We'll answer all of your body repair questions
Whatever you need as far as auto body repairs, we can do it all. Rely on our over 50 years of experience in collision repair to do it all when you've been involved in an accident or your car simply needs some TLC. Please enjoy our FAQ section that will likely help you. If it doesn't, you are always welcome to call us, and we'll answer your questions as best we can.
Where do I get a claim number?
Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, we'll do the rest.
Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my vehicle for repair?
Absolutely. We generally order your vehicle's parts at the time that we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off a couple of days later. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.
If my vehicle’s frame is damaged, is it a total loss?
No. A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance companies determined value of your vehicle. Nowadays, most cars are built using unibody (frame and body as one) construction. Our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of-the-art computerized measuring system, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can simply be replaced.
Can you match the paint color?
Today's modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. Fork Auto Body has made a major investment in the finest paint system available and constantly upgrades its technology and equipment to ensure that each vehicle's paint matches. We take special pride in our ability to match factory finishes as the final step in the restoration process.
How long will the repairs to my vehicle take?
Your advisor can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete the repairs to your vehicle. As a general rule, drivable cars are scheduled in on Monday and whenever possible delivered back to customers by Friday. Be sure to check with your advisor for the specifics on your vehicle.
How can I get a rental car?
If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy. Check your policy and/or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and what your specific limitations are.
How will I know when my car is done?
You will be notified by phone when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Feel free to call or e-mail your advisor during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.
Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?
Yes. Fork Auto Body guarantees all of their repairs.
Do I have to pay a deductible?
The amount of deductible that you will be responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. If you carry standard collision, you will have to pay your deductible regardless of whether you were at fault. If you carry broad collision, and you were not at fault, your insurance company most likely will waive your deductible. Insurance companies determine fault by your account of the accident when you make the claim, and by reviewing the accident report filed with the police department. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call your advisor, and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.
Who do I pay my deductible to?
If your deductible is not waived, it will be your responsibility to pay Fork Auto Body when you pick up your vehicle. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call your advisor, and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether it will be your responsibility.
What forms of payments do you accept?
The easiest and most convenient way to pay for your portion of the repairs to your vehicle is with a major credit card. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
What are betterment charges?
Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use (i.e., tires, batteries, and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. These betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle.
Can I wash my car?
Recommendations and precautions in the first 30 days
Do: Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge. • Always use clean fresh water. • Wash your vehicle in the shade.
Don’t: Do not use a commercial car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface. • Do not "dry wipe" your vehicle. Dry wiping can scratch the finish. • Do not drive on gravel roads. Chipping the finish is easily done in the first 30 days. • Avoid parking under trees and utility lines, which are likely to attract birds. Bird's droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface. Also, tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface. • Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish. • Do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface. Scrapers can act like a paint scraper on a newly painted finish. Recommendations and precautions in the first 90 days.
Don’t: Do not wax or polish the vehicle. This will allow the finish to dry and harden completely.