
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about estimates, insurance, repairs and our San Diego shop.
Estimates & Insurance
Are estimates free at Clairemont Collision?
Yes. Estimates are free at our auto body shop at 7996 Armour St #12 in San Diego. Call (858) 877-9060 or request a free estimate online.
Do I need an appointment for an estimate?
No. Walk-ins are welcome for estimates Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. You can also send us photos of the damage for an estimate.
Which insurance companies do you work with?
We work with all insurance carriers. You can bring your car to Clairemont Collision no matter who your insurer is.
Can you help me with my insurance claim?
Yes. Our team includes former insurance appraisers who have written appraisals and evaluated claims for large insurance companies. We handle the paperwork and work directly with your insurer so the repair is accurate and fully documented.
What if my car might be totaled?
We help with total losses start to finish, from towing and storage to coaching you on the insurance offer. See our total loss help page.
Can I choose my own body shop, or do I have to use the one my insurer recommends?
California drivers have the right to choose their own repair shop, so you can choose Clairemont Collision even if your insurer recommends another shop.
Do you offer any help with deductibles?
Yes, please ask about deductible assistance.
Do you offer a military or veteran discount?
Yes. Active military members and veterans can ask about our deductible discount when they call or stop by.
Can I pay out of pocket instead of going through insurance?
Yes. For minor damage like bumper scuffs and scratches, an affordable repair paid out of pocket can cost less than filing a claim. We accept cash or any major credit card.
Repairs & Services
What services does Clairemont Collision offer?
We provide complete collision repair, expert paint matching, dent and scratch removal, and insurance claim assistance for drivers across San Diego. That covers everything from minor fender benders to major structural repairs.
Do you repair frame damage?
Yes. We offer computerized frame straightening and alignment, using laser frame measuring and computerized welding to restore the structure to pre-accident specifications.
Do you perform ADAS calibrations after a collision repair?
Yes. ADAS (advanced driver-assistance systems) covers the cameras and radar behind features like blind-spot warnings and lane keeping. ADAS calibrations are done after repairs so those safety features work correctly.
Do you use OEM parts?
We follow OEM repair guidelines on every job and do our best to install OEM parts on all repairs.
Do you fix dents and scratches, like bumper scuffs?
Yes. We repair dings, bumper scuffs and cracks, and deep scratches, including clear-coat correction. When a dent repair or a localized smart repair will do the job, we won't upsell you on a full panel replacement.
Will you repair a panel instead of replacing it?
When a panel can be fixed properly, we repair it. For example, on a Mercedes-Benz CLS550 we repaired the rear bumper cover and the welded quarter panel in place instead of replacing them. When a panel is too damaged, such as a damaged door, we replace it with a new shell.
Do you check the car after a repair?
Yes. Every repair gets a thorough quality control inspection to manufacturer specifications before we return the car, and we perform pre-repair and post-repair diagnostic scans.
Do you repair wheels?
Yes. We repair and refinish damaged wheels so they match the others. We did this on recent Mercedes-Benz and Ford Fusion repairs.
Do you work on luxury and newer vehicles?
Yes. We work on all makes and models. Recent repairs at our Kearny Mesa shop include a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550, a 2020 Ford Fusion, and a 2025 Honda Civic. Our owners are I-CAR Platinum certified and ASE certified.
Paint
What paint do you use?
We use PPG paint systems for factory color matching. Each repair gets a computerized OEM color match.
Do you have a paint booth?
Yes. We paint in a downdraft paint booth with bake curing, which gives a clean, durable finish.
How do you make sure new paint matches the rest of my car?
We match the factory color and then blend it into the panels next to the repair, so there's no visible line where the new paint stops. This matters most on unforgiving colors like black and on sun-aged original paint.
Can you match difficult colors like three-stage or candy apple red?
Yes. Three-stage colors like candy apple red use a base coat, a tinted mid-coat, and clear, and the number of mid-coats changes the final shade. We have matched them on cars like a 2020 Ford Fusion, blending the color into the neighboring panels.
Timing & Logistics
What are your hours?
Clairemont Collision is open Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. We are closed Saturday and Sunday.
How long will my repair take?
It depends on the damage, parts availability, and insurance approval. We will give you a time estimate along with your repair estimate.
Can you help with a rental car or towing?
Yes. We can help coordinate a rental car through your insurance and arrange towing to our shop in San Diego.
Will you keep me updated while my car is in the shop?
Yes. We keep you updated every step of the way, from the estimate through final delivery.
Warranty
Do you offer a warranty on repairs?
Yes. We offer a lifetime warranty on all workmanship for as long as you own the vehicle.
What if I'm not happy with the repair?
Our goal is 100% satisfaction and fixing your car right the first time. If something isn't right, call us at (858) 877-9060 and we'll make it right.
About the Shop & Location
Where is Clairemont Collision located?
We are at 7996 Armour St #12, San Diego, CA 92111, in Kearny Mesa just off Clairemont. Look for the Clairemont Collision pylon sign on Armour St at the driveway leading back to the shop.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Clairemont, Kearny Mesa, Linda Vista, Bay Park, Mira Mesa, Serra Mesa, and all of San Diego.
How experienced is the team?
The team has more than 60 years of combined experience, including running body shop floors and working as appraisers for large insurance companies.
Is there a waiting area?
Yes. We have a bright waiting room with seating next to the front counter.
How do I contact Clairemont Collision?
Call (858) 877-9060, request a free estimate at clairemontcollision.com, or stop by 7996 Armour St #12, San Diego, Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Still have questions?
Call (858) 877-9060, stop by Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, or send us photos for a free estimate.
Request a Free Estimate