Following a car accident, you will likely take the car to an auto body shop. However, if the insurance company deems that it will cost more to repair your car than it is worth, they will deem your car salvaged. When this occurs your mind will likely be racing with questions. Here are some questions you may have about auto body shops and salvaged cars.
Does the Auto Body Shop Determine if the Car is Salvaged?
In some cases, an auto body shop may work with an insurance adjuster or company to determine how much it will cost to repair the vehicle based on the damage that is present when you bring it to the repair shop. In other cases, an insurance company will have their adjuster make estimates and base it on that. Regardless, the auto body shop does not have the final say in whether a car is salvaged or not. If you do not agree with the insurance company, you will have to work with them, not the auto body shop.
Can an Auto Body Shop Repair a Salvaged Car?
If your car is deemed salvaged, the insurance company will pay you the value of the car. You will have the option to buy the salvaged car back from the insurance company by allowing them to deduct the value from your settlement. If you do this, an auto body shop can help to repair the salvaged car. However, you must have a release from the insurance company and/or a salvaged title in your name before most companies will begin to work with you.
What Factors Affect the Price You Will Pay an Auto Body Shop to Repair a Salvaged Car?
When a salvaged car needs to be repaired, there are many factors that affect the price. Obviously the scope of work that needs to be done has a huge influence on the price. Other factors include whether you want new parts, factory certified used parts or parts pulled from other salvaged or inoperable cars. The timeline for when you want your car returned to you also plays a role in the price. And lastly, the auto body repair shop you use will affect the price as every company charges different amounts. Always get estimates before starting the work to ensure you are paying a fair amount.
If your car was in an accident in the greater St. Paul, MN area and needs body work, bring it to Suburban Auto Body. We can help repair everything from minor damage to salvaged cars. Give us a call today or stop by for more information or to schedule an appointment.