Frequently Asked Questions
General Services
Do you repair stone chips?
Yes. In most cases, stone chips can be repaired in about 15 minutes. To avoid longer waits, we recommend stopping in outside of the lunch hour.
Do you offer Certificate of Inspection (COI) services?
We can help arrange a COI inspection through one of our trusted, MPI-approved inspection partners. This service complements our Body Integrity Inspection Certificates (BIIC) and makes the process convenient for you.
Do you offer wheel alignments?
Yes. We perform wheel alignments on cars and pickup trucks up to ½ ton.
Claims & Estimates
Can I submit my claim online?
Yes. If you already have an MPI claim number, you can submit it through our online claim form on our website or by emailing it to autobody@wjauto.ca
When I give you my claim number, what happens next?
If your vehicle needs an estimate, we’ll book a 25-minute Direct Repair estimate.
After the estimate, we’ll order the required parts and schedule your repair.
If MPI has already assessed your vehicle, we’ll order your parts immediately and call you as soon as we’re ready to begin repairs.
Do I need an estimate first?
Not always. MPI will guide you through the claims process, and as a Direct Repair shop, we can often handle the estimate and repairs together. We do provide free computerized estimates when needed.
Can I phone for an estimate?
Yes — if MPI has already estimated your car in the past 3 months, just call us with your claim number. If it’s a non-insurance repair, we’ll need to see the vehicle in person.
What information should I bring to the shop?
Bring your MPI claim number and the vehicle’s License Plate Number. We’ll take it from there.
Accidents & Insurance
What should I do after an accident?
Call MPI (Manitoba Public Insurance) right away to report the accident. They’ll assign an adjuster, set up an estimate, and decide if your vehicle is repairable or a total loss. Once you have your claim papers, bring them to us — we’re an MPI Accredited Direct Repair shop, so you don’t waste time chasing multiple estimates.
Do I have to use a shop recommended by MPI?
No. You have the right to choose any MPI-Accredited repair facility. MPI may give you a list of shops, but the choice is yours.
Will my insurance cover all repairs?
That depends on your coverage and who was at fault. We’ll work directly with MPI on your behalf to confirm what is and isn’t covered.
What is a deductible and who do I pay it to?
Your deductible is the amount you agreed to pay when you bought your policy. MPI decides if you owe it, based on fault. If applicable, you’ll pay your deductible directly to us when your vehicle is completed.
Since the other driver was at fault, why do I have to pay my deductible?
If MPI is handling your claim, you may still need to pay your deductible up front. MPI will then try to recover it from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Will my rates go up after a claim?
We can’t say for sure. MPI or your broker can confirm if your premiums will change.
What happens if MPI declares my vehicle a total loss?
MPI’s Total Loss Specialist will determine your car’s market value (year, make, model, condition, mileage). They’ll pay you for the vehicle and handle removing it from the shop.
Repair Process
How long does it take to get my vehicle repaired?
Repair time depends on the type of damage, parts availability, and technician scheduling. Most repairs are completed within 3–5 business days once work begins. For a realistic ETA, give us a call 204-853-2038.
How long will repairs take once scheduled?
When you book your repair, we’ll provide a tentative completion date. We’ll also give you regular updates so you always know the status.
How do I check the status of my repairs?
Your adjuster or MPI service rep will contact you regularly. Our tracking system also allows any MPI staff member to update you if you call.
What results can I expect?
Expect your vehicle to be restored to pre-accident condition — or better. We guarantee our repair quality, so you can drive away with confidence
Transportation & Rentals
Can I get a courtesy car?
Yes. We provide a free courtesy car while your vehicle is being repaired.
What if I need a rental vehicle?
If MPI is paying for repairs, you may have rental coverage under “Loss of Use.” Check your policy for details.
If the other driver is at fault, their insurance should cover reasonable rental costs.
Parts & Paint
Do you use O.E.M. (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts?
Whenever possible, yes. We prefer OEM parts, but we’ll work with MPI on your behalf if aftermarket parts are suggested. If you’d like, we can also install your preferred brand of parts.
Can you match my factory paint exactly?
Yes. Our computerized paint-matching system guarantees a perfect match, and we use DuPont Automotive Finishes, an industry leader.
Is it difficult to match modern vehicle paint?
Today’s finishes are complex, but with our technology and training, we consistently achieve an exact match.
How soon after repairs can I wash or wax my car?
Washing: Safe right away, since we bake the finish.
Waxing: Please wait 30 days before waxing your newly painted vehicle.
Costs & Deductibles
If I have a deductible, when do I pay it?
You’ll pay your deductible to us when you pick up your completed vehicle.
Does MPI cover scratches?
Scratches may be covered under comprehensive coverage, depending on your policy. These claims usually don’t affect your collision rates.
Other Services
Do you also do mechanical work?
Yes. Our licensed mechanics handle a wide variety of mechanical repairs and restoration.
It’s just a small dent — do I really need repair?
Yes. Even small dents can hide frame damage or structural issues. Always let a professional check it.
Can I pull the dent myself with a kit?
We don’t recommend it. DIY kits often cause more damage, like scratches or stretched metal.
Why is it important to fix paint scratches?
Scratches expose bare metal, which can quickly rust and harm your car’s structure and appearance.
How do you dispose of waste?
We’re committed to the environment. We recycle whenever possible, and the rest is safely processed into reusable fuel through an EPA-approved facility.
Hours & Location
Are you open on weekends?
Autobody shop is open Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm.
OutdoorVehicle Storage is Always Open 24/7
Where can I get expert auto body repair in Winnipeg?
Right here! At Wayne Johnston Auto Body & Glass, we repair all makes and models, we work directly with MPI on your behalf. We guarantee our repair quality, so you can drive away with confidence.