In many cases, your insurance carrier has entered into a contract with a given repair shop and, in exchange for steering work there, receives a discount.
The problem, of course, is that the shop needs to make a profit regardless, so it has an incentive to cut corners to keep costs down. In this case, you actually end up with a substandard repair. Whatever incentive (or warning) you hear from your insurance company, you have the right to choose a body shop you trust.
As you evaluate a shop, ask to take a tour. Cleanliness is important—if they’re sloppy about their own facility, they might be sloppy about their work as well. See how the staff behaves and how they’re dressed. The shop should also be well lit, which makes it easier to spot imperfections in the work. None of these cues are definitive, but together they’ll add up to—or detract from—an overall impression of competence.
It’s a good idea to ask to see cars that have recently been repaired and evaluate the work. Are all the panels aligned correctly? Ask to see a part that was painted and look for bubbles or dirt trapped under the paint.
The best resource for finding a good body shop is the Diamond Certified Directory and website. From there, good old-fashioned word of mouth is key. Ask a friend who had work done and was happy with the results. You can also try your local automotive paint supply store. They visit large and small shops all the time and may have suggestions.
