How bad is this?

Phreakish said
Technically true, and you're not wrong and most of the time it's no problem..

But there's "force" and there's "force". My last claim, one shop I was offered "two weeks back on the road", the other shop (that I knew had higher rates, but far better work) would be a "minimum of 6 months" and lots of implied hassle for a loaner etc (claimed there would need to be waivers, in person adjusters, pictures, submission of costs for approval, etc). There were also caveats of "we'll pay an average of the most reasonable bids, and won't pay if a shop goes over that average" etc, etc. Technically they can't do any of that either, but they have all the leverage in most cases. Getting it done right was going to be a massive headache. "But you can still take it where you want". In this instance it was some no name insurance used by people who've had duis and have trouble getting coverage. Process wound up taking 7 damn months of them calling on nights and weekends (when our ringers are off, which they knew) and then not answering when we called until I threatened to sue their client. Had a check 4 days later.. That's how these places roll. Make it tough and hope you give up or take the easy route - if you challenge or threaten them they suddenly cough up and claim "you're whole" and thus have no grounds for complaint...

Damage wasn't horrible and it's my shitbox daily so I took the cash (which was only $40 under the bid from the shop I preferred but which the insurance claimed would take forever and be a hassle). Since the car is kind of obscure parts arent cheap or easy to come by so I made out pretty damn good in fact! LOL.

Way back in time I went through the same thing after borrowing a car and then getting hit in a hit n run. Was a brand new jeep and the owner wanted it "right". Took a year to replace a wheel and a fender on a TJ. The insurance insisted on buying the parts, the parts were "lost", "damaged in shipping", they tried to buy used parts and claim they were new... Etc. It was obvious retaliation for not going to the preferred shop. But they "let us" take it where we wanted.. (geico, BTW).

I handle about 3 million dollars in auto insurance claims a year so I know where you're coming from. I challenge them daily. If you had a shop handling your claim they should be doing the leg work for you. It's up to the shop to negotiate the price, and if you have a good shop they then fix the car properly no.matter the agreed price. Also, don't agree to settle the claim until the car is finished. There is almost always supplemental damages that will need to be paid while the repair is on process. Don't cash out on the claim. This is how the minimize their severity.

Insurance companies don't order parts. They choose specific parts based on many factors mainly cost effectiveness. It's up the the repair facility to negotiate these prices and part types. And also remember used parts are usually no more used than the ones on your car.

Also to the original poster, if you need a repair estimate written I can assist you with it. I would just need to know the labor and material rates in your area.