Frequently Asked Questions

In the event of an accident, first and foremost contact relevant emergency services, and ensure your vehicle is removed to a safe place. Be sure to collect as much information as possible including details of all involved drivers and vehicles, and the time and place of the accident. Contact Col’s Body Shop directly to start the repair process. We will assist you in making a claim with your insurance company, booking your vehicle in for a quote, and getting you back on the road safely as soon as possible.

We are a preferred repairer for most insurance companies. When making your claim, request Col’s Body Shop as your preferred repairer. Most policies allow you to make this choice, however you may have to verbalize this during your claim process as some insurers will automatically send you to one of their network repairers.

Yes, you will need to contact your insurer direct. They will provide you with the necessary information needed to process your claim. If you are unsure about any of this, please call our office and we can assist you.

Unfortunately, not. Due to the number of variables involved when it comes to the damage, we need to see the vehicle to give an accurate estimate.

Most policies give the right to choose your own repairer. What does this mean for you? It means you have choice and control over where your car is repaired. Choosing a local and privately operated repair shop ensures that not only are you supporting local business, but you are ensuring that the focus is on quality and safety. Having a choice means you can do your research, follow recommendations, and take control of the repair process, which ultimately provides you peace of mind when getting back on the road.

In most cases no. As we are an approved repairer to most insurance companies one quote is generally all that is required, however there are some circumstances where two quotes will be required. We will inform you if this is the case but generally you will only need one quote.

Yes you can. If you are unsure about the repairer you have been recommended to use, contact your insurer and request your chosen repairer. If they are hesitant, check your policy. Most policies allow for choice of repairer, even though this choice may not be given during the claims process. If your policy is one of the few that do not allow choice of repairer, you may wish to consider updating to a more flexible policy. Many insurance companies offer choice without any extra cost. If you are having difficulty with this process or are unsure how to tackle it, please feel free to contact us and we can assist you.

Factors such as the type of vehicle and the availability of parts will impact on the length of time it takes to repair your vehicle, however we always aim to have your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible. As cars have become more complex, in most cases we will need to dismantle your vehicle to see if there is any additional damage during the repair process. This means added time to order parts and carry out repairs. We always give you our best estimate of the time required when we first write your estimate. During the repair process we will keep you informed of the progress of repairs and of any unforeseen matters that may cause a delay.

We will keep you informed throughout the repair process. You are welcome to contact us at any time to enquire about the progress of your vehicle repairs.

This will depend on your current insurance policy. Your insurance provider will be able to provide this information to you.

Your excess is payable when you collect your vehicle unless your insurer states otherwise.

Definitely! Col’s Body Shop accepts private jobs regardless of size. Sometimes people choose to repair their insured vehicle without using their insurance to avoid effecting their insurance policy premium or avoid excess payment. You are welcome to contact us to discuss a quote.

We do have loan cars available subject to availability.

Yes we offer a complimentary wash on all vehicles that have undergone repairs

We currently accept payment by cash, cheque, direct debit or credit/debit card and Afterpay.

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the vehicle’s 17-digit serial number which is unique to each vehicle. Each car’s VIN is displayed in a small metal plaque that can be seen from the outside through the front windscreen at the bottom corner near the front passenger side door. The VIN can also be found under the bonnet in the cars engine bay or on the passenger side or drivers side front door pillar.   If you can still not locate the VIN, it will be on your vehicle’s registration papers

Col’s Body Shop will repair your vehicle using the correct repair procedure while ensuring the highest standard and safety within a timely matter.

Col’s Body Shop guarantees its smash repair works for as long as you own the vehicle. Parts and paint are guaranteed in line with manufacturer, distributer or supplier’s recommendations.

This warranty does not cover:

1. Normal wear and tear
2. Damage to paintwork from mistreatment, bird droppings, tree sap and stone damage
3. Accidents
4. Negligence or the consequence of failing to comply with the vehicle’s user manual
5. Damage arising extreme climatic events