Frequently Asked Questions
Portsmouth Auto Body is committed to providing high-quality automotive repairs. We strive to empower our customers with the information they need to make informed decisions about their vehicle. We’ve compiled a list of questions that customers frequently ask while making decisions about automotive repair here at Portsmouth Auto Body.
Your Local Auto Body Shop
Q: Do you provide free repair estimates?
A: Yes, we do! Simply fill out the form on our website, and our customer service specialists will contact you to schedule and confirm your appointment.
Q: Can I get receive an estimate over the phone?
A: The short answer is no. There are many factors that can greatly affect estimated repair costs. Parts prices and repair time is determined by our advisors with professional estimating software. Repairs often have hidden structural or frame damage that is not visible and may also warrant wheel alignment. Our expert staff will provide a thorough, accurate estimate after carefully examining your vehicle. We strongly encourage making an appointment rather than simply walking in, then you will know that you will be taken care of promptly!
Q: How long will it take to repair my vehicle?
A: We understand the importance of timely repair. It is never easy to do without your vehicle, but we strive to make it as simple and hassle free as possible. Repair times depend on many factors. The extent of the damage, availability of parts and insurance approval all affect the repair time. Sometimes delays happen because of hidden damage or parts arriving damaged. Your advisor will call you with an estimated timeframe but it is good to keep in mind that this is merely an estimate. We keep you informed along the way!
Q: How will I know when my vehicle is done?
A: One of our advisors will call you to schedule a delivery appointment when the repairs are complete and your vehicle is ready.
Q: What kind of equipment do you use to repair your vehicles?
A: Our certified technicians work in a state-of-the-art facility using the highest quality tools, equipment, and machinery to repair your vehicle.
Q: Are you certified to repair specific cars? What types of makes and models do you repair?
A: We are proud of our extensive certifications, and we are always working to add more certifications in the future. While our factory-trained staff can repair any make or model, We currently hold the following certifications: Acura, Audi, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infinity, Jeep, Nissan, and Subaru. We are currently the ONLY repair center in NH to be Audi certified and have been sponsored by Audi of Stratham and endorsed by Morong Falmouth Audi. You can view all of our certificates here.
Insurance Questions
Q: Do you work with insurance companies and uphold New Hampshire insurance laws when working with customers?
A: We can handle all of your insurance needs! We are a preferred provider for most larger insurance companies, including USAA, AAA and Met Life Insurance. You can be confident that Portsmouth Auto Body is knowledgeable of and upholds all insurance laws for the state of New Hampshire.
Q: Do I have to pay a deductible?
A: The amount of deductible that you are responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. People misunderstand that body shops can somehow ‘hide’ their deductible by inflating the repair order, but that is considered insurance fraud. If you are not sure about your deductible, call your insurance company, then they can tell you whether your deductible is waived or whether you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.
Q: Who will pay for my damage?
A: If you are in an accident and have Collision or Comprehensive Coverage on your auto policy, your insurance company will pay for the damage to your vehicle regardless of who is at fault less any deductible you have. Collision and Comprehensive Coverage covers accidental damages sustained by your vehicle. If you go through your own insurance, many times they will insist that you pay your deductible and then get reimbursed once they collect from the at-fault party.
If you do not have Collision or Comprehensive Coverage on your own policy and you are not at fault, the other party is responsible for paying for the damage. Hopefully, that party will have Liability Insurance that will pay you on behalf of their insured. If the person responsible for your damage does not have insurance, your only remaining option is to pursue your claim against them personally. You can pay upfront or negotiate for them to pay the body shop directly. In some cases you may find yourself taking the negligent party to court to get restitution if they are not willing to work with you.
Q: Should I accept used or aftermarket replacement parts through insurance?
A: This is your vehicle and you are the one making the ultimate decision on what parts should be used. NH State law mandates that if your vehicle is less than two years old and has less than 30,000 miles, your insurance company is obligated to pay for OEM parts. If you have insurance, the parameters of the policy you purchased outlines the type of parts the insurance company will pay for. Some insurance companies have premium insurance riders that allow for all OEM parts. If your insurance company will only pay for used or aftermarket parts, you always have the choice to pay the difference to be sure OEM parts are used. Here at Portsmouth Auto Body, we do our best to price match!
Q: Will I be given a rental car?
A: If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy or if you are the claimant. Check your policy or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and about your specific limitations.
Other Questions
Q: What if additional damage is found during repairs?
A: Once you drop your car off, it will go to disassembly, where the technician working on your car and your advisor bring it in to see if there is any hidden damage. It is not an unusual situation to find damage that can not be seen before disassembly. In these situations, we put together what is known as a supplement and submit this to the insurance company. Your advisor will be in touch to update you when this occurs.
Q: Do you walk customers around their vehicle and show them everything that was done to fix their vehicle after repairs are made?
A: You can expect a thorough process where our guest services team will give you the full scope of what to expect, important information about parts, timeline of repairs, and the amount your insurance will cover. This includes a thorough walkthrough after the repairs are made. We want to be sure that there are no surprises and that all repairs are done right.
Q: Do you have any customer testimonials of the work done to their cars at Portsmouth Auto Body Center?
A: Our customers return again and again for our five-star repairs and superior customer service. Customers describe us as friendly, courteous, and welcoming. Many recommend us to friends for our beautiful detailing jobs and clear communication. You can read all of our reviews here.
Q: Do I have the right to go to the body shop of my choice?
It is your car, your choice! We suggest that you select a shop that you know and trust (we hope that is us) that will be transparent and an advocate for you, the vehicle owner. Whether your automobile needs dent repair from a common parking lot accident or more extensive body repairs, our team has you covered. We are I-CAR Gold Class Certified, which means we are certified to work on all makes and models. Your insurance company can not require you to go to a particular repair facility. You have the right to choose your repair shop!
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