Frequently Asked Questions

Trusted auto body and collision repair shop in Melvindale, Detroit, Dearborn, and Downriver.

Auto Body & Collision Repair FAQs

How quickly can I get a quote?

We offer same day estimates for out-of-pocket customers and customers going through insurance. You can stop by without an appointment, during normal business hours or request an estimate on our website (see the top right of the page). For an in person estimate, it generally takes about 10-20 minutes for our estimators and/or technicians to assess the damages and complete an estimate. For online estimates, please allow our estimators 24 hours to respond, however, we try to respond with an estimate within an hour.

Do you offer a simple way to drop off?

Here at B&K Collision, we try to make the repair process as simple as we can. We offer before and after hours drop offs - using our drop box located outside our office. If you are interested in doing this, please let our office staff know, so we can ensure we have all the necessary information needed for drop off. We offer before and after hour pick-ups - using our key lock box located outside our office. This is only done at a customer’s request.

What Is Your Turnaround Time?

Unlike dealerships or other shops, our turnaround time on average is 5 days. Small jobs generally range from 3-5 days, medium size jobs are about 5-7 days, and large jobs can be anywhere from 10-14 days.

Repair time is also determined by part availability and insurance companies responsiveness.

For most insurance companies, we are required to wait for approvals when adding parts or repairs to an estimate. In most cases, insurance companies only take 2-3 days to address a supplement, however, we occasionally have to wait longer.
For most part orders, we get parts within 1-3 days from ordering. Newer vehicles tend to have more backordered parts, while older vehicles tend to have discontinued parts. Both can cause delays in repairs.

Additional FAQs

Can you repair modern bumpers with electronic systems?

Bumper systems have grown quite complex over the years. If your car’s bumper includes hardwired lights, parking assist systems, or any other electronics system, B&K Collision can perform the repair work you need.

Will you be able to match my bumper’s factory color?

B&K Collision uses the latest in automotive paint repair technology to mix paint to original factory specifications to make your repair work seamless.

What makes and models do you repair?

We work on a range of makes and models, we would be happy to talk with you and provide a quote for our services.

Should I wash my car before I bring it in for painting?

While washing your car is not required, it would make it easier to see the full extent of damages so a more accurate estimate can be completed.

Can you paint larger size vehicles?

Absolutely! B&K Collision can paint anything from cars to trucks to SUVs and everything in between

How do I care for my vehicle after the new paint job?

After the paint job is completed, don’t use wax for the next 90 days, hand-wash your car using only standard car wash soap to protect the new finish, and make sure to clean any bird droppings or tree sap on your new paint as soon as possible.

What size dents can be repaired?

B&K Collision can typically repair dents up to the size of a half-dollar coin, and sometimes larger, depending on the damage. The depth and diameter of the dent will have a large impact on how repairable the dent can be.

Will the dents come back after the repairs are done?

Not typically! Metal has a ‘memory’ of sorts in its molecular structure, and once the structure of the metal is realigned to its original form it will stay there (unless further damage is incurred).

How long does it take to repair dents?

That all depends on the size of the dent and the severity of the damage, but B&K Collision has an experienced staff to get the work done as fast as possible.

What is frame damage?

Every car is built upon a metal frame, which can be damaged in several ways after an accident. Vehicle collisions can lead to the frame becoming bent, dented, cracked, or damaged, depending on the severity of the accident.

How can frame damage affect my car?

If the frame is bent, it will lead to further complications with your vehicle such as alignment and steering issues, which could potentially cause another accident if left unrepaired. Bent or cracked frames are also structurally weaker, meaning that if you were to get into another accident in the same area, you and your passengers could be much more seriously hurt than you might be otherwise.

If my vehicle has a damaged frame, is it a total loss?

Not at all! A vehicle is only a total loss when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company’s determined value of the vehicle. Our skilled technicians have the ability to restore your vehicle to factory specifications and repair or replace any needed sections on your car’s frame.

What are some common causes of rust?

Rust is typically caused by foreign substances on your car’s finish like salt, rain, bird droppings, tree sap and more. Even cars stored in the garage can be subject to rust if not properly cleaned and waxed.

How can rust affect my car?

If left untreated, rust can begin to eat at the metal of your car and may affect the exterior of your car by worsening dents or affecting the frame and alignment.

What are the most common causes of scratches?

Anything that makes contact with your vehicle has the potential to make a scratch, from accidents with other cars to rocks, pebbles, and tree branches that you may encounter while driving.

What are the benefits of scratch repair?

Scratch repair can fill, blend, and hide your scratch damage. Not only will this make your car look better, but repairing scratches can actually help prevent rust by sealing the metal and finish of your car

How is scratch repair performed?

The process depends on the depth and severity of the scratch, but typically a ‘filler’ material will be applied to the chips and scratches throughout the vehicle, which is then painted over to match the factory standard color of your vehicle.