There are many things to consider when taking your car in for auto body repairs after a collision. As the customer, you have the right to ask any collision repair questions you want to know about the shop, its repair procedures, and other issues related to fixing your damaged vehicle. You also have the right to receive honest responses that answer your auto body questions to your satisfaction. Here are the best questions to ask an auto body repair shop before letting them work on your vehicle.

Am I required to use the auto body shop recommended by my insurance company?

No. Insurance companies usually recommend auto body shops they know and trust to provide quality repairs. But you are allowed to have the repairs performed by the shop of your choice.

Does the shop provide an itemized, written estimate of all necessary repairs?

You need to know what repairs will take place, why they are needed, and how much each one will cost. Don’t settle for a general estimate that lists the total cost without a breakdown of individual repairs.

Does the auto body repair shop have experience working on your make and model of vehicle?

This body shop question is especially important if you own a foreign car, a rare model, or a model where replacement parts can be difficult to obtain. Make sure the shop has the experience, tools, and equipment to repair your type of car.

Does the shop offer the type of repair work your car needs?

Not all auto body repair shops offer a full range of repair services. Some may specialize in only a few types of repairs, so make sure the shop can perform the work you need without having to subcontract to another shop.

What certifications do the shop technicians carry?

The best auto body repair shops will carry I-CAR and VeriFacts certifications. These indicate their technicians have the knowledge and skills to repair your vehicle to its original specifications and are up-to-date on the latest in repair methodologies.

How long will it take to repair your damaged vehicle?

  Depending on the extent of the damage and the availability of replacement parts, repair jobs can range from one day to a week or more. You need to know how long it will take so you can arrange interim transportation and your personal schedule. 

Does the shop assist you with processing the insurance claim?

Many first-time auto body customers overlook this important collision repair question. Some repair shops have excellent relationships with major auto insurance carriers and are happy to work directly with your carrier. This can save you time while ensuring you get reimbursed for all costs you are entitled to under your policy.

Does the auto body shop have a relationship with a rental car provider?

That depends on whether the auto body shop you chose.  Some auto body shops have rental car representatives inside the body shops office. It is also recommended to check with your insurance as some policy provides complimentary or discounted rental services during your vehicle repair process.

Does the auto body shop back their repairs with a warranty?

This is perhaps the most important auto body question of all because a warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that if the repairs are performed incorrectly, the shop will correct them at no cost to you. Most auto body offers some type of warranty. Be sure to ask what it covers, how long it lasts, and which shops will honor it. Fix Auto honors our warranty at every Fix Auto shop throughout the U.S., Canada, and abroad.  If you need auto body repair work, bring your car into the nearest Fix Auto USA location. We’ll be happy to answer these and any other body shop questions you may have about the repair process.   This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Yorba Linda, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing the northeastern Orange County.