Question 1

Do I need an appointment for an estimate? How long will it take? Is there a cost?

Accepted Answer

Our estimates are free, and you may drop in for an estimate during our hours of operation. Estimates take approximately 20 minutes to complete, depending upon the extent of the vehicle damage.

Question 2

How do I set up an insurance claim?

Accepted Answer

Contact your insurance company promptly and report the accident to begin the claims process. Tell them you choose to have your collision repairs done at Kaiser Body Shop, Inc. Contact us directly and we will guide you through the process. We are direct autobody repair facility with most insurance companies. This means we can make the process simple and quick for you.

Question 3

Should I drive my car after an accident?

Accepted Answer

It really depends on the extent of your damage. Generally speaking, if you have any lights out, or your car doesn’t feel “quite right”, or parts are rubbing on tires, give us a call and we can arrange towing. You may also request to have your vehicle towed to our shop from the accident scene.

Question 4

What are betterment charges?

Accepted Answer

Parts that wear out and need to be replaced with time and use (such as tires, batteries and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. The betterment charges are determined by the insurance company and are pro-rated, based on actual miles of your vehicle.

Question 5

Can other repairs or services be done on my vehicle while it is in the shop?

Accepted Answer

Yes, just be sure to notify your estimator of the repairs or services that you would like performed, so that he or she can make the necessary arrangements.

Question 6

Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Your vehicles repairs will be backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Question 7

If my vehicle’s frame is damaged is it a total loss?

Accepted Answer

No. A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance companies determined value of your vehicle. Our highly trained technicians, with the aid of our computerized frame measuring system, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, the frame can be removed and replaced.

Question 8

Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We generally order your vehicle’s parts before your scheduled drop off date. However, we may have to order additional parts for damage that becomes apparent after your car is disassembled in the shop.

Question 9

How long will the repairs to my vehicle take?

Accepted Answer

Quality repairs begin with a detailed written estimate. Our trained estimators make a practice of anticipating problems before they arise. However, damage is often hidden and cannot be discovered until your vehicle has been disassembled. If this happens, your vehicle’s completion date may need to be revised. We promise to keep you informed throughout the repair process, and we assure you we will return your vehicle to you as quickly as possible.

Question 10

Can I wash my car right after?

Accepted Answer

All of our paint work is high baked dry at 180 degrees, but it still takes time for the finish to cure and harden completely. Yes, wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge. Do not use a commercial car wash for the first 30 days because stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface. Do not wax or polish the vehicle for 90 days.

Question 11

Do you do ding and dent removal?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We are a full service body and collision repair facility. This means that we meet or exceed collision repair industry standards in equipment, staff, training and certifications.

Question 12

What is paintless dent removal?

Accepted Answer

Paintless dent removal (PDR) is the process of removing dents, dings, creases, and hail damage from vehicles without affecting the original paint finish. PDR is much quicker and less expensive than traditional repair methods.

Question 13

Will my auto insurance pay for paintless dent removal?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes! However, many times the PDR estimate will be less than your deductible. If your vehicle has substantial damage, notify your insurance agent and call us for a free estimate. Kaiser Body Shop, Inc., is a preferred provider of PDR for major insurance companies and can assist you through the claims process.

Question 14

What is a Direct Repair or “DRP” shop?

Accepted Answer

A direct repair facility is a body shop that works directly with your insurance company as a preferred shop. Body shops earn the right to be in preferred shop programs by meeting certain requirements. These include having certified technicians, using the proper equipment, and most importantly, having a record of satisfied customers. For your convenience, when you use a preferred shop, the repair process is streamlined. You don’t have to be hassled with getting estimates. A preferred shop actually writes the estimate, orders the parts, and repairs your vehicle without having to wait for an insurance adjuster. Insurance companies constantly monitor their preferred shops to ensure quality repair.

Question 15

How can I get a rental car?

Accepted Answer

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 agent to understand your specific limitations.

Question 16

Do I have to get multiple collision repair estimates?

Accepted Answer

No. Pick the shop you want to repair your vehicle and ask them to write the estimate. You will not need to get another one unless the insurance company paying for the repair also wants to write an estimate.

Question 17

Will I have to pay for towing?

Accepted Answer

The cost of towing, when necessary as the result of an accident, is usually covered as part of the loss. The body shop will include this expense in the estimate that is submitted to the insurance company.

Question 18

Will my new car warranty be voided if I choose an independent collision repair shop?

Accepted Answer

No. You are protected by law in this area. There may be certain portions of your vehicle that now fall under the independent body shop's warranty, however, the dealer can not void your entire warranty just because they were not allowed to perform the repair work.

Question 19

Do I have the right to select the auto body shop that will repair my car?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The repair shop choice is always up to you!

Question 20

What if the insurance company suggests a particular body shop or shops?

Accepted Answer

The choice is still yours; do some research before accepting their suggestion.

Question 21

What if I don’t want after market parts on my car?

Accepted Answer

You will need to read your insurance policy. Many companies stipulate the use of such parts. Often times insurers will attempt to use alternate parts to keep premiums from increasing, However in the event we try to use these parts and are not happy with the quality, Fit, or appearance, we can arrange a supplement to have the Insurance company approve the use of a new Factory Part.

Question 22

Can you save my deductible?

Accepted Answer

An honest repair shop will always say no. If a shop conspires with you to “bury the deductible” this constitutes insurance fraud. Insurance companies are very experienced in estimating repair costs, they aren’t easily fooled by an inflated repair estimate. The only alternative left to reduce the cost is to “short-cut” the repair. This could leave you with a poorly repaired vehicle with a potential for diminished value or worse yet, an unsafe vehicle. Remember, a shop that will cheat the insurance company could also be inclined to cheat the consumer.

Question 23

Am I entitled to a rental car?

Accepted Answer

If the accident was not your fault and the responsible party has accepted liability then they are required to provide you with reasonable transportation while your car is being repaired. If you are going through your own insurance then you will need to verify if you have rental coverage on your policy in order to be entitled to a rental car.

(518) 785-1233

70 Sicker Road, Latham, NY 12110

Over 60 years experience!