Collision Repair FAQ: Bradenton Auto Body Questions Answered

Yes. Firkins Collision Center provides free upfront repair estimates. You can stop by our shop at 2700 1st St, Bradenton, or request an estimate online.

You can stop by during business hours, but scheduling ahead helps us have an estimator ready for you and keeps your visit short. You can request an estimate online or call (941) 229-6451.

It depends on the damage. A minor scrape can be quick, while more extensive damage takes longer to document. Calling ahead helps us plan time for your vehicle.

Hidden damage behind bumpers and panels often appears once a vehicle is disassembled. We document it and, if insurance is involved, submit a supplement. Under Florida law, we contact you before charges exceed your written estimate beyond a small allowance.

Yes. We work with all insurance companies and provide insurance claim and paperwork assistance, whether the claim is under your policy or the other driver's.

Insurers often suggest network shops, but several major insurers state you can use any shop you like. Tell your adjuster you want Firkins to repair your vehicle. Our right-to-choose page explains what Florida law says.

It depends on the repair cost, your deductible and who was at fault. A free estimate gives you the real number so you can decide. Our blog has an article that walks through the trade-offs.

Repairs are usually paid through your own collision coverage if you carry it. In Florida, uninsured motorist coverage is tied to bodily injury, not vehicle damage. Our uninsured motorist page explains your options.

Minor repairs often take a few days. Significant damage may take several weeks depending on the extent of the damage and parts availability. We give you an estimated timeline and keep you updated.

Yes. We provide progress updates throughout our seven-step process, from the estimate to final inspection and road test.

Yes. We offer 24/7 towing assistance to our facility. Call our 24-hour towing line at (941) 749-1450.

Yes. We offer free loaner vehicles, or we can help you arrange a rental car. We also offer a shuttle service.

Yes. We offer complimentary pickup and delivery of your vehicle. Ask about it when you schedule your estimate.

We provide secure overnight vehicle storage at our Bradenton facility.

Yes. We offer a lifetime warranty on parts and labor for our workmanship. Ask for your written warranty at pickup for the specific terms.

We use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts whenever possible. We also have an on-site Mopar parts department for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles.

Yes. We provide complete color-matched painting in a dedicated paint booth using an environmentally friendly waterborne paint system.

For the first 30 days, avoid washing (especially high-pressure washes), don't wax or polish the new paint, park away from trees and bushes, and promptly remove bird droppings, tree sap and love bugs.

Paintless dent repair (PDR) uses specialized tools to massage dents out from behind the panel without filler or repainting. It works best when the paint isn't cracked or chipped and the metal isn't stretched.

Yes. We repair hail and storm damage, often with paintless dent repair when the paint is intact, and with traditional dent repair and refinishing when it isn't.

Yes. We perform unibody and frame straightening using frame machines and computer-assisted measuring systems to restore factory specifications.

Our technicians are I-CAR- and ASE-certified and participate in ongoing training.

No. We repair all makes and models. Being part of Firkins Auto Group gives us an on-site Mopar parts department, but our collision center works on every brand.

Our collision center is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We are closed Sunday. Towing assistance is available 24/7.

Sí. We have Spanish-speaking staff. Call (941) 357-5162 to talk through your repair in Spanish.

We're at 2700 1st St, Bradenton, FL 34208, on US-41 on the east side of downtown Bradenton, on site with Firkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and Mitsubishi.

We serve Bradenton and Manatee County, including West Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, Parrish, Ellenton, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Cortez, Myakka City and North Sarasota.

After a collision, cameras and sensors may need to be checked or recalibrated. Ask your estimator how your vehicle's systems will be verified as part of the repair.

Yes. Our customer lounge has free Wi-Fi, coffee and TV.