When you get into an auto collision, you want the peace of mind knowing that your insurance is going to help you pay for the necessary repairs. You are already going through enough stress, so it doesn’t help when the insurance estimate for repairs is lower than the estimate from your preferred auto body shop. At Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, we understand the frustration this situation can cause, and we’re here to help you navigate the process. Let’s explain how auto body repair estimates work, why the repair shop’s estimate might be higher than the insurance estimate, and what to do if the insurance check doesn’t cover the full cost of repairs.
Key Takeaways
- Auto body repair estimates can differ, with insurance estimates often being lower due to reliance on visible damage and standardized costs.
- Repair shop estimates may be higher because they include hidden damage, OEM parts, and advanced technology required for modern vehicles.
- If the insurance check is less than the repair estimate, contact your insurer, request a reinspection, and be ready to negotiate or cover the difference.
- Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, specializes in working with insurance companies to ensure your vehicle is repaired correctly and to high standards.
- Contact Elmer’s Auto Body for expert guidance and quality repairs if you’re facing an insurance estimate that’s lower than the repair cost.
How Do Auto Body Repair Estimates Work?
Auto body repair estimates are detailed assessments of the cost to repair your vehicle after it has been damaged. These estimates are typically prepared by either the insurance company or the auto body repair shop.
Insurance Estimate
After an accident, your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damage to your vehicle. The adjuster will assess the visible damage and provide an estimate of the cost to repair it. This estimate is often based on standardized repair costs and may not account for hidden damage or the specific requirements of your vehicle.
Repair Shop Estimate
When you take your vehicle to an auto body repair shop, the technicians will conduct a thorough inspection of the damage. Their estimate may include additional costs for things like OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, labor, and any hidden damage that the insurance adjuster might have missed. This estimate is often more accurate and reflects the true cost of returning your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.
Why Might the Repair Shop’s Estimate Be Higher Than the Insurance Estimate?
There are several reasons why the repair shop’s estimate might be higher than the one provided by your insurance company:
- Hidden Damage: Insurance adjusters often provide estimates based on visible damage. However, once your vehicle is taken apart for repairs, additional hidden damage may be discovered. The repair shop’s estimate will likely include these additional costs.
- OEM Parts: Repair shops may recommend using OEM parts to ensure the highest quality repair. However, insurance companies sometimes base their estimates on the use of cheaper aftermarket or refurbished parts, which can result in a lower estimate.
- Labor Costs: The cost of labor can vary significantly between repair shops and regions. Repair shops may have higher labor rates than what the insurance company used in their estimate.
- Advanced Technology: Modern vehicles often require specialized tools and equipment for repairs, especially if they have advanced safety systems. These costs might not be fully accounted for in the insurance estimate.
What to Do if the Insurance Check is Less Than the Auto Body Repairs
In the event that the insurance check you receive is less than the repairs done by the auto body shop, there are some steps you can take to right the situation. Let’s take a look:
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Start by reaching out to your insurance company to discuss the discrepancy. Provide them with the repair shop’s detailed estimate and explain any additional damage or costs that were identified. Sometimes, the insurance company will adjust their estimate after reviewing this information.
- Request a Reinspection: If your insurance company refuses to adjust the estimate, you can request a reinspection. This involves having an insurance adjuster come to the repair shop to review the damage with the shop’s technicians. This can help ensure that all necessary repairs are included in the estimate.
- Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate with your insurance company. You have the right to advocate for the repairs your vehicle needs. In some cases, you may need to involve a third-party appraiser or even take legal action if you cannot reach an agreement.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: If the insurance company still refuses to cover the full cost of repairs, you may need to pay the difference out of pocket. While this is not ideal, it may be necessary to ensure your vehicle is properly repaired using high-quality parts and materials.
- Consider Your Options: If you’re not satisfied with the outcome, you may have options such as filing a complaint with your state’s insurance department or consulting with an attorney who specializes in insurance disputes.
Contact Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey to Learn More
At Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, we’re committed to providing our customers with the highest quality repairs and customer service. If you’re facing a situation where the insurance estimate is lower than the repair shop’s estimate, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our experienced team can help guide you through the process, work with your insurance company, and ensure that your vehicle is repaired to the highest standards. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services. Let us help you get back on the road with confidence!