CALA Repair Cost Estimating 4

Question 1

In estimating, what is 'door time' or 'access time' added to an estimate for?

Accepted Answer

Extra time needed to access damaged components through restricted or difficult-to-reach areas

Answer

Access time accounts for the additional labor required to reach damaged components in locations that are difficult to access during the repair process.

Question 2

What is the function of an estimating database's 'labor rate' field?

Accepted Answer

The shop's posted labor rate charged per hour for each labor category

Answer

The labor rate is the shop's posted hourly charge for each labor category (body, frame, paint, mechanical) used to calculate total labor costs on an estimate.

Question 3

When a repair requires replacing a side curtain airbag, the estimator should also consider:

Accepted Answer

Replacement of the headliner, pillars, and any other components damaged during deployment

Answer

Airbag deployment typically damages surrounding components like headliners and pillars that must also be included in a complete repair estimate.

Question 4

A vehicle requires a new bumper cover. The damaged cover had a factory-installed rear parking sensor. The estimator should:

Accepted Answer

Include the transfer, calibration, or replacement of the parking sensor in the estimate

Answer

Factory-installed sensors must be transferred or replaced and may require calibration, which must be captured in the estimate for a complete repair.

Question 5

When is it appropriate to use an aftermarket (non-OEM) part in a repair estimate?

Accepted Answer

When the vehicle is beyond the manufacturer's warranty period and the part meets quality standards per applicable guidelines

Answer

Aftermarket parts may be appropriate for out-of-warranty vehicles when the parts meet quality standards, subject to state laws and insurer/shop agreements.

(CALA) Certified Automotive Loss Adjuster Practice Test

(CALA) Certified Automotive Loss Adjuster Practice Test

CALA Repair Cost Estimating 4