Q. Am I required by law to get more than one estimate?

A. You are not required by law to get more than one estimate.

Q. Can I take my vehicle anywhere that I want, to get the repairs done?

A. The IL state law ensures that you are able to make the choice of where to repair your vehicle. It is your car and it is your choice! An insurer should not be allowed to request or require that you get the repairs done anywhere particular.

Q. How long will it take to fix my vehicle?

A. We make every effort to make sure your damaged vehicle is repaired quickly, but how long it takes, is determined by the amount and severity of damage. It also depends on the type of vehicle and availability of parts. Naturally, the more common the car, the more likely the parts will be readily available. Because today's vehicles are more complex than ever, not all damaged parts can always be seen and therefore, not ordered before the vehicle arrives for repair.

Q. To whom and when do I have to pay my deductible/co-pay?

A. Your deductible/co-pay is paid to the repair facility, not the insurance company as many people may think. Unless prior credit arrangements have been made, most repair facilities expect payment of the deductible/co-pay at the time the repairs are completed. We except Personal Checks, Visa, Master Card, & Discover cards.

Q. What is a Direct Repair Provider?

A. Many insurance companies name a Direct Repair Provider to handle their customer’s collision repair and initial claims processing. This means that your insurance company may suggest you use a certain repair facility. This method can eliminate the hassle of you gathering your own estimates and the repair process is streamlined. Community Auto Body is a Direct Repair facility for a variety of different insurance companies and can process your claim on the spot.

Q. Are you open on Saturday?

A. Yes, we are open from 8:00am until 12:00pm.

Q. Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my vehicle for repair?

A. Absolutely. We generally order your vehicle's parts at the time that we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off a couple of days later unless your vehicle is found unsafe to drive, then we would help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.

Q. Can I get other service work done on my vehicle while it is in the body shop?

A. Yes. Just let your Estimator know about the other work that you would like done, so that we can make the necessary arrangements for the extra repairs.

Q. How do I go about getting the rental car?

A. If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements when you drop off your vehicle. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy or if you are the claimant. Currently we recommend Enteprise Rentals (630) 588-3830, they provide direct billing to most insurance companies and provide us with great service. Check your policy and/or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and what your specific limitations are.

Q. Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?

A. Yes, Community Auto Body Inc. offers a warranty that is good for the lifetime of the vehicle.

Q. How will I know when my vehicle is done?

A. You will be notified by phone when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Feel free to call or e-mail your estimator during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.

Q. Can I get a ride home when I drop off my car?

A.  Yes, we would be happy to provide this service to you. We want each customer's visit to be a positive experience, and we will work diligently towards that goal.

Q. What should I know about the parts to be repaired or replaced?

A. Parts are classified as:

New - These parts generally are made to original manufacturer's specifications, either by the vehicle manufacturer or an independent company. Your state may require repair shops to tell you if non-original equipment will be used in the repair. Prices and quality of these parts vary.

Remanufactured, rebuilt and reconditioned - These terms generally mean the same thing: parts have been restored to a sound working condition. Many manufacturers offer a warranty covering replacement parts, but not the labor to install them.

Salvage - These are used parts taken from another vehicle without alteration. Salvage parts may be the only source for certain items, though their reliability is seldom guaranteed.

Q. What does being part of ASA mean?

A.  ASA - When your vehicle is repaired by an Automotive Service Association (ASA) member-business, you can expect the following:

An attentiveness to you, the customer. ASA members work to earn and keep your satisfaction and trust. An average of 77 percent of customers are repeat customers.
Repairs and service backed by years of experience. The average ASA shop is 22 years old and 89 percent of ASA members are part of family-owned businesses.

Adherence to ASA's Code of Ethics that outlines professional business practices.
Accurate diagnosis and repairs. ASA members stay up-to-date with evolving vehicle technology by attending technical education classes.

Access to information. By belonging to ASA, members have access to more than 30 association benefits, including the latest technical and management education, and regulatory information.