Do You Work With My Insurance Company?

The vast majority of Scottsdale collision repair centers collaborate with most insurance providers. However, there are instances where some insurance companies can be quite challenging to deal with, refusing to cover the expenses required to restore a damaged vehicle to its original manufacturer specifications. When faced with such uncooperative insurance companies unwilling to cover proper repairs, many collision repair facilities simply decline to take on these repair jobs.

Most car manufacturers—brands like Honda, Nissan, Jeep, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, among others—have specific or recommended guidelines for collision repairs. When manufacturer procedures aren't available, a skilled auto body shop will follow industry-standard practices to ensure a safe repair. Surprisingly, we've encountered situations where insurance companies have said, “We don’t cover that.” Our response? “According to Honda (or another brand), these repair procedures are mandatory.” The insurer might reply, “That’s fine, but we won’t pay for it.” It's frustrating for both the car owner and the collision repair shop when this happens.

Should I choose a recommended or preferred collision repair facility from the insurance company’s list?

Often, an insurance provider will offer you a list of Scottsdale collision repair shops. They’ll mention that these facilities have a repair warranty. The truth is, no single collision repair shop can appear on every insurance company’s preferred list—the workload would just be overwhelming! Remember, a reputable collision repair shop likely offers a lifetime labor warranty. As a consumer, it’s your right to select the collision repair facility for your vehicle's repairs. Before choosing, do some research. Ask for referrals, read online reviews across multiple platforms, and visit the facility in person. Is it clean? Are the staff professional? What types of vehicles do you see being repaired?

Will the auto body shop coordinate with my insurance company?

A professional Scottsdale collision repair shop will communicate with you and your insurance company, but they can’t force the insurer to cover certain labor operations or parts. Many challenges arise due to policy language, which allows the use of used or aftermarket parts. If the collision repair facility can't demonstrate an issue with using these parts, the vehicle owner may wish to get involved in the discussion.

Who can help me with a rental car?

Your insurance company often selects the rental car provider and makes the reservation. If you experience any issues with your rental car, contact either the rental provider or your insurance company directly.

Does the auto body shop or insurance company decide what kind of parts to use?

Most Scottsdale collision repair facilities prefer OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts because of their superior quality and fit. A second option is used/salvaged OEM parts. A quality-conscious repair shop has a parts department that inspects each part and rejects anything substandard, even if it delays the process slightly. Keep in mind, parts availability and insurance policy language can sometimes prevent collision repair shops from ordering new OEM parts.

Will all the damage be addressed?

When meeting with your insurance adjuster or collision repair estimator, make sure to point out all your concerns. Insurance companies are skilled at determining what damage is related to the incident. Occasionally, there might be two separate claims and two deductibles if the damage stems from two different accidents. Be aware that the insurance adjuster, much like a crime scene investigator, will not approve repairs for unrelated damage.

Who should I speak to about my claim, repairs, and car rental?

You may realize it takes a whole team of people to get you back on the road. Directing your questions to the right individuals will save you time!

• I don’t like my rental car: Contact the rental car provider. They often will swap your rental car if you’re dissatisfied.

• Why is the collision repair taking so long? Speak to the Scottsdale collision repair facility. Are there part issues, is the insurance company slow to respond? Do you fully understand the scope of repairs, including wiring and mechanical aspects? Ask for a more detailed explanation if you’re unclear.
• I want OEM parts: Speak with your insurance adjuster, be prepared to explain why your car needs OEM parts, and know you might have to cover the price difference.

Who do I pay my deductible to?

If you're an insured party, your deductible will be paid to the Scottsdale collision repair facility. The insurance company will pay the remaining balance to the auto body repair facility or directly to you. Any checks or electronic funds transfers issued to you must be paid to the collision repair shop before your vehicle can be released.

Airpark Collision Center opened in 2006, focusing on quality auto body repairs and exceptional customer service. We are happy to work with most insurance companies and customers paying out of pocket. Please call 480-922-3006 to schedule an estimate or click here if you have a minor repair.