Author: VTaylor

Insurance Totaled Your Car—But You Disagree. Now What?

Insurance totaled this blue Mazda, but the owner disagrees.

You didn’t think the accident was that bad, but insurance totaled your car. Hearing that your vehicle is “totaled” may be a total shock. After all, if your vehicle still looks drivable, or if you’ve invested hours and a lot of money in its condition, then you may also think your car shouldn’t be considered a total loss. The good news is that you have options if you disagree with your insurance company.

Here’s what South Jersey drivers need to know about insurance total-loss decisions—and what you can do if you disagree.

Key Takeaways

Insurance companies may total your car if repairs exceed its actual cash value, even if it still looks drivable.
South Jersey drivers can dispute total-loss decisions by reviewing the valuation, gathering evidence, and negotiating.
Independent appraisals can strengthen your case when challenging an insurer’s payout.
You may choose to repair your car under a salvage title, but professional repairs are essential for safety.
Elmer’s Auto Body provides factory-standard repairs and guidance to help you make the best decision.

What Does It Mean When Insurance Totaled Your Car?

If insurance totaled your car, it means that the cost of repairs when added to the salvage value was greater than the actual cash value (ACV). Insurance companies calculate the ACV based on your car’s age, mileage, pre-accident condition, and current market value.

In other words, even if you think your car is repairable, the insurer totaled it because it’s not financially practical to fix it.

Why You Might Disagree with the Insurance Company

Hearing the insurance totaled your car may not seem fair. In fact, there are several reasons South Jersey drivers like yours may push back against a total-loss determination:

You recently invested in new tires, brakes, or major repairs that increase the vehicle’s value.
Your car is rare, customized, or in above-average condition.
The insurer’s valuation doesn’t reflect the true local market price for your vehicle.
You simply want your car repaired instead of replaced.

What You Can Do If You Disagree

If you disagree with the fact that insurance totaled your car, there are some steps you can take:

1. Review the Valuation

Obtain a copy of the valuation report. You can request one from your insurance provider. Look at how they determined your car’s value, including the mileage, condition, and comparable sales in your region.

2. Gather Your Evidence

Collect receipts, service records, and documentation of upgrades or recent repairs. Research local listings for similar vehicles to demonstrate fair market value. You will need to present this information to have the determination reconsidered.

3. Get an Independent Appraisal

Hiring an independent appraiser can give you a professional second opinion. This report may carry weight if you appeal the insurance company’s decision.

4. Negotiate with Your Insurance Company

Present your evidence and the independent appraisal to the insurance company and ask them to rethink the total-loss determination. Insurance companies may rethink their settlement if the documentation you provide is strong enough.

5. Consider Other Options

If insurance totaled your car and sticks with that determination, you may need to take another road. You can request to keep your vehicle under a “salvage title,” which will require you to pay for the repairs by yourself. If you choose this route, it’s important to have the repairs done by a professional auto collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body. That way, you know your vehicle will be safe and compliant with inspection requirements.

Pro Tip

If you’re negotiating with your insurance company, focus on providing hard evidence—like receipts, service records, and comparable South Jersey vehicle listings. The more documentation you present, the stronger your case will be.

If Insurance Totaled Your Car, Get Professional Repairs Done

Professional repairs are important, especially if insurance totaled your car. Structural repairs, frame straightening, and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) recalibrations require state-of-the-art tools and certified technicians. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we restore vehicles to factory standards so you can drive with confidence again.

FAQs

What does it mean if my car has a salvage title?
A salvage title means your vehicle was declared a total loss by insurance but has been repaired. It can be driven legally if it passes state inspections, though resale value is typically lower.

Can I keep my car if insurance totals it?
Yes. You can often buy back the vehicle from the insurance company and choose to repair it yourself.

Is it safe to repair a totaled car?
It depends on the damage. Repairs should always be handled by a trusted collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body to ensure safety and proper structural restoration.

Repair Your Car at an Auto Body Repair Shop Like Elmer’s Auto Body

If insurance totaled your car, that doesn’t always mean you have to accept it. In New Jersey, you have the right to review the decision, present evidence, and explore other repair options if your insurance company doesn’t change their mind.

If you decide to keep and repair your vehicle, trust a collision repair center that puts safety and precision first. Elmer’s Auto Body has proudly served South Jersey drivers for decades, helping families navigate tough repair and insurance decisions. Contact one of our three South Jersey locations today to discuss your options and get your vehicle evaluated by our team.

How Elmer’s Auto Body Ensures Your ADAS Is Recalibrated Properly

A woman in an SUV drives knowing that her ADAS was recalibrated

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are standard in most modern vehicles these days. Furthermore, ADAS do far more than you may realize. Features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control all rely on sensitive cameras, sensors, and radar. That’s why it’s so important to discuss ADAS recalibration with your trusted collision repair center. You need to know that the systems have been checked and recalibrated the right way.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we take ADAS recalibration seriously because your safety depends on it.

Key Takeaways

ADAS systems like lane assist and automatic braking rely on precise calibration to function correctly.
Collision damage—even minor—can misalign sensors, cameras, and radars, making recalibration critical.
Elmer’s Auto Body follows OEM guidelines for safe, accurate recalibration of all ADAS systems.
We serve South Jersey drivers in Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties with advanced diagnostic tools and certified equipment.
A recalibrated system helps ensure your vehicle’s safety features are dependable and fully functional post-repair.

What Is ADAS Recalibration?

ADAS recalibration is a process of realigning your vehicle’s cameras, sensors, and radars to manufacturer specifications. These components are typically located in:

Windshields (camera-based lane assist)
Front and rear bumpers (cruise and collision warnings)
Side mirrors (blind spot detection)
Grilles and emblems (adaptive braking systems)

Even a minor fender bender can knock these systems out of alignment. If they aren’t recalibrated properly, they may give false alerts—or worse, fail to activate when you need them most.

💡 Pro Tip

If your windshield, bumper, or suspension has been repaired or replaced, ask for an ADAS recalibration—even if your insurance company doesn’t mention it. Skipping it could disable key safety features without any warning lights.

Why ADAS Recalibration Is Crucial After a Collision

After a collision, no matter how minor, you should immediately seek to get your ADAS recalibrated. Here are some reasons to do so:

Structural shifts: Even minor frame misalignments can throw off radar and camera angles.
Windshield replacements: Many ADAS cameras are mounted behind the windshield. Replacing it requires recalibration.
Bumper repairs or replacements: Sensors embedded in bumpers can easily be knocked out of alignment or damaged.
Suspension work or wheel alignment: Even adjustments to your suspension can change the angle and reach of ADAS sensors.

Driving without recalibration could mean relying on safety systems that aren’t actually working, putting you and others on the road at risk.

How Elmer’s Auto Body Handles ADAS Recalibration

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have technicians who understand the importance of ADAS recalibration. We ensure that every system is precisely and thoroughly recalibrated during our manufacturer-approved repair procedures. You can expect the following from us:

ADAS Diagnostics

Before repairs begin, we carefully inspect your vehicle to identify any hidden damage, including faulty ADAS codes.

OEM Procedures

We only use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and guidelines during our repairs to ensure recalibration is done according to factory specs. No guesswork here.

Certified Equipment and Technicians

We’re equipped with the latest technology to recalibrate ADAS systems, whether it’s static (in-shop) or dynamic (road-tested calibration). Our technicians follow strict training protocols for accuracy.

Post-Repair Testing

After we’ve completed repairs and recalibration, we don’t wipe our hands of the project just yet. We run a second diagnostic check to test the systems in real-world conditions. Before you leave one of our three locations in South Jersey, we want to ensure you’re going to be safe.

Clear Documentation

We’re accustomed to working alongside insurance companies and providing documentation. When you come to pick up your vehicle, we give you documents that include OEM specs and scan reports. You’ll feel confident your systems are working as intended.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About ADAS Recalibration

Do I need recalibration even after a minor accident?

Yes. Even a low-speed bump can misalign sensitive ADAS components like radar sensors or cameras. A diagnostic scan can confirm if recalibration is needed.

Will insurance cover the cost of ADAS recalibration?

In most cases, yes—if it’s related to a covered collision repair. Elmer’s Auto Body works with insurers to include this in the claim when required by OEM procedures.

What happens if I skip ADAS recalibration?

Your vehicle’s safety systems may fail silently—no warnings, no alerts—leaving you unprotected in an emergency.

How long does recalibration take?

Depending on your vehicle and system type, it may take a few hours to a full day. We’ll let you know in advance and update you during the process.

Can I drive my car before it’s recalibrated?

We recommend against it. Until recalibration is complete, your ADAS systems may give false readings—or not work at all.

What’s the difference between static and dynamic recalibration?

Static calibration is performed in-shop using special targets; dynamic calibration requires road testing. Some vehicles need both. We follow OEM guidelines for your exact model.

Does Elmer’s Auto Body recalibrate all vehicle makes?

Yes. Our technicians use manufacturer-approved tools and procedures for all major brands, including Ford, Toyota, Honda, GM, and luxury imports.

How can I be sure it was done right?

We provide post-repair diagnostic reports and real-time test results to confirm your ADAS systems are working as intended.

Safety First: Get Those ADAS Systems Recalibrated at Elmer’s Auto Body

If you’ve had an accident anywhere in South Jersey, don’t assume that a visual repair is enough. Without proper recalibration, even a “fully repaired” car can leave you vulnerable on the road.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we don’t just fix what’s visible. We go further to make sure your vehicle is safe to return to the road. If your vehicle’s been in a collision—even a small one—contact Elmer’s Auto Body for a full ADAS evaluation and recalibration. We’re here to help South Jersey drivers drive with confidence, not uncertainty. Schedule your appointment today by filling out our online form or by calling one of our three South Jersey locations.

The Real Risks of Driving With Unrepaired Collision Damage

A car that shows that driving with unrepaired collision damage is dangerous

Even a minor fender bender can leave your car with damages. Though it may only look cosmetic, the risk of driving with unrepaired collision damage is too high. Don’t let overlooking repairs come back to haunt you. Whether you’re dealing with a dented bumper, cracked fender, or misaligned panels, there could be issues worsening underneath. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve seen what driving with unrepaired damages can do to a vehicle. That’s why we aim to help South Jersey drivers understand what’s truly at stake and why timely repairs make all the difference.

Key Takeaways

✅ Minor-looking damage can hide major structural or safety problems.
✅ Driving with unrepaired collision damage may disable ADAS systems like lane assist and braking.
✅ Unaddressed issues can lead to more expensive repairs over time.
✅ Your insurance company could deny future claims related to unrepaired damage.
✅ South Jersey inspection rules may flag visible damage as a safety concern.

Hidden Safety Hazards

Here’s a reason why cosmetic damages aren’t always purely cosmetic: Surface damage can mask serious problems. A bent frame, damaged crumple zone, or misaligned suspension system may not be obvious. However, each of these problems can affect how your vehicle performs in future collisions. For example, a damaged side panel won’t crumple as well as it could had it been repaired, leading to more transference of momentum and greater damages. In other words, driving with unrepaired collision damage leaves you unprotected in an accident, putting everyone in the car at risk of injury.

Compromised Vehicle Systems

Did you know that even a minor collision can cause your ADAS systems to malfunction? The complex system made of sensors helps with things like lane assist, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Without recalibrated ADAS systems, they may not work correctly, increasing the chance of accidents while on the road.

Consider this: What if you didn’t have running headlights all of a sudden on a dark night? Your reduced visibility would limit your ability to respond in an emergency. For moments like that, you need to have your ADAS and safety systems checked.

Pro Tip from Elmer’s Auto Body

If you’re unsure whether damage is just cosmetic, don’t guess—have it inspected. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we provide thorough evaluations for South Jersey drivers in Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties, so you never have to wonder if your vehicle is safe to drive.

Worsening Damage Over Time

Delayed repairs turn into more expensive repairs down the road. Why? Because damage doesn’t stagnate; it grows. A small fender misalignment can cause uneven tire wear. A hairline crack in a panel may expand, leading to exposed metal that rusts. Small, manageable issues after an accident will quickly become more costly. Some vehicles may even be “totaled” by unrepaired damages.

Insurance and Liability Problems

If you’re in another accident while driving with unrepaired damage, your insurance company could deny coverage or reduce your payout. Worse, if it’s found that the previous damage contributed to the severity of a new collision, you could be held partially liable. Keeping your vehicle road-safe is part of your responsibility as a driver—and insurers expect you to address safety concerns promptly.

Legal and Inspection Concerns in South Jersey

In Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties, state inspections and police checkpoints may catch visible collision damage that affects safety equipment or emissions. A cracked bumper covering sensors or a loose body panel may prevent you from passing inspection, or lead to citations. Don’t let avoidable damage get in the way of compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it illegal to drive with collision damage in New Jersey?

A: It’s not always illegal, but if the damage affects safety equipment (like lights or mirrors) or poses a road hazard, you could face fines or fail state inspection.

Q: Can driving with minor body damage affect my vehicle’s resale value?

A: Absolutely. Buyers and dealerships will reduce the offer if they see visible or suspected structural damage.

Q: Will my insurance company still cover new damage if I haven’t repaired old damage?

A: Not always. If the old damage complicates the assessment or is found to contribute to a new accident, coverage could be reduced or denied.

Q: How can I tell if my car is still structurally safe?

A: You often can’t by just looking. Bring your vehicle to a professional collision center like Elmer’s Auto Body for a full post-collision evaluation.

Q: What is ADAS recalibration and do I need it?

A: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems must be recalibrated after a collision. If your car has lane assist, adaptive cruise control, or similar features, recalibration is a must for safety.

Q: How quickly should I get collision damage looked at?

A: The sooner the better. Damage can worsen over time, and quick action protects your vehicle and your insurance claim.

Driving With Unrepaired Collision Damage? Get It Fixed at Elmer’s Auto Body

Putting off repairs for financial reasons, convenience, or uncertainty is risky. Elmer’s Auto Body can help you move forward. We work directly with your insurance company, use manufacturer-approved repair procedures, and help drivers across South Jersey. From Sewell to Medford and Mt. Ephraim, we’ve got your back and can get you back on the road with peace of mind.

Don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Schedule your estimate today and let Elmer’s Auto Body restore your vehicle’s safety, performance, and appearance.

The Hidden Costs of Skipping a Post-Repair Inspection

An auto body technician conducts a post-repair inspection.

A second look can save you time and money after auto body repair. Getting your vehicle repaired is a critical step, but just because a car looks fixed doesn’t mean that everything under the surface has been. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve seen far too many South Jersey drivers deal with long-term issues simply because no one performed a thorough post-repair inspection. Skipping that final check can cost you—financially, functionally, and even in safety.

That’s why we’re discussing those hidden costs today, as well as what signs point to missed problems.

Key Takeaways

✔ A post-repair inspection confirms your vehicle was repaired correctly and safely after an accident.
✔ Skipping this step can result in hidden structural damage, misaligned suspension, or uncalibrated safety systems.
✔ DRP (Direct Repair Program) shops may prioritize speed or cost over thoroughness—leaving you vulnerable.
✔ Warning signs like poor handling, odd noises, or warning lights after a repair should not be ignored.
✔ Elmer’s Auto Body offers comprehensive post-repair inspections at all three South Jersey locations: Sewell, Medford, and Mt. Ephraim.

What Is a Post-Repair Inspection?

A post-repair inspection isn’t mandatory, but it can save you from problems down the road. This kind of inspection happens after repairs are done, confirming that said repairs were done correctly, that all parts are functioning properly, and that your vehicle is safe to drive. It’s especially important if your repairs were completed at a Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop that works closely with insurance companies, where speed and cost-cutting may take priority.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we perform inspections on every vehicle we repair, both before and after. We also do post-repair inspections on vehicles that had work done elsewhere to help drivers like yourself find peace of mind again.

Pro Tip

If you’re unsure about a recent repair—especially one done at an insurance-recommended DRP shop—ask for a copy of the final repair order. Bring that to Elmer’s Auto Body for a second opinion. We’ll show you what was missed and explain what should be fixed to restore your vehicle’s safety and performance.

The Risk of Skipping a Post-Repair Inspection

You might think, “But my car drives fine! Why do I need another inspection?” Just because a vehicle seems OK after repairs doesn’t mean it is. Here’s why post-repair inspections are important:

1. Hidden Structural Damage

Sometimes repair shops don’t delve as deep as they should, focusing solely on cosmetic fixes. When they do that, however, they tend to overlook damages to the frame or unibody. Even small misalignments in these structures will affect how your car handles or responds in another accident.

Also, if you intend to sell your vehicle in the future, any discovered frame issues will result in a lower resale value.

2. Improper Suspension or Alignment Work

If your car pulls to one side, vibrates, or wears tires unevenly, it may not have been properly aligned during repair. This also leads to poor gas mileage and a rougher ride. Since suspension and alignment problems are costly to repair by themselves, you want to avoid these issues.

3. Missed Safety System Calibrations

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as lane departure warnings or automatic braking, often require recalibration after a crash—even a minor one. Without properly functioning ADAS, you may find safety features malfunction. This increases your risk of future accidents.

4. Low-Quality or Non-OEM Parts

A shop that uses aftermarket or salvaged parts do so because they are cheaper. Unfortunately, your vehicle may not perform the way it did before the accident. Always ask for OEM parts to ensure adequate performance and maintain your vehicle’s resale value.

Why Insurance Repairs Aren’t Always Enough

Some insurers pressure drivers to use DRP shops because they have cost-saving contracts in place. While not all DRP shops are bad, they work for the insurance company—not for you. If something was skipped, rushed, or done with low-grade parts, the insurance-approved estimate might not cover a full correction later.

A post-repair inspection ensures you’re not stuck paying out of pocket for someone else’s oversight.

Signs That You Should Get a Post-Repair Inspection

Now that you know why skipping a post-repair inspection comes with hidden costs, let’s discuss some signs that you should have an inspection:

Your vehicle still pulls, vibrates, or handles differently
Warning lights stay on or come back after repairs
ADAS features don’t function as they should
Body panels, doors, or bumpers are misaligned
You weren’t given a final walkthrough of the work done or any documentation

Post-Repair Inspection FAQ

1. Do I need a post-repair inspection if the shop gave me a warranty?
Yes. A warranty doesn’t always mean the work was done properly—just that the shop might fix it *if* you catch something. A second opinion ensures safety.

2. How long does a post-repair inspection take?
Most take 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the complexity of the damage and prior repairs.

3. Will a post-repair inspection cost me anything?
Elmer’s Auto Body offers affordable inspections. If the repair was subpar, your insurance may cover the cost to correct it.

4. Can Elmer’s inspect a car repaired at another shop?
Absolutely. We often inspect vehicles from other body shops—especially DRP shops—to ensure your car is truly road-ready.

5. What happens if you find something wrong during the inspection?
We’ll document everything, show you photos, and help coordinate with your insurance company to make sure it’s made right.

Elmer’s Auto Body Offers Post-Repair Inspections in South Jersey

After an accident, don’t skip the necessary post-repair inspection. Otherwise, you may end up paying unexpected fees. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we don’t believe in guesswork. We use computerized frame measuring, structural diagnostics, and ADAS recalibration tools to ensure everything checks out. Whether we did the original repair or not, we’re here to make sure your vehicle is safe, sound, and restored to pre-accident condition or better.

If your gut tells you something’s off—or if you just want peace of mind—we’re happy to take a look. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body in Medford, Sewell, or Mt. Ephraim for a full post-repair inspection. Call us or fill out our contact form online to schedule.

What to Do If Your Insurance Company Sends You to a DRP Shop (And You Don’t Want To Go)

A damaged car awaits repairs. Will you choose a DRP shop or Elmer's Auto Body?

After a car accident in New Jersey, your insurance company may “recommend” you to a specific auto body shop in their network. This is often called a Direct Repair Program Shop, or DRP shop. But what if you don’t want to go there? What if the reviews aren’t sitting well with you? Good news: You don’t have to go where the insurance company tells you. Here’s what every South Jersey driver should know about DRP shops, your rights under New Jersey law, and how to protect your vehicle, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

Key Takeaways: What to Do If Your Insurance Sends You to a DRP Shop

✅ In New Jersey, you have the legal right to choose your auto body shop.
✅ DRP (Direct Repair Program) shops may prioritize insurance interests, not your vehicle’s longevity or safety.
✅ Elmer’s Auto Body uses OEM parts and certified repair methods—we work for you, not the insurance company.
✅ Insurance must still cover repairs at the shop of your choice, as long as estimates are reasonable.
✅ We’ll help handle insurer communication and justification, so you’re never alone in the process.

What is a DRP Shop?

As mentioned previously, DRP stands for “Direct Repair Program.” DRP is a network of auto body shops that have agreements with insurance companies to perform repairs according to pre-negotiated terms. Insurance companies often recommend DRP shops because:

Labor and parts cost may be lower for the insurance company
Repairs are often completed quickly
Direct lines of communication with the insurer

However, what benefits the insurer may not always benefit you, especially when it comes to quality, parts, and thoroughness.

You Don’t Have to Choose Direct Repair Program Shops

In New Jersey, insurance companies can only recommend a Direct Repair Program shop. However, you do not have to require you to use a specific repair shop. According to the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, you have the right to choose where to take your vehicle for repairs. So if you want to choose Elmer’s Auto Body in Sewell, Medford, or Mt. Ephraim, your insurance provider can’t tell you otherwise.

Furthermore, if you go first with a DRP shop and then decide to go somewhere else because the service didn’t meant your expectations, you can do that as well. We’ll help!

Why You Might Want to Avoid a DRP Shop

Not every DRP shop is going to do poor work on your repair. However, the system is designed to serve the insurance provider’s interest, not yours. DRP shops may even cut corners on repairs to save on the cost. Here’s some methods used to make repairs cheaper for insurers:

Use of non-OEM or recycled parts
Rushed repairs to meet timelines
Skipping essential structural scans
Missing ADAS recalibrations
Inconsistent communication and low transparency

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we don’t have a DRP agreement with insurance providers, but we do maintain good relationships with many. We work for our clients, not the insurer. Our priority has been and always will be restoring your vehicle to its pre-accident condition with OEM parts.

Pro Tip from Elmer’s Auto Body

If you’re unsure whether a DRP shop is the right choice, ask for the shop’s certifications, whether they use OEM parts, and if they perform structural scans and ADAS calibration. If they don’t offer full transparency, it’s your cue to walk away—and call Elmer’s instead.

What to Say If The Insurance Adjuster Pushes a DRP Shop

If you’ve already chosen Elmer’s Auto Body or another trusted shop and your adjuster insists on their preferred vendor, here’s how to respond:

“I understand, but I’ve chosen my own repair shop.” You don’t have to give a reason. It’s your right.

“Can you email me everything in writing?” This discourages pressure tactics and gives you a record of what’s said.

“I’d like to review my policy and get back to you.” Take your time. You’re not obligated to rush into anything.

If you ever feel uncertain or pressured, contact us directly. We’ll help you understand your rights and even speak with the insurer on your behalf.

Will Insurance Still Cover Repairs If You Don’t Use the DRP Shop?

Yes. It’s your right to choose where you would like to take your car for repairs. That means that insurance must cover those repairs at any shop of your choosing, so long as the costs are within industry standards.

Elmer’s Auto Body works alongside insurance companies to make sure the full scope of repairs are covered. We also provide full documentation, OEM part justification, structural and diagnostic scans to your insurer so that they can’t deny your claim. Additionally, any changes that need to be made to the estimate or final price will be communicated to you and the insurer.

How Elmer’s Auto Body Makes the Process Easy

We’ve helped thousands of drivers across Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties deal with insurance claims without the runaround. Here’s how we make it easier for you:

We help coordinate with your insurer without compromising quality.
We walk you through your estimate so you understand every line.
Our certified technicians use OEM parts and factory-correct procedures.
We keep you informed with digital updates, texts, and direct contact.

Insurance DRP FAQ

1. Can my insurance company force me to use their DRP shop?: No. New Jersey law protects your right to choose your own auto body repair shop.
2. Will I have to pay more if I go to a non-DRP shop?: Not necessarily. If your repair estimate is fair and within industry standards, your insurance must still pay.
3. What’s the downside of using a DRP shop?: Some DRP shops may use non-OEM parts, cut corners to save money, or skip key diagnostics and calibrations.
4. Can Elmer’s Auto Body work with my insurance?: Yes. We work with all major insurers, but we don’t let them dictate how your car is repaired. We advocate for your vehicle’s safety and quality.
5. What if I already authorized repairs at a DRP but now have doubts?: You may be able to cancel the repair authorization if work hasn’t started. Contact us and we’ll help you navigate next steps.

Don’t Settle For a DRP Shop, Choose a Top-Rated Auto Repair Shop in South Jersey

If the DRP shop doesn’t meet your standards, don’t settle for it. Your car was in an accident and needs to be returned to its previous condition, so you should only choose the best. If your insurer is pushing a Direct Repair Program shop and you’re not comfortable with it, let us know. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we handle the hard conversations with insurers so you don’t have to.

Need repairs or a second opinion after an accident? Call or visit one of our three South Jersey locations in Sewell, Medford, or Mt. Ephraim, or fill out our online estimate form to get started. Let’s get your vehicle—and your confidence—back on the road.

How to Read a Repair Estimate Like a Pro

An auto tech reviews the repair estimate before handing it to a client

So you’ve recently been in an accident. Chances are you’ve also been handed some documents, including a repair estimate that’s full of technical terms, abbreviations, and other confusing jargon. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we believe that our customers should know exactly what you’re paying for and why. Understanding your repair estimate is important as it helps you make informed decisions. That’s why we’re going to teach you the basics of repair estimates, as well as which questions to ask, and how to avoid surprises later on.

Here’s a breakdown of how to read a repair estimate like a pro.

Key Takeaways

A repair estimate is a detailed breakdown of expected work and costs based on visible and potentially hidden damage. It includes labor, parts, materials, sublet work, and additional fees.
Understanding each section of the estimate—such as parts type, labor operations, and paint supplies—helps you make more informed decisions and avoid surprises later on.
It’s important to ask questions about OEM parts, frame alignment, ADAS recalibration, and potential changes if new damage is found during disassembly.
Estimates can vary between shops, often due to differences in parts quality or thoroughness. The lowest estimate isn’t always the best—choose a shop that’s honest and complete in their assessment.

What is a Repair Estimate?

A repair estimate is a written breakdown of the work a collision repair shop expects to perform on your vehicle, along with the associated costs. It’s usually created after a visual inspection or after disassembling damaged areas to assess the full extent of the collision damage.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we create detailed, honest estimates using industry-standard software so you know exactly what to expect. That means no vague charges or confusing codes.

Key Sections of a Repair Estimate

Understanding what’s included in the estimate is the first step. Most repair estimates include the following:

Customer and vehicle info, as well as contact information.
Labor operations, including body, paint, and mechanical labor.
Parts required, such as OEM, aftermarket, LKQ (like kind and quality), or reconditioned parts. It’s recommended to choose OEM parts when possible, as they are direct from the manufacturer.
Paint materials and supplies. Painting requires more than paint. It’s also primer, sealer, and blending agents. This cost is usually a flat fee on the estimate.
Sublet repairs. These are any tasks performed by a third party.
Additional fees, including diagnostic scans and waste disposal.
Totals and taxes.

Questions to Ask When Reviewing Your Repair Estimate

Even when estimates are laid out plainly, you may still have questions about what is or isn’t included. Here are some questions you may wish to ask the repair shop:

Are you using OEM or aftermarket parts?
What happens if more damage is found during disassembly?
Will my vehicle frame need to be realigned?
Is a structural scan necessary?
Do you reset or recalibrate the ADAS systems?
How long are repairs estimated to take?
Is the estimate final, or could it change?

Why Repair Estimates from Different Shops May Vary

If you have multiple estimates—which is recommended if you don’t have a trusted auto body repair shop yet—you may notice that some are different. First and foremost, don’t choose the lowest bidder, particularly ones that are far lower than average. You should also avoid collision repair centers that leave out the key repairs to keep the price low or use lower quality parts.

In the end, the difference in estimates comes down to what’s included and what the repair shop is going to do. Always choose the comprehensive and transparent estimates, as you know you will get the best level of service.

Repair Estimate FAQ

1. Is the repair estimate the final cost?

It depends. Initial estimates are based mainly on visible damage. When a repair shop begins to disassemble the vehicle, they may stumble upon hidden damages that also need to be repaired. When this happens, you will be contacted, and the updated repairs will need to be approved.

2. Why does my insurance company’s estimate differ from the repair shop’s?

Insurance estimates are often created using standard guidelines and may leave out critical structural or safety repairs. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we build estimates based on manufacturer recommendations and a full repair plan—not just what’s visible.

3. What are OEM parts, and why do they matter?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by your vehicle’s manufacturer and are designed to fit and perform exactly like the original. Elmer’s Auto Body recommends OEM parts whenever possible to maintain your vehicle’s integrity and safety.

4. Can I choose which parts are used in the repair?

Yes, depending on your insurance policy and budget. The technician let you know what your policy covers, but if you prefer OEM or upgraded parts, you will be walked through your options and any cost differences.

5. How long does it take to receive an estimate?

Most estimates take 30–60 minutes, depending on the extent of the damage. If your vehicle needs to be disassembled for a more accurate quote, the auto body repair shop let you know and explain what to expect.

Get a Repair Estimate from Elmer’s Auto Body

You don’t have to be an auto repair expert to understand your estimate. You just need a team that’s willing to explain it clearly. Elmer’s Auto Body has been helping South Jersey drivers navigate the repair process with confidence for decades.

If you’ve received an estimate you don’t understand—or if you’d like a second opinion—bring it to us. We’ll break it down and make sure you know exactly what’s involved and why. Visit one of our locations in Sewell, Medford, or Mt. Ephraim, or contact us online to schedule an estimate. We’re here to make the repair process straightforward, every step of the way.