Auto Repair Help Michigan City
Here we have gathered a list of frequently asked questions regarding the auto repair process after an accident. Our goal is to make your accident as worry-free as possible.
I’ve been in an accident! Now what?
If you’ve been in an accident, give us a call! 219-87-CRASH (7274)
Have your vehicle brought to Rocky’s and make sure you file a claim with your auto insurance company. All we need from you is:
– Your Claim Number
– Claim Repesentative Name and Telephone Number
We’ll take care of the rest!
Do I have to take my car to where my insurance company says?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! In Indiana, state law gives you the right to choose whichever auto repair shop you’d like. Your insurance company may have a list of “preferred” shops, but the truth is, those shops give your insurance company a discounted rate. This discount benefits only the Insurance company, and doesn’t guarantee your work will be done well.
I still need to get around…What about a rental car?
Rocky’s will help you obtain a rental car!
In order to rent you’ll need some basic information:
– Valid drivers license
– Credit card
– Claim number if insurance is paying for the rental.
– Rental agencies charge for gas so remember to replace the fuel you use.
Where do the parts come from?
Replacement parts for your car come from three different sources:
– OEM
– Aftermarket and Reconditioned
– Used or Recycled
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) means that replacement parts for your car are manufactured by same company that built it; Ford, GM, Honda, Acura, Toyota, etc.
OEM parts are distributed through local dealers. Because of the distribution chain established by automobile manufacturers, parts are sold through car dealers, not shipped from the manufacturing plants directly to the end user. Selling them through dealers allows local inventory to exist which means faster access to most parts than having to wait to get them all from a couple of factories around the country. Domestic and Japanese parts are generally available the same or next day. European and other Asian manufacturers generally take 3 to 5 days depending upon the manufacturer and dealer inventory.
Unlike other facilities that may not be completely honest with you in order to capture your car repair, we give you accurate information based upon real circumstance, and our experience, so you can plan accordingly.
Aftermarket parts come from companies other than the original manufacturer of your car. They are intended identical to the parts made by the original manufacturer. Not every car part is reproduced by Aftermarket suppliers. Typically only the most commonly replaced parts will be available such as bumpers, hoods headlights and fenders. Aftermarket replacement parts, if available for your car, are generally delivered same day or next.
Reconditioned parts are parts that have been repaired by companies other than the vehicle manufacturer and re-sold ready to paint or install. Some examples are: Plastic bumper facsias, chrome bumpers, steering racks, alloy rims, alternators and water pumps.
Used or Recycled parts are undamaged parts removed from a vehicle that has gone to a salvage yard. Salvage parts are usually available in 1 to 5 days depending upon how far away the parts are.
What about payment?
Ultimately, you as our customer are responsible for authorizing repairs, and paying the bill when complete. With an insurance company involved, we will communicate costs and repair requirements directly to them on your behalf so you don�t waste time and become aggravated with the tedious process.
Some insurance companies will pay our shop directly for repairs, others must pay you because of the way the policy is written, and then you in turn are responsible for paying us for the work. Rocky’s Body Shop accepts cash and all major credit cards as payment. Payment is due upon completion of work.
What about a guarantee?
All of our parts and service are 100% guaranteed!