Free Auto Body Estimates in Franklin, WI
In writing, no appointment necessary, no obligation — the way we've done it since 1964.
Know What It Costs Before You Decide Anything
Whether you're weighing an insurance claim against paying out of pocket, comparing shops, or just wondering if that scratch is a big deal — the starting point is the same: a real number, in writing, from someone who's looked at your actual car.
That's why our estimates are free and always have been. Drive in to our shop at 8595 S 27th St. in Franklin, and in about 10–15 minutes you'll have a written estimate, an explanation of what's actually damaged, and your options — repair vs. replace, parts choices, claim vs. out-of-pocket. No pressure, no obligation.
- Free & written — a real document, not a verbal ballpark
- No appointment necessary — Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM
- Insurance-ready — we can send it straight to your insurer
- Honest options — including "this isn't worth fixing" when it's true
Prefer to start online? Request service online or use our contact form — send photos of the damage and we'll follow up, usually the same business day.
Curious what repairs typically run before you come in? We published real ranges: What does auto body repair cost in Wisconsin?
What to Expect When You Stop In
- Drive in No appointment needed. Pull up to the shop at 8595 S 27th St., Franklin — just south of the Highway 100 area on 27th Street. See how to find us.
- We inspect the damage An estimator looks the vehicle over with you — not just the obvious damage, but the spots where hidden damage typically hides behind it.
- You get a written estimate Line-itemed: labor, parts, paint and materials. We'll explain repair vs. replace choices and parts options in plain English.
- You decide — on your timeline Take it home, compare it, sleep on it, send it to your insurance company. If you'd like our help with the claim, we work with all insurers.
- If you book the repair We order parts before teardown when possible, arrange your free loaner car if you need one, and schedule the work.
What to Bring (It's a Short List)
- The vehicle (or clear photos, if it isn't drivable — we can work from photos to get you started)
- Your insurance claim number, if you've already filed
- Any estimate another shop or an insurance adjuster has written — we're happy to review it with you
Estimates for Insurance Claims
If you're filing a claim, we can share our estimate and photos directly with your insurance company and handle supplements if teardown reveals hidden damage. Remember: in Wisconsin, you choose the shop — not your insurer. Deciding whether to file at all? Read should you file a claim for a fender bender?
Why Our Estimates Hold Up
The cheapest estimate isn't always the cheapest repair. Estimates that ignore blending, hidden damage, and proper parts grow after the car is apart — when you have the least leverage. We write complete estimates up front, which is why the number you see is the number you can plan around. And the work behind it carries our lifetime guarantee.
Free Estimate FAQs
Are your estimates really free?
Yes — completely free and in writing, with no obligation to have the repair done. Free estimates have been part of how Root River Auto Body does business since 1964.
Do I need an appointment for an estimate?
No. Stop in any time Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM, at 8595 S 27th St. in Franklin. Most estimates take 10–15 minutes. You can also start online through our request service page or by calling 414-761-0180.
How many estimates should I get for an insurance claim?
Wisconsin doesn't require multiple estimates, and most insurers no longer demand them. You have the right to choose your repair shop — one thorough estimate from a shop you trust, shared with your insurer, is typically all you need.
Why do estimates differ so much between shops?
Differences usually come down to what each shop plans to actually do: repair vs. replace decisions, parts types, whether blending adjacent panels is included, and whether likely hidden damage is accounted for. A low estimate that skips those items grows once the work starts. We write complete estimates so the number you see is realistic.
Get Your Free Estimate
Drive in Mon–Fri 8–5, call us, or start online — whichever is easiest for you.