We're Open Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm

Our Process

1. Estimate & Repair Planning

When your vehicle arrives at Collision Correction, our expert team will assess the damage on your vehicle and form a repair plan to ensure it’s restored to pre-accident condition. 

2. Body Repair

After the damages on your vehicle have been assessed by our team, your vehicle will enter our body repair phase. Our expert technicians will ensure your vehicle is properly repaired using OEM repair procedures during this process.

3. Refinishing

Your vehicle has moved out of the body repair phase and into our state-of-the-art paint shop. Here our Master PPG Refinish technician will use cutting-edge technology to match your vehicle’s exterior finish. Using PPG Envirobase waterborne paint.

4. Reassembly & Quality Control

Now that your vehicle has been refinished, it will enter our Reassembly and Quality Control phase. Here your vehicle will be reassembled back to pre-accident condition. As an additional measure of quality, our staff will inspect the repair area and ensure that all of your vehicle’s options are functioning as they should.

Estimate & Repair Planning

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Important Forms

Conveniently download and fill out your appropriate forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are open daily, Monday – Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are closed on the weekends and specific holidays.
Yes, An estimate can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 30+ minutes, depending on the amount of damage to your vehicle.
An appointment is strongly recommended so we can be prepared in advance for your vehicle. We will schedule with you a convenient drop-off date once your estimate has been completed and/or reviewed. Examples of when an appointment is not necessary would be if you feel your vehicle is no longer safe to drive or if you are unable to drop it off at another time. Please be advised that vehicles dropped off without an appointment may take longer to repair because of parts ordering, insurance company approval, and our current workload in the shop.
We repair all makes and models, foreign and domestic, including luxury and high-end vehicles. Please keep in mind that we only repair late-model vehicles 15 years old or newer.
We are a small shop. As vehicles age, the repair process can often be hindered by paint fade and peeling issues, lack of part availability, rust and corrosion concerns, wear and tear, and lower vehicle values can increase the likelihood of a total loss. These types of repairs can be difficult to warranty and can take longer to complete. For these reasons, we’ve chosen only to fix late-model vehicles within 15 years of age. Thank you for understanding.
We accept multiple forms of payment, including all major credit cards, personal checks (up to $250.00), money orders, cash, and even Apple Pay.
The lien holder must endorse the check before we can accept it. The lien holder will usually want proof that the vehicle has been repaired before signing the check. We can usually help with this by providing documentation or pictures.
Yes. Most of the time, the insurance company will include the shop’s name instead of the lien holder if you ask. This is much more convenient for everyone. If the check has already been issued in your name and the lien holder’s name, you can ask the insurance company to reissue it in the manner described above.
If you have a deductible, we do not collect it until repairs are completed and you are ready to pick up your vehicle, unless you wish to pay it sooner. We must collect the deductible in full before releasing your vehicle. Note that if you are paying out-of-pocket, we may require a deposit ahead of time to cover any necessary parts that we have to order for your vehicle.
Yes, we require your balance to be paid in full before we can release your vehicle. If an insurance company is paying for the repairs, we will need possession of their check endorsed by you or confirmation from the insurance company that payment has been issued to Collision Correction LLC.
Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use, such as tires, batteries, and suspension parts, are sometimes subject to a betterment charge when they are replaced during the repair process. The collision repair company does not determine these charges. They are determined by the insurance company and are pro-rated based on the actual miles on your vehicle or the age of the part.
Absolutely not. You have the right to take your vehicle to the shop of your choice and by law, only one estimate is required. In some instances, especially when insurance is not involved, it makes sense to get more than one estimate to shop around and get different options and opinions regarding your vehicle. It is entirely up to you.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to give an accurate estimate over the phone or via email without seeing the vehicle in person. There are a lot of factors involved in creating an estimate, and chances are there will be more damage than initially thought. If you have specific questions relating to your vehicle or a type of repair, don’t hesitate to give us a call and we will be glad to assist you.
At Collision Correction, we are always working on ways to offer unique and affordable options for our customers. No matter what, we will provide you with a fair and reasonable estimate upfront. We do not right a low estimate to get you in the door and then up-charge it later. We are strong supporters of our military, and all active military members will get a labor rate discount off of their out-of-pocket repair.
Yes, we have a general liability policy to cover any unforeseen circumstances. Also, rest assured that your vehicle is safe at our shop. We have a state-of-the-art security system with high-definition nighttime cameras to monitor the premises inside and out 24 hours a day.
Unfortunately, being in the industry for so long, we’ve seen a lot of bad work from bad shops. The entire industry today has somewhat of a bad reputation for shops overpricing and underperforming. This is why Collision Correction exists. We want to set the standard and change the views of what the auto repair industry should be. Just take some time to navigate through our website, and feel free to give us a call with any questions. Fixing a car is not easy work. It takes skill and integrity. We provide both and will do our very best to meet or exceed all expectations. We want our customers to become our fans.

Yes. Collision Correction LLC. stands behind our work and offers a limited lifetime warranty on all workmanship as long as you own your vehicle, unless otherwise stated. Warranty on replacement parts follows the manufacturer’s standard warranty. Standard wear and tear is not covered under warranty. Circumstances where a warranty may not be provided are prior defective repairs, paint peeling, customer-supplied parts, and preexisting rust or corrosion.

We do not have our own line of rental vehicles at Collision Correction. That is an entirely separate business that involves special licenses and permits. We can, however, help arrange a rental car for you. If your rental is covered by your insurance company, we will arrange for you to be picked up from our shop when you drop off your vehicle. Most insurance companies use Enterprise or Hertz. If you do not have rental coverage but would still like a car, you may get a discounted rate if your insurance company is one of their partners.
For our customers within a 5 miles radius, we will gladly offer you a ride back to your residence after you drop off your vehicle if you do not have rental car assistance. Please let us know in advance when you schedule so we can coordinate this for you.
Yes. Depending on the length of your repair, we will contact you by phone, text message, or e-mail (whichever you prefer) to let you know how the repair is coming along and if there are any delays. We will not call every day but instead will notify you as your vehicle progresses through the repair process.
It is almost impossible to answer until we are able to see your vehicle and complete a written estimate. Repairs can range anywhere from 2 days to several weeks depending on the amount of damage, part availability, and labor involved to repair and paint. Once we have seen the vehicle and scheduled a time for you to drop it off, we will do our absolute best to pinpoint a completion time frame for you and will keep you updated along the way.
If you feel your damage is minor, it is best to get an estimate before notifying your insurance company. Sometimes, just the act of notifying your insurance company about vehicle damage can effect your policy. With the cost of materials and labor today, repairs are often more expensive than expected, but it’s best to see how much the repair will cost before getting insurance involved if you plan to pay out of pocket.
We do not directly report any repair to Carfax at Collision Correction LLC; however, there are several ways your repair may show up on Carfax throughout the repair process. These include: reporting a claim to your insurance company, filing a police report, data entry into estimating software, and vehicle information used for scanning and diagnostics. Carfax reports may stem from other third-party websites where vehicle information is used for parts ordering, OEM procedure research, and insurance company websites for supplement requests. These cannot be controlled by Collision Correction LLC.
The average repair cost can depend on several factors, including the type of vehicle, make and model, and severity of the damage. Factoring in all repairs, the average estimate typically ranges between $2,500 and $4,000 but can definitely be higher depending on the amount of damage. Making sure you have proper insurance coverage on your vehicle is important.
Estimates in some way are based a lot on opinion and training. If you put ten people in a room with a car, you’ll get ten different estimates. This is because of things like repair vs. replace decisions on parts, types of parts being used, labor rates, estimator knowledge, and the overall process of repair. Lower estimates may not include all the necessary work to ensure your vehicle is returned to pre-accident condition. Using lower-quality parts and materials will also affect the price. At Collision Correction LLC, we will write the most accurate estimate possible using high-quality parts and materials, and we will discuss the repair process with you in detail.
We will gladly review any estimate from another shop to see how we compare. Keep in mind estimates today are done using computer software, so often, a higher estimate means either more labor procedures written or more expensive parts being used. We will most likely match any competitor’s estimate apples to apples. We often find a competitor’s estimate will have higher labor rates, unnecessary parts or labor, or missing items. Sometimes we will tend to be more expensive in the end, but our estimates are also more accurate upfront, so there are no surprises later. The old saying, “you get what you pay for,” does hold some weight. If you have an estimate from another shop, just click our link to schedule an appointment with us, and make sure to bring a copy for us to review.
When writing an estimate, an appraiser can only write what they can see. It doesn’t do any good to “assume” damage. Vehicles today are designed with multiple materials and engineered to absorb impact. Oftentimes, once a vehicle is brought into a repair shop and exterior panels are removed, hidden damage can be found. This can result in additional parts and labor charges. Other times, part prices from manufacturers can change, or parts being removed from a vehicle could break if they are designed for one-time use. Repairing a vehicle with today’s modern advancements can be rather challenging. We do our absolute best to write the most accurate estimate for you so there are no surprises, but all estimates are subject to change if additional damage is found.
The short answer is yes. But we do not honor any insurance company estimates. Insurance companies do not fix cars and are not trained to fix them, so writing repair estimates is rather pointless. Most insurance company estimates are incomplete and underwritten. We will work with your insurance company to amend the estimate to cover the cost of the repair. Keep in mind there may be discrepancies on their end, such as aftermarket parts usage or low labor rates, that may not cover the entire bill. You may be responsible for the additional amount. We always try to collect what is owed from the insurance company and we will keep you informed during the repair process.
Call us to schedule an appointment so we can review the estimate. Photo app estimates are unreliable, underwritten, and grossly inaccurate. It is almost impossible to write an estimate and determine the full scope of damage from a few pictures. We will review the estimate, and get with your insurance company on the changes it will most likely need.
If you are going through an insurance company, we will want to see a copy of their estimate to see what they are covering. We do not honor their estimates, however. After a thorough review, we will write our own estimate and repair plan and get with your insurance company on the differences. Often times we will have a difference of opinion on labor or parts, or we will find hidden damage. If this is the case, we will work with your insurance company to cover any additional expenses to the best of our ability so your vehicle is repaired properly.
No. This is an unfortunate but common misconception in the industry today. Many insurance companies have shops they recommend as part of a direct repair program, but this is only a recommendation, not a requirement. The main reason for these recommendations is that these shops often have agreements with the insurance company to discount parts and labor to save them money. As the vehicle owner, you have the right to choose whichever shop you want to repair your vehicle. You cannot be “steered” into going to a shop you are not comfortable with. We recommend doing research on where you want to take your vehicle before making a decision. We’d be glad to assist in your decision in any way we can. Even if we are not the right choice for you, we will still be glad to help you with any information we can provide.
No. Once again, this is a common misconception in the industry today. You have the right to take your vehicle to the shop of your choice. Taking your vehicle to a dealership body shop has no advantages. It’s the same type of technicians using the same type of materials and paint systems. If there is something dealer-specific that needs to be repaired (i.e. electrical issues, scanning, calibrations, or engine work), shops can coordinate with the dealer’s service department to get it fixed for you. Oftentimes, taking your vehicle to a dealer will result in a longer length of repair because of excessive volume issues. Having your vehicle repaired by a shop other than the dealer will not void your factory warranty. In many cases, shops and insurance companies will offer their own warranty on the repair work completed. Here at Collision Correction LLC, we offer a limited lifetime warranty on workmanship for as long as you own your car unless otherwise stated. Parts are warrantied based on the manufacturer’s specifications.
No. In order to do state inspections you have to be licensed by the state. This is typically done at service or mechanical shops. The standard cost of a state inspection in Virginia is $20.00. If you need a recommendation for reputable shops in the area, just let us know!
We do all forms of mechanical work when related to your collision repair, including airbags, suspension, and cooling. Anything we can’t do in-house, we will sublet out to a reputable mechanical shop for completion. With today’s vehicles featuring advanced technology, some vehicles may have to go to the dealer for precise scanning and calibrations that we will coordinate as part of the repair process. We do not do maintenance-related mechanical work such as oil changes, heating, and air conditioning service, brakes, or tune-ups.
A total loss occurs when the cost of repairs exceeds a specific percentage of the insurance company’s determined value of your vehicle.
Unfortunately, once an insurance company declares a vehicle a total loss, we do not proceed with repairs. Chances are there will be additional hidden damage and increased costs that the insurance company will not cover beyond the vehicle’s value.
We only focus our attention on late-model vehicles that are ten years old or newer. Restorations are tedious projects that involve tremendous amounts of time and labor, which is more fit for a shop specializing in that type of work. We are a smaller shop and do not have the capacity to take on this type of work. They can also be very costly.
Yes. Collision Correction will evaluate custom refinish jobs on a case-by-case basis.
We do not fix damaged motorcycles. We can, however, on a case-by-case basis, paint motorcycle parts. Parts have to be disassembled by our customer ahead of time.
No. Flood damage can open all kinds of doors to corrosion and electrical issues. We recommend finding a local service or mechanical shop to complete this type of repair. You may also need to go to a reputable upholstery shop.
Yes! Most likely a majority of the dents and dings can be removed by a process called Paintless Dent Removal (PDR). We would need to schedule you for an estimate to look over the vehicle and determine the severity of the damage. After that, we would schedule a date for you to drop off, and we would arrange for a local specialist to come to the shop and remove the dings accordingly. In most cases, various trim pieces will need to be removed for access. The entire process takes, on average, 3-5 days unless specific parts have to be replaced and painted.
If there is upholstery or interior damage as it relates to a collision repair, then yes, we do. But we do not do upholstery work otherwise. If your insurance claim involves upholstery work that we cannot complete in-house, then we will send your vehicle out to a reputable local shop that specializes in that type of work for you. If you are paying out of pocket, we’d be glad to recommend some upholstery shops to you. Just ask!
No, we do not have the specialty equipment required for proper aluminum repair. A properly equipped shop would have a “clean room” dedicated to aluminum repair with all dedicated tools and equipment. This requires a large investment by the repair facility by way of dedicated space and specialty tools and additional training.
The physical properties of aluminum are different than that of steel, making the repair process quite different. Steel has a “memory” when bent or deformed and has a tendency to go back to its original shape during the repair process. With steel, heat can aid in the reforming process but may not be recommended on many of today’s high-strength steels. Conversely, aluminum has a tendency to remain in its current shape or remain deformed when damaged. The grain structure of aluminum differs from that of steel because it is much less inclined to re-align during the repair process, and unlike steel, aluminum should always be heated during straightening. This can make repairs difficult and require different equipment and more finesse and patience. Proper tools and training are important because if the aluminum is accidentally stretched while repairing, the panel is no longer repairable. Also, aluminum and steel do not mix. Aluminum repairs must be made in a separate area away from steel repairs to prevent cross-contamination and corrosion issues.
Absolutely. We offer a small range of additional services, including pinstriping, headlamp restoration, wheel repair, and minor detailing. Please be sure to let us know what exactly you would like done to see if we can work it in with your repairs for an additional cost.
Every overnight repair is eligible for a free courtesy interior vacuum and exterior wash. If you’d like a more thorough cleaning that includes a full interior wipe down with all-purpose cleaner, interior window cleaning (excluding back glass on smaller vehicles), wheel cleaning, exterior window cleaning, and exterior wipe down with spray wax, we charge an additional $35.00. This does not include interior and carpet stains. Just let us know when you drop off your vehicle by checking the appropriate line on our authorization form.
This is an initial scan of your vehicle before repairs begin that provides Collision Correction LLC. and your insurance company (if applicable) a complete report on the number of any diagnostic trouble codes that may be present after a collision. Scanning is used to identify errors, faults, and/or damage related and unrelated to a collision. This essential step helps eliminate unnecessary delays waiting for parts and/or additional insurance authorizations and identifies issues with the vehicle that could be missed without a pre-repair diagnostic scan. A scan tool is used to link to your vehicle in order to communicate this information.
This step ensures that all systems on your vehicle are in proper working order after repairs are completed. It is important to note that the majority of diagnostic trouble codes do not result in a malfunction indicator lamp (dashboard light). Failure to perform a post-repair scan significantly increases the risk that your vehicle may be returned with malfunctioning or inoperable safety and convenience features. A post-repair diagnostic scan is important to ensure that your vehicle is returned to pre-accident condition and that all related diagnostic trouble codes, including those set during the repair, have been identified and cleared. A test drive may be required prior to clearing some codes, and some codes may only appear after certain driving distances, key cycles, or other specific criteria. A scan tool is used to link to your vehicle in order to communicate this information.
Calibration is a required initialization step following the removal, installation, replacement, and/or repair of some advanced driver-assistance system parts (ADAS). This can include cameras, sensors, radars, modules, and other advanced system parts equipped on the vehicle. Calibration may also be required if there is damage/trauma to the mounting locations of these advanced system components. Access to OEM information is required to determine if calibration is necessary for the specific vehicle make and model year involved. If required, the calibration will be performed by a local factory dealership service center. Calibration may also be referred to as initialization, aiming, relearning, or setup.
The ideal answer is yes. There is no such thing as a “perfect” color match, and those that say there is are embellishing the truth. It’s actually the illusion of a perfect color match. We use a state-of-the-art environment-friendly computerized paint matching system, but what most people don’t realize is that there is usually more than one version of their vehicle’s factory color which is called an alternate. This is based on when and where the vehicle was painted by the manufacturer. We match the appropriate alternative for your vehicle using a series of chip decks with sample colors. On few occasions the color will have to be specially tinted to match the vehicle. If there is enough damage to a specific area or panel of your vehicle, we will blend our color into an undamaged adjacent panel to ensure a color match. Blending is an industry-standard process used to help with color matching making slight variations in color undetectable to the human eye. Color match also depends on the vehicle’s current paint condition, fade, and if the vehicle has ever been painted before.
Many people don’t realize that most bumper covers don’t exactly match the rest of their vehicle, even when purchased brand new. This is because they are not consciously paying attention to it. On most vehicle models, front and rear bumper covers are made from some type of plastic, while the adjacent panels are made out of some type of metal. The two separate materials will reflect light differently, causing the paint to appear a different color. Sometimes the appearance can be caused by variations in body contours that also reflect light differently. Other times, when cars are assembled at the factory, the bodies of the vehicle are painted in one location, and the bumpers are painted in another, so there are actual differences in the paint that was mixed. Take a moment to walk through a parking lot and pay attention to bumper cover colors and you’ll be surprised to notice how many actually don’t match.
We always try and prefer to use new factory parts (OEM) for our repairs. With today’s advanced vehicle systems, OEM parts are crucial for the proper fit, finish, and function of your vehicle. The use of factory parts may be dependent on your insurance company and what they are allowing on their estimate. Most insurance companies will try to use alternative parts such as used (LKQ) or aftermarket (A/M) to keep the repair cost to a minimum. If your insurance company wrote you an estimate, be sure to review it carefully and address any concerns or questions with the appraiser at that time. If you do not want any used or aftermarket parts on your vehicle, make sure to tell your insurance company. Depending on your claim situation or your policy, you may or may not have a choice. If an insurance company will only pay for used or aftermarket parts, we will do our best to coordinate with the local dealer to get the best price possible for OEM. It will be your responsibility to pay for the difference of whatever the insurance company won’t cover.
There is no such thing as factory paint, meaning we don’t call Toyota and order their paint for the next job. All paint is mixed in-house and this method is the same at the dealership body shops. There are several different manufacturers of automobile paint products including PPG, BASF, and Sherwin Williams. At Collision Correction LLC., we use an industry-leading top-of-the-line waterborne paint system from manufactured by PPG. This is the same type the factories use. Waterborne has several advantages, including eco-friendly properties, fast production times, and great color-matching ability.
Waterborne paint is the new standard in automotive refinishing. Waterborne paints have been evaluated as alternatives to solvent-based paints. The volatile organic compound (VOC) content of waterborne paints is significantly lower than conventional solvent-based paints, thereby reducing VOC emissions. Waterborne paints also reduce worker exposure to hazardous air pollutants and the overall amount of hazardous waste generated. Vehicle manufacturers use waterborne paint in the production of modern vehicles and is the choice among leading repair shops, including Collision Correction LLC.
We spray PPG waterborne paint inside a top-of-the-line AMERI-CURE spray booth. Immediately after painting, your vehicle goes through a bake cycle to quickly dry your paint. Once completed, your vehicle is ready for handling and reassembly. The paint will still be going through a curing process, so we ask that you do not wash the painted areas for 30 days and don’t wax the painted areas for 2-3 months, depending on the season (warmer weather will require less time for curing). We encourage you to avoid drive-thru car washes that make contact with your vehicle to avoid scratching and hazing. When washing your vehicle, remember to use clean water and materials such as non-scratching sponges and microfiber towels.

Serving Greater Williamsburg

Terminology

Adjuster (same as Claims Adjuster) – A person employed by an insurance company that investigates and settles claims. An adjuster evaluates each claim brought by policyholders or claimants and then recommends payment based on the coverage available under the insurance policy.

Aftermarket Parts (same as Copy, Imitation and Non-OEM Parts) – New replacement parts that were not produced or supplied by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Aftermarket collision parts may offer a price-based alternative but may not provide the same fit, finish, and structural strength and may not perform to the OEM’s exacting specifications. Only original equipment parts supplied by the vehicle manufacturer are backed by the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty. Aftermarket parts are often referred to on your estimate with these names or abbreviations:

  • A/M (Aftermarket / Automotive replacement parts)
  • A/M CAPA
  • AQRP
  • QRP (Quality Replacement Parts)
  • CP (Competitive Parts)

Airbag – Part of a vehicle safety system that consists of a bag that inflates during a crash. Its purpose is to slow an occupant’s motion as evenly as possible while preventing impact on the vehicle’s interior. Today’s advanced airbags are highly precise devices capable of incremental inflation based on the severity of the crash as well as the size and position of the vehicle’s occupant. They are supplemental restraints and work best in combination with seatbelts.

Alternates – Most vehicles today have multiple color variants depending on when and where the manufacturer painted the vehicle. These are called alternates. Different versions are due to slight variations in the mixing process from factory to factory. Most paint systems today give shops a choice of alternates for the best color match possible.

Alternative Parts – A term commonly used to refer to something other than Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.

Aluminum – A metal that is increasingly used in the production of modern vehicles because of its lightness and abundance. In pure form, it does not have the strength of the same size of iron. Thus car manufacturers use aluminum in an alloy form to produce body panels, wheels, engine blocks, transmission housings, differential housings, and even frames. Aluminum requires specific tools and training to repair correctly.

Appraisal – A written estimation of the value of property or the extent of damage. An insurance adjuster, vehicle repair specialist, or body shop estimator may complete damage appraisals.

Base Coat / Clear Coat System – A paint system in which the color effect is provided by a highly pigmented base coat. Gloss and durability are provided by a subsequent clear coat. Most vehicles are finished in this manner.

Betterment – A tool insurance companies use to avoid paying for the total amount of a part damaged in a collision. If a repair or replacement is needed for a “wear-and-tear” part of your vehicle, the insurance company will only pay a percentage of the cost of that replacement part. This is because, from their point of view, they are only responsible for returning your vehicle to the condition it was in before the accident. So, since you are getting a brand-new part, your vehicle will actually be in better condition after the repairs are completed. Therefore, the insurance company shouldn’t be on the hook for the entire amount. This charge is most often applied to tires but can also be applied to other wearable parts such as a battery or exhaust.

Blending – The tapering of finishes or colors so subtle that differences cannot be distinguished by merging one color into another. This is achieved by allowing some of the old finish to show through the new color. Often the undamaged panels adjacent to the repaired areas will be blended. While there is no such thing as the “perfect” match, blending will help provide the appearance of a perfect match.

Body Putty – A paste-like material for filling small imperfections on a vehicle surface.

Body Filler – A paste-like material ordinarily mixed with a catalyst material to fill large imperfections on a vehicle surface.

Buffing – A mechanical process meant to restore luster and appearance to your car’s finish. The process can remove a minute layer of paint to access a fresh layer underneath. Used with the proper compound, buffing can remove scratches and other minor scrapes in your clear coat. It also helps maintain your finish longer.

Bumper Absorber – On all late-model vehicles, the energy-absorbing, foam-like material that is situated between the outside bumper fascia and the inner bumper reinforcement on both the front and rear of a vehicle. Also, see Bumper Fascia and Bumper Reinforcement.

Bumper Fascia (FAY-sha) – On all late-model cars, the fascia is the part of a bumper that is visible on the outside of the vehicle, is painted—usually the same color as the body—and serves as a large portion of either the front or back of the vehicle. Also, see Bumper Absorber and Bumper Reinforcement.

Bumper Reinforcement – On all late-model cars, the bumper reinforcement is that part of the bumper that secures the outer bumper fascia and energy absorber to the vehicle’s body rails, securing the bumper sub-assembly to the vehicle, front and rear.

Calibration – Calibration is a required initialization step following the removal, installation, replacement, and/or repair of some advanced driver-assistance system parts (ADAS). This can include cameras, sensors, radars, modules, and other advanced system parts equipped on the vehicle. Calibration may also be required if there is damage/trauma to the mounting locations of these advanced system components. Access to OEM information is required to determine if calibration is necessary for the specific vehicle make and model year involved. If required, the calibration will be performed by a local factory dealership service center. Calibration may also be referred to as initialization, aiming, relearning, or setup.

Chip Guard (same as Rock Guard) – A chip-resistant, protective coating normally applied to lower panels to help prevent sharp stones, debris, etc., from chipping the paint finish.

Chipping – The removal of paint from a vehicle body surface by means of impact of sharp stones, etc. This usually happens on the leading edge of a vehicle body, like on the front edge of a hood, or near the rear edge of a wheel opening.

Claim – Any request or demand for payment under the insurance policy’s terms to cover an incurred loss.

Clear or Clear Coat – A coat of clear material (basically paint without the color pigment) applied on top of a color coat as a means of protecting the finish, and adding luster and durability. Usually, the color coat and clear coat are applied as a system in a repair to ensure color and luster continuity across the entire vehicle surface.

Collision Insurance – Optional coverage for when your car is damaged by a collision with another vehicle or object. Examples include a collision with a tree, trashcan, or garage door. Collision Insurance may also provide coverage if a car rolls over or you hit a pothole that severely damages your car. This insurance applies only to your vehicle and doesn’t cover whatever the car collided with, which is covered by property damage liability insurance. It pays for damage to your car (up to the actual cash value of your vehicle, minus your deductible) without regard to who caused the accident.

Competitive Estimate or Competitive Bid – The act of acquiring more than one bid for collision repair work. No law requires a consumer to seek more than one bid for collision repair. However, your insurance company may request a competitive bid, especially if you secure a bid from a shop that does not subscribe to that insurance company’s Direct Repair Program. Additionally, if you are paying for the work yourself and are unfamiliar with shops in your area, you may want to seek competitive bids, as collision estimates can vary considerably. When securing competitive bids, reviewing what each estimate includes (or does not include) regarding labor operations and the type of parts used is important.

Comprehensive Insurance – Optional coverage for when your car is stolen or damaged in ways that don’t involve a collision. Examples include fire, theft, hail, glass breakage, vandalism, damage from an animal, flood, earthquakes, riot, and civil commotion.

Corrosion – Degradation of the bare, unprotected metal substrate by oxidation, commonly referred to as rusting. This process is worsened by the introduction of water and salt, which is commonly found on roads in snow-belt areas of the U.S. All automotive metal surfaces should be protected from corrosion by some sort of coating.

Coverage – Protection and benefits provided in an insurance policy.

Crush Zone (same as Crumple Zone) – Structural feature of a specific part designed to absorb the energy from an impact after a collision by controlled deformation to protect vehicle occupants. Parts with damage to crush zone areas must be replaced.

Cycle Time – An industry term meaning the total time from the beginning to the end of the vehicle repair process. Most insurance companies try to control and limit cycle time to save rental expenses and increase customer satisfaction. However, sometimes pushing cycle time too hard can result in rushed work and poor quality.

Damage – Loss or harm to a person or property.

Deductible – The amount of costs you pay after an accident. Once you’ve paid the deductible, the insurance company pays the rest of the costs, up to the amount specified in your policy. A high deductible generally results in a lower premium, while a low deductible results in a higher premium for the same insurance coverage.

Degreasing – The removal from the substrate (vehicle’s sheet metal parts) of contaminants that would otherwise create various paint failures.

Depreciation – The decrease in value of any property due to wear, tear and/or time. Depreciation is generally not an insurable loss.

Detailing – Final cleaning both inside and outside of a vehicle, removal of overspray from exterior panels, jambs, etc., as well as polishing before delivery of a collision-repaired vehicle. Detailing can also include a higher level of cleaning, such as buffing and waxing, to diminish or remove stains, scratches, and other blemishes inside and out.

DRP (Direct Repair Program) – A common practice in the collision repair industry whereby an insurance company and a collision repair shop have a contractual agreement that establishes business rules, repair parameters, and standardized procedures such as billing practices and record keeping. An advantage of DRPs is that they may provide additional convenience for the insured due to their relationship with the insurance company. A primary disadvantage is that many insurance companies require that their DRPs use a percentage of imitation parts in collision repairs. This may not be in the customer’s best interest. In the vast majority of states, you have the right to have your vehicle repaired at a shop of your choosing.

Direct Repair Shop – An insurer-suggested or -preferred collision repair shop that participates in a Direct Repair Program (DRP) with that insurance company.

Drying – The process of change of an automotive coating from a liquid to a solid state by evaporation of solvent, evaporation of water (as in water-borne paint systems), chemical reaction of the binding medium, or a combination of these processes.

Edge-to-Edge Repair – A term denoting a complete panel repair (such as a complete fender or door) as opposed to a touch-up or spot repair.

Estimate – The written estimation, made by an appraiser or estimator, upon inspection of a damaged vehicle, regarding the cost required to restore the vehicle to the condition it was in immediately prior to the loss. Sometimes hidden damages are not visible until the vehicle is disassembled. Additional repairs needed to complete the repair are documented in what is called a supplement. Insurance companies expect this to occur and have in place billing guidelines to handle this type of situation.

Flex Additive – A chemical added to automotive refinish paint that makes the paint flexible enough to adhere to flexible vehicle parts such as bumper covers.

Four Wheel Alignment (4WA) – Process of adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications. These measurable angles are called camber, caster, and toe. The purpose is to reduce tire wear and ensure that the vehicle tracks and drives straight.

Frame Bench – A heavy metal platform used to restore a vehicle’s structural geometry to factory specifications. This is done by securing a portion of the vehicle to the platform, then pulling appropriate areas of the vehicle into place using special clamps, chains, and hydraulic winches. This is also referred to as a Frame Machine, Frame Rack, or simply Rack.

Full Frame Vehicle (same as Body-On-Frame) – A vehicle, mostly pickup trucks or some larger SUVs, where the structural frame or chassis is completely separate from the body, unlike a vehicle with a unibody design.

Gloss – The degree to which a painted surface possesses the property of reflecting light in a mirror-like manner. It may also be referred to as luster.

Hazardous Waste – Any unusable by-product derived from the repair and/or painting process that cannot be disposed of through normal waste disposal. These products can be potentially harmful to the environment and require special handling and professional disposal. Federal, state, and local laws dictate how such material must be handled and disposed of.

Hit and Run – An accident caused by someone who does not stop to assist or provide information. Damages to your vehicle caused by a hit-and-run driver are often covered as part of uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance.

I-CAR – I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, is an international not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing the information, knowledge, skills, and training required to perform complete, safe, and quality repairs. I-CAR was formed in 1979 out of a collaboration across the six segments of the collision repair Inter-Industry. I-CAR serves and is represented by all segments of the Inter-Industry:

  • Collision repair
  • Insurance
  • Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)
  • Education, training, and research
  • Tools, equipment, and supply
  • Related industry services
  • I-CAR’s focus is to provide everyone involved in collision repair with access to high-quality, industry-recognized training solutions. I-CAR also encourages and supports ongoing conversations in the industry on issues that impact collision repair.

Insurance – Insurance is a system in which groups of people (such as automobile owners) who have similar chances of suffering a loss transfer their risk of loss to an insurer who pools the risk of many drivers together. The insurance company promises to reimburse the person for their covered losses in exchange for payment of the premium.

Insured – A person or organization who has or is covered by an insurance policy.

Liability – Legal responsibility or obligation for the injury or damage suffered by another person.

Liability Insurance – In most states, you are legally required to have a minimum of liability insurance, which is intended to restore the other driver, passengers, and vehicle to their pre-accident condition.

Loss – The amount an insurance company pays on a claim.

Masking (same as Cover Car) – Temporary covering of areas on the vehicle that are not to be painted to prevent overspray.

Metallic – A term used for automotive finishes incorporating fine metallic particles, usually aluminum, in the paint to produce a somewhat sparkling effect.

Mount and Balance (M&B) – Mounting and balancing involves your vehicle’s wheels and tires. Mounting is simply the act of putting the tires on the wheels and then installing the wheels onto the vehicle’s axles. Balancing is done to find potential heavy spots that could cause vibration when the wheels and tires are spinning. Balancing is done by placing an assembled wheel and tire onto a balancing machine and running it through a series of diagnostic tests. The machine identifies where the tire and wheel assembly is out of balance. Then the technician corrects any imbalances by applying small weights to the rim at specific locations to even out the weight distribution.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts / Original Equipment (OE) Parts – Referred to as Original Equipment Manufacturer collision replacement parts, Original Equipment collision parts, or simply OE parts, these parts are designed by your vehicle manufacturer. They are produced to the same specifications and tolerances as the parts on the vehicle when it was manufactured. These parts meet stringent requirements for fit, finish, structural integrity, corrosion protection, and dent resistance. They are the only parts proven during vehicle development to deliver the intended level of protection as a whole system.

Overspray – Excess paint and material that spreads or blows beyond the intended area being sprayed.

Paint Failure / Cracking – This type of paint failure is typified by cracks in the painted surface, not unlike the cracks seen at the bottom of a dried mud puddle.

Paint Failure / Fading – This type of paint failure is typified by severe fade and can occur in any color but is more pronounced in reds, where the color may fade from red to pink or red to orange.

Paint Failure / Hazing – This type of paint failure occurs when a haze or fog-like substance surrounds a repaired area.

Paint Failure / Peeling – This type of paint failure is typified by paint peeling off the surface of the vehicle, indicating a sever loss of adhesion. This could be caused by any number of problems, not the least of which is improper preparation of the surface to be painted or a mismatch of paint and primer.

Paint Failure / Chalking – This type of paint failure is typified by a white material coming through the painted surface.

Paint Failure / Fish-Eye – This type of paint failure is indicated by a spot in the paint in the repaired area that resembles a fish eye. Contaminants on the vehicle’s surface cause this.

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) – A means of pulling a minor dent from a body panel that will not damage the paint and thus remove the need for post-repair refinishing.

Pigment – The coloring material in paint.

Post-Repair Diagnostic Scan – This step ensures that all systems on your vehicle are in proper working order after repairs are completed. It is important to note that the majority of diagnostic trouble codes do not result in a malfunction indicator lamp (dashboard light). Failure to perform a post-repair scan significantly increases the risk that your vehicle may be returned with malfunctioning or inoperable safety and convenience features. A post-repair diagnostic scan is important to ensure that your vehicle is returned to pre-accident condition and that all related diagnostic trouble codes, including those set during the repair, have been identified and cleared. A test drive may be required prior to clearing some codes, and some codes may only appear after certain driving distances, key cycles, or other specific criteria. A scan tool is used to link to your vehicle to communicate this information.

Pre-Accident Condition (also Pre-Loss condition) – The vehicle’s condition immediately before it was damaged. As this relates to automobile repair, it is restoring the vehicle to the condition it was in moments before the accident. This includes the restoration of:

  • the function of the vehicle and all its systems;
  • safety, including the ability of the vehicle to withstand a subsequent impact and absorb that impact, and protect the occupants as designed by the manufacturer in the same manner as an undamaged vehicle;
  • appearance of the vehicle

Pre-Repair Diagnostic Scan – This is an initial scan of your vehicle before repairs begin that provides Dream Team Collision, Inc. and your insurance company (if applicable) a complete report on the number of any diagnostic trouble codes that may be present after a collision. Scanning is used to identify errors, faults, and/or damage related and unrelated to a collision. This essential step helps eliminate unnecessary delays waiting for parts and/or additional insurance authorizations. It identifies issues with the vehicle that could be missed without a pre-repair diagnostic scan. A scan tool is used to link to your vehicle to communicate this information.

Prep – The process of washing, degreasing, and lightly abrading a panel before applying paint.

Pre-treatment (metal) – The chemical treatment of an unpainted metal surface prior to painting to promote adhesion and corrosion resistance.

Primer – The first layer of paint normally applied to an unpainted surface. It is designed to protect the substrate (bare metal) and promote adhesion of the topcoat.

Primer-Sealer – An undercoat that improves the adhesion of the topcoat, and which seals old painted surfaces to prevent bleed-through.

Primer / surface, Primer / filler – A pigmented material sprayed onto a vehicle, which acts as a primer and also has “filling” properties that will fill small imperfections in the surface. After sanding the primer/surface, a topcoat of paint will be applied.

Property Damage Liability – Pays for damage to the other driver’s vehicle to your policy’s limit. This is distinct from and in addition to per-person bodily injury liability and bodily injury liability for all persons injured in an accident.

Remove and Install (R&I) – Refers to a part removed from a damaged vehicle to be saved and reinstalled after the repair has been completed. In many cases, to repair damage to the outside of a vehicle, interior trim, seating, etc., must be removed to make a proper repair.

Remove and Replace (R&R) – Refers to a part removed from a damaged vehicle that cannot be acceptably repaired and must be replaced.

Rebuilt Part – A used OE or aftermarket part in which only those components that may be broken or unusable are replaced.

Reconditioned Collision Parts – In the collision repair world, reconditioned or refurbished collision parts generally means parts removed from an existing vehicle that are repaired and/or refinished, such as bumper covers, wheels, or lamps.

Remanufactured Mechanical Parts – Remanufactured generally means parts removed from an existing vehicle that are repaired and/or refinished. Generally speaking, parts remanufactured by the OE manufacturers (vehicle makers) begin with a used part that is completely disassembled, inspected, diagnosed, and cleaned, while any worn or inoperative parts are replaced. The part is reassembled and tested to ensure the part meets the same specifications as the original part. Remanufactured mechanical parts are produced by OEs and non-OE remanufacturers.

Repair Authorization – The point at which a consumer authorizes the repair to his or her vehicle (and in some cases contingent upon the insurance company settlement process).

Replacement Cost – The cost to repair or replace an insured item at the present time, according to its current worth.

Repair Order (RO) – Refers to the document that will be used by the body shop to keep track of the time spent, expendable materials consumed (such as paints, etc.), and parts used to repair a collision-damaged vehicle. Also called a Work Order.

Rubbing Compound – An abrasive paste that smoothes and polishes paint films. This is also commonly known as a polishing compound.

Sanding – An abrasive process used to level a coated surface prior to the application of a subsequent further coat.

Salvage Parts – Refers to parts salvaged from a vehicle, often from one deemed a total loss. Quality concerns may exist with salvaged parts because the source, condition and durability of the parts are not known. In some cases, the part could be a salvaged aftermarket part. This category commonly includes large body assemblies, such as complete bumper assemblies, doors, or complete front ends, severed from the original vehicle from the windshield forward.

Salvage parts are often referred to on your estimate with these names or abbreviations:

  • Salvage
  • Used
  • Recy (Recycled)
  • LKQ (Like Kind and Quality)

Note: The industry term “LKQ” is not to be confused with a company by the same name that offers recycled and aftermarket parts.

Sealer – An undercoat that improves the adhesion of the topcoat, and seals old painted surfaces to prevent bleed-through.

Seam Sealer – A chemical coating composition used to prevent corrosion and seal air and water leaks where sheet metal panels overlap by design. Such overlaps are typically decorative and not structurally supportive. They are usually only spot-welded and this process results in a closure that is not air or water tight so seam sealer is applied.

Sectioning – Cutting and removing only the damaged portion of a unibody structure after initial straightening and aligning, and replacing that area with a new OEM part or a properly inspected salvage component of similar type and design at the manufacturer’s recommended seams.

Select Repair Shop – Collision repair shops that participate in one or more insurance company Direct Repair Programs (DRP). Vehicle owners have the right to choose a body shop, whether it is part of a DRP or not.

Solid Color – A coating that contains only colored pigments, as opposed to a coating that contains small metallic flakes to create metallic paints.

Solvent – A liquid, usually volatile, that is used to reduce paint or primer viscosity. Solvents evaporate during application and drying of paint and therefore do not become a part of the dried film.

Steering – Any attempt by an insurer to get the consumer to take their vehicle to a shop, not of their own choosing. Steering is illegal in most states. Vehicle owners have the right to have their vehicle repaired at a shop of their choosing.

Subrogation – Refers to circumstances (such as when another party is responsible for an accident) in which your insurance company has paid expenses for medical and vehicle repair and then tries to recoup the expenses it paid from the other party or their insurance company.

Substrate – The uncoated/unpainted body panel surface.

Supplement – Additional repairs needed to complete the repair that were not identified on the original estimate. It is often impossible to identify all damage to a vehicle until it’s disassembled.

Surcharge – An increase in your auto insurance premium due to an at-fault accident or a moving violation.

Tack Rag – A specially treated cloth used to wipe a surface just before painting to remove any dust or contaminates that may inhibit paint adhesion or cause imperfections in the paint.

Thinner – A blend of solvents added to paint to reduce it to the correct consistency for application.

Three-Stage Color / Tri-Stage Paint – A topcoat color that consists of three parts—a base coat, a mid-coat, and a clear coat. This is also referred to as a tri-coat. This paint is known to be the most difficult to match precisely and is also the most expensive. Special blending and tinting are usually required.

Tint and Blend – The process of mixing toners to match the existing paint finish, then blending or overlapping the color into the adjacent panel to avoid color match problems.

Topcoat – The final layers of paint whose role is primarily decorative. However, the topcoat often protects against ultra-violet light present in sunlight.

Total Loss – A vehicle is considered a total loss when the collision, fire, or water damage is so extensive that repair costs would exceed the value of the vehicle. Depending on the state in which the vehicle is insured, a total loss may be defined differently. For example, in some states, a total loss may be equal to the vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV), while in other states, a total loss may be a percentage of the vehicle’s ACV—usually about 75%. This will also depend on the model year of the vehicle.

Generally speaking, if the repair cost is anywhere near the vehicle’s ACV, the insurance company may total the vehicle because subsequent supplemental repair claims encountered during the repair process could easily push the repair cost beyond the ACV amount. In most cases, the older the vehicle, the more easily it will total-out in the event of a crash.

Touch-up – A localized partial-repair method usually confined to the smallest area possible (for example, filling in small stone chips to an exterior panel), often completed with small touch-up sticks or specialized brushes.

Ultra-Violet Light – That portion of the light spectrum that is largely responsible for the degradation of paint.

Undercoating – An additional layer of protection and insulation applied to the undercarriage of a vehicle. Manufacturers may apply undercoating at the factory. It covers most of the car’s underside, floorboards boards, pans, gas tank, wheel wells, frame and suspension parts, mufflers, and exhaust pipes. Undercoating materials adhere to metal, even if painted. Most come in pressurized cans for easy spray-on application, although an even spread may be tough to achieve without professional applicators. Ingredients used in manufacturing include fiberglass, rubber, ceramics, silicone and asphalt, or petroleum. Each has different properties in terms of heat retention and resistance, but all do offer protection against the elements and damage.

Unibody – A type of vehicle body construction in which the outer skin, roof, and floor are formed and assembled to produce a single unit providing structural strength and rigidity. This concept was introduced in the 1920s but was not widely used in mass-produced automobiles until the late 1970s. Prior to this time, vehicle bodies were built and bolted to separate steel chassis. Conventional pickup trucks are still built in this manner.

Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Pays (up to the coverage limit) for injuries to you and other passengers in your vehicle and property damage caused by a hit-and-run driver or a motorist without liability insurance. It will also pay when your medical and vehicle repair bills are higher than the other driver´s liability coverage.

VIN – This is an acronym for Vehicle Identification Number, a number unique for every single vehicle produced. It not only identifies a specific vehicle but also contains coded information relative to the vehicle’s country of origin, manufacturing plant, trim code, drive train, and interior and exterior color, just to name a few. This number helps the body shop order the correct replacement parts and the correct paint color for each car. Any professional estimate or repair order will include this number.

Warranty – The limited written warranty issued to the vehicle purchaser by the manufacturer.

Your vehicle manufacturer’s Original Equipment collision replacement parts are the only service replacement parts warranted by your vehicle manufacturer. New aftermarket, salvage, or reconditioned parts used for collision repair may not be warranted by your vehicle manufacturer. Damage to your vehicle or its parts caused by the failure of new aftermarket, salvage, or reconditioned parts may not be covered by your vehicle manufacturer’s new-vehicle warranty.

Waterborne Paint – Waterborne paint has become the new standard in automotive refinishing. Waterborne paints have been evaluated as alternatives to solvent-based paints. The volatile organic compound (VOC) content of waterborne paints is significantly lower than conventional solvent-based paints, thereby reducing VOC emissions. Waterborne (or latex) paints are composed of synthetic resins and pigments that are kept dispersed in water by surfactants. They also contain small amounts of coalescing solvents. Waterborne paints dry by evaporation of the water. The coalescing solvents allow the resin particles to fuse together (coalesce) as the water evaporates to form a continuous coating. As a result, Waterborne paints reduce VOC emissions and worker exposure to hazardous air pollutants. These paints can also reduce the amount of hazardous waste generated, depending on the type of paint used.

Always a pleasure doing business with this company. Very friendly, knowledgeable and extremely helpful when dealing with insurance. They keep you updated with texts to let you know the progress and are always a phone call away for any questions you may have. Highly recommend. Thanks so much for your help.

Curtis Hyundai Owner

Everything from start to finish was as easy as you could want. The work was fantastic and the communication throughout the process was great! A+ all around!

John Chevrolet Owner

You guys have a first class operation. Everyone we had contact with during our repair were concerned and professional We especially enjoyed working with Justin. Thanks for taking care of an old vet!

Joseph Cadillac Owner

My experience was great from start to finish! Collision Correction’s communication with my insurance and rental car company seemed seamless, and the work on my vehicle was done well and completed quickly. I was kept updated throughout the entire process. Also, Justin Woods was great. Thanks!

Sarah Toyota Owner

I can’t say enough about the constant communication throughout the repair process. Darryl and team exceeded my expectations five star experience. Thank you!

Daniel Ford Owner

Amazing communication and assistance with my insurance company! Having never been in an accident before I was so thankful to have met you all and had your help navigating all of this! Perfect repair too and even on schedule!

Karen Toyota Owner

Justin was amazing. He kept me informed on the progress of the repairs and ordered the parts early and they finished the repairs days ahead of time even with the 4th of July holiday in the middle of the week.

Wes Ford Owner

Everyone there was so nice. I needed my Kia fixed quickly and they did an excellent job and really quick. They kept me up to date on everything. I would give them 5 stars. Love the service and the people. I highly recommend them. Thanks again!

Deborah Kia Owner