Electronic systems like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. Following a collision, these systems almost always require diagnostic scanning and physical calibration by trained technicians to ensure safe operation.
Aftermarket Parts (A/M)
Replacement parts manufactured by a company other than the original maker of the vehicle. Insurers often mandate their use to lower repair costs.
Appearance Allowance
A financial credit given to the vehicle owner in lieu of repairing minor cosmetic damage that does not affect the safety or function of the vehicle.
B
Betterment
A depreciation charge applied when replacing a wear-and-tear item (like tires, batteries, or exhaust systems) puts the vehicle in a better condition than before the accident. The customer typically pays this difference.
Blend (Paint Blending)
Applying paint to an undamaged adjacent panel and tapering it off to ensure a seamless color match between the newly painted repair area and the older factory paint.
D
DRP (Direct Repair Program)
A partnership agreement between an insurance company and an auto body shop. The shop agrees to specific KPIs, parts usage guidelines, and labor rates in exchange for a volume of claim referrals from the insurer.
Deductible
The out-of-pocket amount the insured is responsible for paying to the repair facility before the insurance company pays the remainder of the claim.
O
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
Parts made by the manufacturer of the original vehicle (e.g., Ford parts for a Ford vehicle). OEM parts are widely considered the highest quality standard for fit and safety.
Overlap
A reduction in allowed labor time when two or more operations share common procedural steps. Estimating systems automatically deduct overlap time so labor isn't billed twice.
R
R&I (Remove and Install)
Taking a part off a vehicle, setting it aside, and reinstalling that identical part later. Usually done to gain access to damage or to clear a panel for painting.
R&R (Remove and Replace)
Taking a damaged part off the vehicle and replacing it with a new (or recycled) part.
S
Sublet
Repair work outsourced to a third-party vendor rather than performed in-house, such as wheel alignments, windshield replacement, or dealership ADAS calibrations.
Supplement
An addition to the original estimate detailing hidden damage, omitted operations, or parts price increases discovered during the vehicle teardown and repair process.