Plan the rental before you need it
Rental coverage is one of the least understood parts of an auto policy. Some policies include it, some sell it as an add on, and nearly all set a daily dollar limit and a maximum number of days. Call your insurer early and ask three questions: whether you have rental coverage, what the daily limit is, and when it starts.
If the other driver was at fault, their insurer may be responsible for a rental. That depends on the claim, and it can take time to sort out. Do not assume. Ask the adjuster who is handling the claim.
Our rental car assistance service helps you with the practical side, such as understanding timelines. We do not make coverage decisions. Those come from your policy.
Why repair time varies
Repair time depends on parts, damage, and approvals. A bumper cover that is in stock can be done quickly. A structural repair on a car with sensors takes longer, because each step has to be done in order, and calibration is last. Delays often come from waiting on a part or on the insurer to review a supplement, which is why we send those quickly.
We give you an honest estimate of timing after the inspection and tell you when it changes. Booking an appointment helps us plan the car's arrival and avoid idle days. Slots are forty five minutes long and available on weekdays and Saturday morning.
Scheduling pickup is easier when you know the day. We will call when the car is ready, and you can see it before paying.
Before you pick up, walk around the car in daylight with us. Check panel gaps, paint under the sun, lights and any warning lamps on the dashboard. If something looks wrong, say so right then, and we will deal with it before you leave.
Why choose the neighboring Garwood shop
You deal with an independent shop that works with all insurers and bills them directly, which keeps the process as simple as it can be. We tell you what we know and what we do not.
We are I-CAR Gold Class and AAA Approved Auto Repair. AAA members receive 10 percent off labor, up to $75, with their card, and the discount does not combine with other offers. Our lifetime warranty is for paint work only.
Insurance and the right to choose
New Jersey lets you choose a licensed repair shop for your vehicle. Your insurer may suggest a shop and you can try to agree on a price with them, but a suggestion is not a requirement, and nobody can promise blanket payment before the car has been inspected. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance has consumer information on auto claims.
Start a free estimate with photos, or book an appointment. Bring your license, registration and insurance card, plus your claim number and rental information if you have it.
Getting to Garwood from Union
Our single location is 74 North Ave, Garwood, NJ 07027. We do not have a Union office, and we perform every repair at the Garwood shop.
Union drivers can approach using Route 22 and local connections south toward Garwood, or the Garden State Parkway and Route 28, depending on where they are starting. We will not list turns that depend on your origin. A live map shows current routing.
If the car is not safe to drive, call us and we will help arrange a tow.