FAQs

National Auto Specialty

Have an auto-body-shop-related question? National Auto Specialty has the answer. Check out these FAQs and call or text us today for more information!

  • When should I contact the insurance company after an accident?

    We recommend contacting us first. Our team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring you take the right steps at the right time.

  • What is an auto estimate?

    An auto estimate is a preliminary assessment of repair costs based on visible damage, current part prices, and the estimator's judgment of repair time. Due to modern vehicle design, full damage may not be apparent without disassembly. Initial estimates may not include all necessary repairs, as estimators only include clearly visible damage. Suspect items are left open for later assessment and billing.

  • When does National Auto Specialty need the estimate from my insurance company?

    We require the insurance company's estimate when they choose to create their own. This helps us accurately inform them of any additional charges. Remember, you have the legal right in Rhode Island to choose your repair shop without obtaining multiple estimates. We can handle most insurance processes with just your claim number, making the repair process more efficient for you.

  • What is a supplemental bill?

    A supplemental bill adjusts the repair costs based on differences between the estimate and actual repair requirements. For non-insurance repairs, we'll discuss any additional costs with you before proceeding. For insurance-covered repairs, we'll handle the supplement directly with the insurance company and inform you of any changes to the work or delivery date.

  • What is the claim number and why is it so important?

    The claim number is a unique identifier assigned by the insurance company to your specific case. It's crucial because it allows access to all information about your claim. Without this number, there's no formal claim on file, which could hinder reimbursement for repairs. Once you provide us with the claim number, we can communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf, streamlining the repair process.

  • Where do the replacement parts come from?

    We source parts from various suppliers: OEM (original equipment manufacturer), aftermarket, reconditioned, and used or recycled. OEM parts come from your vehicle's manufacturer, aftermarket from third-party producers, reconditioned parts are repaired and resold, and used parts come from salvage yards. While you can choose the type of parts, some insurance policies may only cover certain types. We can help clarify your options based on your specific situation.

  • What does "OEM" stand for?

    OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. These are parts made by the same company that manufactured your vehicle. They're distributed through local dealerships, which allows for quicker access to most parts. Availability varies by manufacturer, with domestic and Japanese parts typically available within a day, while European and other Asian parts may take three to five days.

  • My insurance company wants to use LKQ parts. What are they?

    LKQ stands for like, kind, and quality. This term refers to used parts or aftermarket parts that are manufactured by companies other than your vehicle's original manufacturer. These parts are designed to match the quality and function of original parts.

  • What are aftermarket parts?

    Aftermarket parts are replacement components produced by companies other than your vehicle's original manufacturer. These parts are designed to fit and function like original parts and are typically available for delivery within a day or two.

  • How long will it take to repair my vehicle?

    Repair duration varies based on insurance approval, parts availability, and the extent of repairs needed. Insurance approval typically takes one to three days. Parts procurement can range from same-day to three days. Most repairs take two to five days, while more extensive repairs for towed-in vehicles may take one to two weeks. Our efficient processes and strong insurance relationships help minimize delays, and we're often able to complete repairs in about half the industry average time.