Collision Repair FAQs

Have questions about collision repair? We have answers. Check out our frequently asked questions to find the information you need. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team. Your peace of mind is our priority.”

Do I have to make an appointment for an estimate?

We do recommend setting an appointment, which will generally last 30-60 minutes, depending on the damage. We do occasionally accommodate walk-ins, and an even more convenient option is our Request an Estimate Tool which you can use on your phone.

When my car is in an accident, do I have to take it to a shop my insurance company recommends?

It is completely your decision to have your vehicle repaired at the shop of your choice. Richard Karr Collision strives for quality in customer service and highly trained to repair your vehicle back to factory specifications.

How long does it take to repair my vehicle?

This is different for every repair. The original estimated completion date may change if additional damage is found, or if there are parts that are not immediately available. By the time the vehicle is disassembled and parts are ordered, we can then update you with a more accurate completion date.

What kind of guarantee do you have?

All of our work is guaranteed for the life of your vehicle.

What does LKQ mean?

Acronym for Like Kind and Quality. Refers to a used part salvaged from another vehicle. It is inspected by the seller and re-inspected by us to assure a proper fit and excellent quality.

How much is an estimate?
All estimates are FREE! You can even use our Request an Estimate Tool on your smartphone to get a free estimate before you bring your car to our shop! Simply enter some basic information about your vehicle, snap a few photos, and we’ll send you a digital estimate to review.

What is a blueprint?

A Blueprint is the procedure that we use in disassembly to write a complete Repair Order. The initial estimator can only write what is visible in the original estimate. After all the broken parts are removed and all the damage is visible, a team of technicians, parts personnel and an estimator review the damage and a blueprint is written.

When can I wash my car?

Right away. We have a bake cycle booth that cures the paint immediately after it’s painted. We wash the vehicle prior to you picking it up, so wash away! However, we recommend waiting 2 months before applying wax.

Will you use factory parts?

To help reduce the cost of rising claims we are required by the insurance companies to search for alternative parts. LKQ, Aftermarket, and Reconditioned are the alternative parts we have to use before we use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or Factory parts. Most times, because of our size and buying power, we are able to get the OEM parts at a discount to match the alternative parts price. We also assure the best fit and if it does not meet Richard Karr Collision quality we send them back and put OEM parts on your car.

Are you open on weekends?

Nope! Our hours are Mon-Fri 7:30am to 6:00pm. We are closed Saturday and Sunday.

What if I need an estimate after hours?
Check this out: Request an Estimate Tool

What are aftermarket parts?

The automotive aftermarket is the secondary market of the automotive industry, concerned with the manufacturing, remanufacturing, distribution, retailing, and installation of all vehicle parts, chemicals, tools, equipment and accessories for light and heavy vehicles, after the sale of the automobile by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to the consumer, which may or may not be manufactured by the original equipment manufacturer.

What does I-CAR Gold Class Professionals business mean?

The I-CAR Gold Class recognition is the highest role-relevant training achievement recognized by the collision repair industry. It is estimated that only 10% of repair shops currently meet the rigorous I-CAR Gold Class standard.

What if my frame is bent?

“Vehicles just aren’t built like they used to be.” That’s right, they are NOT!! They are built so much better. Having frame damage isn’t as significant or troublesome as it used to be. With the huge advancements taken by car manufacturers and modern repair techniques and equipment, frame damage is just another procedure.

To learn more about the Richard Karr Motors, visit our YouTube Channel.