Prepare the estimate
Our estimator will inspect your vehicle for damages that were sustained in the collision.
The damages are documented in the form of a computerized estimate. If your insurance has already given you an estimate please present it to the shop at the time of repairs.
Authorization for repairs obtained.
Before repairs begin an authorization is given to the customer to approve the estimate and so that repairs may begin.
Insurance approval
If the insurance company did not write the original damage estimate, approval must be obtained from the insurance company before repairs can begin.
Parts are ordered
Upon approval of the insurance company and claimant or insured party, the parts are ordered. The dealership then notifies us of a delivered. The parts are received and checked for accuracy and any damage during shipping.
Estimate of completion given
Upon receipt of the parts an estimated time of completion is given. Please understand when the estimate is written it is a visual only, once repairs begin other damages not seen at the time of the original inspection may be discovered.
Repairs begin
Once repairs have begun, such as the replacing of panels, other damage to inner structure may become visible. In this case the insurance company will be notified, they may or may not send an appraiser out for a re-inspection or the shop can document and submit digital photos and invoices for additional parts. Any additional damages found may alter the original date of completion given.
Supplement written
This is written to cover any additional damages found after the repairs have begun.
This is covered by your insurance company. Approval must be obtained for this from your insurance company before repairs can resume.
Additional parts or labor
If any additional parts are found to be damaged in addition to the original estimate they will have to be ordered. This will delay the original completion date.
Customer is updated on progress
We can notify you by phone or email with your permission. Any information obtained is used for that purpose only. You may also go to our website Progress Page to see your vehicle.
Frame repairs
If needed, the vehicle is put on the unibody repair equipment. The exact location, fit and appearance of the parts is critical in the repair of your vehicle.
Structural and body repairs beginNew panels are installed
When installing new panels some minor body repairs are needed. The body technician will also check the newly installed panels for fit and alignment.
Corrosion protection appliedPaint and prep
The prepping process begins with primer being applied to the repaired areas, and it is block sanded in preparation of the paint being applied.
Ready for paint
The vehicle is masked and put in the booth. Only the areas that are going to be painted are left uncovered.
Tacked and cleaned
While in the booth the vehicle is tacked and cleaned with a wax and grease remover to make sure there are no contaminants left when the paint is applied.
Paint code
Each vehicle come with a unique code located in the glove box, door jamb, and spare tire cover etc. the code is then put into the computer and the exact color formula is obtained and then mixed on a scale. The paint is then strained and put into the spray gun and ready to be applied to the vehicle.
Clear coat applied
The clear coat is then mixed with a hardner which activates the clear and allows it to harden. The reducer is then added for faster drying time and flow out. It is now ready to be applied to the paint.
Final stages
After the paint is complete the following takes place:
Reassembly of parts such as mirrors, lights, moldings etc are re-installed
Air conditioning (If radiator support, or condenser are replaced.)
2 or 4 wheel alignment
Detailing for delivery (May include polishing)
Test drive and final inspection
Delivery
Once the final inspection is complete the customer is contacted for delivery.
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