CALA - Certified Automotive Loss Adjuster Repair Cost Estimating Questions and Answers

Question 1

An appraiser is writing an estimate to repair a vehicle with 55,000 miles.
The front bumper, grille, and a front tire were damaged in a collision.
The policy dictates that wear-and-tear items are subject to betterment.
Which of the following is the MOST appropriate application of betterment?

Accepted Answer

Applying betterment to the tire based on its remaining tread life.

Answer

Applying depreciation to the bumper and grille based on the vehicle's age.

Answer

Charging betterment on all replaced parts, including the bumper, grille, and tire.

Answer

Ignoring betterment as the damage was caused by a covered peril.

Question 2

In a state that uses the Total Loss Formula (TLF), a vehicle has an Actual Cash Value (ACV) of $15,000. The estimated cost of repairs is $11,000, and the projected salvage value is $4,500. Based on these figures, what is the correct determination for the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

The vehicle should be declared a total loss.

Answer

The vehicle is repairable because the repair cost is less than the ACV.

Answer

The vehicle is repairable because the salvage value exceeds 25% of the ACV.

Answer

The vehicle's status cannot be determined without the state's percentage threshold.

Question 3

Which of the following is typically considered an 'Included' operation within the refinish time for a new, undamaged panel according to estimating guides like Mitchell or CCC?

Accepted Answer

Application of basecoat and clearcoat

Answer

Feather, prime, and block sanding on a repaired area

Answer

Masking of adjacent panels to prevent overspray

Answer

Removal of trim and hardware from the panel

Question 4

An estimator calculates 3.0 refinish hours for a door panel. According to common estimating guide formulas, what is the correct calculation for the clear coat application on this single panel?

Accepted Answer

3.0 hours x 40%

Answer

3.0 hours x 70%

Answer

3.0 hours + 0.4 hours

Answer

3.0 hours x 20%

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of conducting a pre-repair diagnostic scan when estimating the cost of repairs?

Accepted Answer

To identify any stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the collision that may not be visually apparent.

Answer

To determine the vehicle's Actual Cash Value (ACV) before the accident.

Answer

To reset the vehicle's maintenance reminders and oil life monitor.

Answer

To order the correct color-matched paint for the refinishing process.

Question 6

When an estimate includes labor for 'blending' an adjacent panel, what is the primary goal of this procedure?

Accepted Answer

To ensure a seamless color match between the new paint and the existing finish.

Answer

To repair minor physical damage on the adjacent panel.

Answer

To apply an extra layer of clear coat for added durability.

Answer

To calculate the total refinish time for the entire side of the vehicle.