Mossy Escondido
Collision Center
FAQ

              

Q:  What is the difference between Mossy Escondido Collision Center and other body shops?

 A:  Mossy Escondido Collision Center demonstrates a commitment to excellence in collision repair professionalism, repair quality and customer satisfaction by meeting the industry’s leading standards.  Key standards include:  Service monitoring system to ensure your repair experience is exceptional, trained managers and technicians who have the knowledge and expertise to repair your vehicle right, and a repair facility that is equipped with the right tools and equipment.

Q:  What is the advantage of state of the art tools and equipment? 

A:  Mossy Escondido Collision Center is equipped with the latest repair equipment and tools that enable our certified technicians to adhere to factory recommended repair procedures.

Q:  Aren’t all collision repair technicians trained?

A:  All repair technicians are not equally trained.  Just as there are various levels of training and expertise in most professions, collision repair technicians can achieve the pinnacle of professional training by becoming certified.  Our Certified Technicians complete hours of hands on training and must pass rigorous exams through factory and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) to achieve and maintain their certification.  By providing you with the highest quality collision repair, your satisfaction is guaranteed.

  

1.  WHAT SHOULD I KNOW IF I GET INTO AN ACCIDENT?

At the accident scene, should your vehicle not be safe to drive, call Al's  Towing at 760.745.9433. If the Police are at the scene, inform them that you would like your vehicle to be repaired at Mossy Nissan Escondido Collision Center, this will be a savings to your insurance company by only having to tow your vehicle once.

If your vehicle is safe to drive, take your vehicle to Mossy Escondido Collision Center. We are open Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 5:30pm.

You should then contact your insurance company and advise them of the damage and the shop you've selected for repairs.

Some insurance companies have what is called "drive-in claims service;" it is not mandatory you use this service. Just inform your insurance company where their claims person can see your vehicle.

If the accident is your fault, your insurance company will cover the damage to your vehicle and the other party. If the accident wasn't your fault the other parties insurance should cover your damages. Try to collect from the other insurance, this will entitle you to a rental vehicle and you won't have to pay a deductible.

2.  WHAT ARE "OEM" PARTS?

OEM stands for “original equipment manufacturer”. These are new parts made by the same Manufacturer who made your vehicle

3.  WHAT ARE "AFTERMARKET" PARTS?

Aftermarket (A/M) is used to describe parts that are made by manufacturer other than the one who originally made your car. Some aftermarket parts carry certification that helps ensure the basic quality of the part. Aftermarket parts are usually less expensive than new OEM, and for some applications may be a better choice than used OEM parts. Some repairers and insurers list these parts as "Quality Replacement Parts."

4.  WHAT ARE "LKQ" PARTS?

LKQ stands for "like, kind and quality." Most of us are more familiar with the other term for this category which is "Used Parts." The term LKQ should more precisely define a sub-category of used parts that are just like the ones on you vehicle before the loss.

5.  DO I HAVE TO ACCEPT USED PARTS?

No, you do not have to accept used parts. Most customer oriented insurance companies will only suggest used parts (LKQ) when there is agreement from all parties; generally used parts are suggested when there needs to be a savings to justify the repairs. The insurance company's obligation is to restore your vehicle to "pre-loss" condition - no better than it was and no worse.

6. DO I HAVE TO USE THE SHOP MY INSURANCE COMPANY RECOMMENDS OR CAN I TAKE IT TO MOSSY ESCONDIDO COLLISION CENTER?

You can always take it to Mossy Escondido Collision Center. The insurance company can not tell you where to repair your vehicle. Some insurance people will attempt to convince or STEER you to fix your vehicle at their PREFERRED SHOP; a shop that gives the insurance company special deals. These deals will often come at the vehicle owner's expense which could compromise safety and the quality of repairs.

Should this happen please contact Mossy Escondido Collision Center; our professional claims handlers can guide you through this unfortunate practice

7.  DO I HAVE TO GET THREE ESTIMATES?

No, you do not need to get multiple estimates; you only need to notify your insurance representative as to where you will be having your repairs done. Your insurance company will work hand in hand with your choice of shop.

What happens if the insurance company's estimate is lower than the one I get from Mossy Escondido Collision Center?

Insurance companies are generally willing to pay for a proper repair. The insurance company appraiser may include only the most obvious damage in their estimate. At  Mossy Escondido Collision Center, we try to write as thorough an estimate as possible.

Just bring the insurance estimate in with you and we will go over the differences. If necessary, we'll notify the insurance company of the changes we need to make. Generally this just takes a phone call and we will bill your insurance company for the supplement at the completion of the repair.

8.  WHAT HAPPENS IF MORE DAMAGE IS FOUND?

It can difficult to see all the damage during the initial inspection. finding additional damage is very common. Estimates written without a thorough disassembly of the vehicle often have overlooked or “hidden” damages.

If additional damage is found, it is documented and discussed with you and the insurance company. The insurance company may, or may not, want to come see the damage. These supplemental charges are itemized, authorized and billed along with the rest of the repairs.

If the insurance representative wants to come see the additional damage, the repair process could be delayed from 2 - 5 business days. Be mindful that any additional parts found to be damaged will have to be ordered and that can lead more delays.

9.  WHAT IS A DEDUCTIBLE?

A deductible is a portion of the repair bill that is not covered by your insurance policy. The amount is determined by your insurance policy and is first set when you first purchase your insurance.

10.  WHEN AND WHERE DO I PAY MY DEDUCTIBLE?

Your deductible is paid directly to Mossy Escondido Collision Center when your repairs are complete. The insurance company pays us for the work performed minus your deductible.

11.  CAN YOU SAVE ME MY DEDUCTIBLE?

No. And neither can any other honest repair facility. It is against California State law.

12.  IS IT HARD TO MATCH THE COLOR OF MY PAINT?

No, almost all colors can be matched even those that are badly faded. We employ highly skilled paint professionals who are factory trained using state of the art equipment to assure colors are matched to manufacturer's standards.

13. WHAT ABOUT MY PERSONAL BELONGINGS?

Before dropping off your vehicle, we recommend that you remove your personal belongings or anything of value. Our insurance covers damage to your vehicle as a result of fire, theft, or even employee error, but it only covers the vehicle and its factory installed parts. We do not assume liability for other items that you choose to leave in your vehicle. Our team often removes interior parts to gain access to the damaged area or to protect the interior from damage and need ready access to these areas.

14.  DOES MOSSY ESCONDIDO COLLISION CENTER FIX MY MODEL OF CAR?

Our skilled technician's are trained to repaired all makes and models of vehicles, foreign and domestic.

15. DOES MOSSY ESCONDIDO COLLISION CENTER GUARANTEE THEIR WORK?

Mossy Escondido Collision Center warrants every repair we do for as long as you own your vehicle. We offer fast friendly quality repairs that are guaranteed! We repair our vehicles to meet or exceed all manufacturer repair standards. This allows us to offer our life time warranty.

16.  WHAT MAKES MOSSY ESCONDIDO COLLISION CENTER DIFFERENT FROM THE OTHER BODY SHOPS?

We specialize in Insurance Claims Handling. We work with your insurance company so your claim is handled in the most efficient manner. Mossy Escondido Collision Center warrants every repair we do. We offer fast friendly quality repairs that are guaranteed!

17.  WILL MOSSY ESCONDIDO COLLISION CENTER COORDINATE A RENTAL CAR FOR ME?

Yes. We can coordinate with any rental agency you wish, and we can have rental cars available on site.

California Motorist Bill of Rights   

In accordance with the Automotive Repair Act of 1971, A customer shall receive:

• A written estimate for repair work.
• A detailed invoice of work done and parts supplied.
• Return of replaced parts, if requested at the time a work order is placed. Questions concerning the above information should be directed to the manager of the repair facility.  

Do I have the right to take my car to the shop of my choice?

Yes - You may select the repair facility of your choice unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise.
 

Should my insurance company be notified before repairs?

Yes - your insurance policy generally states that, if requested, you must file a sworn proof of loss, exhibit the damaged property, and submit to examination under oath.
 

Do I need to contact more than one shop for an estimate?

No - Generally, one estimate from the shop of your choice is required, unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise. California State law requires you be given a written estimate before starting repairs.
 

Am I responsible for the cost of repairs?

Yes - You are usually responsible to the repair facility for payment of repairs unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise. Ordinarily, if you are insured, your insurance policy states that the insurance company will pay you for the loss, less any applicable deductables or depreciation. Any arrangements for payments by your insurance company are your responsibility.
 

Is the repair facility responsible for the repairs performed on my car?

Yes - The Automobile Repair Act of 1971 requires all repair dealers to be registered with the State of California and to post a sign. This Act [Section 9884.7(1)(g)] states that the Department of Consumer Affairs may invalidate the registration of the repair dealer for a number of causes, including:

• making any statement written or oral which is untrue or misleading;
• causing a customer to sign any work order which is untrue or misleading;
• failing or refusing to give to a customer a copy of any document requiring his or her signature, as soon as the customer signs such document;
• any other conduct which constitutes fraud;
• any willful departure from or disregard of accepted trade standards for good and workman like repair.  

If I am having diffculties with my insurance company, do I have recourse?

Yes - First consult with your insurance agent or broker. Then, if your problems still have not been resolved, consult with the Department of Insurance, State of California, at their office in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego, or telephone their toll free line: 1-800-927-4357
 

If my insurance company does not agree with the amount of loss, do I have recourse other than the State of California Department of Insurance?

Yes - Your insurance policy may provide that, when the insured and insurer fail to agree on the amount of loss, both parties are entitled to arbitration.
 

Can an Insurer require, direct, suggest or recommend that your automobile be repaired at a specific shop?

No - Unless the referral is expressly requested by you; or you have been informed in writing of the right to select the repair facility; and

The insurer that elects to repair a vehicle directs, suggests or recommends that a specific repair shop be used, shall cause the damaged vehicle to be restored to its condition prior to the loss at no additional cost to you other than as stated in the policy or as otherwise allowed by law.
 

Can my insurer require me to use non-original equipment manufacturer (non-OEM) replacement crash parts for the repair of my car?

No - No insurer shall require the use of non-OEM replacement crash parts in the repair of an automobile unless:

• The parts are at least equal to the original equipment manufacturer parts in terms of quality, safety, fit and performance; and
• Insurers specifying the use fo non-OEM replacement crash parts shall pay the cost of any modifications to the parts which may become neccessary to effect the repair; and
• Insurers specifying the use of non-OEM replacement crash parts warrant that all such parts are of like kind, quality, safety, fit and performance as OEM replacement crash parts.

Quality and Value:

  At Mossy Escondido Collision Center you can be confident that you will receive the best price and highest quality thanks to our years of experience and highly trained technicians.

The latest technology for superior repairs.

At our Mossy Escondido Collision Center, you will be able to take advantage of the latest and greatest collision repair technology including state-of-the-art spray booths, computerized paint mixing and matching, high quality paint, bonding and composite materials, and laser frame measuring and straightening machinery. Our Collision Center provides free estimates and works with all insurance companies on all repairs.

Free Shuttle and local drop-off.

In addition, we provide a free pick-up and drop-off shuttle service and can arrange rental cars for customers if needed. And best of all, our Collision Center accepts all makes and models, regardless of where the vehicle was purchased. We recognize the importance of convenience. That is why you can easily drop your car off at any one of our eight dealership locations and we’ll take the car to the Collision Center for you.

Our facility is conveniently located off Auto Park Way in Escondido. near the intersection of interstate 15 and hwy. 78. Our 12,000 square foot state of the art facility the most advanced equipment for total quality repairs. A few of our shop and office features are listed bellow.    

• Mitchell Premier Suite estimating software
• CCC Pathways estimating software
• Global downdraft drive-through paint booth with Curetronic curing system
• Several collision repair stalls
  
• Paint prep stalls and a Global downdraft prep area
• Chief S21 heavy frame rack with Velocity computerized measuring systems
• Jollift unibody repair station
•  Western heavy lift hoists for heavy truck repairs and frame replacements
•  Global prep station equipped with Curetronic infrared drying
• Complete detail/final clean up area
• Stalls dedicated solely for estimating and insurance appraiser inspections
•  Customer parking spaces with handicap access
•  75 parking spaces in our secure lot for vehicles in process
• Computerized paint system for perfect color matching
  
• Insurance Adjuster/Appraiser stations equipped with phone, fax, copier and high speed internet access

Our paint specialists will blend away unsightly paint damage on your vehicle’s painted exterior. This is great for severely pitted bumpers, minor fender damage and other blemishes which accumulate over time (estimate required, up to 90% perfection attainable).

Minor Cosmetic Paint Repair Starting at: $125.00

Paintless Dent Removal
Daily life can wreak havoc on your vehicle. Let us make that shopping cart or door ding blemishes disappear. You will be amazed at our capabilities. (Estimate required, some dents may require paint touch-up)

1”dent starting at $95.00
         
Wheel Repair
We can make your wheels look like new. Curb damage, scratches and dings can be eliminated, leaving you with beautiful wheels (chrome wheels excluded).

Each Wheel Starting at $150.00

Complete Set of 4 Wheels Starting at $525.00

 

Windshield Replacement
Save money replacing the entire windshield. For damaged glass look no further; we will replace your windshield with genuine factory parts by trained technicians.

Windshield Replacement Starting at: $225.00

Headlight Lens Restoration
Hazy, pitted or yellowing headlight lenses can be made to look like new. Our process actually removes old lens material, so unlike other cover-up repairs, you will have clear lenses for 1 year or longer.

Per Headlight Lens: $125.00

The Mossy Escondido Collision Center
10 Step Repair Process 

Step 1: The Estimate

 In the Estimate Process area the vehicle is inspected and relevant data is entered into estimate computer systems. This data is compiled into an estimate that determines the cost of repairs. However, often there is hidden damage that can not be seen until after the vehicle is disassembled.
 

Step 2: Insurance Approval

Once the estimate is completed, the insurance company will review the estimate. There may be some negotiations on the price and procedures required to repair the vehicle. The insurance company will determine if the vehicle is even repairable. Once this process is completed, the vehicle begins the actual repair process.
 

Step 3: Disassembly

In Disassembly hidden damage is often found, and inner structure repairs are determined. Many times this will require scheduling insurance re-inspection and ordering additional parts.

 
Step 4: Order Parts

The required parts for your vehicle are ordered, and availability is checked. If a part needs to be special ordered, the order will be placed as soon as possible. Although many parts may arrive very quickly, the repair process can not begin until the shop receives all of the structural parts

Step 5: Structure Repair

In the Structure Repair area, the unitized body is returned back to the factory specification. A sophisticated measuring system is used to monitor all phases in this area. A computer based
measurement system is used to analyze the frame of your vehicle. This system assures an accurate repair.
 

Step 6: Body Repair

The Body Repair Department replaces exterior panels, and all metal finishing that may be required. The vehicle begins to come back to life as sheet metal is installed and aligned. From here the vehicle will go to the paint preparations department.
 

Step 7: Paint

Paint Preparation is a critical step in the refinishing process of every vehicle. All panels are prepared for paint, then primed and sealed to assure good adhesion when the final top color and clear coats of paint are applied.
 

Step 8: Reassembly

Final moldings and detail pieces are put back on the vehicle in the reassembly area. All the vehicle's systems are checked during this process. The vehicle is almost complete and ready for delivery when it is in this stage.
 

Step 9: Detailing

During the repair process the vehicle accumulates dust from the repairs. It will be cleaned. It will also be road tested to ensure that everything is working properly. A final inspection will assure that the vehicle is restored to it's pre-accident condition.

 
Step 10: Completed

 Delivery is the last step in the repair process. When the customer arrives to pick up the vehicle, the bill is explained and the final paper work is completed. The customer drives away in the vehicle that has been restored to it's pre accident condition.

Going Green!

Mossy Escondido Collision Center has an ongoing commitment to reducing waste and preserving our environment.  Our company is one of the first in San Diego County to utilize a water borne paint system, which reduces VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) atmospheric emission without compromising a durable, long lasting, factory type finish, and in turn improving air quality and our environment.

Mossy Escondido Collision Center investment in state of the art equipment  includes:
 
·  A computer paint mixing scale that mixes only what is needed to complete each repair, reducing waste up to 80%-90%

·  An HVLP (high volume, low pressure) paint application system

·  An enclosed gun washer that recycles solvents, lowering the amount of solvent and paint waste to an absolute minimum

Our efforts don’t stop there.  We also work hard at finding recycling solutions for our waste stream; including cardboard, aluminum, steel, plastics, fluids and more through various Government and private agencies.