Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions we get from clients. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if your question isn’t answered below.
How do I get my car towed?
We have our own private transport truck and the experts to carefully load and deliver your vehicle for repairs. Please contact our office to schedule this service.
Where do I get my accident claim number?
Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it with you when you come in to begin the repair process. Fantastic Finishes will do the rest!
Are you open on Saturday?
No, we are open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my car for repair?
Absolutely. We generally order your vehicle’s parts when we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off. If your vehicle is found unsafe to drive, we will help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.
If my vehicle frame is damaged is it a total loss?
No, a car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company’s determined value of your car. 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 Celette and Car bench systems we can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If its determined that the Structure is damaged beyond repair, that section can simply be replaced.
Can you match my car’s paint color?
Today’s modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. Fantastic Finishes 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.
Can I get other service work done on my car while it is in the body shop?
Yes, just let your advisor know what other work you’d like done so we can make the necessary arrangements.
How long will my car repairs take?
Unlike standard maintenance and repairs, collision repairs can have many facets and require parts that may not be readily available from the Manufacture, which can make it difficult to determine an exact length of time needed to repair your vehicle, your client advisor will keep up to date on the repair process and time frames as the repair progresses
Can I get a ride home when I drop off my car?
Yes, we are happy to provide this service to you. We want each customer’s visit to be a positive experience and will work diligently towards that goal. We provide a pickup and delivery service.
Do 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 or if you are the claimant. 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 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 car?
Fantastic Finishes guarantees all repairs performed against defects in workmanship and materials for as long as you own the vehicle. Parts warrantees are whatever the manufacture term is.
Do I have to pay a deductible?
The amount of deductible you are responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. 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 agent 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 car.
Who do I pay my deductible to?
If your deductible is not waived, it will be your responsibility to pay Fantastic Finishes when you pick up your vehicle. If you aren’t sure about your deductible, you can call your agent and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether it will be your responsibility.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept bank checks, wire transfers, select insurance checks and cash only. We are sorry, but we do not accept credit cards at this time.
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 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. Lastly, do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 90 DAYS:
Do NOT wax or polish the vehicle. This will allow the finish to dry and harden completely.