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Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do In The Event Of An Accident?

None of us want to be in an accident, but if you are, it is important that key facts be obtained for later use. In the event of an accident, call the police, if at all possible do not move your vehicle until ask to do so by the Police. From a safe position take key photos of the accident with a cell phone or camera, such as the vehicles involved and the location. Also write down the following information if possible: 

  • Date and time of accident

  • Name and address of others involved

  • Name and addresses of witnesses

  • Other party’s insurance company and agent

  • Investigating police department

  • Police report number

 

Are You Open Saturday?

Yes, Saturday's 9:00 am - 12:00pm and evening's by Appointment.

 

Which Insurance Companies Do You Work With?

We work with all insurance companies and welcome the opportunity to service your claim. We eliminate much of the inconvenience of a typical auto claim through our associations with most auto insurance companies and their agents. Please keep in mind that although your insurance company may refer you to a specific repair facility or provide you with a list of preferred shops, you are entitled under state law to choose where your vehicle is repaired. http://michigan.gov/documents/sos-356_15976_7.pdf

 

Make us at Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories your first choice for collision and repair.

 

Can I Get A Rental Car?

Yes. At Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories we are a HERTZ satellite location. We have rental cars here and will be happy to assist you with verifying rental coverage, making a reservation, and get you on your way.

 

After Dropping Off My Car For Repairs How Do I Get Home?

We provide free pickup and delivery service within the Ionia county area.

 

Can I Get Other Service Work Done On My Vehicle While It Is In The Body Shop?

Yes. Just let your advisor know what other work you would like done so that he or she can make the necessary arrangements.

 

Is There A Warranty On The Repairs To My Vehicle?

Yes. We will provide you with a written Limited Lifetime Warranty in effect for as long as you own your vehicle.  Stop in to Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories and ask to see a copy.

 

How Long Will the Repairs to My Vehicle Take?

Your advisor can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete the repairs to your vehicle. Be sure to check with your advisor for the specifics on your vehicle.

 

Will The Parts Be Ordered Before I Drop Off My Vehicle for Repair?

Absolutely. We generally order your automobile's parts one week prior to your vehicle's scheduled date.  This gives us time to receive the parts before your car gets to the shop, so we can get your car back to you as soon as possible.  

If your vehicle is found unsafe to drive, then we would help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible ad get parts ordered as soon as we have the approval.  â€‹

 

How Will I Know When My Car Is Done?

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

 

My Insurance Company Said If I Did Not Use A Shop on Their Repair Program the Repair Wouldn't Be Warranted?

The insurance company does not give a warranty, the repair facility on their direct repair program or the one you chose provides the warranty.  It’s best to ask the repair facility to see a copy of the warranty before you choose.

 

My Estimate Says I Have Frame Damage, Is My Vehicle Totaled Or Will It Drive The Same If It's Repaired?

Today’s vehicle construction relies on a number of lightweight high strength steel panels and parts, properly welded together to provide structural strength. Manufactures have developed replacement and repair procedures for these frame components also called unitized construction. At Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories we follow Manufactures, I-CAR, and ATEG training and repair procedures, while using some of the latest in frame repair equipment, such as a Kansas Jack 360 frame rack, Shark Computerized Measuring System, and a Pro Spot Squeeze Type resistant Welder to bring your vehicle back to a pre-loss condition. Stop in to Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories and let us put your mind at ease.

 

My Insurance Company Estimate Specified Aftermarket and/or LKQ Parts. What Are Those? 

Aftermarket parts are non-OEM parts that are not made by your vehicles manufacturer. LKQ parts, or "Like, Kind, Quality", are used parts. To lower the cost of the vehicle repair, your insurance company may specify either or both. You do have the right to specify OEM parts under these circumstances you may be required to pay the difference. However some OEM parts are price matchable to the aftermarket and/or LKQ part. Bring your estimate to Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories and let us work to get you the best possible part and repair.

 

Can You Match The Paint Color?

Yes. Today's factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. We have partnered with PPG using Envirobase Waterborne Paint System. You can be assured that when it comes to color match, PPG is the industry leader. PPG supports its color matching effort with quality color matching tools and systems. PPG works in close concert with vehicle manufacturers and pigment suppliers to stay ahead of the latest OEM color formulations. PPG along with Hamblin Body Shop and Accessories gives you a Lifetime PPG Paint Performance Guarantee.

 

What Are Betterment Charges?

Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use (i.e., tires, batteries, and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. These betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle.

 

Do I Have To Pay A Deductible?

The amount of deductible that you will be responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. If you carry broad collision, and you were not at fault, your insurance company most likely will waive your deductible. Insurance companies determine fault by your account of the accident when you make the claim, and by reviewing the accident report filed with the police department. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call your agent and he can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.

 

Who Do I Pay My Deductible To?

If a deductible applies, it will be your responsibility to pay it to us when you pick up your vehicle

 

What Forms of Payment Do You Accept?

We accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and Debit cards.

 

Can I wash my vehicle?

 

Recommendations and precautions in the first 30 days

 

DO

  • Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge.

  • Always use clean fresh water.

  • Wash your vehicle in the shade.

 

DON'T

  • Do not use a commercial car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface.

  • Do not "dry wipe" your vehicle. Dry wiping can scratch the finish.

  • Do not drive on gravel roads. Chipping the finish is easily done in the first 30 days.

  • Avoid parking under trees and utility lines which are likely to attract birds. Bird droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface. Also, tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface.

  • Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish.

  • Do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface.

 

Recommendations and precautions in the first 90 days

 

DON'T

  • Do not wax or polish the vehicle. This will allow the finish to dry and harden completely.

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