Collision Questions in San Jose, CA
Can I choose the repair facility of my choice to repair my car?
A: Yes, you have the right to have your car repaired at the repair facility of your choice. Your insurance company may recommend repair shops that they have a contract with, but you make the final decision as to where your vehicle is repaired. By California law it is illegal for the insurance company to tell you that your car has to be repaired at any specific repair facility.
Can an insurance company direct me to a specific shop?
A: No. The insurer should first ask if you have a specific shop that you would like to repair your vehicle. If you don’t, they may suggest different shops in your area, but they can not require you to go to a particular shop.
Who determines if my car is a total loss?
A: Typically, if the cost to repair your car exceeds 75% of its market value before it was damaged, then it’s considered a total loss by most insurance companies. Insurance policies contain clauses that limit them from paying more than your car is worth. The insurance company makes the determination if your car is a total loss based on repair costs, salvage value and pre-loss market value.
Should my insurance company be notified before repairing the vehicle?
A: Yes. The insurance company usually wants to inspect the damage before repairing.
Am I responsible for obtaining more than one estimate?
A: No, you are not required by law to get more than one estimate. We work with all insurance companies and when required we can provide them with a detailed estimate of the necessary repairs as well as digital photos of the damage.
What do I do if the insurance estimate is different from the shops?
A: Make sure to give the shop a copy of the insurance estimate. This serves as the starting point for the repair. Any additional damage that wasn’t included, or damage that the shop feels wasn’t addressed sufficiently will be added to the estimate as a supplement. We will then work with the insurance company to make sure the vehicle is returned to pre-loss condition.
Why are estimates different from shop to shop?
A: There are many reasons. First of all, estimates are written by people of varying experience, knowledge, and opinions. The lowest estimate may not be addressing all of the damages, or not repairing the vehicle to industry standards, while the highest estimate may not be the most cost effective or even the best repair for the vehicle. In any case, all estimates should be a detailed itemized list of the repairs. The estimate should include labor values for repairing, refinishing, replacing of parts, price of the parts, what type of parts are being used, materials, and tax. If you have any questions about the differences in estimates we would be happy to go over them with you!
How do deductibles apply?
A: If you are a claimant and the repairs are being covered by the responsible party’s insurance company, a deductible will not apply.
If you are using your insurance company a deductible may apply in the amount stated in your policy. If you were not at fault, the deductible usually applies and is reimbursed to you, by your insurance company, once the claim is settled.
When do I pay my deductible?
A: The deductible is paid to the repair facility when you pick up your vehicle.
Am I responsible for the cost of the repairs?
A: Yes. You are usually responsible to the repair facility for payment of repairs unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise. Ordinarily, if you are insured, your policy states that the insurance company will pay you for the loss, less any applicable deductibles or depreciation. Any arrangements for payments by your insurance company are your responsibility.
How long will the repair take?
A: This is determined by many factors, such as the severity of the damage, the availability of the parts that are needed and if additional damage is found during the tear down process. Once the vehicle is inspected we will be able to provide an estimated date of completion.
Can you help me get a rental car?
A: We work with Enterprise and Hertz Rent-a-Car to assist you in setting up direct billing with your insurance company.
If you are a claimant, where the other party is at fault, the other party’s insurance company should arrange and pay for the rental car. If you are the insured, using your insurance company, you may be entitled to a rental car if you purchased rental car coverage in your policy.
Do you offer towing?
A: We work with a local towing service and can assist with the necessary arrangements.
Will my car be repaired using original factory parts?
A: When we write an estimate at Koss Collision Center we always use original factory parts. Some insurance companies have it written in their policies that they can repair your car with aftermarket parts. Aftermarket parts are parts not manufactured by the original builder such as General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, or Honda. We will work closely with you and your insurance company to have your car repaired with original factory parts. We will not install any aftermarket part to your car without your knowledge and consent.
Will my paint match?
A: Using a computerized color matching system, Sikkens refinishing products, and our expert refinishing technicians, we guarantee your satisfaction!
What is the warranty on my repair work?
A: At Koss Collision Center we guarantee all work preformed for as long as you own your vehicle. We use Sikkens paint, the best paint available in the industry, which has a lifetime warranty against fading, peeling, and de-lamination. Replacement parts are warranted per the manufacturers guarantee.
What types of payment do you accept?
A: We accept cash, check, money orders, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Card.
Can I get a ride home?
A: We understand how difficult it can be to arrange for being without your primary mode of transportation. We are happy to accommodate our neighboring clients with a ride home when you drop off your vehicle for repairs. We can also arrange to pick you up when vehicle repairs are completed.
Will I be able to wash my vehicle after the repairs?
A: Yes, you can wash your car as normal. Do not wax the vehicle for 30 days while the paint is still curing. Although the paint is hard when we complete the repairs, chemical vapors are still being released during this time, and any kind of sealant can trap these vapors in and can possibly can blemish the finish.