Answers to your most frequently asked questions...
Do I have the right to choose the repair shop even if the insurance company is paying for the repair?
Yes!! You have the right to have your car repaired at any shop you choose. Your insurance company is required by law to pay the reasonable cost to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition according to the coverages you purchased. Your insurance policy will specify what coverages you have.
Can ACI arrange a rental car for me?
Yes!! ACI can arrange for a rental car to be ready for you when you drop off your car for repair. You can then leave it with us after your repairs are complete. How's that for easy?
Is the repair of my vehicle guaranteed?
Yes!! You will receive our Lifetime Written Guarantee the day you pick up your vehicle. ACI has what we believe to be one of the best guarantees available anywhere and it's backed by a company that's been in business for over 40 years.
What are aftermarket parts?
Aftermarket parts are parts manufactured by someone other than the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). In most cases they are less expensive than OEM parts. For that reason, many insurance companies require/prefer their use whenever possible. Aftermarket parts have a controversial reputation for fit. ACI will work with your insurance company in an effort to stay within your policy coverages; however, we will not compromise the quality or safety of your repair. Minor fit variations are to be expected. Major fit problems will not be accepted and will be brought to the attention of you and your insurance company. If your insurer will not pay for OEM parts per your policy, you still have the option to stipulate their use -- simply let us know prior to the start of your repairs. You will be responsible only for the difference in price...the insurance company will still pay the amount they would have paid toward aftermarket parts useage.
What are LKQ or Recycled parts?
LKQ (Like Kind and Quality) and Recycled parts are simply other terms for used parts. They are auto parts originally manufactured by the builder of your vehicle. The quality and fit will be the same as new parts; they have simply been on another car previously. The use of LKQ parts, when appropriate, can reduce the cost of repairs. We will advise you of the appropriate useage. At ACI, we inspect used parts for damage and reject any part that doesn't pass our high quality standards. However, you should understand that these parts are used and therefore may have minor blemishes. If you expect the appearance of new then you should specify new for your repair.
How long will it take to repair my car?
The time it will take to repair your vehicle is determined by the severity of the damages. ACI will make the repair in as short a time as possible; however, we will not compromise our quality standards for the sake of time. You will remember the quality.
How do I know when my car will be ready?
When you drop off your car, we will give you an estimation of repair time. We will then keep you updated on the progress of your repairs through regular update calls made every other day. You will also receive a call once your vehicle is complete and ready to be picked up.
How can I pay for the repairs?
ACI tries to make payment as easy as possible. We accept properly endorsed insurance checks, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Debit Cards, personal checks (with proper ID)...and yes, cash.
Can ACI help me arrange financing?
Yes!! ACI has arranged a flexible program with a local bank that allows our customers to finance their repair (or their deductible) at 0% interest for the first 6 months. The application process is quick and easy and can be done right here in our office in just a few minutes. You'll have an answer as to if you qualify usually within 24 hours. Just be sure to ask about this option when initially scheduling with us since all financing must be approved prior to the start of repairs.
For those who don't qualify for financing, we offer a deposit plan. Similar in concept to retail "lay-a-way" plans, you can make regular deposits which we will hold and track for you until you have saved enough to pay for repairs. Repairs cannot begin until they are fully funded, but this is a great option for those who need a little help saving and have repairs that are not immediately necessary.
What if the insurance company is paying for the repairs?
ACI is performing these repairs for you, our customer. Any insurance coverage you have is between you and the insurance company and does not enter into ACI's agreement to repair your car. We provide you and your insurance company with an itemized bill for the repairs. Full payment of your repair is expected when you receive, and are satisfied with, your car. ACI will accept direct payment from your insurance company if a written commitment to pay is given to ACI from the insurance company prior to the release of the vehicle. Insurance drafts to lien holders must be endorsed by the same before ACI can accept them.
What does ACI do to protect the environment?
We take our responsibility to help protect the planet very seriously. Of course we meet all federal and state environmental requirements but we have long since chosen to do more. ACI recycles scrap metal, radiators, catalytic converters, batteries, cores, wheels, and waste oil in addition to office inks/toners and
all cardboard and paper products used within our business. We also buy recycled or otherwise "green" products and equipment whenever possible. We are an EPA Green Lights Partner having converted our facility with energy efficient lighting. Most recently we upgraded our refinish booth and switched to a waterborne automotive paint product line. The waterborne paint line and refinish processes we use significantly reduce VOC emissions and increase air quality. We're doing our part and appreciate the support of our customers!
Have a concern not addressed here? Please give us a call and we'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.
ACI (Auto Collision Inc.) Educating Consumers Since 1971