Collision Center of Columbia - Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia Collision Center Saves You Time. Peace of Mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: How many estimates do I need before getting my vehicle repaired?
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None; it is not necessary for you to get several estimates before selecting a place.

Question 2: My insurance company says I have to take my car to a certain repair company. Is this true?
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No, you can choose where your car is repaired.

Question 3: Do you provide a rental car while mine is being repaired?
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We can help you rent a car through any available agency. Rental car coverage varies by insurance company and policy.

Question 4: How long will repair take?
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Length of repair depends on size of repair and parts availablity. Expect one to two days for light repairs and three to five days for medium repairs.

Question 5: How do I know the paint will match the rest of the vehicle?
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We use a computerized color match to be sure the repaired areas match the rest of your vehicle.

Question 6: Which insurance companies are compatible with Collision Center of Columbia?
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All insurance companies.

Question 7: How do I contact my insurance company?
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Your insurance company's contact information is provided on your proof of insurance information.

Question 8: How does the estimate process work?
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Give us a call at (573)443-DENT (3368) to make an appointment or come by our state-of-the-art, five-bay estimate location one block south of I-70 on Providence. Once inside, you will be greeted by a member of our administrative staff who will obtain some information from you. An estimator will then provide your estimate and work with you throughout the process.

Question 9: How does the payment process work?
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Payment in full either through the insurance company or the customer is expected when the vehicle is delivered. Collision Center of Columbia accepts all major credit cards.

Question 10: What is expected of me throughout the process?
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After an estimate is given you will be needed to give authorization on the work of your vehicle. After that, we take care of the rest.

Question 11: What is the repair process from start to finish?
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First, an estimate for the work to be done is prepared. Then we will give you an estimated completion date. Once insurance negotiations are completed, we will order parts needed to repair your vehicle via fax machine. As soon as the parts are received, the vehicle is scheduled in for repairs. We then disassemble the vehicle and take a closer look at the damaged areas. If necessary, a supplement report is written and sent to you for approval. Any additional parts needed will then be ordered. After the re-inspection, a scheduled completion date is given to you.

Structural and body repairs on the vehicle are then begun and the vehicle is set up on Unibody Repair Equipment. We then prepare and install new panels that are primed, sealed and protected against corrosion. All work is inspected and tested before being declared ready for painting. Once the vehicle is deemed ready for painting, we will call with a confirmed completion date.

After being pressure washed and chemically cleaned, the vehicle is prepped, primed, sanded and sealed. Before being placed in our down-draft spray booth oven, the vehicle will be taped, bagged, masked and blown off.

In the spray booth, the vehicle undergoes a multistep refinishing process using an acrylic urethane paint system. The vehicle will then be re-assembled, the wheels aligned, air conditioning re-installed, interior detailed and inspected. We will test drive the vehicle to be sure everything is working properly. Once repairs are all completed, the owner is notified with confirmation for delivery.