When will my vehicle be ready?
The repair process is very complicated with much going on behind the scenes. Here is an example of what happens in a typical repair.
1. A written estimate is prepared for the customer and/or insurance company. NOTE: The estimator can only write what they can see - therefore the final repair cost is almost always higher than the first estimate due to hidden damage.
2. A date for the customer to drop off the vehicle and the estimated completion date is provided. The completion date is estimated at the total labor hours on the estimate divided by 4-5 hours per day. An estimate with total labor hours of 20 hours should be ready in 4-5 working days. Additional reservations for rental cars, etc. are arranged.
3. The owner of the vehicle signs an authorization to the shop to begin repairs on the vehicle.
4. The insurance company reviews the estimate, compares this with a description of the accident report, verified coverage, and approves the estimate.
5. Parts are ordered.
6. Parts received.
7. Vehicles arrives for repair.
8. Vehicle is disassembled and re-inspected.
9. A supplement estimate is written if additional damage is found.
10. The insurance company reviews the supplement and additional photos of the damage, then approves the additional repair,
11. Additional parts are ordered per the supplement.
12. The estimated completion date is re-computed.
13. Additional parts are received.
14. Structural and Unibody repairs are completed If nesessary.
15. Mechanical and suspension repairs are completed If nesessary.
16. New parts are installed.
17. Priming, Sealing & Corrosin protection is applied.
18. Body work is inspected for paint.
19. Vehicle is prepared for paint department.
20. Vehicle is primed, blocked and sealed.
21. Vehicle is cleaned and taped.
22. Vehiicle is degreased.
23. Vehicle color is mixed and matched to vehicle.
24. Vehicle is painted with color.
25. Vehicle is painted with protective clear coat. NOTE: 3-stage vehicles require additional paint process.
26. Vehicle finish is bake dried. This assures crosslink in chemicals for oem factory finish and longevity.
27. Paint work is inspected. Any contaminates, dirt, etc. which mayt have found its way into the paint are nibbed and buffed out.
28. Alignment is completed if necessary.
29. Air conditioning is recharged is necessary.
30. Vehicle is inspected for burnt out lamps, full fluid levels, etc.
31. Dash indicator lamps are reset.
32. Vehicle is test driven.
33. A final bill is prepared adjusting any cost difference for parts and faxed to the insurance company for final approval.
34. A final approval is granted from the insurance company.
35. Vehicle is washed.
36. Customer is notified of vehicle completion and scheduled for delivery.