After a car accident or unexpected damage, one of the first steps in the recovery process is getting a car insurance estimate. This document plays a crucial role in determining how much your insurance provider will pay toward your repairs—and how quickly you can get back on the road.
But what exactly is a car insurance estimate? How is it created? And is it final?
Let’s walk through everything you need to know.
What Is a Car Insurance Estimate?
A car insurance estimate outlines the repairs your vehicle needs and lists the expected costs. An insurance adjuster, a repair shop like Sharp Auto Body, or both create the estimate after thoroughly assessing the damage.
Once you or the responsible party files a claim, the estimate process begins. In some cases, your insurance company may ask you to visit a certified repair facility. In others, they may send out an adjuster or request that you submit photos through an app. (Click here to see related article about the limitations of using a photo app.)
How Does the Estimating Process Work?
The estimate process begins with a visual inspection of your car. This could take as little as 15 minutes or as long as a few days, depending on the severity of the damage. For example, minor fender damage can usually be assessed quickly, but structural or internal damage may require disassembly and a more detailed look.
During this inspection, the estimator will:
- Document every damaged part
- Determine which parts need replacement and which can be repaired
- Calculate the labor needed for each repair
- Assess paint work, part sourcing, and any sublet repairs (like frame straightening or electronics)
This information is used to create the official estimate document. It’s important to understand that this document is not just a price tag—it’s a detailed blueprint of your vehicle’s repair plan.
What’s Included in the Estimate Document?
A thorough car repair estimate includes:
- Insurance and claim details: The estimate lists your claim number and provides contact information for your insurance company.
- Vehicle information: It identifies your vehicle by make, model, year, and VIN number.
- Damage assessment: It outlines all affected areas and specifies the necessary repairs.
- Repair specifics: It describes tasks like repainting, part replacement, reinstallation, and any work a third-party specialist will complete.
- Parts information: It identifies all parts by type—OEM, certified, aftermarket, or recycled—and includes their part numbers.
- Cost breakdown: It breaks down the labor and parts costs in a detailed, line-by-line format.
- Owner costs: It clearly notes your deductible and any charges the insurance policy does not cover.
One of the most important things to remember is that if repair costs approach or exceed the value of your vehicle, your insurer may declare it a total loss—commonly referred to as “totaling the car.” In that case, your settlement may go toward replacing the vehicle instead of repairing it.
Is the Estimate Final?
Not always.
Estimators base a repair estimate on the visible damage during the initial inspection. Once technicians begin repairs, they often uncover hidden damage—especially when they remove body panels or bumpers. When that happens, your repair shop can submit a supplemental estimate to the insurance company.
Shops like Sharp Auto Body frequently submit supplements and work directly with insurance adjusters to cover those extra costs. This coordination helps keep the repair process on schedule and avoids unnecessary delays.
You don’t have to accept the initial estimate if it seems too low. You can request a second assessment or partner with your repair shop to negotiate a more accurate repair cost.
Let Sharp Auto Body Handle the Estimate Process
Navigating the estimate and insurance claim process can be confusing and time-consuming—but you don’t have to do it alone.
At Sharp Auto Body, we remove the stress from collision repair. Our experienced team conducts a precise damage assessment and works directly with your insurance company to ensure they cover all necessary repairs. We don’t just repair cars—we negotiate on your behalf to get your vehicle the care it truly needs.
If you’ve been in an accident or need a second opinion on your repair estimate, call Sharp Auto Body at 847-526-1343. We’ll give you a clear, honest estimate and help you through the insurance process from start to finish.
Your peace of mind is our priority. Let us get you—and your car—back on the road with confidence.
