Collision Frequently Asked Questions

Contact? (702) 792-1100 Main Line or e-mail us mgondini@gaudinford.com

What are your hours of operation?
Monday thru Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm Saturday and Sunday Closed.

Where do I get a claim number?
When you report your accident to the insurance company, they will issue you a claim number at that time. Write it down and give it to your estimator at Gaudin Ford Collision Repair Center and they will assist you with your claim every step of the way!

How long will repairs take?
Your estimator/advisor will present you with the estimated time it should take. However, in collision repair there are many variables which makes it extremely difficult to give you an exact time until we know for sure we have eliminated all of the concerns and damage. Our primary job is to protect your interest at all time while working cooperatively with all insurance companies. Rule of thumb, if your vehicle is drivable, we are confident that we can deliver the vehicle within 3 to 5 business days on most repairs.

What is a Direct Repair Facility?
A direct repair facility is a body shop that works directly with your insurance company as their preferred repair facility. Body shops have to adhere to a high level of service and meet a high level of training certification. They also have to have the latest in equipment and technology. A direct repair facility is authorized to write the estimate, perform the repairs without having to wait for an insurance representative to review and deliver the vehicle back to you. Insurance companies monitor their DRP relationships to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

Will the parts be ordered prior to me dropping my car off?
Yes. We will order the parts immediately after preparing the estimate and receiving your approval for repairs. We usually set you up an appointment at that time to bring your vehicle in for repairs.

If my vehicles frame is damaged is my car a Total Loss?
No. A vehicle is a total loss when the cost of the repairs exceeds the value of that vehicle.

Can you match my cars paint color?
The factory finish on your vehicle consists of multiple layers of highly specialized paint products. The state of the art Gaudin Ford Collision Repair Center has made a tremendous investment in the latest paint matching technology available to our industry. We have the ability to tint to match your vehicles paint color. We also have invested in computerized color match systems that allow us to maximize our performance in color matching.
Can I get a ride home when I drop my car off? Yes. Please tell your estimator at the time we set your appointment to bring your vehicle in for repairs that you will need a ride home. We have a shuttle van for your convenience.

How can I get a rental car?
Enterprise rental car is located in our customer lobby area of our new body shop. Ask your estimator to coordinate your rental or have your insurance company coordinate it directly with Enterprise. This will save you a lot of time when you drop your vehicle off for repairs.

How will I know when my vehicle is complete and ready for me to pick up?
Let your estimator/advisor know how you would like to be notified. We contact you by phone, internet and or e-mail. Your estimator has an e-mail address that you can use. Please give us your e-mail and we can update you via e-mail and also let you know when your vehicle will be ready.

Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?
Yes.

Do I have to pay my deductible?
Yes. That is an agreement you have with your insurance company and the policy you choose.

Who do I pay my deductible to?
You will need to pay your deductible to the Gaudin Ford Collision Repair Center when you pick up your vehicle after the repairs are complete.

What forms of payment do you accept?
Cash, Approved Checks, Money Order, MasterCard, Visa & American Express.

What are betterment charges?
Betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle. Parts that wear out and need replacement over time would carry a betterment charge if the insurance company has to replace one of these parts that carry a wear factor (i.e., tires, batteries and suspension parts). A betterment charge is your responsibility to pay when you pick up. Please ask your estimator to explain in more detail if needed.

What are appearance allowances?
An example would be if you had a wheel that incurred a small scrape and is part of the accident claim, the insurance may elect to offer you a certain amount of money to live with the scrape that you could use towards your deductible. The process behind it is you probably have scrapes on one, two or all three of your other wheels and providing it is not a safety issue, an appearance allowance can be used with some insurance companies.

Can I wash my car?
The first 90 days; Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge. Always us clean fresh water. Wash your vehicle in the shade. Do not wax or polish your vehicle. This will allow the new finish to completely cure. Avoid parking under trees and utility lines which may attract birds. Do not scrape ice or snow of your new finish. In the event something gets on your finish and you cannot remove it, come by and see us and we will assist you. For Questions regarding your Vehicle, Pricing, or any other Body Shop needs feel free to contact us at which every way you feel more comfortable. (702) 792-1100 or e-mail mgondini@gaudinford.com.