FAQ Estimates

Mahnke Auto Body shops offer Free Estimates for any type of damage incurred by collision or non-collision incidents. Estimates are completed quickly and accurately by our highly trained Repair Planners utilizing the most sophisticated software available in the industry, with perpetually updated databases for all makes and models of cars and trucks.

  When you call to make the appointment for the estimate, the Customer Service Representative will ask you questions regarding the nature of the accident and extent of the damages to your vehicle. Based on your answers, the CSR will be able to give you a good idea how long the estimate may take.

  You need the damaged vehicle, vehicle registration and insurance information. Some insurance companies want you to visit their drive-in claims center before bringing your car to Mahnke Auto Body. You can do this, or you may leave you car at one of our locations and request that the insurance company inspect the car here. Mahnke Auto Body has four convenient locations in Arvada, Brighton, Frederick, and Golden, Colorado.

Mahnke Auto Body may not need to write another estimate for you, but we will want to review your insurance estimate alongside the vehicle prior to scheduling the vehicle for repairs. This will allow us to gather the necessary information to preorder parts to repair your vehicle.

There is no law that requires you to get two estimates. Mahnke delivers precise, verifiable estimates through the use of digital tools and the expertise of our highly trained Repair Planners. Obtaining two estimates is a courtesy to a person at fault who wishes to pay out of pocket. Colorado Law allows the consumer to choose any shop to repair their vehicle. Your insurance company is required to work with the shop of your choice and, in good faith, arrive at an agreed price to repair your car.

Mahnke Auto Body may have given you an estimate based on a visual inspection. This means we have assessed your car’s damage to the best of our ability based on what we can see and based on what we suspect. Once we tear down (disassemble) your vehicle, there may be additional hidden damage. If there is additional damage, we will give you a full description of the work needed, a quote for the additional expense, and with your permission, we will repair it while working directly with your Insurance Company for their approval on any supplements.

Insurance companies know that once the vehicle is disassembled for a full estimate, previously unseen damage may be discovered. Insurance companies have an efficient communication system with Mahnke for approving additional repairs.

Legally, you have the right to choose what shop you want to repair your car. Your insurance company is required to work with the shop you choose and to negotiate in good faith.

Differences in collision repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not include all the necessary work. During the process of repairing the damage caused by the collision, additional auto body repair issues may be revealed. If you’re not sure why one estimate is different from the other please ask us. Mahnke’s estimates are computer generated, with perpetually updated data directly from the manufacturers. Your personal Customer Service Representative will go over every line of the estimate with you so that you can see the differences for yourself.