FAQ

HOW DO I SET UP AN INSURANCE CLAIM?

Contact your insurance company and report the accident to begin the claims process. Tell them you choose to have your collision repairs done at Cole Valley Collision Center. Contact us direct and our customer service representatives will guide you through the process. We are Direct Repair with most Insurance Companies. This means we can make the process simple and quick for you. You can also contact us 24 hrs a day through our website.

SHOULD I DRIVE MY CAR AFTER AN ACCIDENT?

It really depends on the extent of your damage. Generally speaking, if you have any lights out, or your car doesn't feel "quite right", or parts are rubbing on tires, give us a call and we can arrange towing. You may also request to have your vehicle towed to our shops direct from the accident scene. We can best determine your vehicles safety if you drop by any of our locations.

ARE YOU OPEN WEEKENDS?

Yes, we are now open Monday through Saturday. Please contact us for our most up-to-date hours.

HOW QUICKLY CAN YOU BEGIN WORK ON MY CAR?

Generally speaking, we can begin any repair 48 hours after your first visit, or after receiving your Insurance Companies estimate.

WILL THE PARTS BE ORDERED BEFORE I DROP OFF MY CAR FOR THE REPAIRS?

Typically the parts are ordered once we determine that we have identified all damaged items. If your vehicle has the potential for hidden damage, then your parts will be ordered once it is dismantled fully and an accurate parts order can be created. If all damages are visible, Then your parts can be ordered prior to your vehicle's arrival. We can get 98% of all parts for your car in less than 48 hours.

HOW IS A VEHICLE DETERMINED A "TOTAL LOSS"?

Typically your insurance company determines the vehicle is a "total loss" when it feels that the repair costs will exceed the value of the vehicle.

CAN YOU MATCH THE FACTORY PAINT COLOR?

We guarantee in writing that the factory color will be matched, as long as all painting is completed in accordance with factory suggested paint procedures. We use the finest Automotive Paints and processes available.

CAN I HAVE OTHER WORK DONE ON MY CAR WHILE IT IS IN THE SHOP?

We are equipped to handle many other related repairs and services including: • Glass replacement • Wheel alignments • Exterior detailing • Interior detailing • Towing • Paintless dent removal • Gold plating • Painted pinstriping If there is anything that you need related to your vehicle that we have not mentioned, just ask so we may better serve you.

HOW LONG WILL THE REPAIRS ON MY VEHICLE TAKE?

Depending on the size of your repair and after a visual inspection of those repairs, our Customer Service Representative will be able to give you an educated estimation of time your vehicle will be at Cole Valley Collision Center. We will do everything in our power to repair your vehicle as safely and quickly as possible and we will keep you updated throughout the process.

CAN I GET A RIDE HOME WHEN I DROP OFF MY CAR?

Yes, simply let your customer service rep know your desire to drop your car after hours and they will explain the process and tell you the location of the night drop at our collision center.

HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR MY CAR AFTER THE REPAIRS ARE COMPLETE?

Once your vehicle has been returned to your care you will be able to wash it as normal. We do suggest though that you do not wax or use any sealer to any of the painted areas of your vehicle for one month. Be aware that tree sap, bird droppings, and road tar will chip and mar the finish to fresh or factory paint, so keep your vehicle clean of this material for the best appearance possible.