When you receive a repair estimate, the language used can sometimes be confusing. This glossary explains the most common terms so you can understand exactly what you're paying for.

Common Repair Estimate Terms

Labour Rate

The hourly rate charged for the time a technician spends working on your vehicle. Labour is usually listed separately from parts costs on an estimate.

Parts

The physical components required to complete the repair. These may be listed as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket parts depending on what your repairer sources.

OEM Parts

Parts made by the original vehicle manufacturer. They are designed to match your car's specifications exactly and typically carry a manufacturer warranty.

Aftermarket Parts

Third-party parts not made by the original manufacturer. They can be more affordable but may vary in quality and fit.

Sublet

Work that the primary repair shop sends out to a specialist — for example, wheel alignment, glass replacement, or air conditioning regas. These costs are passed through to the customer.

Paint Materials

The cost of primers, paints, clear coats, and other materials used in refinishing panels. This is usually listed separately from parts and labour.

Blend

A technique where paint is feathered into an adjacent panel to achieve a seamless colour match. This is often necessary when a colour has faded slightly over time.

R&I (Remove and Install)

The process of removing a part to access and repair another component, then reinstalling it. The part itself is not replaced, only temporarily removed.

R&R (Remove and Replace)

The part is removed and replaced entirely with a new one rather than repaired.

Betterment

A deduction applied when a damaged part is replaced with a new one that represents an improvement over the worn original. Insurance companies may apply betterment charges to reflect this.

Excess

The amount you are required to pay out of pocket before your insurer covers the remaining repair costs. Excess amounts vary by policy.

Total Loss

When the cost of repairing a vehicle exceeds its market value, the insurer may declare it a total loss and settle the claim based on the car's pre-accident value.

Questions About Your Estimate?

A quality repairer will always walk you through your estimate and answer any questions you have. Never feel pressured to sign off on repairs you don't understand.