Frequently Asked Questions – McDowell’s Specialty Repairs
Reporting to Carfax
Will McDowell’s report my estimate or repair to Carfax?
Yes, we may. If your estimate or repair is processed through our CCC One system, it could be reported to Carfax. This helps maintain a consistent and transparent vehicle history.
Estimates and Photos
Do you offer preliminary estimates and photos for free?
Yes, we do. We provide free preliminary estimates and photos to all vehicle owners. However, if an insurance company or third party requests this information, we may charge a fee for access.
Our Repair Warranty
What kind of warranty do you offer on body and metal work?
We proudly offer a 5-year warranty on all body and metal work we complete. That said, if we discover prior repairs were done incorrectly, we won’t be able to extend the warranty to those specific areas.
Total Loss Determination
How do you decide if a vehicle is a total loss?
We use Idaho Code § 49-123(2)(o) to determine total loss. If the total cost of parts and labor — minus the salvage value — makes the repair uneconomical, the vehicle is considered a total loss.
Storage Fees for Total Loss Vehicles
What storage fees should I expect if my vehicle is a total loss?
Storage fees begin the day your vehicle arrives and continue until it’s picked up. Here’s what you can expect:
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$100/day for outdoor storage
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$150/day for hybrid storage (inside at night, outside during the day)
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$200/day for full indoor storage
Additional Fees to Be Aware Of
Are there other fees during the repair or total loss process?
Yes, depending on your situation, additional fees may apply. These include:
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Admin work: Photos, emails, supplements, phone calls, and repair planning
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Part-related charges: Canceled, returned, or restocked parts
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Damage inspections and teardowns
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Part or vehicle storage and movement
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Extra services: Removing license plates, wiping personal data, or retrieving belongings
Responsibility for Uncovered Costs
Who pays if insurance or a third party doesn’t cover everything?
Ultimately, you do. If any costs are not covered by insurance or a third party, you’re responsible for the remaining balance. We’ll provide detailed documentation to help you with reimbursement if needed.
Your Overall Financial Responsibility
What am I financially responsible for as the vehicle owner?
According to the work authorization you sign, you’re responsible for all charges not covered by insurance. This includes labor, parts, storage, and any applicable fees. We’re upfront with our pricing so you stay informed every step of the way.
Visit https://mcdowellsrepair.com/ to learn more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does McDowell's Repair report estimates or repairs to Carfax?
Yes, McDowell's may report your estimate or repair to Carfax if it is processed through their CCC One system. This practice helps maintain a consistent and transparent vehicle history record.
What warranty does McDowell's offer on body and metal work repairs?
McDowell's provides a 5-year warranty on all body and metal work they complete. However, if prior repairs were performed incorrectly, the warranty will not extend to those specific areas.
How does McDowell's determine if a vehicle is a total loss?
McDowell's uses Idaho Code § 49-123(2)(o) to make total loss determinations. If the combined cost of parts and labor, minus the salvage value, renders the repair uneconomical, the vehicle is classified as a total loss.
How much are storage fees for a total loss vehicle at McDowell's?
Storage fees begin the day the vehicle arrives and range from $100 per day for outdoor storage, $150 per day for hybrid storage (inside at night, outside during the day), to $200 per day for full indoor storage. Charges continue to accrue until the vehicle is picked up.