What "preferred" or "direct repair" shop means
Insurers build networks of shops that agree to the insurer's labor rates, part choices, and turnaround targets in exchange for volume. That's a business arrangement between the insurer and the shop. It's not a quality rating, and it doesn't change your coverage. The adjuster suggesting one is doing their job; you declining is doing yours.
What to say to the adjuster
"I'll be taking it to Phoenix Auto Repair & Body Shop at 2621 N 24th St. Please send the assignment there." That's it. If they push back with "we can't guarantee the work there," the answer is that the shop guarantees its own work — and the insurer still owes you a proper repair under your policy.
How the claim actually flows
- You open the claim and give them our shop name and address.
- We write the estimate — itemized, photographed, sent to the adjuster the same day.
- Adjuster approves (or asks questions — we answer them, not you).
- Teardown. If we find hidden damage, we file a supplement with photos. Normal, expected, covered.
- Repair, paint, reassemble, text you it's ready.
OEM vs. aftermarket parts
Many policies default to aftermarket or used parts on older cars. You can ask for OEM; some insurers will pay the difference, some won't. We show both prices on the estimate so it's your call, not a surprise.
Deductible, cash, or both?
You pay the deductible to us at pickup; the insurer pays the rest. If the repair is close to your deductible, we'll give you a cash price too — sometimes it's cheaper to skip the claim entirely.
Common questions
Can the insurance company refuse to pay if I use my own shop?
No. They owe you the cost of a proper repair regardless of which licensed shop does it. They may negotiate the estimate, which is normal — that's what we handle.
What is a supplement?
A second estimate filed after teardown for damage that wasn't visible from outside (bent brackets behind a bumper, a cracked condenser). Insurers expect them; we document with photos.
Does using my own shop slow the claim down?
No. Estimate goes to the adjuster the same day. Speed depends on the adjuster's approval time and parts, not on which shop you pick.
Do you work with all insurance companies?
Yes — State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, USAA, Farmers, and the rest. We're independent, so we don't have contracts that limit which claims we take.
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