FAQ: Auto Body Repair

If you have been involved in a car wreck it is likely that you will have numerous questions regarding everything from doctor bills to collision repair. In this case, we will be addressing some questions regarding the latter. If you have any other inquiries about the auto body repair process, be sure to contact a reputable local collision shop or talk with your insurance carrier. Getting the right answers is the first step in ensuring your car is properly restored to its pre-accident condition.

Do I have to use the body shop my insurance recommends?

Once you contact your insurance company following an accident it is likely that they will give you a few options as to where to take your car for auto body repair services. You do not have to use any of these recommendations. You have the legal right to choose any car body shop that you wish and the insurance company must pay out on your policy regardless of the facility that you select.

What does my insurance cover?

That's a good question. Before you ever need to file a collision insurance claim be sure that you understand your policy. There are numerous situations and stipulations that can impact your policy and how it will alter your ability to file a claim. Talk with your insurance carrier about what your coverage includes.

What replacement parts are used to fix cars?

When selecting an auto body shop be sure to talk with them about the replacement parts they use for repairs. If you prefer that only OEM equipment and parts be used to restore your vehicle, let it be known so they can inform you if this is a possibility or not. Some shops will prefer to use aftermarket parts, while others only use factory replacements.

Do I have to repaint my whole car because of a small dent?

If your car suffers a ding, dent or scratch and the body technician you're talking to says they need to paint the whole vehicle, you ought to head to a more qualified shop. Color match auto painting is a special service offered by trained technicians that prevents the need to spend excessive time and money on a complete paint job due to minor imperfections. Color match auto painting blends the existing paint that hasn't been damaged with the localized respray of the freshly painted area.

If the frame is bent is my car totaled?

Many people are under the impression that if a car's frame is damaged that the car will be deemed totaled. This isn't always true. A professional collision shop will often be able to straighten the frame using high tech frame repair technology. This generally involves a machine that hydraulically pulls and pushes the frame until it is within miniscule measurements of its factory specifications.

The expert technicians at O.C. Bumper & Body would be happy to answer any additional questions you have about receiving auto body repair in Irvine. Our nearby auto body shop services all makes and models and completes every service from minor scratch repair to complete vehicle reconstruction. Give us a call at (949) 288-2323 to schedule an appointment or to request a quote for collision repair costs in Irvine or the surrounding California towns.

OC Bumper & Body Blog
Posted: October 28, 2020

Written and Published By MORBiZ