Body Shop FAQ
BODY SHOP FAQ
Check out the following answers to common questions we receive about our body shop at Clift Buick GMC.
Do I have to use the body shop recommended by my insurance company to repair my car?
No. You can expedite your repair claim for a vehicle that you finance, lease, or own by choosing our body shop, leaving your car here, and then telling your insurance company where the vehicle is located. We work with any and all insurance carriers.
How much is an estimate?
Estimates are completely free and incur no obligation. You do not have to get more than one estimate from the shop you want. You do not have to bring your damaged car to the insurance company. They must come to the vehicle if they want to verify the damage.
What will my insurance company do?
The job of your insurance company is to restore your vehicle to its appearance, value, and function before the loss. In Michigan, insurance companies have 30 days to acknowledge receiving your claim and 60 days to finish the claim investigation, which may include sending an adjuster to look at your car.
Should I take a check offered by my insurance company?
Of course. However, such a check may require you to sign a release. If you are not sure of the compensation, be sure to talk to a lawyer before you sign or deposit anything. You may have hidden damage or injuries that have yet to come out when you receive the check. If you sign a release, you can no longer claim compensation for any hidden problems.
Can my insurance company force me to drive my vehicle if it is not safe?
Absolutely not. You do not need to drive a damaged car if you're concerned about safety, and could be ticketed for driving with a safety hazard. Towing is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy and may also be part of your car warranty. If you're worried about driving an unsafe vehicle, have it towed to the repair shop instead of risking an accident.
Can my insurance company force me to use imitation parts for repairs?
Yes, Michigan state law allows for the use of non-OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) aftermarket crash parts when your vehicle is repaired. However, they must first give you a written estimate that clearly identifies each non-OEM part that is used and includes the following statement:
This estimate has been prepared based on the use of aftermarket crash parts supplied by a source other than the manufacturer of your motor vehicle. Warranties that apply to these replacement parts are provided by the manufacturer, distributor, or insurer of these parts.
You then have the right to proceed with the use of those non-OEM parts, or insist on the use of OEM parts, which typically requires an additional cost that you have to pay.
Why should I use your body shop?
We are staffed by factory-trained automotive techs and I-Car Gold Professionals who boast 150 years of combined experience. Our green facility uses two types of frame straightening machines, a universal frame measuring system, two downdraft paint spray booths, and a computerized paint mix machine to repair you car. You also get a free car vehicle with your appointment to our shop.
What is the repair process?
We start by preparing an estimate of cost and time based on information from your insurance company or an inspection from one of our estimators. We then order the parts and inspect each one to ensure they're right for the job.
We disassemble the vehicle and reassess the condition to make sure there is no additional damage that requires the estimate to be refined. After that, we make all repairs, and then inspect and test everything that was done. We paint any parts as needed, reassemble your car, and then give it a final inspection and test drive before cleaning it and delivering it to you.
If at any time, our estimate has to be changed, we will get your approval before continuing.
What if I have any questions?
If you have any questions, please contact our body shop at Clift Buick GMC, located in Adrian, MI. You're welcome to bring in your vehicle if you have specific concers about it.