Question 1

When should I contact the insurance company?

Accepted Answer

We recommend contacting us first. Our team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring you take the right steps at the right time.

Question 2

What is an auto estimate?

Accepted Answer

An auto estimate is a preliminary assessment of repair costs based on visible damage, current part prices, and the estimator's judgment of required repair time. Due to the complex nature of modern vehicles, some damage may not be apparent until disassembly. Therefore, the initial estimate may not cover all necessary repairs. Our approach is to estimate only clearly visible damage, with any uncertain items left as "open" for potential later addition.

Question 3

When does National Auto Specialty need the estimate from my insurance company?

Accepted Answer

We require the insurance company's estimate when they choose to have their own representative assess the damage. This estimate is crucial for us to accurately inform them of any additional charges that may arise. Remember, in Rhode Island, you have the legal right to choose your repair shop without obtaining multiple estimates. We can handle all communication with your insurance company if you provide us with your claim number.

Question 4

What is a repair bill supplement?

Accepted Answer

A supplement is an adjustment to the original repair bill, accounting for differences between the initial estimate and the actual work required. If an insurance company isn't covering the repair, we'll contact you about any additional costs before proceeding. For insurance-covered repairs, we'll handle the supplement directly with the insurer and inform you of any changes to the work or delivery date.

Question 5

What is the claim number and why is it so important?

Accepted Answer

The claim number is a unique identifier assigned by your insurance company when you report an accident. It's essential for accessing all information related to your claim. Without this number, there's no formal claim on file, which could hinder reimbursement for repairs. Once you provide us with the claim number, we can communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf, streamlining the repair process.

Question 6

Where do the parts come from?

Accepted Answer

Replacement parts for your vehicle can come from these main sources: OEM (original equipment manufacturer), aftermarket, reconditioned, or used/recycled parts. OEM parts are made by your car's manufacturer and distributed through local dealers. Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies to match OEM specifications. Reconditioned parts are repaired and resold, while used parts come from salvage yards. We order parts in advance to make sure they're available when your car arrives for repair.

Question 7

What does OEM stand for?

Accepted Answer

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. These are parts made by the same company that manufactured your vehicle. They're distributed through local dealerships, which allows for quicker access to most parts. Availability can vary depending on the make of your vehicle, with domestic and Japanese parts typically available within a day, while European and other Asian manufacturers may take three to five days.

Question 8

My insurance company wants to use "LKQ parts." What are they?

Accepted Answer

LKQ stands for like, kind, and quality. This term refers to used or aftermarket parts that are manufactured by companies other than your vehicle's original manufacturer. These parts are designed to meet or exceed the specifications of the original parts.

Question 9

What are aftermarket parts?

Accepted Answer

Aftermarket parts are replacement components manufactured by companies other than your vehicle's original manufacturer. These parts are designed to function similarly to original parts and are often available for quick delivery, typically within a day.

Question 10

How long will it take to repair my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

The duration of repairs depends on several factors, including insurance approval, parts procurement, and the actual repair work. Insurance approval typically takes one to three days. Parts procurement can range from same-day to three days, depending on the source and vehicle make. The actual repair time is estimated in labor hours. Most repairs take two to five days, while more extensive repairs for towed-in vehicles may take between one and two weeks after approval and parts are secured. Our efficient processes and strong industry relationships often allow us to complete repairs faster than the industry average.

National Auto Specialty

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