Q : Why does my battery in my car keep dying?

A: Having a dead car battery is always frustrating. Having a series of dead batteries, though, is a clear sign that there’s a deeper issue. Some possible reasons for dead car batteries include a faulty charging system (alternator) or extremes in hot and cold temperatures. Taking your car for frequent short drives can also cause the battery life to diminish considerably.

Q : What can drain a battery when it’s off?

A: There are a number of things that can drain your vehicle battery life, even when the car is turned off. Some of the major ones to consider include bad charging, due to a faulty alternator; a defective alternator diode; or a battery that’s simply very old and no longer able to hold much of a charge. Any of these can cause the battery to die, even when you’re not running the vehicle.

Q : Is it a dead battery or alternator?

A: Sometimes it’s hard to tell whether you have a bad battery or a bad alternator. Certainly, if you have a series of failed batteries all in a row, that points to the alternator. Additionally, try jumping your car. If the battery dies while the car is still running, that means the alternator isn’t doing its job properly, and needs to be repaired or replaced.

Q : Can a car battery recharge itself?

A: While car batteries don’t recharge themselves, your car does have a part called the alternator, which exists to help your battery maintain its charge. If you have multiple battery failures, it could be that the real problem is with the alternator. Reach out to King County Collision & Repair to schedule a service appointment and get your alternator diagnosed and repaired as it’s needed.

Q : How can you tell if a battery is good or not?

A: There are a number of clear indicators that your car battery is bad, or is about to go bad. These include an engine that cranks but doesn’t start; a car that won’t crank or start at all; or a car that starts fine one day but has trouble the next. Additionally, if you’ve had to jump your car a lot, or find that cold cranking is hard work, that points to a potential battery issue.

Q : What is the average life of a car battery?

A: On average, a vehicle battery will last you anywhere from four to six years. There are several factors that can impact your battery’s lifespan, including the type of vehicle, the weather conditions, and your own driving habits. If your battery goes bad or starts giving you trouble, make an appointment with King County Collision & Repair to have it replaced.

Q : Is my battery dead if the lights turn on?

A: If your lights are turning on, then your car battery probably isn’t dead—but it may be on its way out. If those lights are dimmer than usual, that’s a telltale sign of pending battery failure. And of course, difficulty getting the vehicle to crank or to start points to a looming battery failure, regardless of whether or not the lights still come on.

Q : What does it mean when you turn your car on and it clicks?

A: If you turn on your engine and you hear a series of rapid clicks, that typically means that the battery is either dead or close to it. If you hear one loud click, that’s more likely the cause of a bad starter. In either case, it’s wise to make a service appointment with King County Collision & Repair to have the problem diagnosed and corrected.

Q: Why won't the shop give me an estimate over the phone or from an email with a picture?

A: Without seeing the car in person, it's nearly impossible to provide an accurate quote. It is very common for vehicles to require additional prep work.

Q: Do I have to make an appointment for an estimate?

A: Appointments are not necessary, but you can still schedule one for your convenience by using our online appointment software..

Q: Will the price I pay be the same as the estimate? No surprises?

A: Yes. The price you pay could be higher than your initial estimate if hidden damage is discovered during the repair and/or refinishing process or if the cost of parts increases. This is extremely uncommon; however, when it does occur, we will always call to discuss your options and offer you the opportunity to come in and see the repair area first hand.

Q : What are my collision repair rights ?

A: You have certain rights when it comes to collision repair:*

• You have the right to insist on new OEM parts.
• When you get a repair estimate, you have the right to know which parts will be replaced and which type of parts the shop will use to replace them.
• If you don’t understand your estimate, you have the right to ask questions.

Q : What do I ask my insurance provider

A: Review your policy and ask your provider:

• Does my current policy include new OEM parts coverage?
• Can I add an OEM parts rider to my current policy?
• Do you have another policy that covers OEM parts in case of a collision?
• Will the parts used to repair my vehicle be new OEM parts?

Q: Will my insurance company work with Kings County Collision & Repair

A: Kings County Collision & Repair has great relationships with national insurers and we’ll stay in contact with your insurance company throughout the repair process. We are a preferred vendor for many insurance companies, which means we meet your insurer’s standards for quality, price and service.

Q : Do you provide towing service?

A: Towing service is available 24/7 with Kings County Collision & Repair, And because we’re conveniently located in Brooklyn, New York, we can get to the site of your wreck faster than most repair shops, so you won’t be left waiting.

Q : What are after-market parts?

A: After-market parts are new parts made by companies other than the original manufacturer of your vehicle. These parts are often significantly cheaper. Depending on the vehicle's age, insurance companies may opt for these parts in lieu OEM for cost-efficiency. Kings County Collision & Repair is careful to select only those parts that are durable and the right fit for your vehicle.

Q: Do I have a choice of what parts are used for the repair on my vehicle?

A: Yes, you absolutely have a choice. Here at Kings County Collision & Repair, we prefer to use OEM parts. They are superior in terms of fit and quality. However, if an insurance company paid for alternative parts instead of OEM parts there are still other avenues. OEM manufacturers have conquest programs that allow them to sell original parts to shops for the same price as an aftermarket one. Every job written with alternative parts that goes through our shop gets submitted to the OEM dealer for price match. While not every part qualifies, most do. If you would like OEM parts only, we are willing to work with you to help you get them.

Q: About the Repair Process

A: The process begins by bringing your vehicle in for an estimate. After, we'll work with your insurance agent to process the repair claim. Kings County Collision & Repair will conduct a thorough disassembly of all damaged areas of the vehicle to determine any structural or mechanical damage. After we get the go ahead we will then order the needed parts for your vehicle's repair. Once the repair is complete, we will conduct a detailed inspection of the interior and exterior of your vehicle to ensure a quality repair.

Q: Understanding Your Estimate

A : Your estimate should include a thorough inspection of the work to be done on your vehicle, a description of the repair parts to be used, what items your insurance will and will not cover and the expected amount of the repair. One of the reasons estimates may differ from another shop is thoroughness of the appraisal process. Some estimates may leave necessary repairs out of the initial estimate, causing the amount to be different.

Q: Are Dent Repair and Dent Removal the same thing?

A: The short answer is no, but the process is the same. Essentially, the different between paintless dent repair and paintless dent removal is simply how effective we were at completely removing the dent. There are few occasions where we can greatly improve the surface, but due to the location of the damage and how bad the impact is, it may be simply noted as a dent repair versus a dent removal.

Q: What is Paintless Dent Repair or Dent Removal?

A: Paintless Dent Repair or Dent Removal, is the process of repairing or removing dents, dings, creases, and hail damage on vehicles without the inconvenience of expense of traditional auto repair methods. PDR does not use dry ice, electricity, or anything else that might be harmful to the existing paint for factory finish. For specific questions or more dent removal information, please feel free to call us to drop an email.

Q: How does PDR work?

A: With the experience of qualified technicians, dents are accessed from the backside of the damaged panels using specially designed tools to slowly massage the damage back to its original shape and form.

Q: What dents can be replaced or removed

A: Most non-collision dents can be successfully repaired or removed with the paintless dent repair process. However, there are factors which do exist that may limit the restoration of some dents. These factors include the sharpness of the impact point which caused the dent, the location of the dent as compared to the reinforcement structure of the damaged panel, and the depth of the dent. To be completely sure that the damage does not fall into any of these limiting categories, it should be seen by a qualified PDR repair or appraisal technician.

Q: Why should I choose PDR for repairs rather than body shop methods?

A: With PDR there is no need for the use of body putty or paint. Therefore the vehicle retains its original factory finish which helps to retain the value of the vehicle. The process is environmentally safe, much quicker, and less expensive than traditional body shop methods. The repair or removal should always be guaranteed against future defects, reappearance, or any other damage caused by the repair.

Q: How long do repairs or removals take?

A: Minor door dings or parking lot damage can be repaired in as little as 30 minutes. Many complete hail damaged vehicles can be repaired in as little as 1 to 2 days. Repair times vary depending on the severity of the damage but the repair time will always be significantly less than traditional body shop methods.

Q : When does my car need a new exhaust system?

A: The lifespan of an exhaust system can vary. Most of today’s vehicles are made with high-quality steel exhausts, which will typically hold up for about five years, but there are many other conditions that factor in. Some signs that it’s time for a new exhaust system include: A noticeable increase in engine noise; visible rust; and a reduction in fuel efficiency

Q : Will a new exhaust system improve gas mileage?

A: In most cases, a new exhaust system will improve fuel efficiency. The question is by how much. Usually, it winds up being somewhere between 2 and 10 percent, which might realistically translate into two mpg. The benefits of a new exhaust system are most pronounced in smaller vehicles. It’s always important to speak with your service technician to learn what kind of performance improvements you can expect from your new exhaust system.

Q : Can exhaust systems increase horsepower?

A: The great benefit of an exhaust system isn’t that it adds power, but that it allows you to use your current power more efficiently; thus, gas mileage is a better metric than horsepower. With that said, a new exhaust system can increase horsepower, sometimes by as much as 50. In other cases, it may increase your horsepower by just one or two. Always ask your service technician what to expect from a new exhaust system.

Q : How does an exhaust system affect performance?

A: The exhaust system in your car helps provide you with a safe, reliable performance—reducing noise, reducing emissions, and more. Improving your car with an after-market exhaust system can enhance the performance further, and in a number of ways. It can boost fuel efficiency, better control emissions, and in some cases even free up some additional horsepower for your ride.

Q : What is a dual exhaust system?

A: Every vehicle has an exhaust system—either single or dual. The role of the exhaust system is to get rid of any excess gasses burned by the engine, helping the engine to stay cool and run smoothly. A dual exhaust system has not one but two exhaust pipes to get rid of this excess gas, which improve the overall engine performance—enhancing gas mileage, adding horsepower, and helping the engine to run cooler.

Q : When does a muffler need to be replaced?

A: There are several telltale signs of muffler failure. The biggest and most obvious is that your car suddenly seems a lot louder than before—a pretty clear indicator that your muffler is no longer doing its job. A visual inspection can also help you diagnose a failed muffler; any signs of dripping water or major rust point to the need for a muffler replacement. Ask your Kings County Collision & Repair mechanics for any help diagnosing your muffler.

Q : Why is my muffler smoking?

A: A thin, vapor-like smoke coming from your exhaust pipes is nothing to worry about. Generally, that just means condensation has built up and is being burned off. However, the appearance of thick black, gray, or blue smoke is a sign that there’s something seriously wrong with your engine. Get it looked at by a trained professional, as soon as possible!

Q: Are Dent Repair and Dent Removal the same thing?

A: The short answer is no, but the process is the same. Essentially, the different between paintless dent repair and paintless dent removal is simply how effective we were at completely removing the dent. There are few occasions where we can greatly improve the surface, but due to the location of the damage and how bad the impact is, it may be simply noted as a dent repair versus a dent removal.

Q: What is Paintless Dent Repair or Dent Removal?

A: Paintless Dent Repair or Dent Removal, is the process of repairing or removing dents, dings, creases, and hail damage on vehicles without the inconvenience of expense of traditional auto repair methods. PDR does not use dry ice, electricity, or anything else that might be harmful to the existing paint for factory finish. For specific questions or more dent removal information, please feel free to call us to drop an email.

Q: How does PDR work?

A: With the experience of qualified technicians, dents are accessed from the backside of the damaged panels using specially designed tools to slowly massage the damage back to its original shape and form.

Q: What dents can be replaced or removed

A: Most non-collision dents can be successfully repaired or removed with the paintless dent repair process. However, there are factors which do exist that may limit the restoration of some dents. These factors include the sharpness of the impact point which caused the dent, the location of the dent as compared to the reinforcement structure of the damaged panel, and the depth of the dent. To be completely sure that the damage does not fall into any of these limiting categories, it should be seen by a qualified PDR repair or appraisal technician.

Q: Why should I choose PDR for repairs rather than body shop methods?

A: With PDR there is no need for the use of body putty or paint. Therefore the vehicle retains its original factory finish which helps to retain the value of the vehicle. The process is environmentally safe, much quicker, and less expensive than traditional body shop methods. The repair or removal should always be guaranteed against future defects, reappearance, or any other damage caused by the repair.

Q: How long do repairs or removals take?

A: Minor door dings or parking lot damage can be repaired in as little as 30 minutes. Many complete hail damaged vehicles can be repaired in as little as 1 to 2 days. Repair times vary depending on the severity of the damage but the repair time will always be significantly less than traditional body shop methods.

Q: Why won't the shop give me an estimate over the phone or from an email with a picture?

A: Without seeing the car in person, it's nearly impossible to provide an accurate quote. It is very common for vehicles to require additional prep work.

Q: Do I have to make an appointment for an estimate?

A: Appointments are not necessary, but you can still schedule one for your convenience by using our online appointment software..

Q: Will the price I pay be the same as the estimate? No surprises?

A: Yes. The price you pay could be higher than your initial estimate if hidden damage is discovered during the repair and/or refinishing process or if the cost of parts increases. This is extremely uncommon; however, when it does occur, we will always call to discuss your options and offer you the opportunity to come in and see the repair area first hand.

Q: Are Dent Repair and Dent Removal the same thing?

A: The short answer is no, but the process is the same. Essentially, the different between paintless dent repair and paintless dent removal is simply how effective we were at completely removing the dent. There are few occasions where we can greatly improve the surface, but due to the location of the damage and how bad the impact is, it may be simply noted as a dent repair versus a dent removal.

Q: What is Paintless Dent Repair or Dent Removal?

A: Paintless Dent Repair or Dent Removal, is the process of repairing or removing dents, dings, creases, and hail damage on vehicles without the inconvenience of expense of traditional auto repair methods. PDR does not use dry ice, electricity, or anything else that might be harmful to the existing paint for factory finish. For specific questions or more dent removal information, please feel free to call us to drop an email.

Q: How does PDR work?

A: With the experience of qualified technicians, dents are accessed from the backside of the damaged panels using specially designed tools to slowly massage the damage back to its original shape and form.

Q: What dents can be replaced or removed

A: Most non-collision dents can be successfully repaired or removed with the paintless dent repair process. However, there are factors which do exist that may limit the restoration of some dents. These factors include the sharpness of the impact point which caused the dent, the location of the dent as compared to the reinforcement structure of the damaged panel, and the depth of the dent. To be completely sure that the damage does not fall into any of these limiting categories, it should be seen by a qualified PDR repair or appraisal technician.

Q: Why should I choose PDR for repairs rather than body shop methods?

A: With PDR there is no need for the use of body putty or paint. Therefore the vehicle retains its original factory finish which helps to retain the value of the vehicle. The process is environmentally safe, much quicker, and less expensive than traditional body shop methods. The repair or removal should always be guaranteed against future defects, reappearance, or any other damage caused by the repair.

Q: How long do repairs or removals take?

A: Minor door dings or parking lot damage can be repaired in as little as 30 minutes. Many complete hail damaged vehicles can be repaired in as little as 1 to 2 days. Repair times vary depending on the severity of the damage but the repair time will always be significantly less than traditional body shop methods.