In the Estimate Process
area the vehicle is
inspected and relevant data
is entered into estimate
computer systems. This
data is compiled into an
estimate that determines
the cost of repairs.
However, often there is
hidden damage that can not
be seen until after the
vehicle is disassembled.
Once the estimate is
completed, the insurance
company will review the
estimate. There may be some
negotiations on the price and
procedures required to repair
the vehicle. The insurance
company will determine if the
vehicle is even repairable.
Once this process is
completed, the vehicle begins
the actual repair process.
Delivery is the last step in the
repair process. When the
customer arrives to pick up
the vehicle, the bill is
explained and the final paper
work is completed. The
customer drives away in the
vehicle that has been
restored to it's pre accident
condition.
During the repair process the
vehicle accumulates dust
from the repairs. It will be
cleaned. It will also be road
tested to ensure that
everything is working
properly. A final inspection
will assure that the vehicle is
restored to it's pre-accident
condition.
Final moldings and detail
pieces are put back on the
vehicle in the reassembly
area. All the vehicle's
systems are checked during
this process. The vehicle is
almost complete and ready
for delivery when it is in this
stage.
The required parts for your
vehicle are ordered, and
availability is checked. If a
part needs to be special
ordered, the order will be
placed as soon as possible.
Although many parts may
arrive very quickly, the repair
process can not begin until
the shop receives all of the
structural parts
Paint Preparation is a
critical step in the
refinishing process of every
vehicle. All panels are
prepared for paint, then
primed and sealed to assure
good adhesion when the
final top color and clear
coats of paint are applied.
The Body Repair Department
replaces exterior panels, and
all metal finishing that may be
required. The vehicle begins
to come back to life as sheet
metal is installed and aligned.
From here the vehicle will go
to the paint preparations
department.
In the Structure Repair area,
the unitized body is returned
back to the factory
specification. A
sophisticated measuring
system is used to monitor all
phases in this area. A
computer based
measurement system is
used to analyze the frame of
your vehicle. This system
assures an accurate repair.
In Disassembly hidden
damage is often found, and
inner structure repairs are
determined. Many times this
will require scheduling
insurance re-inspection and
ordering additional parts.