Frequently Asked Questions
WHERE DO I GET A CLAIM NUMBER?
Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company when you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it with you when you bring in your vehicle for an estimate. We will take care of the rest.
WILL THE PARTS BE ORDERED BEFORE I DROP OFF MY VEHICLE FOR REPAIR?
Absolutely. We generally order the necessary parts at the time we write the estimate. We’ll schedule your repair appointment when we expect the parts to be available, usually just a few days later. If we determine that your vehicle is unsafe to drive, we can help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible.
IF MY VEHICLES FRAME IS DAMAGED, IS MY VEHICLE CONSIDERED A TOTAL LOSS?
No. A car is a total loss only when the price of repair exceeds the value that your insurance company has assigned to your damaged vehicle. Most vehicles are built using unibody (frame and body as one) construction. Our skilled technicians can return most vehicles to their original factory conditions using our advanced computer measuring system. If part of the frame is bent beyond repair, the damaged section can be replaced.
CAN YOU MATCH THE PAINT COLOR?
Today’s modern factory finishes use multiple layers of specialized paints. We use PPG’s Waterbase System, one of the first waterborne paint systems in Maine and the only one in the greater Bangor area. We use the same paint system used by the factory to paint your vehicle, ensuring the best possible color match.
CAN I GET OTHER SERVICE WORK DONE ON MY VEHICLE WHILE IT IS IN THE BODY SHOP?
Yes. Just let your estimator know what other work you would like to have done, and we will schedule those services for you.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REPAIR MY VEHICLE?
We will provide you with an estimate of how long it will take to complete the repair. Often hidden damage to your vehicle is discovered when your vehicle is disassembled to begin the repair process. Should this happen, we will contact you with an update on any additional parts or repair time.
CAN I GET A RIDE HOME WHEN I DROP OFF MY VEHICLE?
If you live within 10 miles of our Brewer location, we offer a shuttle service that leaves 15 minutes after every hour in the morning and 15 minutes before every hour in the afternoon. Please provide us with advance notice if you need this service.
CAN YOU HELP ME GET A RENTAL CAR?
Downeast Rental is conveniently located on site, and we’re happy to help you make the necessary arrangements for alternate transportation. We recommend that you check your insurance policy or contact your agent to determine whether you have this coverage, or if any limitations apply.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY CAR IS FINISHED?
We will contact you when your vehicle is ready. Please feel free to let us know how often you would like to be updated on your repair, and we encourage you to call or email us with any questions or concerns throughout the repair process.
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
Many of our customers find it most convenient to pay their deductible with a major credit card. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. Of course, payment with cash or by check is also welcome.
CAN I WASH MY VEHICLE AFTER IT’S BEEN PAINTED?
For the first 30 days following the repair, we recommend washing only with cool water and a very mild car wash solution. Commercial car washes, polishing and waxing your vehicle should be avoided for at least a month.
DO I HAVE TO PAY A DEDUCTIBLE?
Your deductible is determined by your insurance policy. If your policy includes collision coverage, and your insurance company determines that you were not responsible for the accident, they may waive your deductible. Insurance companies determine responsibility for an accident by reviewing the statements given by the drivers involved and by reviewing the accident report filed by the police.
WHO DO I PAY?
If your insurance company does not waive your deductible, or you are not a claimant, we will collect your deductible when the repair to your vehicle is complete. Please call your insurance company or agent to determine whether or not you will be responsible for payment before you pick up your vehicle.
WHAT IF MY INSURANCE COMPANY WANTS MORE THAN ONE ESTIMATE?
It is YOUR decision to determine where to repair your vehicle, NOT your insurance company’s. We will work with any insurance company to negotiate a reasonable estimate to repair your vehicle.
DO YOU OFFER A WARRANTY ON THE REPAIRS?
We offer a Lifetime Guarantee on all our collision repairs and refinishing for as long as you own the vehicle.
WHAT ARE BETTERMENT CHARGES?
Betterment charges are assessed by some insurance companies when certain wearable parts such as tires, batteries, and suspension have to be replaced as the result of an accident. These additional fees charged to the customer are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on mileage.
DO YOU OFFER TOWING SERVICES?
We do not offer towing services. Our recommended towing service is Union Street Towing. You can can call them at (207) 942-4200.
Hours of Operation
Mon: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Tue: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Wed: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Thurs: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Fri: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Sat: 8:00am – 12:00pm
Sun: Closed
Visit our Dealership at Downeast Toyota
21 Pierce Rd, Brewer, Maine 04412