Stephen’s Auto Body Frequently Asked Questions

Feel free to read our frequently asked questions so that you can get a better handle on what we do and how its done.  As always, we encourage you to contact us directly should you like to talk about something in greater detail.

WHERE DO I GET A CLAIM NUMBER?

Just contact us direct and our customer service representatives will guide you through the process.

ARE YOU OPEN SATURDAY?

Yes, we are open 8:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturdays.  If there are special circumstances that concern your repair please contact us so we may accommodate your particular needs.

WILL THE PARTS BE ORDERED BEFORE I DROP OFF MY VEHICLE FOR REPAIR?

Typically the parts are ordered once we determine that we have identified all damaged items. If your vehicle has the potential for hidden damage, then your parts will be ordered once it is dismantled fully and an accurate parts order can be created. If all damages are visible, Then your parts can be ordered prior to your vehicle’s arrival.

HOW IS A VEHICLE DETERMINED A ||TOTAL LOSS||?

Typically your insurance company determines the vehicle is a “total loss” when it feels that the repair costs will exceed the value of the vehicle.

CAN YOU MATCH THE PAINT COLOR?

We guarantee in writing that the factory color will be matched, as long as all painting is completed in accordance with factory suggested paint procedures.

CAN I GET OTHER SERVICE WORK DONE ON MY VEHICLE WHILE IT IS IN THE BODY SHOP?

We are equipped to handle many other related repairs and services including

  • Glass replacement
  • Wheel alignments
  • Tire replacement and repair
  • Brake inspection and repair
  • Exhaust inspection and repair
  • Light Mechanical and Suspension
  • Complete auto detailing
  • Gold plating
  • Paintless Dent repairs
  • Painted pinstriping
  • Rental Cars

If there is anything that you need related to your vehicle that we have not mentioned, just ask so we may better serve you.

HOW LONG WILL THE REPAIRS TO MY VEHICLE TAKE?

Depending on the size of your repair and after a visual inspection of those repairs, our customer service manager will be able to give you an educated estimation of time your vehicle will be at Stephen’s Auto Body. We will do everything in our power to repair your vehicle as safely and quickly as possible and we will keep you updated throughout the process.

CAN I GET A RIDE HOME WHEN I DROP OFF MY CAR?

We can help with local area drop-offs, but check your insurance policy for alternate transportation coverage that provide for a rental car. If you are unaware or time does not allow you to check, Just provide our customer service representatives with your policy number and we would be more than happy to help.

HOW CAN I GET A RENTAL CAR?

We can schedule an appointment with one of our local rental companies such as Enterprise that has an office right on site.

HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN MY CAR IS DONE?

Our staff will notify you directly when your vehicle is completed and ready for pick up. If you prefer we can also notify you via e-mail of any updates and completion date.

IS THERE A WARRANTY ON THE REPAIRS TO MY VEHICLE?

Yes. Your vehicle’s repairs will be backed by a LIFETIME written warranty, given to you at the completion of your repair.

DO I HAVE TO PAY A DEDUCTIBLE?

Yes, It is mandated by your insurance policy that you pay your deductible to the body shop at the completion of your repairs. If you are not at fault in your loss you will be compensated by your insurance directly. If you are not sure of liability on your claim, we can help in contacting the appropriate people for you.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?

Stephen’s Auto Body accepts cash, personal or business checks, properly endorsed insurance checks, bank or cashier checks and all major credit cards excluding AMEX.

WHAT ARE BETTERMENT CHARGES?

These are charges determined by your insurance carrier on parts that have a specific “lifetime” associated with them and are pro-rated based on the year and mileage of your vehicle. Example of these parts are radiators, exhaust components, tires, and specific suspension parts to name a few. If your vehicle’s repairs have parts that are depreciated you will need to pay that amount at the completion of the repair process.

HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR MY CAR AFTER THE REPAIRS ARE COMPLETE?

Once your vehicle has been returned to your care you will be able to wash it as normal. We do suggest though that you do not wax or use any sealer to any of the painted areas of your vehicle for one month. Be aware that tree sap, bird droppings, and road tar will chip and mar the finish to fresh or factory paint, so keep your vehicle clean of this material for the best appearance possible.