FAQ’S

This is where we at the California Collision repair center in Pleasanton gladly answer customers’ frequently-asked questions about collision repair and auto detailing services, among other things.

 
Q1 - How long will it take to repair my car?

A: Because each collision repair job is different, there is no standard time period in which to make repairs. The length of time is dependent on the extent of the damage, availability of parts, and, of course, your insurance adjuster’s timeliness. However, we will do everything we can to keep the repair time as short as possible.

 

Q2 - Do I need an appointment for an estimate? How long will it take? Is there a cost?

A: We provide free collision repair estimates and you may drop in for one anytime during our hours of operation. Estimates take approximately 20 minutes to complete, depending on the extent of the damage. You are responsible for your deductible if you have one, payable to California Collision at the completion of repairs The insurance company, however, is responsible for all repair expenses above your deductible for collision repair. It costs you no more than choosing the repair facility that provides the highest-quality repairs.

Call us to schedule your collision repair, auto body detailing, upholstery restoration, headlight restoration, windshield repair or replacement – or any other specific auto repair needs!

 

Q3 - How difficult is it to match my paint color?

A: While challenging, California Collision will take the steps necessary to ensure your satisfaction with the match. As far as collision repair is concerned, proper paint-matching requires a high level of skill and technique and, often, a great deal of patience. At California Collision, our technicians are trained and certified by the paint manufacturers, so you’re sure of selecting a repair facility that takes the time to produce a match in the perfect range and won’t be satisfied with merely good results.

 

Q4 - Can you save me my deductible?

A: An honest repair shop will always say no. Your insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurance carrier. It states that if you are involved in a collision, you are responsible for the first portion of the repairs (your deductible) and any depreciation or betterment on mechanical parts. The insurance company will pay the rest. If we do fewer repairs than agreed upon with the insurance company, you are still responsible for the initial amount – your deductible. Any reduction in cost should go directly to the insurance company. However, you may legitimately reduce your costs for collision repair. You can speak with the insurance company about an “appearance allowance,” which is a negotiated compensation for NOT replacing the damaged part on your car and agreeing to compensate you. The agreed-upon price is a matter for you and your insurance company to negotiate.

Q5 - What if my car is a total loss?

A: If the damage to your car is greater than your car’s worth, our collision repair center in Pleasanton can assist you in negotiating with your insurance company to reach an acceptable settlement.

Q6 - Do I need to file an accident report?

A: Yes, if the total damage is greater than $700. If the total damage is less than $700, you do not need to file an accident report.

Q7 - Should I have my car repaired at the same place it was purchased? Does my dealer know more about fixing my car than other repair facilities?

A: Your dealer may not be your best choice for collision repair. Many of the highest-quality facilities in the area are not affiliated with dealers. Your dealer generally has no unique edge when it comes to repairing your vehicle after a collision. Rather than just returning to your dealer for collision repair, we encourage you to be a careful shopper when selecting a repair facility. Ask others you know about their experiences with collision repair and select the shop that you think will provide the highest-quality results for you.