Since this subject has come up a few times lately, and can cause some distress at an already stressful time, I thought you'd all enjoy reading this article in the Star today (Mar. 4, '06).

It's on page G16 of the Toronto Star and it entitled: "Dispatching a few myths about collision repair".

Well worth the read.

Colin

 

Here's the link to the article mentioned:

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/Con...=1141327780398

Sorry I don't hae Tiny URL loaded on this new drive yet.

 

Great find Colin. Thanks for sharing.

 

Good find Colin. The points are true, however coming from a dealer and association president the delerships benefits listings read too much like an ad. The article must have been contained within a special section or else the Toronto Star must be suffering some loss of ad revenue from the dealers!

 

Having worked in body shops for 15 years, I can tell you that the article seems like a plug for dealers. You can get your car repaired just as good at non-dealer body shops.

 

I see your points guys and agree.
No doubt there are many b/shops that do superb work..but there have been questions lately about where to take your ride for repairs, and this explains your options very well, and what you might be told by an insurance appraiser.

It's good to know your options beforehand in case you find yourself stressed out and in need of repairs.

It was in the 'Wheels Section' of the Star.

 

You're right, you shouldn't let the insurance company pressure you into where to get your car fixed.

It doesn't have to be a stressful event. You should be able to drop your car off (or the body shop will arrange to have it towed) do the paperwork, drive off in your rental, receive regular updates, and drive back when the repairs are done, pay your deductible, and be on your way.

Just inspect the workmanship carefully, if their is anything not to your satisfaction, speak up. They should be bending over backwards to correct the item, if they don't then mention that you are going to complain to your insurance company, that will usually straighten them up.

 

But I do have many complains from my friends that many collision shops in Toronto do ****ty repair jobs....

 

It's like most things, bro, recommendations, testimonials, and rep. are everything.
You have to check places out first or you might get burned.

Consumer advocates say to visit a shop you'd like to deal with and ask for a list of past customers.
If they're forthcoming, then they're reckoned to be good to deal with and then of course you can check out names on the list.

C.