Repair Time
The most frequently asked question when customers
drop off their vehicle is, “How long will it take to repair
my vehicle?” We would like to give you an accurate date for completion
of your vehicles repair at that time but it is often not possible.
We give you an ETD or ESTIMATED TIME of DELIVERY.
Delays or an extension of the repair process can be caused by many circumstances.
SUPPLEMENTAL DAMAGE - PARTS
Frequently the initial estimate on a vehicle is written on visual damage
only. During the disassembly process additional damage is frequently found.
This damage may require the ordering of additional parts even though parts were
ordered and scheduled to be delivered before the vehicle was dropped off. The
additional parts may be readily available in only a few days or they may be
on national back order and cause a significant delay. Delays are also caused
by the shipment of wrong parts.
 SUPPLEMENTAL DAMAGE – REPAIR TIME
Often visual inspection of a vehicle will not reveal structural
damage to a unibody. The vehicle may appear to be undamaged on the surface
but in fact be damaged internally or underneath. To detect and repair
this damage a vehicle must be mounted on a bench or a frame rack. A measuring
system is used to bring the vehicle back to manufactures tolerance. This
is an exacting, time consuming but necessary process. If this damage
is missed or improperly repaired it can cause suspension and handling
problems, increased tire wear, and reduced durability or operation of
key safety systems and structural parts.
REASSEMBLY
During reassembly new trim pieces are installed along with original
trim pieces that were removed from the vehicle. At one time almost all
of these pieces were affixed with metal clips, the majority of today’s
cars utilize plastic clips. These clips, brackets, moldings etc. may
crack or break during reassembly necessitating the ordering of additional
parts.
MECHANICAL and COSMETIC REPAIRS
Once the structural reassembly and refinishing is complete the mechanical
repairs begin. The majority of mechanical repairs are done at Lovetts.
However, severe mechanical damage, electrical diagnosis and repairs
and computer sensors may be sublet to a specialist. The time of our repair
process may be lengthened to accommodate their production schedule.
Window tinting, pin stripping and interior trim and upholstery are also
done at Lovetts. The specialists that we sublet to make
every attempt to accommodate our production schedule but on occasion
we have to make accommodations for their schedules.
A delay in the repair process can be difficult if a customer does not
have car rental coverage or if their coverage is inadequate due to the
extent of the damage.
It is our goal at Lovetts to expedite each step in the
repair process and return your vehicle to you in pre-accident condition
as quickly as possible.
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