What Insurance Companies Don’t Always Tell You.
Your Right to Choose
Insurance companies may “recommend” certain repair shops within their insurance network. These shops are called Direct Repair Program shops.
These shops may be “convenient” for your insurance company, but they are not your only choice.
As a vehicle owner, you have a right to choose a repair facility that you believe is in your best interest.
Your choice should be based upon:
• The repair facility’s certifications
• Their experience working with your type of vehicle
• Their quality and reputation
Why Insurance Companies Recommend Certain Shops
Insurance companies are big on efficiency.
There are a number of things that DRP shops agree to:
Pre-negotiated labor rates
Standardized repair timelines
Cost savings
This way, it is more efficient for them to handle claims.
But this is not necessarily in accordance with manufacturer repair standards or high-end vehicle requirements.
The Difference in Repair Approach
When you select your own certified collision center, the repair process is based on the manufacturer’s recommended procedures, not on what saves the repair facility time and money. This means:
• We prioritize the use of manufacturer parts
• We follow the recommended repair procedures
• We conduct all necessary diagnostics and calibrations
• We test for structural integrity
At a very general level, the difference between the two approaches is:
Insurance-recommended repairs: Efficient repairs
Independent certified repairs: Precise repairs
What This Means for Luxury Vehicles
For vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz, Tesla, BMW, Audi, Porsche, and other high-end luxury vehicles, the need for precise repair is essential.
These vehicles need:
• Advanced material handling
• Precise fitment tolerances
• ADAS calibration
• OEM specific repair techniques
It is important to note that selecting an unqualified shop may affect the vehicle’s safety features and overall value.
You Are Not Required to Compromise
It’s important to understand:
You are not required to choose a shop based on insurance preference.
You are not required to accept a repair that does not meet your standards.
And you are not required to compromise on cost versus quality.
Your vehicle is your investment — and you have the right to have it repaired properly.
