Questions?
Answered.

Frequently asked questions about auto body repair

This page answers the questions drivers ask us most often about collision repair, auto body work, paint jobs, bumper repair, insurance claims, estimates, timing and payment at All Star Auto Repair in Lake Park, Florida. If you do not see your question, call (561) 890-7999 or send it through our contact form. We are always happy to help.

Estimates

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes. We provide free repair estimates. You can visit the shop, call us, or send details and photos through our free estimate form.

Do I need an appointment for an estimate?

No, walk-ins are welcome during business hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Calling ahead helps make sure someone is available to spend time with you.

How long does an estimate take?

Most in-person estimates take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of the damage. Larger collisions may take longer.

Can I get an estimate from photos?

Photos help us understand the damage and give you a rough idea of what is involved. However, an accurate estimate usually requires an in-person inspection, because hidden damage cannot be seen in photos.

Why do estimates from different shops vary?

Shops may use different repair methods, parts types, labor rates or paint procedures. Some estimates include items others miss. Compare what each estimate includes, not just the total.

What if the final cost is higher than the estimate?

When a vehicle is disassembled, additional hidden damage is sometimes found. If that happens, we document it and discuss it with you, and with your insurer if applicable, before doing any additional work.

What should I bring to an estimate?

Bring your vehicle, your insurance information if you are filing a claim, and your claim number if you have one. A police report number is helpful for collision claims.

Insurance

Do you work with insurance companies?

Yes. We work with insurance claims and communicate with adjusters on your behalf.

Can I choose my own body shop?

In general, yes. Insurance companies may recommend shops, but you have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. For consumer guidance, visit the Florida Department of Financial Services.

Should I file an insurance claim for minor damage?

It depends on the repair cost, your deductible and your personal situation. If the repair costs less than or close to your deductible, paying out of pocket may make sense. We can give you an estimate to help you decide.

What is a deductible?

A deductible is the amount you pay toward a covered repair before your insurance pays the rest. It is set by your policy.

Do I pay the deductible if the accident was not my fault?

If the other driver’s insurer accepts liability and pays for the repair, you generally do not pay a deductible. If you file through your own collision coverage, you pay your deductible, and your insurer may seek reimbursement from the other party.

What is a supplement?

A supplement is an additional estimate submitted to the insurer when hidden damage is found during repair. It is a normal part of collision repair.

What if my car is declared a total loss?

If repair costs approach the vehicle’s value, the insurer may declare it a total loss and pay you the actual cash value minus your deductible. You can provide information about comparable vehicles if you disagree with the valuation. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation provides consumer information about auto insurance.

Will my insurance cover a rental car?

It depends on your policy. Rental reimbursement coverage is optional. If another driver is at fault, their insurer may cover a rental.

Collision repair

What should I do immediately after an accident?

Check for injuries, move to safety if possible, call law enforcement if required, exchange information, take photos, and notify your insurer. Read our blog article on what to do after a fender bender for a full checklist.

Can I drive my car after an accident?

Only if it is safe. Do not drive if lights do not work, fluids are leaking, warning lights are on, the hood will not latch, tires are damaged, or steering and braking feel abnormal.

What is hidden damage?

Hidden damage is damage behind panels that cannot be seen from the outside, such as bent brackets, crushed energy absorbers, cracked mounts, or misaligned structural parts.

Do you use OEM parts?

We use OEM, aftermarket, or recycled parts depending on the situation, your preferences and your insurance coverage. We explain the parts on your estimate. Learn more on our collision repair page.

Do you repair frame damage?

We evaluate structural damage and explain what is involved. If the repair requires equipment or procedures beyond our facility, we will tell you and help you find the right solution.

Will my car be safe after collision repair?

A properly repaired vehicle should perform like it did before the accident. That requires addressing all damage and following manufacturer procedures.

Do you calibrate safety sensors?

Many vehicles require sensor calibration after collision or bumper repairs. We follow manufacturer requirements and perform or arrange calibration when needed.

Body and paint

Will new paint match my car?

We match paint to your vehicle’s color code and adjust for variations, then blend new color into adjacent panels so the transition is not visible. Read how paint matching works on our blog.

What is blending?

Blending is gradually fading new paint into an adjacent panel so the eye cannot see where new paint meets old.

Why is my clear coat peeling?

Clear coat peeling is usually caused by long-term UV exposure, which is very common in Florida. Once it peels, it must be removed and the panel refinished.

Can you remove scratches?

Light clear coat scratches can often be polished out. Deeper scratches require refinishing.

Can you repair rust?

Yes. Surface rust can be treated and refinished. Rust-through requires cutting out the damaged metal or replacing the panel.

Do you do complete paint jobs?

Yes. We perform partial and complete paint jobs, including color changes. See our auto body and paint page.

How long should I wait to wash or wax after a paint repair?

Gentle hand washing is usually fine after a short period, but avoid automatic car washes, pressure washing close to edges, and waxing until the paint has cured. We give specific guidance when you pick up your vehicle.

Do you do paintless dent repair?

Paintless dent repair may be possible for shallow dents with intact paint in accessible areas. We will let you know if your dent is a good candidate.

Bumper repair

Can a cracked bumper be repaired?

Often, yes. Small to moderate cracks can usually be repaired with plastic welding or structural adhesives. Large tears or damage near sensors may require replacement. See our bumper repair page.

How long does bumper repair take?

Many bumper repairs take one to two days. Replacements depend on parts availability.

My bumper is hanging loose. Is that dangerous?

A loose bumper can come off at speed and create a hazard. Have it secured and inspected soon.

Will bumper repair affect my parking sensors?

It can. Sensors must be removed and reinstalled carefully, and some systems require calibration.

Timing

How long will my repair take?

It depends on the extent of damage, parts availability, insurance approval and paint curing time. We give you an estimated timeline and keep you updated.

Why do parts delays happen?

Some parts are backordered from manufacturers or suppliers. We order parts as early as possible and let you know about delays.

Will you update me during the repair?

Yes. We keep you informed about progress, delays and completion.

Payment

What forms of payment do you accept?

Call the shop at (561) 890-7999 to confirm current payment options.

When do I pay?

Payment, including any deductible, is typically due when the repair is complete and you pick up your vehicle.

Do you offer promotions?

Yes. We feature a monthly promotion. See the promotions page for the current offer.

Vehicles

What vehicles do you repair?

We repair domestic, Asian and European vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, luxury vehicles and electric vehicles. See examples in our gallery.

Do you repair electric vehicles?

Yes, we repair body damage on electric and hybrid vehicles and follow safety precautions for high-voltage systems. Some repairs involving high-voltage components may require dealer service.

Do you repair aluminum vehicles?

We repair many aluminum body panels. We will explain any special considerations for your vehicle.

Do you work on classic cars?

Yes. Call us to discuss your classic or custom project.

The shop

Where are you located?

825 15th St #7, Lake Park, FL 33403. See the map and directions on our contact page.

What are your hours?

Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and closed Sunday.

What areas do you serve?

Lake Park, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Riviera Beach, Singer Island, West Palm Beach, Mangonia Park, Jupiter, Juno Beach, Tequesta and surrounding Palm Beach County communities.

Are you hiring?

We are always interested in talking with skilled body technicians, painters, prep technicians, detailers and estimators. Visit our careers page to upload your resume.

How do I leave a review?

Search for All Star Auto Repair on Google and leave a review on our Business Profile. We appreciate every review.

Who owns All Star Auto Repair?

We are an independent, locally operated shop. Learn more on our about us page.

Safety and recalls

How do I check for recalls?

Enter your VIN at the NHTSA recall lookup. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers.

Where can I learn about vehicle safety ratings?

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and NHTSA publish crash test ratings.

Do I need to report an accident in Florida?

Florida law requires reporting crashes that involve injury, death, hit-and-run, a vehicle that must be towed, or certain other situations. See the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website for details.

Care after repair

How do I care for my repaired vehicle?

Hand wash gently, avoid automatic car washes and waxing until paint cures, park in shade when possible, and remove bird droppings and bugs quickly.

What if I notice a problem after pickup?

Call us right away at (561) 890-7999. We want every repair to be right.

Should I keep my repair paperwork?

Yes. Keep repair invoices and estimates with your vehicle records. They are useful for insurance, warranty and resale.

Florida-specific questions

Does Florida’s climate affect paint?

Yes. Strong UV, humidity, salt air, heavy rain and lovebug season all stress automotive paint. Regular washing and protective products help.

Is Florida a no-fault state?

Florida requires personal injury protection, which covers certain medical expenses regardless of fault. Property damage to vehicles is handled differently. Ask your insurance agent about your coverage.

What about hurricane damage?

Storm damage from debris or falling branches is usually covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision. Flood damage is also typically comprehensive. Contact your insurer after a storm.

Still have questions?

We are happy to answer anything not covered here. Call (561) 890-7999, visit 825 15th St #7 in Lake Park, or send a message through our contact page. You can also browse our blog for detailed articles.

More about working with us

Can I wait while you do a small repair?

Some small repairs require paint curing time, so waiting may not be practical. Ask us when you schedule.

Can I drop off my car after hours?

Call us to discuss drop-off arrangements.

Do you tow vehicles?

We can help you arrange towing if your vehicle is not safe to drive.

Can I see my car during the repair?

Call ahead and we can arrange a time to show you progress.

Will you clean my car?

We clean vehicles before delivery.

How do I know the repair was done right?

We walk you through the repair at pickup. Look at panel gaps, paint color and texture, and make sure lights and electronics work. See our collision repair guide for tips on judging a repair.

Can you repair damage from a previous bad repair?

Yes. We often fix previous repairs that did not match, peeled, or did not fit well.

Do you offer detailing?

Ask us about cleaning and finishing services when you schedule your repair.

Can you remove decals or wraps?

Ask us about removal before a paint repair.

Do you fix headlight damage?

We replace damaged headlight assemblies as part of collision repairs.

Do you replace mirrors?

We replace damaged side mirrors, including painting mirror caps to match.

Questions about specific repairs

Can you fix a key scratch?

Yes. Key scratches usually go through the clear coat and color, so the affected panel is refinished and blended into adjacent panels.

Can you fix hail damage?

Yes. Depending on the size and number of dents, paintless dent repair or conventional repair may be used.

Can you repair a cracked side mirror?

Mirror housings and caps can be replaced and painted to match. Mirror glass can also be replaced.

Can you repair damage from a shopping cart?

Shopping cart dents are usually small and may be good candidates for paintless dent repair if the paint is intact.

Can you restore faded headlights?

Ask us about headlight restoration when you schedule other work.

Do you repair wheel curb rash?

Ask us. Wheel repair is often handled by specialists, and we can advise you.

Can you fix a dent on a body line?

Yes, though dents on sharp body lines require more skill to restore crisply.

Can you repair a quarter panel?

Yes. Quarter panels are often repaired rather than replaced because they are welded to the vehicle structure.

Do you repair trucks with aluminum beds?

We repair many aluminum panels and will explain any special considerations.

Can you match a custom or discontinued color?

In most cases, yes. Paint can be formulated from samples even when a color is no longer in production.

Questions about estimates and billing

Is the estimate the final price?

The estimate is based on visible damage. If hidden damage is found, we discuss it with you before any additional work.

Can I pay my deductible in installments?

Call us to discuss payment options.

Will you give me an itemized invoice?

Yes. Your invoice lists parts, labor, paint and materials.

Do you charge for re-inspections?

Ask us about any specific situation.

What if my insurance estimate is lower than yours?

That is common. Insurance estimates are often written before the vehicle is disassembled. We submit supplements with documentation when additional work is needed.

Questions about our gallery, blog and website

Are the photos on your website real?

Yes. Our gallery contains real photos taken in our shop, organized by vehicle brand.

How often do you publish blog articles?

We publish practical articles on our blog regularly, covering topics drivers ask us about most.

Can I request a blog topic?

Absolutely. Call or email us with a question, and it may become a future article.

Where can I see this month’s promotion?

On our promotions page, which includes the current flyer and details.

Questions about electric vehicles and new technology

Do EVs cost more to repair?

EV repairs can involve specialized procedures, sensors and materials, which may affect cost. Many cosmetic repairs are similar to any other vehicle.

Will a body repair affect my EV battery?

Most cosmetic body repairs do not involve the high-voltage battery. Repairs near high-voltage components follow safety procedures.

What is ADAS calibration?

ADAS calibration is the process of aiming cameras and radar sensors so driver assistance features work correctly after repairs.

How do I know if my car has ADAS?

If your vehicle has features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring or parking sensors, it has ADAS components.

Why is my warning light on after a minor bump?

Sensors in the bumper or grille may be damaged or knocked out of position. Have the vehicle inspected.

Questions about scheduling

How far in advance should I schedule?

Scheduling a few days ahead is usually enough for most repairs, though busy seasons and parts orders can affect timing.

Can I schedule my repair around a trip?

Yes. Many customers schedule repairs while traveling so the vehicle is ready when they return. Let us know your dates.

What if I need my car back urgently?

Tell us up front. We will be honest about whether the timeline is realistic for the repair needed.

Can I drop off my car the night before?

Call us to arrange early drop-off.

Do you work on Saturdays?

Yes, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

What happens if my repair is delayed?

We call you right away, explain why, and give you an updated timeline.

Final questions

Do you offer a warranty?

Ask us about the warranty terms that apply to your specific repair when you receive your estimate.

Can I bring my own parts?

Call us to discuss. We need to confirm that parts are correct and suitable for a quality repair.

Do you repair motorcycles or boats?

Our focus is cars, trucks, SUVs and vans. Call us if you have a question about another type of vehicle.

Is there anything I should remove before dropping off my car?

Please remove valuables, garage remotes you may need, and toll transponders if you will be using another vehicle.