You have the option to choose your auto repair shop.
Contrary to what your insurer may tell you, you don’t have to take your car to the auto shop they recommend. While your insurance company may have a list that recommends the best auto shops, it is ultimately up to you to choose auto collision repair.
Take a look at a few repair estimates.
You can save time and money by getting estimates from multiple body repair shops to find the best price. Don’t be tempted by the lowest price. Sometimes, the cheapest option won’t produce the best quality repairs.
Make sure that the replacement parts are brand new if your insurance covers it.
You will find out whether OEM or aftermarket parts are allowed to be used for your vehicle’s repair under your insurance policy. Aftermarket parts are not always the best option because they are manufactured by a different company than your vehicle. OEM parts should be included in your lease agreement if your car is on a contract.
All insurance communications can be handled by your auto shop.
Except for initiating the claims process, you don’t need to act as a middleman between your repair shop or your insurance company. From the initial estimate through final billing, your repair shop should coordinate all aspects of your vehicle’s repairs.
If you discover new damage, ask to be notified.
Technicians may find additional damage while they are fixing your repair. To notify your insurance company, technicians must report any additional damage to be approved to do these repairs.
It’s great to have your insurance company and auto shop coordinate, but this could be an instance when you would like to see updates. To ensure that you don’t get any surprises when picking up your vehicle, and to see the final invoice, you can request notification at the same moment as your insurance company.