Auto Body Repair 101

1. Do I have a choice where my vehicle is repaired? You're in the driver's seat when it comes to choosing the most qualified company to repair your vehicle. By law no entity can dictate where your vehicle can be repaired.



2. Why do I have to get 3 estimates? The truth is, you don't. The State of Nevada does not require three estimates. Often, multiple estimates are requested by your insurance provider to determine if either an appraiser is needed, or if the damage assessment exceeds your deductible. But any additional estimates are your insurance company's responsibility.



3. When is my deductible due? The deductible, which is your portion of the repair cost, was determined at the time your insurance policy was written. It is paid to the repair shop when repairs are completed. Your insurance company will pay the balance of the cost after your claim and the repairs have been made.



4. What's the difference between the insured and the claimant? You are the insured when your insurance company pays for the cost of repairs to your damaged vehicle. In this situation, your deductible is applicable. You are the claimant when someone else's insurance company is responsible for repairs to your vehicle. In this case, you are not responsible for paying the deductible or rental vehicle costs.



5. How is a total loss determined? When the cost to repair your vehicle plus the salvage value equals or exceeds the actual cash value of your vehicle, your vehicle is deemed a total loss. After payment is settled with you, the insurance company disposes of the vehicle. Or, you have the right of first refusal to buy it back. Please ask us about specifics.



6. How long will it take to repair my vehicle? The length of repair depends on many factors, including insurance approval, customer authorization, availability of parts, extensiveness of repairs and the number of processes a vehicle must go through to properly repair the damage. We will give you an estimated timeframe based on the scope of your work.



7. Can a vehicle be repaired that has frame damage? Yes. Paramount has invested in the latest frame straightening and measuring technology. Our qualified technicians can repair the to original factory specifications.



8. Will my paint match? At Paramount, we use industry leading computer technology for correct color mixing to match the vehicle's original paint code. For older vehicles, the process is more complex due to the oxidation of the paint over time. For more, visit the Paint & Finish page.



9. What is a direct repair shop? A direct repair shop is an auto body shop which an insurance company has a pre-determined relationship where certain criteria are met. Provided the vehicle owner has no preference on where the vehicle is repaired, the insurance company may direct its client to a direct repair shop.



10. How soon can I wash and wax my car? The vehicle may be washed immediately. You should avoid washing your vehicle in direct sunlight and use mild car soap. We recommend waiting 90 days after repair before the first wax.



11. What should I do if I notice additional damage caused by the accident after my car has been repaired? Notify Paramount as soon as you can and let your customer service representative help you. Your representative will then communicate your concerns to the insurance company and action will be taken from there.



12. What is Paramount's Perfectionist Guarantee? When we repair your vehicle or RV, those specific repairs are covered for as long you own the vehicle. Our Perfectionist Guarantee is equal to, if not better than, your insurance company's.

Contact Info:

775.329.6691
2570 Tacchino St.
Reno, NV 89512
Fax: 775.329.6796