Autocraft Bodywerks Auto Body, Collision Repair & Painting FAQs

Everything You Need to Know About Auto Body Repair
If you have any questions about the auto body repair process, a team member at any of our four Autocraft Bodywerks locations will be happy to answer them. Below you’ll find some of the most common questions we get asked about collision repair services in Austin and the surrounding communities.
FAQs About Our Auto Body Repair Services
Will replacement parts be ordered before I drop off my vehicle for repair?
Yes. It is our policy to order the OEM (original manufacturer) parts for your vehicle at the time that we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off. However, our Blueprinting process, the most thorough in the industry, may find additional damage that was not initially found by the insurance adjustor. We always use OEM (original manufacturer) replacement parts in the repair and restoration of your vehicle to showroom condition.
Does damage to the frame mean my vehicle is a total loss?
Not necessarily. A car is determined to be a total loss entirely at the discretion of the liable insurance company. Factors influencing this decision are the expense of the repair, the value of the damaged vehicle at auction, the complexity of the repair, the expected time to repair, the desire of the vehicle owner and other factors.
How long will the repairs to my vehicle take?
Your Customer Service Representative (CSR) will provide you with an estimate of the time it will take to complete as soon as a date can be projected. Every vehicle we repair and restore is unique based on the age, brand, model and extent of the damage we find during our Blueprint process. Our goal is to restore your vehicle to factory standards as quickly as possible with every consideration given to safety and performance as established by the original manufacturer.
Does Autocraft provide other types of service work?
No. Autocraft Bodywerks is solely dedicated to the art of collision repair and restoration. If there are additional body and/or paint repairs unrelated to your insurance claim that you would like us to address we will be happy to provide you with a quote. For engine and other mechanical repairs we have automotive repair partners we can recommend based on the brand and model of your vehicle. Just let us know about additional mechanical repairs you feel are needed so we can make the appropriate recommendations.
Will the new paint color match the original manufacturer color?
Contemporary factory finishes consist of several layers of highly specialized paints unique to each manufacturer. Autocraft Bodywerks has invested significantly in the industry’s highest quality and most durable paint system available today. Autocraft regularly upgrades its technology and equipment to ensure the best possible match is achieved every time. Our paint master has decades of experience and is the 4th generation in his family in the business. We are especially proud of our ability to match factory finishes during the final step in the repair and restoration process.
Will transportation be available when I drop off my vehicle?
We will help you with all the necessary arrangements for a rental car. We do recommend that you review your policy and/or call your insurance company to determine if you have rental coverage. The cost of your rental car will be covered only if your policy includes that option.
Who will handle the rental car arrangements?
We will help you with all the necessary arrangements for a rental car. We do recommend that you review your policy and/or call your insurance company to determine if you have rental coverage. The cost of your rental car will be covered only if your policy includes that option.
What notification options are there when my car is done?
When you drop off your vehicle you can let us know your preferred method of communication and that’s how we’ll contact you. We can text, email or call you throughout the repair and restoration process so that you are always up to date.
Are the repairs to my vehicle guaranteed?
Absolutely! Autocraft Bodywerks will stand by all repairs done at our facility. We maintain the most stringent standards in the industry and our quality control process is second to none. All of our work is guaranteed for as long as you own that vehicle.
What about a deductible?
Every insurance policy is unique. Your insurance policy will determine the total deductible you will be responsible for. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call your CSR who can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether you will need to pay the deductible when the repair and restoration of your vehicle has been completed.
What are my payment options?
We accept cash, banker’s checks and personal checks. We are not set up to accept credit cards or debit cards. To keep your car’s finish looking like new, we highly recommend that you follow these useful tips:
• Hand wash your vehicle with warm water and a mild auto wash detergent in a shaded area.
• Remove stains and bird droppings as soon as possible to prevent acid etching the new paint finish.
• Avoid washing your vehicle with hard water.
• Avoid polishing or waxing for 90 days.
• Avoid drying your vehicle with a dry cloth to prevent scratching the finish.
• Avoid commercial auto washes for 90 days.
• If hand-held pressure washers are used, be aware they are capable of extreme pressures and can damage paint finishes.
• Avoid spilling chemicals such as antifreeze or coolant on the finish.
• Avoid scraping snow or ice from the vehicle’s finished area.
Do I have the right to choose Autocraft Bodywerks for my collision repair?
Yes. Texas law allows you to choose the auto body repair shop you trust, regardless of what an insurance company may suggest. You are never required to use an insurer’s “preferred” shop. Autocraft Bodywerks works directly with all major insurance providers while representing your best interests throughout the repair process.
Will my vehicle be repaired to manufacturer standards?
Absolutely. Autocraft Bodywerks follows OEM repair procedures for every vehicle we service. This includes approved repair methods, proper materials, and original manufacturer replacement parts to help ensure safety, performance, and long-term reliability.
Do you repair electric and hybrid vehicles?
Yes. Our technicians are trained and certified to safely repair electric and hybrid vehicles, including those with advanced battery systems and aluminum construction. These vehicles require specialized tools and procedures, which is why ongoing training and certification are critical to our repair process.
What is the Blueprinting process and why is it important?
Blueprinting is a detailed inspection and diagnostic process performed before repairs begin. It allows our team to identify all visible and hidden damage so repairs can be planned accurately from the start. This helps reduce delays, ensures proper structural repairs, and supports clear communication with your insurance provider.
Will you communicate directly with my insurance company?
Yes. We handle communication with your insurance company throughout the repair and restoration process. This includes submitting documentation, supplements, and repair updates so you don’t have to manage those conversations yourself.
Can you repair vehicles that have advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)?
Yes. Modern vehicles often include ADAS features such as lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance systems. When repairs affect these systems, we follow proper procedures to ensure components are restored to factory specifications.
What happens if additional damage is found during repairs?
If hidden damage is discovered after disassembly, we document it thoroughly and submit an insurance supplement for approval. You will be informed promptly, and no additional work is performed without proper authorization.



