INSURANCE & COST
Do I have to use the body shop my insurance company recommends?
No. Illinois law gives you the right to choose any auto body shop for your repair. Your insurance company cannot require you to use their preferred shop. At SK Auto Body, we work with all insurance companies and handle the claims paperwork for you.
How much does auto body repair typically cost in Chicago?
Costs vary depending on the type and extent of damage. Minor dent repairs can start around $150, bumper repairs from $300-800, and major collision work from $1,500 and up. We provide free, no-obligation estimates so you know the exact cost before any work begins. Our customers consistently say our prices are lower than they expected.
Will my insurance cover paintless dent repair?
Yes, most insurance policies cover PDR as part of collision or comprehensive coverage. Hail damage is typically covered under comprehensive. We work directly with your insurance company to handle the claim.
Should I file an insurance claim for a small dent or scratch?
It depends on the cost of repair vs. your deductible. If the repair costs less than your deductible, it makes sense to pay out of pocket. We can give you a free estimate first so you can make an informed decision.
Why is the final repair bill sometimes different from the original estimate?
Once we begin disassembly, we sometimes discover hidden damage that was not visible during the initial inspection. This is called a supplement. We always contact you and your insurance before proceeding with any additional work. There are never surprise charges.
Does SK Auto Body work with all insurance companies?
Yes. We work with every insurance provider — State Farm, Allstate, GEICO, Progressive, Liberty Mutual, and all others. We handle the paperwork and communicate directly with your adjuster.
Can I get a free estimate before committing to a repair?
Absolutely. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all services. Walk in anytime Monday through Saturday or call 773-657-3735. No appointment needed.
REPAIR PROCESS
How long will my car be in the shop?
Many repairs are completed the same day. Minor dent repairs and small paint touch-ups take just a few hours. Bumper repairs typically take one day. Major collision work may take 3-5 days depending on parts availability. We always give you an honest timeline upfront.
Can you match my car's exact paint color?
Yes. We use computerized color matching technology to identify your vehicle's exact paint code and mix a precise match. We also use blending techniques on adjacent panels so the repair is completely invisible.
What is the difference between paintless dent repair and traditional body work?
Paintless dent repair (PDR) uses specialized tools to push dents out from behind the panel, preserving the original paint. Traditional body work involves sanding, filling, and repainting. PDR is faster, cheaper, and maintains your factory finish — but it only works when the paint is not cracked or chipped.
Can a cracked bumper be repaired, or does it need to be replaced?
Many cracked bumpers can be repaired using plastic welding and refinishing techniques. We always try repair first because it saves you money. However, if the structural integrity is compromised or the damage is too severe, replacement is the safer option. We will give you an honest recommendation.
Do you repair aluminum vehicles like Ford F-150 and Tesla?
Yes. We have specialized aluminum repair capabilities, including dedicated tools and workspace to prevent cross-contamination with steel. Many shops cannot work on aluminum — we are one of the few on Chicago's northwest side that can.
Will my car be safe to drive after collision repair?
Absolutely. We restore your vehicle to its pre-accident structural and cosmetic condition. All repairs are inspected for structural integrity, proper fit, and finish quality. Your safety is our top priority.
Do you stand behind your repair work?
Absolutely. We take pride in every repair and stand behind our workmanship. If anything related to our repair does not hold up, bring it back and we will make it right.
CHOOSING A SHOP
How do I know if a body shop is doing quality work?
Look for consistent 5-star reviews, ask to see before-and-after photos, and check if they stand behind their work. A good shop will also give you a detailed written estimate and explain the repair process clearly. At SK Auto Body, we have a perfect 5-star Google rating and stand behind every repair we do.
What should I look for when choosing an auto body shop?
Look for honest communication, transparent pricing, good reviews, insurance experience, and a warranty on work performed. Visit the shop in person — a clean, organized workspace reflects the quality of work produced.
Why choose a family-owned shop over a chain like Maaco or Caliber?
At a family-owned shop, the person giving you the estimate is often the person doing the work. There are no corporate upsell quotas, no assembly-line shortcuts, and no anonymous technicians. You get personal attention, honest pricing, and accountability. Our owners are on-site every day.
GETTING STARTED
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Chicago?
First, check for injuries and call 911 if needed. Move to safety if possible. Exchange insurance information with the other driver. Take photos of all damage and the scene. File a police report. Then call SK Auto Body at 773-657-3735 for a free damage assessment — we will guide you through the insurance process.
My car has hail damage — should I get it repaired?
Yes. Hail damage hurts your vehicle's resale value and can lead to rust over time. Paintless dent repair is the ideal solution for hail damage — it is fast, affordable, and usually fully covered by comprehensive insurance. We handle the insurance claim for you.
Do I need an appointment for an estimate?
No appointment needed. Walk in anytime during business hours — Monday through Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-4pm. Or call 773-657-3735 if you prefer to schedule a specific time.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Call us or stop by the shop. We are happy to answer any questions about your vehicle, the repair process, or insurance claims. No pressure, no obligation.
Call 773-657-3735