Collision repair is something most people will only experience a few times in their lives. As vehicle technology and materials evolve, the complexity of repairs continues to grow. High-quality, safety-focused repairs are essential, so it's crucial to choose a facility you can trust – and remember, the choice is yours. This is the most important step in the claims process.
Here's What you Need to Know:
* FIND A QUALITY AUTO REPAIR SHOP: Insurance companies may claim to have "preferred body shops," but these are simply the shops offering the biggest discounts to the insurance company, not the customer. Their preferred status has nothing to do with the quality or safety of the repair.
To find the right repair shop, do your research and trust your instincts. Consider which shops have the right equipment, what former clients are saying in reviews, and which shops invest in ongoing training. Look at how long the shop has been established and whether they conduct manufacturer research to ensure your vehicle is repaired correctly.
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​* WARRANTIES ARE THROUGH THE FACILITY, NOT THE INSURANCE: This claim always makes us chuckle. Insurance companies often mislead customers by saying that repairs won’t be warranted if they choose a non-preferred facility. Why does this make us laugh? Because insurance companies have never been the ones offering warranties. The repair shop is the one responsible for warranties. So, select a reputable shop that provides a solid warranty and stands behind its work.
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* ALL INSURANCE COMPANIES WILL WORK WITH WHATEVER FACILITY YOU CHOOSE: Sometimes, insurance companies may claim they don’t work with the shop you’ve chosen or that they’ve only worked with that facility a few times. In reality, all reputable shops are experienced in working with all insurance companies.
Here’s What We Aim to Have Clarified:
The choice is completely up to you! Select the shop you feel confident in. Reach out to friends, family, and coworkers, check reviews, and don’t hesitate to ask questions! Make informed decisions to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones.
Trust your instincts when receiving your initial estimate. Remember, the facility you choose should prioritize your interests, not those of the insurance company or their "preferred" shops that may take shortcuts with your repairs. Both the facility and the insurance company work for YOU!