Business Details
About
Auto Body ShopAuto Body RepairAuto MaintenanceAuto Dent Removal ServiceAuto Glass Shop
Elgin’s Advanced Factory-Level Trained, Certified, & Trusted Body Shop - At Forrest Auto Body we are proud to be certified by the leading manufacturers in the industry and to be among the top 10% of collision repair businesses in the country. In the words of the manufacturers, we are in an elite league as a best-in-class business operation.
Details
- DebitAvailable
- Mobile paymentsAvailable
- RestroomAvailable
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.8
97 reviews
5 stars
89
4 stars
2
3 stars1
2 stars1
1 star
4
- JJJoseph JonsonSep 17, 20255.0Mike and his crew are fantastic to work with. Always went above and beyond to make sure things went smooth and the work was excellent! Tyler who I worked with was simply a great guy to have on my case! Thank you Forest… my crossfire is alive and my perfect because of you all!
- CCCesarJul 29, 20255.0Very informative and easy to work with, Forrest did an amazing job with paint matching my new bumper on my civic
- DJDoug JodtsAug 15, 20245.0Great customer service! Will definitely come back if we need body work in the future!!
- BDBenjamin DeLaughterMar 27, 20245.0Forrest autobody is incredibly fair and moral in the way they run their business. That is pretty hard to find in this industry these days. They also do amazing work, and I cannot recommend them enough!
- FDFaith DeLaughterMar 27, 20245.0Literally the nicest auto body shop I’ve ever been to! They were so kind to my crazy kids running around and the job was done on the car quick. Would definitely recommend this place!
Frequently Asked Questions About Forrest Auto Body
My car isn't drivable, can I get it towed to your shop?
Yes! Call us at (847) 695-6644 and let us know you’re in need of a tow to our facility.
Who do I pay for the vehicle being towed?
If you are going through insurance, in most cases, the tow bill will be billed directly to them. If you decide to pay out of pocket, the tow bill will be added to the final bill and due at the time of repair completion.
How can 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. In some cases, you may be required to pay for the rental out of pocket and then submit the bill to insurance for reimbursement.
Do you offer loaner cars?
We do not offer loaner cars; however, we can help you set up a rental reservation.
How do I get an estimate?
In most cases, we offer estimates free of charge. When in need of an estimate, we do appreciate you making an appointment so we can guarantee the time it requires to make you feel comfortable in your decision to let us repair your vehicle, however, this is not required.
Call us at (847) 695-6644.
Do I need more than one estimate?
No, it is up to you to decide how many estimates you would like and if you want to compare with more than one shop. If you decide on a shop, have your insurance company deal with them directly. In an insurance claim, the only estimate they are going to recognize is the approved insurance copy, or, the Estimate of Record (EOR) – getting more estimates won’t change the amount paid out on a claim. However, if the amount seems too low for repair, that’s okay, we can start with what the insurance company has already approved and get everything else necessary for the repair through the blueprinting and supplement process.
I already have an estimate from my insurance company, what do I do next?
If your insurance adjuster already came to look at your vehicle, or you have your approved estimate through a virtual claim, you are able to call and schedule the repairs. You can fax, email a copy, drop it off, or give us your insurance information and we can attain our own copy of the estimate. We must start the repair process from the original estimate.
Will my estimate include all new OEM factory replacement parts?
Each insurance company has different parts guidelines. Many insurance companies only allow for aftermarket (copied and made by another company), remanufactured (previously damaged) or used (LKQ) parts to be used during the repair. Forrest Auto Body will attempt to ensure that only OEM parts are used during repair through price-matching and mirror-matching; however, you always have the choice to pay any difference in part price if you would like to use all factory parts in your repair.
Can I have my vehicle repaired at the shop of my choice?
Yes, in the state of Illinois it is always your responsibility, and your right, to choose who will repair your vehicle.
How long will the repair take?
There are many factors to consider when estimating length of time for the repairs. These can be part availability, paint and material dry times, availability of specific equipment within our facility, and insurance delays on supplement. We understand that you depend on your transportation and we work very hard to complete the repair in a timely manner.
Will my vehicle drive the same?
Vehicles with frame or suspension damage will require a two or four-wheel alignment. We have specifications on every vehicle to ensure that the frame or unibody is returned to its pre-accident condition.
Will my color match?
With our highly skilled professionals and paint matching technology, we are able to reproduce the finish on your vehicle. We only use the highest quality paint.
What if I want to keep my vehicle after it is totaled?
In an insurance claim, if your vehicle is 9 model years or older, you have the right to retain ownership of the vehicle, however the amount of the settlement may be reduced by the salvage value; and if you choose to not have the vehicle repaired at our facility from that point forward, you may be responsible for storage and admin fees if the insurance company does not cover them.
Do you guarantee your work?
Yes. We have a limited lifetime warranty on all of our work for as long as you own the vehicle. It is important to know that your body shop is the only party responsible for a warranty on your repair, NOT your insurance company.
I picked up my vehicle but noticed something wrong after I got home, what should I do?
We do everything in our power to ensure your vehicle is back to pre-accident condition as your vehicle leaves our shop. If you notice anything that doesn’t seem right or experience any problems, please do not hesitate to give us a call or stop back in.
Where do I get a claim number?
Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Make sure to write it down and bring it with you when you come in to begin the repair process; we’ll do the rest.
What is a deductible and how do I know if I have to pay one?
If you were not at fault and the repair is going through the other party’s insurance, then you will not have a deductible. A deductible is determined at the purchase of your insurance premium and can range anywhere between $50 and $3,000. If the repair is going through your insurance policy, then the cause of the accident will determine the deductible amount. Ask your insurance company or go through your policy to find out.
The other insurance company says my car is a "total loss". What does that mean?
The cost of repairs plus the value of the vehicle in damaged condition (salvage value) – is greater than the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of the vehicle prior to the accident.
What are OEM Parts?
Original Equipment Manufactured (OEM) is a term for parts made by the manufacturer of your vehicle.
What are Aftermarket Parts?
These are parts not made by your vehicle manufacturer. They are also known as Quality Replacement Parts (QRP). Aftermarket parts are much cheaper than OEM parts and might not have the same fit, function, or safety rating as OEM parts.
What are LKQ Parts?
LKQ – (Like Kind & Quality). These parts are more commonly referred to as used or recycled parts. These parts generally come from automotive salvage yards. Salvage yards purchase damaged or totaled vehicles, remove the good parts and sell them as LKQ parts. All LKQ parts are inspected for prior damage, rust, and to make sure they are OEM and not Aftermarket. Forrest Auto Body will only use A0 (Undamaged, Insurance Quality) recycled parts.
How is the Actual Cash Value (ACV) determined?
The ACV of a vehicle is calculated just like how a comparative market analysis report is run on a home in Real Estate. The insurance company will use comparable vehicles to determine the value while taking into account prior damage, mileage, and vehicle history. The insurance company will also factor in salvage value and fair market value of the vehicle in their determination. Usually, the purchase price of the vehicle is not included in this determination as vehicles depreciate over time.
What is subrogation?
Subrogation is the process by which your insurance company pays for the repairs to your vehicle, and will attempt to collect from another insurer or party that hit you. Your collision coverage will require you to pay your deductible, which may be refunded once the other party pays.
When do I pay my deductible?
When the repairs are complete and you pick up your vehicle. The insurance check issued will be minus your deductible amount, if you have one, and at the time you pick up your vehicle Forrest Auto Body will collect both amounts.
When is my deductible due?
Your deductible is due when you pick up your vehicle. If you are expecting your deductible to be reduced or waived we suggest you contact your insurance carrier and confirm prior to picking up your vehicle.
When is my final payment due?
Payment is due at the time the repair is complete. Please bring any insurance checks with you and your deductible – if you are going through insurance. If you want, you are able to simply sign the check over to us and do not need to deposit it into your account.
Can you help bury my deductible?
No. When you purchased your insurance policy, you signed a contract saying you will pay the first amount of the claim up to your deductible. Repairers should not be asked to hide the deductible. That practice would constitute fraud by both the shop and consumer. The penalties for insurance fraud are severe. If a shop offers to save your deductible, they are absorbing that at your cost. They are not doing the said repairs in order to make up for your deductible. This could lead to unsafe and unsatisfactory repairs which will ultimately cost you at some point.
What types of payment do you accept?
Cash, Money Order, Debit Card, Insurance Draft.
Can Forrest Auto Body tow my car if it isn’t drivable?
Yes, you can call (847) 695-6644 for towing service to our facility if your car isn’t drivable.
Who is responsible for paying the tow bill if my car is towed to Forrest Auto Body?
If using insurance, the tow bill is usually billed directly to them. If paying out of pocket, the tow bill will be added to your final repair bill.
Does Forrest Auto Body offer rental or loaner cars while my vehicle is being repaired?
We do not offer loaner cars but can help arrange rental cars. Insurance coverage varies, so check your policy for rental car benefits.
How can I get an estimate for repairs at Forrest Auto Body?
Estimates are generally free, and although appointments are appreciated to allocate adequate time, walk-ins are welcome. Call (847) 695-6644 to schedule.
Will Forrest Auto Body use OEM parts for my vehicle repairs?
We endeavor to use OEM parts by price- and mirror-matching, but insurance guidelines may require aftermarket or used parts. You may choose to pay the difference for OEM parts.
What certifications does Forrest Auto Body hold?
We are certified by manufacturers including Alfa Romeo, Ford, GM, Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Mazda, and Subaru, ensuring factory-level quality collision repairs.
What are the operating hours of Forrest Auto Body?
We are open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday by appointment from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and closed on Sundays and certain holidays.
Where is Forrest Auto Body located and how can I contact them?
Located at 950 Villa Street, Elgin, IL 60120. Phone: (847) 695-6644, Email: ForrestAuto@gmail.com, Website: https://www.forrestautobody.com/contact/
What nearby places can I visit around Forrest Auto Body while my car is being repaired?
You can visit Fatsoz Bar and Grill for dining, Wright Avenue Park for outdoor leisure, or Cakes By One Bakery for desserts, all located near our facility in Elgin.
Are there automotive services nearby if I need additional repairs or parts?
Yes, nearby automotive services include Psymonsen Airbrush, Auto Works Elgin, All in One Automotive for window tinting and accessories, and All American Auto Body for additional body repairs.
Can I conveniently access Forrest Auto Body using local transportation or while running errands nearby?
Forrest Auto Body is centrally located near businesses like Metro by T-Mobile and Boost Mobile, making it convenient if you need mobile services or want to run errands while your vehicle is serviced.