Question 1

Are estimates free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Always. There's no charge to bring your car in or send photos for an estimate. No obligation to book afterward.

Question 2

How accurate is the initial estimate?

Accepted Answer

Very, for visible damage. For collisions, we sometimes find hidden damage once we open a panel. If that happens, we stop, document it, and get your approval before continuing — never a surprise charge.

Question 3

Can I get an estimate from photos?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Send clear photos of the damage from multiple angles to group2autobody@gmail.com or via the form on /book. We'll send back a written ballpark, plus what we'd need to see in person to firm it up.

Question 4

How long does an in-person estimate take?

Accepted Answer

15 to 20 minutes for most jobs. Larger or custom work takes longer because we walk through scope with you in detail.

Question 5

Do you work with my insurance company?

Accepted Answer

We've worked with every major carrier and most regional ones. Hand us your claim number and adjuster contact — we take it from there.

Question 6

My insurer recommended a different shop. Can I still come here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In California, you choose where your car gets repaired. Insurer recommendations are not requirements. We'll bill them directly regardless of network status.

Question 7

Will using your shop affect my premium?

Accepted Answer

No. Your premium is determined by your driving record, the at-fault status of the claim, and your policy — not by the shop you choose.

Question 8

What if the insurance estimate is lower than yours?

Accepted Answer

Common, especially for older claims with visible-damage-only adjuster estimates. We supplement directly with the adjuster — that's what "supplements" exist for. Your out-of-pocket usually doesn't change.

Question 9

How long will my car be in the shop?

Accepted Answer

Most jobs are 3 to 21 days depending on damage and parts availability. We give you a realistic timeline at the estimate and update you with progress photos as work moves forward.

Question 10

Do you offer loaner cars?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for repairs over a few days. Ask at the estimate — we keep a small loaner fleet for customers.

Question 11

Can you pick up my car?

Accepted Answer

Yes, within San Leandro and most of the East Bay, free of charge. Beyond that, we can usually arrange it for a small fee.

Question 12

What if I find an issue after picking up the car?

Accepted Answer

Call us. Bring it back. If it's anything we did or missed, we fix it at no charge. Lifetime paint warranty included.

Question 13

Will the new paint match my old paint?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We mix and match against your car's actual finish — not a code on a chart. For partial repaints, we blend into adjacent panels so there's no visible seam.

Question 14

What's covered under the lifetime paint warranty?

Accepted Answer

Defects in the paint job itself — peeling, bubbling, fading from improper application. Not covered: damage from accidents, neglect, or environmental hazards (sap, bird droppings left on, etc.). Keep your receipt; that's the only documentation needed.

Question 15

How should I care for fresh paint?

Accepted Answer

For the first 30 days: hand wash only, no automatic car washes, no wax. After that, treat it like factory paint. We send the full care guide when you pick up the car.

Questions we hear most.

ESTIMATES

INSURANCE

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