OUR PROCESS
The Automotive Collision Repair Process
At Advanced Autobody, we minimize the impact of an auto accident by providing quality, convenient and cost effective repairs done right the first time, on time. We deliver the highest quality repairs, backed by a lifetime guarantee. You can also refer to some of our frequently asked questions. Advanced Autobody is consistently recognized for providing the highest level of customer satisfaction largely due to our commitment to continued communication throughout the repair process.
THE ESTIMATE
Free Estimates
Whether you have minor ding, or a major collision, the first thing you’ll want to know is: “How much is this going to cost to fix?” Advanced Autobody, Inc. is here to help! If you are not using insurance to pay for your repairs, you can rest assured that we will listen carefully to your needs and make recommendations that will stretch every dollar you spend go as far as it can go! To get a jump start on receiving an estimate, complete the form below. Before you start, you’ll want to have all of your vehicle information handy.
Estimates At a Glance
Once the vehicle is at our facility, the estimator will inspect your vehicle to assess the amount of damage sustained. Our online estimate form (on this page) will help the estimator get the process going quicker.
After inspection, a repair estimate is prepared. You will be given a completion date and asked to sign the authorization for repairs.
The estimate is then submitted to your insurance company for their authorization of the repairs to be completed.
DAMAGE & PARTS
During this phase, your vehicle is in the shop and is ready to be disassembled. Once parts have been removed, a secondary inspection will determine if there is any damage that couldn’t be detected initially. If more damage is found, a supplemental report will be completed and sent to the insurance company. Next, 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. Once we’ve explained our recommended course of action and you’ve given it your approval, we’ll start the actual repair process.
At Advanced Autobody, we stand by our reputation for delivering the highest quality work, by utilizing the most current technology and techniques available. Our technicians demonstrate this by continually training to keep up with the ever-evolving collision repair industry. As part of their regular job responsibilities, they research current manufacturing principles and attend brand-specific training seminars to stay updated on new products and techniques. We also make it our mission to keep the communication lines open with our customers during the entire process, keeping you informed of any changes in time frame or procedure.
BODY & STRUCTURAL REPAIR
Our technicians are extensively trained in the use of our advanced equipment and our investment in their continued education keeps our shops on the cutting edge of auto body repair technology. When your vehicle needs frame work, our shops are equipped with state-of-the-art Chief Automotive Systems frame machines. This equipment allows us to make structural repairs to frame damage that may not be apparent until you get your vehicle out on the road. Hilton Head, Lowcountry drivers feel safer with expert bodywork from Advanced Autobody.
We use the latest in 3D measuring and Resistance welding to restore your car. This stage includes all the processes necessary to correct structural and sheet metal damage caused by the accident, including: correct structural or frame damage, weld on structural parts, pre fit bolt-on sheet metal parts, and repair sheet metal. When it comes to repair your vehicle back to its original specifications, nobody does it better than Advanced Autobody, Inc!
PAINTING
Premium Auto Painting Starts Here
We have made heavy investments in the highest quality auto body paint technology available. Utilizing the finest downdraft spray booths, we control where the paint goes – and doesn’t go. The booths filter the air entering and leaving the booth, not only eliminating contaminants, but also protecting the air leaving our facilities. The booths also operate as ovens, curing the paint and getting your vehicle out of the booth quicker. We can then begin the reassembling process sooner, and get your vehicle back to you in less time. Our computerized paint mixing equipment helps us perform complicated paint color matching and ensures a consistent paint color every time.
We’ve Gone Green
We are the only shop in the Lowcountry that uses Environmental Friendly paint – PPG Envirobase Waterbourne Paint. Advanced Autobody, Inc, made the switch to “stay ahead of the game,” knowing that PPG waterborne technology represents a major advancement over current solvent-borne systems. The move to waterborne refinish basecoat is an effective solution for lowering VOC emissions—improving air quality and our environment. PPG warranties all of our paint work for as long as you own the vehicle.
FINISHING TOUCHES
Reassembly and Finishing Touches
During this final phase of the process, all remaining parts are assembled at this time, such as moldings, lights, and glass. Reassembling your car is just as important as the repair process itself. It is during this stage that our Advanced Autobody team has the opportunity to prove the quality of its work from the inside out. We will precisely replace every part and accessory on your vehicle to its exact, original, showroom specification. Our team will also make sure your vehicle is inspected for the upmost cleanliness. When you pick up your car, it should have been washed, cleaned and vacuumed. There should be no dirt or dust in the car and definitely no old parts in the trunk. We want to make assure your complete satisfaction before handing over the keys.
It can be a challenge to return a clean car to a customer – but we always do! We wash, vacuum and do a general cleaning of the interior to make sure to remove dust that may have accumulated from the repair process and to say thank you for your business. Our team takes precautions to keep the cars clean by using paper and masking tape to protect different areas. Once complete, we’ll make one last inspection of your vehicle.