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:

• $100/day for outdoor storage

• $150/day for hybrid storage (inside at night, outside during the day)

• $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:

• Admin work: Photos, emails, supplements, phone calls, and repair planning

• Part-related charges: Canceled, returned, or restocked parts

• Damage inspections and teardowns

• Part or vehicle storage and movement

• 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!