1. In most cases a preliminary estimate is written by Custom Greg’s Inc., the insurance company, or an independent appraiser.  Preliminary estimates are not bids or contracts for a completed repair, but are based on visual damage to the outer panels.  This simply provides a starting point to help determine if a vehicle is repairable based upon its retail value. The preliminary estimate also helps determine the necessary parts that need to be ordered before starting repairs.  Part prices change frequently and hidden damage is often discovered as the car is being disassembled, measured, or aligned.

2. After payment has been approved by you, the insurance company or a third party the actual repair process begins:

* Initial parts order is made and vehicle is scheduled for repairs.

* Car is washed, and repair areas are de-waxed.

* Disassembly of the vehicle to determine if there is any hidden damage.

* Self payer is contacted for approval of revisions or changes in the repair estimate to include any additional damage found during disassembly (known as a supplement) most insurance companies we deal with receive this info. Via electronic communication or with a final bill.

* Re-inspection by some insurance companies may be required and may delay the repairs, but with most of the better insurance companies this process is very smooth and does not cause any delays.

* Supplemental parts are ordered and any necessary changes in schedules are made.

* Frame and/or mechanical repairs, if needed are performed first.

* In most cases suspension repair, if needed, is done next. If damage occurred to wheels, suspension mounting points, or the structure, an alignment check is done at this time. The vehicle’s alignment is corrected, or a diagnosis is done to determine what additional components are needed to correctly align the vehicle.

* Sheet metal and inner structure repair and replacement are completed, and corrosion coatings are applied.

* Other sheet metal (hood, fenders, doors, trunk, etc) are installed and aligned.

* Repaired panels and adjacent panels that require blending are prepared by removing all trim and hardware then prepped for top coating by sanding.

* Repairs and urethane primer are given ample time to cure.

* Panting is usually is done the day after all priming and repairs are completed.

* Reassembly is completed after paint has been properly cured, depending on the size of the job this takes between two and eight hours for most vehicles.

* Test drive is performed and initial inspection of repair is made.

* Cleaning and final inspection are performed and all repaired items are inspected and approved.

* When it has passed inspection the customer is notified the vehicle is ready to pick up.