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GM ToolsCommon Collision Repair Terms & Questions Answered!
- Total Loss:
- A Total Loss is when the Price of the vehicle repairs exceeds the Insurance
- OEM:
- Original Equipment Parts (Parts Manufactured buy the auto maker that built the vehicle)
- Do you fix only GM Vehicles?
- No. We fix all makes and models of vehicles.
- Do I have to get Three Estimates?
- No. Some insurance companies will want you to visit their Drive through Claims Office. You can do this or you can simply let the insurance company know what shop you want your vehicle repaired at & make arrangements with the adjuster to meet you there when you drop your car off at the shop. Never drive a vehicle that could be unsafe to drive due to damage from a collision.
- PDR:
- PDR is Paintless Dent Repair. It is a fast cost effective alternative to the Traditional repair process for small dings & dents. It is not suitable however for all vehicles.
- Where do I get my claim number?
- Your insurance company will provide you with your claim number when you report your accident to them. Be sure to bring it in when you drop off your vehicle or call it when your vehicle is towed in
- Do I have to take my Vehicle to the insurance company’s recommended shop?
- No. Some insurance company’s only recommend shops that give them a discount for sending the customer there. Here at Valley Buick GMC Body Shop we work with all insurance companies. The insurance companies are not allowed to discriminate against you if you choose to take your vehicle to the shop of your choice. You own the vehicle, so you choose the shop that will repair it. If you are told otherwise by your insurance company you should report it to the Washington State Insurance Commissioner.
- Why is there a difference in estimates from my insurance company & repair shops?
- It is common to have differences. Using aftermarket or reconditioned parts instead of new OEM parts is a very common difference however there are other reasons for differences to. We would be happy to answer any questions you have about a difference in the estimates you have received.
- Is the Frame ok?
- Most cars built today are unibody (the frame & body are one piece). Our shop utilizes a state of the art laser measuring system to return your vehicle to its original condition.
- How do I get a rental car?
- We can setup a reservation for you at a local rental agency of your choice so that there is a vehicle reserved there for when you drop yours off at the shop. If the accident was not your fault you are generally entitled to a rental car if the person at fault had insurance coverage. You should check you insurance policy details or call your insurance agent if you are not clear on your rental car coverage limitations. We also offer a free shuttle service for the Auburn, Kent, Sumner, & Federal Way along with free pickup & delivery to these areas.
- Will the paint match?
- Yes. Our refinishing technician has over 30 years in automotive refinishing industry. That teamed with our Limited Lifetime Written Warranty & our state of the art paint system it will match!
- Who do I pay the deductible to?
- If you owe a deductible, you must pay the Body shop before your vehicle can be released.
- Do you offer a Warranty?
- Yes. We offer a limited lifetime Written Warranty on our Paint & Body Workmanship. Also there is a 12-month or 12,000 mile warranty on all OEM General Motors Parts & Accessories as well (Pontiac, Buick, GMC, Chevy, Hummer, Saturn, Saab & Cadillac).
- Can I have other work done to my car while it is in the shop?
- Yes. Just let us know what else you would like us perform on your vehicle and we can arrange it to be done in a one stop most of the time.