Frequently Asked Questions!
We'd like to answer some common questions about our industry and the way we do business.
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Used / Generic Parts
Our commitment to quality means that we keep you completely informed about all aspects of the job while we are repairing your vehicle.
While we would prefer to use new original equipment parts (O.E.M.) instead of LKQ Parts (used or "generic" parts), many times insurance companies will stipulate that these parts are to be used. If your insurance policy does require the use of after-market parts, we will inform you of this. If the after market parts are not up to the proper quality specifications, we won't use them.
Given the complex nature of today's insurance policies, the generic parts issue is between you and the insurance carrier. However, YOU are our customer and we will do everything we can to keep you advised!
Sparks Autobody can repair your vehicle with O.E.M. (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or, if needed, after-market parts for older vehicles. We can even find used parts for virtually any vehicle. Our highly trained staff will meet your needs.
What are LKQ parts?
LKQ (Like Kind and Quality), simply put, are either used or "generic" (after-market) parts. The used parts are those originally manufactured by the builder of your vehicle--the quality and fit will be the same as new parts; they have simply been on another car previously. The use of LQK parts, when appropriate, can reduce the cost of repairs. We will advise you of the appropriate usage. At Sparks Autobody, we inspect used parts for damage and reject any part that won't pass our high quality standards.
Do I have the right to choose my repair shop even if my insurance company is paying for the repair?
Yes!! You have the right to have your car repaired at any shop that you choose A commonly believed misconception is that you are required to get more than one estimate when seeking repair work. This is not the case-- No law requires you to get more than one estimate. You are free to choose any reputable repair provider that you wish. Your insurance company is required by law to pay the reasonable cost to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition according to the coverage you purchased. Your insurance policy will specify what coverage you have.
Remember:
- You are not obligated to use any particular body shop. You choose the shop and authorize the repairs.*
- You do not have to accept the insurance company's appraisal of damage. Check the "Appraisal Clause" of your policy to learn how to resolve any differences.
*There is a big difference between shops. Any shop can give you a lower estimate by leaving something out or overlooking parts. Do not assume you can get the quality of workmanship you want from the shop offering the lowest estimate. It is our job to provide you with a damage report and the estimated costs of repair. Of course, with today's complex vehicles, there may be some hidden damage that we won't find until we have the car apart--that's why most vehicles are repaired on an "open contract" basis between the repair facility and the insurance company. We will work closely with your insurance company to satisfy the terms of your policy while making certain YOU are satisfied with the work that is done!
Will the new paint match the old paint on my car?
Probably the question we are asked the most is: Will the new paint match the old color? This IS a concern as many shops just don't take the time to do this correctly, or perhaps they don't have the experience to do it right. Whatever... you have probably seen cars repaired this way--perhaps with a door a different shade of color!?
Something else you should know: Paint is never the same color as the day it was applied. Unfortunately, over time, the pigment in paint changes color and shade and this is what usually causes a mismatch. What causes these changes? First, paint never really dries, in fact, it continues to dry over the years after it is applied and this is what brings about oxidation. There are many factors that cause these changes such as exposure to ultra-violet light (sunshine), temperature, exposure to salt (sea air, road salt) or chemicals (farming, industry). The rate at which your car's finish oxidizes is also affected by the way that the paint was applied in the first place: differences in the spray pressure, paint flow-rate, distance of the pain spray gun to the surface, temperature at which the paint was applied--all these can affect the rate at which paint oxidizes.
In the Autobody repair industry, color matching has become quite sophisticated and we are trained to take advantage of these new technologies to match your car's color as closely as possible. To ensure that we have the closest possible match, we mix our own paint and then blend the adjacent panels around the damaged section of the vehicle so that there is no noticeable difference. Finally, you can be assured that Sparks Autobody only uses top of the line ®Sherwin-Williams paint and materials that feature long term durability.
How long will it take to fix my vehicle?
We make every effort to make sure your damaged vehicle is repaired quickly, but how long it takes is determined by the amount and severity of the damage. Sparks Autobody will make the repair in as short a time as possible; however, we will not compromise our quality standards for the sake of time. Repair time also depends on the type of vehicle and availability of parts for it. Naturally, the more common the car, the more likely the parts will be readily available. Because today's vehicles are built more complex than ever, not all of the parts that have been damaged can be readily be seen--therefore, we often have to order some parts after the vehicle is apart. The truth is, no matter what any body shop tells you, we can only offer our educated opinion as to when the vehicle will be completed. What we tell you may not always be what you want to hear, but at Sparks Autobody, it isn't our policy to over promise and then under deliver!
How do I know when my car will be ready?
When you drop off you car, we will give you an estimation of repair time. It's a good idea to check with us 24 to 48 hours prior to your expected delivery date to get a firm delivery time for the day that your car will be ready. If there are any minor changes to the delivery date, we will contact you with these changes.
Can Sparks Autobody arrange for a rental car?
Yes!! We can arrange for a rental car to be ready for you when you drop off your car. You can then leave it with us after your car is repaired.
To whom and when do I have to pay my deductible?
Your deductible is paid to the repair facility, not the insurance company as many people think. Unless prior credit arrangements have been made, most repair facilities expect payment of the deductible at the time repairs are completed. Sparks Autobody accepts properly endorsed insurance checks, money orders, Visa, MasterCard, pre-approved personal checks, and yes, cash.
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