CAADE Estimating Repair Costs 3

Question 1

A vehicle's frame has a collapsed rail after a front-end collision. Which measurement method is essential to accurately assess frame damage?

Accepted Answer

Three-dimensional measuring using a frame bench or computerized system

Answer

Three-dimensional computerized measuring systems compare actual vehicle dimensions to factory specifications to detect all frame deviations.

Question 2

What is the purpose of including 'overlap allowances' in a damage estimate?

Accepted Answer

To deduct time for operations already performed when refinishing adjacent panels together

Answer

Overlap allowances reduce labor time when multiple adjacent panels are refinished together, sharing setup and masking operations.

Question 3

When replacing a airbag module after deployment, which additional cost must always be included?

Accepted Answer

Scanning and calibration of the supplemental restraint system (SRS)

Answer

After airbag replacement, the SRS control module must be scanned and calibrated to ensure the system functions correctly.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'sublet repairs' on an estimate?

Accepted Answer

Specialized work sent to outside vendors, such as glass or alignments, billed as a pass-through

Answer

Sublet repairs are specialty operations outsourced to other facilities (glass shops, alignment centers) and listed as a direct cost on the estimate.

Question 5

An estimator identifies corrosion perforation on a rocker panel during the repair. How should this be handled on the estimate?

Accepted Answer

Document it as a hidden damage supplement requiring additional approval

Answer

Pre-existing corrosion that becomes apparent during repair is documented as a supplement for insurer approval before additional work proceeds.

(CAADE) Certified Automotive Appraisal and Damage Estimator Practice Test