Estimating Repair Costs Flashcards

When calculating the cost to repair a damaged quarter panel, which factor most significantly affects whether to repair versus replace?

Answer: The extent of metal deformation and crease depth

Severe deformation or deep creases beyond the metal's elastic limit make replacement more cost-effective than repair.

Which database is most commonly used by appraisers to establish OEM parts prices in a damage estimate?

Answer: CCC ONE, Mitchell, or Audatex

CCC ONE, Mitchell (Snap-on), and Audatex are the major estimating platforms that provide current OEM parts pricing.

A vehicle requires a new door skin. The estimator should include which additional operation in the estimate?

Answer: Hem flange repair and seam sealer application

Installing a door skin requires folding the hem flange and applying seam sealer to restore the factory seal and prevent corrosion.

What does the term 'betterment' mean in the context of a damage estimate?

Answer: A deduction applied when new parts improve pre-loss condition of worn components

Betterment is a reduction in claim payment when new replacement parts (e.g., tires, battery) provide a condition improvement over worn pre-loss parts.

In estimating, what is the standard unit used to measure labor time for repair operations?

Answer: Hours and fractions of hours (tenths)

Labor time is recorded in hours and tenths of hours (e.g., 2.5 hours) based on published labor time guides.

Which type of damage typically warrants a 'total loss' determination?

Answer: When repair cost plus salvage value meets or exceeds the vehicle's ACV

A vehicle is deemed a total loss when the cost to repair plus salvage value equals or exceeds the actual cash value (ACV).

When estimating refinishing costs, what does 'panel blending' refer to?

Answer: Feathering new paint into adjacent panels to achieve a color match

Blending involves applying and fading new color into adjacent panels to minimize visible color variation between repaired and unrepaired areas.