Common Terms Heard During a Collision Repair

Common Terms Heard During a Collision Repair

Every industry has its language, and the auto body repair industry is no exception. A lot of drivers don’t understand the terms used by their local auto body repair shop, while technicians are performing the repairs on their vehicles. Having that in mind, we’ve prepared a list of some of the most common terms heard among the technicians in an auto body repair shop so that you can be prepared, once your vehicle requires a collision repair.

Remove & Install (R&I)/Remove & Replace (R&R)

These 2 terms go together and you’ll hear them both quite frequently during your collision repair service. The first one is Remove & Install (R&I) which refers to a certain part which is removed from the damaged vehicle and later, reinstalled. If requested, the part itself can even be fixed separately. The main point here is that the original part is replaced. However, in case the original part can’t be replaced, then the second term Remove & Replace (R&R) comes into play. This term means that the removed part cannot be reinstalled or repaired, therefore, it has to be replaced by a new one.

Like-Kind & Quality (LKQ)

For an auto body repair shop, it’s a common practice to salvage parts from other vehicles and used them for a different repair. When this occurs, the parts have to be inspected thoroughly by both the auto repair technician and the seller to determine that they’re similar enough, or of a like kind and quality, of the part that is about to be replaced.

Exclusion

Insurance can be a bit tricky, so keep in mind that not every auto body repair you may need for your vehicle, is going to be covered by your insurance policy. Every repair, not included in the policy, is labeled as an exclusion. Vehicle owners have to know these exclusions, named in their policy, so when repairs are required, there won’t be any surprises.

Aftermarket Parts

Among the auto body repair industry, one of the most common terms you hear is aftermarket parts. This refers to any automotive part, which was not manufactured by your vehicle’s original manufacturer. The quality and price of aftermarket parts can vary significantly, and they aren’t always the best option for your vehicle. A reputable auto body shop can advise you on when you should go for an aftermarket part, and when it’s better to stick to the original part.

These are just a couple of standard terms you’ll hear in an auto body repair center! Hopefully, they’ll be of assistance in a better understanding of what’s happening with your collision repair. However, remember to always ask the technician to clarify anything that you’re uncertain of!