Walt Sweeney Body Shop

Our Repair Processes and FAQ's

You Bend 'Em... We Mend 'Em...

     
  • Free Estimates
  • Vehicle Drop Off
  • 24 Hour Towing
  • Rental /Loaner Car Assistance
  • Insurance Claims Assistance

    Before

     

    After

     

    The Repair Process

    1. Estimate, Authorize and Repair.

    Schedule an estimate appointment or drop by for a courtesy estimate . From there we can schedule a time to begin the repairs and order the parts.

    2. X-Ray Repair Planning and Re-Inspection

    X-Ray repair planning is a process of visually mapping the damaged areas of your vehicle, then meticulously disassembling your vehicle to discover all hidden, supplemental damages

    3. Structural Repair and Body Repair

    One the supplemental estimate is approved by the insurance company and necessary parts have arrived, repairs continue. Any structural repairs are done on our frame machines utilizing a Chief Velocity Computerized Measuring System to return your vehicle to factory specifications. Damaged exterior panels are replaced or repaired and all metal finishing is corrosion protected, featheredged, primed, and block sanded.

    4. Multi-Step Paint Refinishing

    All surfaced to be refinished are first sanded and then chemically cleaned to assure a durable and excellent finish. Next, a surface sealer is applied. Paint for your vehicle is custom mixed based on your vehicle manufacturer color code utilizing a computerized paint mixing system. This color coat is applied and then finished with a final clear coat for a smooth, glossy finish, and is then baked to cure the paint.

    5. Reassembly and Mechanical

    The vehicle goes back to the body mechanic for final reassembly and to our mechanic for any mechanical operations that need to be completed. Also, any sublet extras are done at this time.

    6. The Finishing Touches

    After all repairs are completed, your vehicle receives a Premium Wash in our Detail Department!. A final quality check is performed by the manager to assure that your vehicle has been restored to its pre-accident condition. The manager will then call you to inform you that your vehicle is ready for pickup.

    7. Delivery

    Walt Sweeney Auto Body is open Monday-Friday (8am- 6pm) and Saturday (8am-Noon) for vehicle pick-up. There is always someone here that will be happy to answer any questions that you have. Your final paperwork will include your copy of our Lifetime Limited Warranty on the repairs to your vehicle. Any payments for repairs, including deductibles must be settled at time of delivery.

    FAQs

    Do I need an Appointment for an Estimate?

    No, an appointment isn't required, but it can save you some time. Having said that, Walk In's are always welcome.

    Is There a Charge for an Estimate?

    Nope

    How Long Does and Estimate Take?

    The extent of the damages will determine the time it takes to write the estimate. Generally an estimate takes between 15-30 minutes to complete.

    Can I Get an Estimate Over the Phone?

    Unfortunately that doesn't work very well. Without seeing the damages to your vehicle there is no accurate way to quote anything. We invite you to stop by so we can give you something accurate in writing. Besides, we're pretty nice folks! We'd like to meet you!

    Do I need More that One Estimate?

    No, the state of Ohio law requires that you only get one estimate.

    Why is my Insurance Estimate Different than Yours?

    Differences in estimates are quite common. There are differences in the three primary estimating systems (CCC, Mitchell, Audatex) used by most insurance companies and collision repair centers. A lower estimate may not include all necessary work to repair your vehicle. If you are not sure about another estimate you've received, we will be happy to go over it with you and explain any differences.

    Do I Have the Right to Select the Shop to Repair My Vehicle?

    Yes! The state of Ohio says you have the right to choose the shop where you wish to have your vehicle repaired.

    Do you Work with my Insurance Company?

    Yes, we work with all insurance companies

    How Long will the Repairs Take?

    Many factors determine the length of time the repairs will take, the extent and type of damages, the availability of parts, and the insurance companies approval for repairs. At Walt Sweeney, we work hard to minimize any delays in getting your vehicle back to you.

    Do you Warranty Your Work?

    Absolutely! Upon completion of the repairs we give you a written Lifetime Limited Warranty. We warranty our body and paint work for as long as you own the vehicle. Any parts used carry the warranty of the part. Unfortunately we cannot warranty rust repairs, rust will continue to come back until you replace the part where rust lives.

    Do you Use Aftermarket Parts?

    Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts made by the manufacturer of your vehicle are typically better quality, better fitting, and have better corrosion protection properties than aftermarket parts. We Do Not recommend aftermarket parts, however, many insurance policies are written giving the insurance companies the right to decide what type of parts to use in a repair. If you have questions regarding the use of aftermarket parts, you may want to contact your insurance company

    Can you Match My Paint?

    PPG automotive refinishing systems, our paint system , has one of the best color matches available in today's world. PPG is the #1 OEM coatings supplier globally. Our highly skilled and trained paint technicians take great pride in being able to reproduce the finish on your vehicle. And we warranty our paint work for as long as you own the vehicle.

    What if My Car is not Drivable?

    If your car is unsafe or illegal to drive because of collision damage, your insurance company will normally cover the cost to tow it to the shop of your choice, within a reasonable distance. We can arrange for your vehicle to be towed, 24 hours a day by calling 513-574-9518.

    If My Vehicle has Frame Damage, is it a Total Loss?

    No. A vehicle is deemed a total loss when the cost to repair the vehicle exceeds 70-80% of the vehicles value.

    What if My Airbags Deployed?

    We follow Ohio revised code 4549.20 that prohibits any person from installing in any motor vehicle any airbag other than the one designed in accordance with and meeting federal law standards of make, model, and year of vehicle.

    How can we help?

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