• Appraisals

  • Do I need to make an appointment to get a damage appraisal?

    An appointment isn’t required, but it can save you some time if you do have one scheduled. Don’t have an appointment but are driving by? No problem! Stop in and we will look at your vehicle right away!

  • Is there a cost for a damage appraisal?

    Not at all – it’s on us!

  • How long will a damage appraisal take?

    It will depend on the extent of the damages. On average, about 15 minutes. However, we need to remind you that the most accurate way for us to assess the damage is for you to leave your vehicle with us. There may be hidden damage that we can’t see by just looking at the outside. We promise to take care of your vehicle as if it were our own! We will also work directly with your insurance company and keep you informed along the way.

  • Repairs

  • Who pays for the repair of my vehicle?

    If the damage is a result of your error and you have comprehensive and/or collision damage coverage, your insurance company pays for the repairs (less your policy's deductible). You’ll just pay any deductible amount direct to us when your car is ready!

    If the damage to your vehicle is a result of the error or negligence of someone else, then the other party’s insurance company is responsible for paying the full amount of the repair costs.

  • Do you warranty your work?

    Absolutely! We have a lifetime warranty for as long as you own the vehicle. Unfortunately we can’t guarantee rust repairs. Rust will continue to come back unless your replace the panels where the rust lives.

  • Can I select the facility that will repair my vehicle?

    Yes – the choice is entirely yours. An insurance company may make a recommendation, but they cannot force you to take your vehicle to any particular facility.

  • Can you match the paint color?

    Today's factory finishes incorporate multiple layers and specialized additives. Auto Collision Specialists has made a substantial investment in what we feel is the finest paint system available. We mix our color on-site and use the best of DuPont’s products to ensure that each vehicle's paint matches. We take pride in our ability to match factory finishes.

  • How long will my repairs take?

    Every vehicle is different. After inspection, your ACS advisor will give you an estimate of how long we’ll need to complete your repairs.

  • Can I wash my car after repairs?

    Important recommendations and precautions during the first 30 days after painting:


    DO's

    • Wash your vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution, using a soft cloth or sponge.
    • Always use clean, fresh water.
    • Wash your vehicle in the shade.

    DONT's

    • Avoid commercial car washes – stiff brushes and sponges can mar the vehicle’s finish and damage its surface.
    • Don’t “dry wipe” your vehicle as this can scratch the finish.
    • Don’t drive on gravel roads – your vehicle’s finish can be easily chipped during the first 30 days.
    • Avoid parking under trees and utility lines that are likely to attract birds – bird droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface. Also, tree sap can mar or spot a new finish.
    • Don’t spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid or windshield solvent on the new finish.
    • Don’t scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface.

    During the first 90 days:

    • Don’t wax or polish your vehicle – it’s important to allow the finish to dry and harden completely.
  • Parts

  • What are "OEM" Parts?

    OEM stands for “original equipment manufacturer”. These are new parts made by the same manufacturer who made your vehicle.

  • What are "AFTERMARKET" Parts?

    Aftermarket (A/M) is used to describe parts that are made by manufacturer other than the one who originally made your car. Some aftermarket parts carry certification that helps ensure the basic quality of the part. Aftermarket parts are usually less expensive than new OEM, and for some applications may be a better choice than used OEM parts. Some repairers and insurers list these parts as "Quality Replacement Parts."

  • What are "LKQ" Parts?

    LKQ stands for "like, kind and quality." Most of us are more familiar with the other term for this category which is "Used Parts." The term LKQ should more precisely define a sub-category of used parts that are just like the ones on you vehicle before the loss.

  • Do I have to accept used parts?

    No, you do not have to accept used parts. Most customer oriented insurance companies will only suggest used parts (LKQ) when there is agreement from all parties; generally used parts are suggested when there needs to be a savings to justify the repairs. The insurance company's obligation is to restore your vehicle to "pre-loss" condition - no better than it was and no worse.

  • Estimates

  • Do I need to get three estimates?

    Nope – there is no law requiring three estimates. You have the right to have your vehicle repaired wherever you’re most comfortable. (If you’re dealing with a private party or an insurance company that does not have a local office, it may expedite your repair/claims process to obtain two estimates. However, do not obtain an estimate from any collision repair facility that you would NOT want to repair your vehicle.)

  • Why did another body shop provide an estimate that is different from yours?

    Differences in repair estimates are quite common. There are three primary estimating systems used by collision repair services and insurance companies: Mitchell, CCC, and ADP. Each system breaks down labor operations differently and frequently uses different material allowances for similar operations.


    Note, however, that the biggest reason for estimate differences is that one estimate may not include all the required steps and processes. If you have any questions, we will go over with you every detail of any insurance company estimate or estimate by another repair facility. We want you to have all the information you need to make informed decisions about the repair of your vehicle.

  • Miscellaneous

  • How can I get a rental car?

    If you need a rental car, we’ll help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy or if you are the claimant. (You are the claimant when you are not at fault and the responsible party's insurance company is paying for the damages.) Check your policy or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and what the specific limitations are.

  • What are betterment charges?

    Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use (tires, batteries, suspension parts, etc.) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. These betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are prorated based on the actual mileage of your vehicle. So, because the insurance company only needs to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition, but you’re getting a brand new part – they charge you for a portion of the new & better part.

  • Why should I choose Auto Collision Specialists?

    Because to us, you’re more than just a number. We know that the anchor point of our business is our customer base, so we’re committed to creating and maintaining excellent relationships with each of our customers. In order to achieve this goal, we deliver personalized service and the highest quality repair available in the market.


    We invite you to come in and experience the difference in our service and workmanship.

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