of the formula to get the right color. If tinting does not produce the right color, we will then use various blending techniques. We aim to paint your vehicle so that color differences are invisible in the repaired areas. Finding the right paint finish requires a high degree of skill and all our technicians are qualified for matching paint. We take the time to produce the perfect match.
Q: How long do I have to wait to wash my car?
A: You may wash your vehicle immediately after repairs. We recommend that you wait at least 30 days before you wax your car to ensure that the finish is not damaged.
Q: Are there options for renting cars while my vehicle is being repaired?
A: As a customer of A & R Auto Collision, you have the convenience of being able to rent an alternative vehicle. We have special rates, offer free delivery and free pick up. We are here to assist you with all your rental needs.
Q: Is the repair facility responsible for the repairs performed on my car?
A: The Automobile Repair Act of 1971 requires all repair dealers to be registered with the State of California and to post a sign. This Act [Section 9884.7(1)(g)] states that the department of Consumer affairs may invalidate the registration of the repair dealer for a number of causes, including:
- making any statement written or oral which is untrue or misleading;
- causing a customer to sign any work order which is untrue or misleading;
- failing or refusing to give to a customer a copy of any document requiring his or her signature, as soon as the customer signs such document;
- Any other conduct which constitutes fraud;
- Any willful departure from or disregard of accepted trade standards for good and workman like repair
Insurance Questions
Q: Should my insurance company be notified before auto body repairs?
A: Yes, your insurance policy generally states that, if requested, you must file a sworn proof of loss, exhibit the damaged property, and submit to examination under oath.
Q: What does total loss mean?
A: A vehicle that is a total loss means that it is not cost effective to repair the vehicle because of the extent of the damages.
Q: What if my car is a total loss?
A: The insurance company has their Total Loss Specialist run a local market valuation specific to the year, make, model, condition and mileage of your vehicle. The Specialist will then contact you regarding the valuation. This should include the vehicle replacement cost and tax and license fees. Your insurance company will also pay for any charges to your vehicle at the shop and pick up your vehicle for sale at auction to a salvage yard.
Q: Do I need to report this to the DMV?
A: The State of California requires an SR1 form to be filled out if there are damages or injuries over $750.00. You can obtain an SR1 from your insurance company, DMV or the Internet.
Q: Does my insurance company cover scratches?
A: It is important to check with your insurance company regarding any questions you may have. Most insurance policies cover scratches under their comprehensive coverage. A distinct advantage is that these claims do not necessarily affect your insurance rates for collision coverage.
Q: Will my insurance rate be increased?
A: We cannot determine whether your insurance rate will increase or not because we only handle collision repairs. We advise that you call your insurance company or agent for specific questions regarding an increase in rate.
Q: If my insurance company does not agree with the amount of loss, do I have recourse other than the State of California Department of Insurance?
A: Yes, your insurance policy may provide that, when the insured and insurer fail to agree on the amount of loss, both parties are entitled to arbitration.
Q: If I have a deductible, how is it paid?
A: Your deductible is collected by A & R Auto Collision when you come to pick up your completed vehicle. We accept Discover, MasterCard and Visa.
Q: Since the other party is at fault why do I have to pay my deductible?
A: Your deductible is what you agreed to pay when you purchased your policy. If you are pursuing a claim under your policy, you may have a deductible. If the other party is at fault, your insurance company should try to pursue reimbursement of your deductible through that other party.
Q: Can you save me my deductible?
A: You are responsible for your deductible if you have one. Your insurance company is responsible for all repair costs above your deductible. Your deductible is an agreement between you and your insurance company. Your insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurance carrier. The contract states that if you are involved in a collision, you are responsible for the first portion of the repairs (your deductible) and any depreciation or betterment on mechanical parts. The insurance company will pay the rest.
If we do fewer repairs than agreed to with the insurance company, you are still responsible for the initial amount – your deductible. Any reduction in cost should go directly to the insurance company.
