Written estimate first · Then decide
Why do body shops want to keep my car just for an estimate?
Sometimes it's legitimate: hidden damage needs a teardown. Sometimes it's a sales tactic: once the car is on their lot, you're not shopping anymore. Here's how to tell the difference and keep control.
The legitimate reason
Collision damage hides behind panels. A bumper that looks scuffed can have a bent reinforcement bar; a door that closes can have a crushed intrusion beam. A shop can't honestly price what it can't see, so for a real hit the final number always comes after teardown. That part is true everywhere, including here.
The not-so-legitimate reason
Some shops use 'leave it with us for an estimate' because a car on their lot is a car they'll probably repair. You lose a day without the vehicle, feel committed, and get a number you can't easily compare. A few will even charge a 'teardown fee' you only get back if you repair there. Ask before you hand over keys.
How to keep control
Get a written preliminary estimate before any car moves. Ours comes from three photos, lists every visible part, separates likely hidden damage, and prices the repair three ways. Then if a teardown is needed, you already know the starting number and what 'we found more' should look like.
If you're on an insurance claim, remember that in Arizona you pick the shop. The adjuster's estimate is a starting point; the shop supplements for what the teardown finds.
How the photo estimate works
- Your name, number and emailSo we know where to send it. Thirty seconds.
- Three photos of the damageWhole side of the car, close-up, and another angle. Your phone camera is fine.
- Snap your VINThe sticker in the driver's door. It tells us the exact year, model, trim and paint code so the estimate is for your car, not a guess.
A Best Deal estimator reviews every request personally. Your written estimate with three repair levels comes by email, usually the same business day.
Visit the shop
5511 N 51st Ave, Suites 108 & 109
Glendale, AZ 85301
Open every day, 7 AM – 6 PM
Get directionsCommon questions
Do you charge a teardown fee?
Teardown is free when we do the repair. If someone takes the car elsewhere after we've torn it down, $750 is due, and we tell you that before we touch anything.
Will the photo estimate change after you see the car?
For visible damage, rarely by much. For a real collision, expect the hidden-damage section to turn into real line items; the estimate tells you where to expect that.
Can I get the photo estimate and still visit?
Of course. Most people do: get the number first, then stop by when it's convenient. No appointment needed, open seven days.
Know the number before you go anywhere
Send a few photos. We'll take it from there.
Upload pictures of the damage for a preliminary price range, or call and talk to someone at the shop.
Visit the shop
5511 N 51st Ave, Suites 108 & 109
Glendale, AZ 85301
Open every day, 7 AM – 6 PM
Get directions