Frederick Auto Body Questions
The Repair process can be very confusing. At Frederick Auto Body, we take care of all your questions and concerns to make the process as easy and painless as possible. Please see some of the most frequently asked questions we are asked.
What Is A Direct Repair Shop?
Many times certain insurance companies will have a relationship with a body shop. This DOES NOT mean you have to use their recommended shop! In the state of Maryland, you have the ability to choose any shop you would like to perform you repairs. The larger insurance companies will always try to “steer” you to one of their contracted shops in order to control the repair process – this is not always in your best interest! Always try to find an impartial shop so your interests are first, NOT the insurance company. At Frederick Auto Body, we do not sign agreements that put the insurance company above the customer. We will always work for you, NOT your insurance company!
Will The Parts Be Ordered Before I Drop Off My Vehicle For Repair?
Your vehicle’s parts are ordered at the time that we write the estimate and we schedule your vehicle for drop-off a couple of days later which gets your ride back on the road quicker.
If My Vehicle’s Frame Is Damaged Is It A Total Loss?
No. Since most cars these days are built using unibody (frame and body as one) construction, our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of the-art systems, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. Frederick Auto Body has the tools and training to perform most all frame and unibody repairs. If the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can be replaced.
SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE
Schedule a FREE Estimate for your auto body repair, auto collision repair or automobile restoration today! Use the form provided below or contact us by phone at (301) 698-0008.
Can My Paint Color Be Matched?
Since modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints, Frederick Auto Body has invested in the finest paint system available and constantly upgrades its technology and equipment to ensure that each vehicle’s paint matches. We have recently purchased a PPG Paint Spectrophotometer that uses a computer spectrum color analyzer to match your vehicle paint. This system is the latest in paint match technology. Frederick Auto Body is a Certified PPG collision center. Once we have your paint formula, we use our full line of high quality PPG Water Based paints to mix the perfect color for your vehicle.
Can Other Service Repair Work Be Performed On My Vehicle While In The Body Shop?
Yes. Just let your auto body advisor know what services you would like done so that he can make the necessary arrangements. We can add any additional body or paint work, as well as glass repair, paintless dent repair, wheel alignments, or any other auto body related service.
How Long Will The Repairs To My Vehicle Take?
One of the more popular Frederick Auto Body Questions is “How long will my repairs take?”. Your advisor can give you an estimate of the length of repairs to your vehicle. The time needed depends on many factors, most importantly is the severity of the damage. However, insurance company delays and parts deliveries can also extend the repair time.
Can I Get A Ride Home When I Drop Off My Car?
Yes, we would be happy to provide this service to you. We are always happy to provide transportation to and from or shop if necessary. Someone from our shop can give you a ride, or we can coordinate with Uber or Lyft.
How Can I Get A Rental Car?
We can help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy. Your policy or agent will tell you what your specific limitations are. We also have several options for those who do not have rental coverage. Just let us know and we will make all the arrangements.
How Will I Know When My Car Is Done?
You will be notified by phone when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Feel free to call or e-mail your autobody advisor during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.
What Is The Warranty On The Repairs To My Vehicle?
Frederick Auto Body has a full lifetime warranty on all paint and body work. We keep computer records of every job, so if there are ever any issues just contact us and we will take care of them for you. We strive for 100% customer satisfaction, not only when you pick up our vehicle but for as long as you own it.
Do I Have To Pay A Deductible?
Insurance companies determine fault by your account of the accident when you make the claim, and by reviewing the accident report filed with the police department. If you aren’t sure about your deductible, you can call your advisor and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.
Who Do I Pay My Deductible To?
If your deductible is not waived, you pay Frederick Auto Body when you pick up your vehicle. If you aren’t sure about your deductible, you can call your advisor and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether it will be your responsibility.
What Forms Of Payment Do You Accept?
The easiest and most convenient way to pay for your portion of the repair to your vehicle is with a major credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. We do not accept personal checks.
What Are Betterment Charges?
Sometimes worn out parts (i.e., tires, batteries, and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process and are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle.
When Can I Wash My Car?
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 30 DAYS
One of the most frequently asked Frederick Auto Body Questions is how long before I can wash or wax my car. We use high quality clear coats, and bake them in our paint booth at over 175 degrees to harden it to a shine. However, it still needs additional time to cure properly.
DO’S
Do wash the vehicle by hand with clean and fresh cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge and in the shade.
DONT’S
Do not use a commercial car wash since it could mar the finish and damage the surface.
Do not “dry wipe” your vehicle since it can scratch the finish.
Do not drive on gravel roads since finish chipping is easily done in the first 30 days.
Do not park where birds are attracted droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface.
Do not park under trees since tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface.
Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish.
Do not scrape ice or snow with scrapers they can act like a paint scraper on a newly painted finish.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 90 DAYS
DON’T polish the vehicle the finish needs to dry and harden completely.