When you’re dealing with auto body damage, getting a free estimate is one of the first steps to getting your car back in shape. But, not all estimates are created equal nor are free, and it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you’re getting the best service possible. Knowing what to ask during a free auto body estimate can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle down the road. In this blog post, we’ll cover the top questions you should ask to make sure your car is in good hands and you're prepared for the repair process.
What Does the Free Auto Body Estimate Include?
Getting a free auto body estimate is a great first step after an accident, but what exactly does it cover? You don’t want to leave the shop with more questions than answers. That’s why it’s important to understand what’s included in the estimate and how it affects the repair process. Let’s break down the key components you should expect to see in your auto body estimate.
A Breakdown of Repairs
The most important part of any estimate is a clear list of the repairs your car needs. This should be itemized so you can see exactly what’s being fixed and why. Ask your estimator to explain any terms you don’t understand—there’s no shame in it! After all, you want to make sure every scratch, dent, or internal issue is being addressed. Knowing the full scope of repairs upfront helps you avoid surprises later and gives you a better understanding of what your vehicle needs to get back to its best shape.
Parts and Labor Costs
One of the big chunks of your estimate will cover parts and labor. These two things can make a huge difference in how much you’ll pay in the end. For parts, you’ll want to know whether the shop uses OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, aftermarket parts, or a mix of both. Each has its own pros and cons, and you should feel comfortable with what’s going into your vehicle.
Labor costs will vary from shop to shop, and it’s always a good idea to ask how those costs are calculated. Some shops charge by the hour, while others may have a flat rate for certain repairs. Make sure this section of the estimate is transparent, so you know where every dollar is going.
Potential Additional Charges
Sometimes, what you see isn’t always what you get. Additional charges could pop up during the repair process, especially if more damage is discovered after the work begins. Make sure you ask your estimator if there’s a possibility of extra costs down the line. Will you be notified if additional repairs are needed? It’s best to set expectations upfront so that you’re not caught off-guard by a bigger bill later.
Insurance Information
If you're going through insurance for your repairs, your estimate should outline how the costs will be covered. Make sure you know what portion of the estimate is covered by your insurance and what, if any, deductible you’ll need to pay out of pocket. Some shops will even help you navigate the claims process, which can be a huge time-saver. Always confirm that your insurance will work with the shop you're considering before moving forward with any repairs.
How Long Will Repairs Take?
One of the most common questions you’ll likely have during an auto body estimate is, “How long will this take?” It’s understandable—you want to get your car back on the road as soon as possible. The answer depends on several factors, and it’s important to know what influences the repair time. This way, you can plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary surprises.
The Complexity of the Damage
The extent of damage to your vehicle plays a huge role in how long repairs will take. If it’s just a minor scratch or dent, you might be looking at a quick fix, possibly within a day. On the other hand, more serious issues like structural damage or extensive bodywork can take several days or even weeks to complete. When you ask about the repair time during your estimate, make sure to get a detailed breakdown of the specific repairs needed. This will give you a better idea of what to expect.
Parts Availability and Delivery
Another key factor is the availability of parts. If your repair requires specific parts, especially for rare or older models, the wait time can be longer than expected. Some auto body shops might have parts readily available, while others may need to order them from a manufacturer. During your free estimate, be sure to ask if the necessary parts are in stock or if they’ll need to be ordered. This will help you manage your expectations and avoid disappointment if the repair takes longer due to parts delivery delays.
Repair Shop Workload
The workload at the repair shop also affects how quickly your car can be fixed. If the shop is dealing with a high volume of cars, like after a major snowstorm or a busy season, there could be delays in starting your repair. It’s always a good idea to ask about the shop’s current schedule when you’re getting an estimate. This way, you can get a realistic timeline for when your car will be taken in and when you can expect to have it back.
The Final Touches
Once the major repairs are done, don’t forget that your vehicle may still need a final round of detailing, paint matching, or quality checks. This last phase might seem quick, but it’s crucial for ensuring your car looks and functions as good as new. Asking about these final touches during your estimate will give you a better sense of how much additional time they might add to the overall repair process.
Will You Use OEM or Aftermarket Parts?
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that built your vehicle. They’re essentially identical to the parts that originally came with your car. When you choose OEM parts, you’re getting a perfect match in terms of quality, fit, and performance. Think of them as the gold standard—they come with a higher price tag but provide peace of mind, knowing you’re getting exactly what your car was designed to have.
If you’re concerned about maintaining the value of your car or want to ensure the highest level of performance and safety, OEM parts are the way to go. They’re especially important if you’re dealing with major repairs or if you plan on selling or trading your car in the future.
Are Aftermarket Parts a Bad Option?
Aftermarket parts often get a bad rap, but they’re not always inferior. These parts are made by third-party manufacturers, not the original carmaker. That doesn’t mean they’re low-quality—it just means they didn’t come from the same company that built your vehicle. In fact, many aftermarket parts meet or exceed OEM standards, and they can be a more budget-friendly option.
One of the benefits of using aftermarket parts is the variety of options available. You might even find parts that improve upon the original design, offering better performance or durability. Plus, aftermarket parts tend to be cheaper, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of your repair.
However, the quality of aftermarket parts can vary, so it’s important to trust your auto body shop to choose reputable brands. Ask the shop about the specific aftermarket parts they recommend and why.
Which Option Is Best for You?
Deciding between OEM and aftermarket parts depends on your priorities. If you value long-term quality, OEM parts are the safer bet, even if they cost a bit more. On the other hand, if you’re looking to save money or don’t mind using a part that’s not made by your car’s manufacturer, aftermarket parts can be a smart choice.
Park Lane Collision’s Customer-Centric Approach to Estimates
At Park Lane Collision, getting an estimate isn’t just about numbers; it’s about giving you peace of mind. From the moment you step into our shop, we want you to feel confident that your car is in the best possible hands. Our team takes a customer-first approach, ensuring the estimate process is smooth, transparent, and free from stress.
Transparency at Every Step
At Park Lane Collision, we believe you should never feel confused or uncertain about your repair costs. That’s why we take the time to explain every detail of the estimate. You’ll get a clear breakdown of what needs to be repaired, the expected costs, and how long the process might take. No jargon, no hidden fees—just honest communication. We know how frustrating it can be to receive unexpected costs, so we ensure everything is laid out upfront.
Personal Touch with Every Estimate
One of the things that sets Park Lane Collision apart is the personal care we put into every interaction. You won’t just be another customer in line—you’ll get our full attention. Our team listens to your concerns and makes sure they’re addressed during the estimate process. Whether you’re dealing with a major collision or just a minor scratch, we treat every case with the same level of importance. Our goal is to provide you with a tailored estimate that suits your needs, helping you feel comfortable throughout the process.
Quick and Convenient Process
We understand that life doesn’t slow down just because your car needs repairs. That’s why Park Lane Collision offers a fast and convenient estimate process. You can either stop by our shop in Montreal or book an appointment online for a free estimate at your convenience. Our skilled team works efficiently, so you can get an accurate estimate without wasting your valuable time. Plus, if you have questions after the estimate, we’re always just a phone call away.