Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — in most cases you have the legal right to choose your own repair shop, regardless of what your insurer suggests. Insurance companies may recommend preferred shops, but the final decision is yours. A reputable shop like Westport Body Works can work directly with your insurer.

Collision repair typically starts with a damage assessment and estimate, followed by structural or panel repairs, bodywork, and refinishing. Shops coordinate parts ordering and often work alongside your insurance adjuster to ensure all damage — visible and hidden — is properly documented and repaired.

Supplemental damage discovered mid-repair is common in collision work. The shop documents the additional findings and submits a supplement claim to your insurer. This is a standard part of the process — reputable shops handle it directly so you don't have to navigate it alone.

Hail damage is more than cosmetic — dents can compromise paint integrity, leading to rust and corrosion over time. Repairing it preserves your vehicle's value and protects the metal underneath. Many hail damage claims are fully or partially covered depending on your comprehensive insurance policy.

Full body paint includes surface prep, sanding, priming, color application, and a clear coat finish. Proper prep work is the most critical step — skipping it causes peeling and uneven coverage. Color matching to your original factory finish is essential for a seamless, long-lasting result.

Not always — for minor damage, paying out of pocket can sometimes be smarter than filing a claim, which may raise your premium. Get a repair estimate first, then compare it against your deductible and potential rate increase to decide which option makes more financial sense.

Yes — a cracked windshield compromises structural integrity and can impair airbag deployment in a collision. Even small chips can spread quickly under temperature changes or road vibration. Glass repair or replacement should be addressed promptly, and most comprehensive insurance policies cover it.

Repair timelines vary based on damage severity and parts availability — minor repairs may take a few days, while major structural work can take one to three weeks. Delays in parts shipping or insurance approvals are the most common factors that extend the timeline beyond initial estimates.

Key cost factors include damage severity, labor hours, parts type (OEM vs. aftermarket), and paint blending requirements. Hidden structural damage discovered during teardown can also increase costs. Getting a thorough estimate upfront — rather than a quick visual quote — helps avoid surprises.

A poor color match creates visible panel differences that reduce your vehicle's resale value and signal incomplete or low-quality repair work. Professional shops use computerized color-matching systems and blend adjacent panels to achieve a seamless finish that's consistent across the entire vehicle.