Collision repair guide
Questions to Ask Before Authorizing Body Repairs
Before authorizing repairs, make sure you understand the known scope and how the shop will communicate if that scope changes.
General information: This guide does not replace emergency, legal, insurance, mechanical, or vehicle-specific safety advice.
About the estimate
Ask which parts and panels are included, what remains subject to disassembly, and which items are customer- or insurer-authorized.
About changes
Ask how the shop documents additional damage and how approval is handled before added work proceeds.
About timing
Ask for the current scheduling outlook and what dependencies could change it rather than relying on a guarantee.
At pickup
Review the completed work, the final paperwork, and any care instructions the shop provides for refinished areas.