Frequently Asked Questions

Do you use all factory parts?
It depends upon your agreement with your insurance company (your policy). Some insurance policies specify that we are to use only factory parts … others specify that we can only use aftermarket or used parts. We always follow your insurance company’s guidelines. If you instruct us to use only factory parts, but your policy dictates that the insurance company will only pay for aftermarket parts, we will use factory parts, but you will have to pay the difference. Whatever parts we use, we guarantee all our work for as long as you own the vehicle. We will always do a top quality repair!

What are aftermarket parts?
The best way to answer that is to explain all the part types there are. Factory parts are called OEM for original equipment manufacturer. Used parts are often called LKQ for like kind & quality. LKQ parts are factory parts that come from salvaged vehicles and resold.

LKQ parts usually save about 30% from the factory new list price. There is usually “clean up” labor involved to make a painted part look like a new one. A reconditioned part is usually a worn or damaged factory part that has been repaired or rebuilt. Rebuilt parts are usually mechanical in nature like alternators and steering gears. Reconditioned parts are usually plastic bumper covers or wheels. Aftermarket parts are parts not made by the OEM. Most people have heard of Sears Diehard batteries and Monroe shocks, which are aftermarket parts. But in the world of collision repair they can be sheet metal, lamps, and bumpers. These parts are usually made in Asia, and cost about half as much as OEM list.

They are not quite the same quality as an OEM part, and we have to watch them closely to make sure that we can still provide a quality repair when your policy requires their use. You will always be informed in advance if your insurance company requires the use of aftermarket parts. It is very common for us to order aftermarket parts as a part of the original order, but then to reject them if they do not meet our quality standards. We then can get permission to order new oem parts, but only after we have tried to use the aftermarket parts. So it is often a process that we must go through.

The quality of aftermarket parts has increased significantly over the last 5 years, and they do not have near the problems as in the past. These parts also help to keep competitive price pressure on the OEM,s which in turn help to keep insurance premiums lower.

Do you clean the vehicle?
Yes. We clean every vehicle that is on our lot for more than a day. You can expect the vehicle to look great inside and out when you pick it up.

What type of warranty do you offer?
We offer a Lifetime Warranty on most repairs for as long as you own the vehicle. Also, most insurance companies offer an additional warranty as well, for your protection if you move out of the local area. Read more about our lifetime warranty here.

Do you have free rentals or loaners?
Check your insurance policy … you may have rentals included as a part of your insurance coverage. Although we do not have free rentals or loaners, we may be able to provide a vehicle at a discounted rate through our partnership with Enterprise.

Do you offer customer rides?
Absolutely. Please call us to schedule an appropriate time and place.

What are my responsibilities after an accident occurs?
The Oregon DMV website has details on what your responsibilities are given different accident situations. Please click here for full details about what to do after an accident occurs.

What forms do I need to fill out after an accident?
You must report the accident to DMV in certain situations (see details) by submitting an Accident and Insurance Report Form (pdf file) within 72 hours.

Can you contact me via email?
Yes … just let us know your preferred method of contact … phone, cell, email, pager, fax … we will keep you informed as to the progress of your repairs.