Questions and Answers

Q: If I am in an accident, what should I do first?
A: Contact your insurance agent and then contact us. Our experienced office staff can help guide you through the entire repair process.

Q: When are you open?
A: Our hours are Monday thru Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm. If you are unable to get here during those hours, please call us and we will do our best to arrange a time that will meet your needs.

Q: What is an estimate?
A: An estimate is the initial examination of the visible and probable damage to your vehicle. The estimate is not a guaranteed price. There may be damage found when parts are removed that will affect the final cost. This estimate is turned into a Repair Order (RO) when the work is authorized by the owner. The customer should receive a completed Repair Order listing what was actually repaired, replaced and refinished when they pick up their vehicle. NOTE: Missouri Law does not require getting more than ONE estimate and you have the right to have your vehicle repaired at the facility of your choice.

Q: Who's estimate should I use?
A: If you are receiving payment from an insurance company then that is the estimate your repair facility should be referencing. This protects you from having to pay any supplemental charges on damage that was accident related.

Q: Should I make an appointment for an estimate?
A: We suggest making an appointment so we can ensure that you will not have to wait for service. A thorough estimate may take 30 minutes and estimates are written on a first come basis (unless you have an appointment)...so if you are a walk in and there are customers ahead of you it may take some time.

Q: Why are estimates different on the same repair?
A: The dollar amounts on any two estimates may vary depending on a range of factors: which estimating system is used, what type of parts are used (OEM, Aftermarket, etc), and each estimators judgement. A lower estimate may not include all necessary work. At Niebling Auto Body, we write as thorough an estimate as possible to insure the safe operation and aesthetics of your vehicle.

Q: What if my vehicle is determined to be a total loss?
A: Missouri statutes define "salvage vehicle" as any motor vehicle or semitrailer, which as been damaged to the extent that the total cost of repairs to rebuild the vehicle to its condition immediately before it was damaged exceeds 80% of the fair market value of the vehicle prior to the damage (see the next question for a description of fair market value). The total cost of repairs to rebuild or reconstruct the vehicle shall not include the cost of repairing, replacing, or reinstalling inflatable safety restraints, tires, sound systems or any sales tax for parts or materials to rebuild the vehicle.

If your vehicle is totaled and you are looking for a new vehicle, we recommend visiting the Schicker Automotive Group.

Q: What is Actual Cash (or Fair Market) value?
A: The insurance company is required to pay the fair market value of a vehicle. The fair market value of your vehicle can be found by surveying dealers in your area, receiving information from recognized groups such as "CCC", "ADP AutoSource", or one of the industry guides, such as "NADA" to determine the average retail price. When disputing the insurance company'es offer of settlement, it is up to you to prove that your vehicle is worth more than what is being offered.

The insurance company will adjust the value based on the physical wear and tear as well as any pre-existing damage. If the insurance company determines some replacement items are better than the ones damaged, they may apply "betterment". Betterment is an improvement that increases the value of property and is more extensive than mere repairs. You would be responsible for those charges. For example, if the tires are damaged or the bettery or mechanical parts must be replaced, the company may replace new for old. The betterment would depend on the age of the older item being replaced.

Q: What if the insurance company refuses to work with the shop of my choice?
A: By law, an insurance company cannot refuse your request and must negotiate with the shop of your choice. It is in both parties' best interest to get your vehicle repaired and back to you as quickly as possible.

Q: Can I get a ride home when I drop off my vehicle?
A: Yes, we provide both pickup and delivery service locally as long as it is pre-arranged.

Q: Can I get transportation while my vehicle is being repaired?
A: We have a number of complimentary loaner cars and can schedule your repair when one is available. If you are a claimant the liable insurance company should provide a rental vehicle. We will be happy to assist you with arranging a rental vehicle with Enterprise Leasing. Check your policy or call your agent to find out if you have rental coverage. You may want to ask your agent for a quite as rental insurance is usually very affordable under most insurance policies.

Q: Can I get other work done on my vehicle while it is in your shop?
A: Yes. For example, wheel alignments, air conditioning service and auto detailing are a few services offered. Let us know what additional work you want done and we will quote you a price and make the necessary arrangements. We also have agreements with companies providing expertise in areas such as entertainment systems and vehicle security.

Q: Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my vehicle for repairs?
A: Generally, the parts are ordered when you schedule a repair time. If your vehicle is found to be unsafe to drive, we will arrange a ride or rental for you and order the parts immediately.

Q: How long will repairs take?
A: At Niebilng Auto Body, we will provide you with an estimated completion date (or target date). If additional damage is found when the vehicle is disassembled the repair time could be extended. In this case, we will inform you immediately of the revised target date. You can view your vehicle's progress on our web site by clicking Check my Vehicle and then clicking the Repair Order number assigned to you.

Q: What type of paint does your shop use?
A: Factory finishes incorporate highly specialized paints. Niebling Auto Body has invested in the Akzo-Nobel paint system, one of the finest available. Upgrades in technology, training, and equipment help ensure each vehicle's paint will receive the best possible match. Akzo-Nobel and Niebling Auto Body guarantee the paint with a nontransferable lifetime warrany.

Q: How will I know when my car is done?
A: Our policy is to contact customers every 2-3 days during a repair (or as directed). We will call you as soon as the repairs are completed. Our Customer Service Representative will call you at the phone number you designate.

Q: Do I have to pay a deductible?
A: If you are the liable party in an accident, your deductible is due to the repair facility. Check with your agent (or have our Customer Service Representative do this) if you are unsure of the amount. It is usually subtracted from the original estimate total you receive from your insurance company. This does not apply if you are a claimant. Some customers ask if their deductible can be "saved"? Please click here for an explanation of our shop's policy.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Full payment (insurance portion and deductible if applicable) is required when you pick up your vehicle. We accept Cash, Check (insurance, personal, or cashiers), or Charge (Discover, Visa or Mastercard). Any other arrangements must be agreed upon prior to the repair being started.

Q: Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?
A: At Niebling Auto Body, we guarantee all repairs with a nontransferable lifetime warranty. It will be registered with the ACRB (Automotive Customer Relations Board). A flier will be included with your paperwork with the formal document arriving in the mail along with a survey. Your feedback is essential for us to monitor and improve our performance.