Unless you are working through insurance, no, you do not need an estimate. Initial estimates are often inaccurate, as they are usually just visual estimates that don’t account for hidden damage. We are always available to provide free estimates if you would like one, but we do warn that this visual estimate will not be a true calculation of the costs of repairs. We can also help you set up your insurance claim and get an appraiser to come look at your vehicle.

Your deductible is the pre-determined payment specified by your auto insurance policy that you are responsible for prior to any insurance coverage. This amount can range from $100 to $500, and if you have a vanishing deductible, this amount can be lowered every year you don’t have an accident. Always check your insurance policy so you are up to date on your deductible.

A preferred shop is one that has entered in to an agreement with an insurer to be on their preferred list in exchange for meeting the insurers benchmarks that may include labor rate concessions, alternative parts usage, and repair methodology benchmarks.

OEM are Original Equipment Manufacturer Parts that are produced by the maker of your vehicle.

Aftermarket Parts are alternative replacement parts that are manufactured by a 3rd party company, not the original manufacturer. These parts are less expensive than OEM parts but are not guaranteed to have an accurate fit.

LKQ or Like Kind in Quality are undamaged parts that are taken from an un-repairable vehicle.

A supplement is an additional cost (labor, procedure, parts etc.) due to damage or a price increase not included in the first estimate.

A betterment is when your insurance charges you for a portion of the repairs or parts based on the premise that it is a wearable item example a tire that is 50% worn is being replaced and the insurer feel they only owe a % of the cost to replace that tire.

A total loss means the cost of repairs will exceed the current value of the vehicle.

An appearance allowance is when a customer is compensated a portion of the total cost of a part that has minor damage with an agreement not to have that part replaced.