Confessions From the Auto Body Shop
Edmunds.com
Member, Administrator, Moderator Posts: 10,315
Confessions From the Auto Body Shop
Body shop insiders reveal the tricks and secrets that might be used by predatory collision repair specialists to dupe consumers and make nice with insurance companies.
0
Comments
I too am owner of an auto body shop in Portland, OR [non-permissible content removed]. We are family-owned and operated, have been in business since 1946 and in my family since 1963.
I encourage consumers needing auto body work to ask friends and family for recommendations. Then spend 10 minutes online checking out those referrals, including any from the insurer. I have seen many, many articles online with very inaccurate information.
When you find a shop that looks good, give them a call, and go meet them. Nothing will take the place of a personal visit, even in these times of instant information. Whether a shop is on an insurance company DRP (Direct Repair Program) is NOT an indication of the quality, professionalism, training and dedication that shop has for their craft.
Auto body repair work remains a skilled trade and requires craftspeople to perform it. These craftspeople will typically have I-CAR training and welding certifications. They may also have ASE certifications. A body shop committed to training will usually have the I-CAR Gold Professionals Designation. (Google these terms for more information.) Running a successful business requires dedication, commitment to providing your people with appropriate on-going training and certifications and adhering to a high-level code of ethics. Find a shop that is all of these things - they are out there, I interact with them every day.
I highly discourage making a decision on price alone. If price is your primary concern, discuss this with the shop, a reputable shop will educate you on what your options are for a safe repair and will want to work with you to meet your needs.
With regard to what type of parts will be put on your vehicle:
* Oregon law requires disclosure.
* If your insurance company is paying, it is the policy YOU purchased that will determine what the insurer will pay for.
* If you are a claimant - meaning the policy of the other person is paying - you have different rights that are not always easily realized.
* You can have the body shop use whatever kind of parts you want, but if an insurer will not pay for them, you may have to pay the difference and then look into collecting from the insurer.
I encourage people to understand their policies, to purchase rental car coverage (NOT usually included in "full coverage" policies), do a little research to find a shop you trust. If you don't trust the people you interact with, don't do business with them.
In the end, it's your vehicle and it's your choice where you have it repaired, choose wisely.
Happy Motoring!
Again - great article!