Frequently asked questions
Insurance claims, deductibles, towing, diagnostics and more. Don't see your question? Call (820) 888-2888.
Do I have to use the shop my insurance company recommends?
No. California law gives you the right to choose your repair shop (California Insurance Code § 758.5). Your insurer can't require you to use their shop.
Do you help with the deductible?
On approved insurance claims of $8,000 or more, we can help cover your deductible — up to $1,000. The repair must follow the estimate approved by your insurance company, and we never increase an estimate to cover a deductible (California Penal Code § 551(b)). Ask us for details.
Is the 24/7 line for every service?
The 24/7 line is for accident help and towing. Oil changes, maintenance and drop-offs are during shop hours: Mon–Fri 9 AM–6 PM, Sat 10 AM–4 PM.
Is the computer diagnostic really free?
Yes. We scan your car and explain the trouble codes for free, no purchase required. Any deeper testing is quoted in writing first and done only with your approval.
Do you accept extended warranties?
Yes. We work with extended warranty and service contract companies and handle the claim with the administrator.
How long will my repair take?
Most collision repairs take 5–10 business days, depending on parts and damage. Mechanical jobs are often same-day or next-day. We give you a timeline before we start.
Can I get a rental car?
If your policy includes rental coverage, we coordinate with your insurer so you can get a rental while your car is in the shop.
Are you licensed?
Yes. NewGen Auto Repair is a registered Automotive Repair Dealer with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair, ARD #316359.
What warranty do you give?
A limited lifetime warranty on our collision, body and paint work for as long as you own the car, and 24 months / 24,000 miles on mechanical repairs (parts and labor). The terms are written on your invoice.
Do you speak Spanish?
Yes — se habla español. Our team can help you in Spanish in person or by phone.
Do you buy cars?
Yes — our sister company NewGen Buy Cars buys cars in any condition, including totaled and non-running cars. Get an offer at newgenbuycars.com.
How long does a collision repair take?
Most repairs take 5–10 business days, depending on parts availability and the amount of structural damage. We give you a timeline after teardown and keep you updated.
Will you deal with my insurance adjuster?
Yes. We send the estimate and photos, request supplements for hidden damage, and follow up until the claim is approved.
Is frame straightening covered by insurance?
In most cases, yes, when the damage comes from a covered collision. We document the measurements and submit them with the estimate.
Is a car with frame damage safe after repair?
When the structure is measured and returned to factory specifications, yes. If a part should be replaced rather than straightened, we follow the manufacturer's repair procedure.
Will the new paint look different from the rest of my car?
We match to your car's current color and blend into adjacent panels, so the repaired area looks the same as the rest of the car.
Do you do full repaints and color changes?
Yes. Ask for a free estimate — we'll look at the car and give you a written price.
Will PDR work on my dent?
Most dents without cracked paint can be repaired with PDR. Send us a photo or stop by for a free look.
Is the diagnostic really free?
Yes — the computer scan and code reading are free, with no purchase required. If deeper testing is needed, we give you a written estimate first and only proceed with your approval.
Do you do oil changes and regular maintenance?
Yes — oil changes, filters, fluids, brakes, tires and scheduled maintenance for most makes and models.
What areas do you tow from?
Santa Ana and the surrounding Orange County area. Call us with your location and we'll confirm.
Can I drop off my car for an oil change at night?
No — the 24/7 line is for accident help and towing. Regular service is during shop hours.
Who pays for the tow?
If you have collision coverage or the other driver was at fault, you pay nothing out of pocket — we pay the tow company and bill the insurance. If no insurance covers it, we tell you the price before we send the truck.
Still have a question?
Call us or send a few photos for a free estimate.
- Send a few photos of the damage — 2 minutes
- We reply the same day during shop hours
- We handle the claim with your insurance
*Deductible assistance of up to $1,000 is available only on insurance claims where your insurance company has approved a repair amount of $8,000 or more and the repair is performed in accordance with that insurer-approved estimate (California Penal Code § 551(b)). We never increase a repair estimate to cover a deductible. Not available on customer-pay repairs. Ask us for details before your repair begins.
**Free computer diagnostic scan: we read and explain your vehicle's trouble codes at no charge, no purchase required. If the problem needs in-depth testing (labor), we give you a written estimate and get your approval before any paid work, as California law requires.
†Warranty: limited lifetime warranty on our collision, body and paint workmanship for as long as you own the vehicle; 24 months / 24,000 miles (whichever comes first) on mechanical repairs, parts and labor. Not covered: normal wear, new damage, abuse or neglect, rust or chips from road debris, and customer-supplied parts. Warranty terms are written on your invoice.
‡Accident towing: you pay nothing out of pocket when you have collision coverage or the other driver is at fault — we pay the tow and bill the insurance company. If no insurance covers the tow, we tell you the price before the truck is sent.