Can I Change the Repair Shop After Damage Assessment?
2 Answers
It is possible to change the repair shop after damage assessment, which can be considered an unwritten rule. Repair shops are cheaper than 4S stores: When a car has a problem, the 4S store would like to replace all the parts, while the insurance company would prefer to do minor repairs. One tries to exaggerate the problem, while the other tries to downplay it, leaving the car owner caught in the middle and feeling uneasy. There is a profit cooperation between the damage assessor and the repair shop: This means the damage assessor brings business to the repair shop and gets a commission. Sometimes, the damage assessor and the repair shop collude to cheat the insurance company. The car owner may seem to benefit temporarily, but in the long run, the next premium will increase, ultimately causing a loss. If the at-fault car owner bears the main responsibility, some insurance types have a 15% deductible, which the repair shop may inform the insured about.
Just helped a friend with this issue a few days ago. After the insurance company completes the damage assessment, you can certainly change repair shops. However, two points need attention: First, whether the new repair shop accepts the repair items listed on the assessment sheet—changing shops can easily lead to price discrepancies. Second, if the new shop discovers hidden damages requiring additional repairs, you must contact the assessor again for price verification. The most troublesome issue is the price difference. If the original assessment by the 4S shop was 10,000, but you switch to a local shop and only spend 8,000, the insurance won’t refund the saved 2,000. Conversely, if the new shop quotes 12,000, you’ll likely have to pay the extra out of pocket. Before switching shops, ensure both the old and new repair shops properly hand over the work orders to avoid disputes over parts replacement responsibilities.
