What to Ask When Choosing a Collision Repair Shop: Your Checklist
Not all collision repair shops are the same.
Asking the right questions can protect your vehicle, your claim, and your peace of mind.
After an accident, choosing a collision repair shop can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may suggest a shop, friends may offer advice, and online reviews can be confusing. The truth is, the shop you choose plays a major role in how well your car is repaired—and how smoothly your insurance claim moves forward. At VICE, we work with drivers and attorneys every day who wish they had known what questions to ask sooner. Use this checklist to make a confident, informed decision.
Nature's Symphony
Not all collision repair shops are the same.
Asking the right questions can protect your vehicle, your claim, and your peace of mind.
After an accident, choosing a collision repair shop can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may suggest a shop, friends may offer advice, and online reviews can be confusing. The truth is, the shop you choose plays a major role in how well your car is repaired—and how smoothly your insurance claim moves forward. At VICE, we work with drivers and attorneys every day who wish they had known what questions to ask sooner. Use this checklist to make a confident, informed decision.
Nature's Symphony
Are You Certified to Repair My Type of Vehicle?
Modern vehicles use advanced materials, safety systems, and technology. Ask if the shop has experience repairing your make and model.
Important follow-up questions include:
- Do you handle aluminum or carbon fiber repairs?
- Are technicians trained in ADAS calibration?
- Do you follow manufacturer repair procedures?
If the answer is unclear, that’s a red flag.
Will You Use OEM or Aftermarket Parts?
Replacement parts affect safety, fit, and long-term value. Ask which parts the shop plans to use and why.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are designed specifically for your vehicle. Some insurance companies prefer aftermarket parts to reduce costs, but those parts may not meet the same standards.
At VICE, we advocate for proper parts selection and document everything for attorneys and clients.
Do You Work Directly With Insurance Companies?
A strong repair partner should handle insurance communication for you. Ask if the shop:
- Negotiates repair approvals
- Submits supplements for hidden damage
- Pushes back when insurers try to cut corners
This saves time, reduces stress, and helps avoid delays.
What Happens if Hidden Damage Is Found?
Many issues aren’t visible until the vehicle is disassembled. Ask how the shop handles hidden damage and supplemental estimates.
A reliable shop will explain the process clearly and keep you updated—not surprise you later.
Is There a Warranty on the Repairs?
Quality shops stand behind their work. Ask if repairs come with a lifetime guarantee and what it covers.
A warranty shows confidence in workmanship and protects you long after the repair is complete.
Is My Vehicle Protected While It’s in Your Care?
Ask if the shop carries garagekeepers insurance. This protects your car from theft, weather damage, or accidents while on-site.
If a shop can’t clearly explain how your vehicle is protected, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Will I Get Updates During the Repair Process?
Clear communication matters. Ask how often you’ll receive updates and whether your attorney will be informed if needed.
At VICE, transparency is part of the process—clients and attorneys stay informed every step of the way.
Do You Offer Towing or Rental Car Assistance?
If your car isn’t drivable, towing coordination is critical. Rental or loaner car support also helps you stay mobile during repairs.
A shop that manages these details helps the entire claim move faster.
Are You Certified to Repair My Type of Vehicle?
Modern vehicles use advanced materials, safety systems, and technology. Ask if the shop has experience repairing your make and model.
Important follow-up questions include:
- Do you handle aluminum or carbon fiber repairs?
- Are technicians trained in ADAS calibration?
- Do you follow manufacturer repair procedures?
If the answer is unclear, that’s a red flag.
Will You Use OEM or Aftermarket Parts?
Replacement parts affect safety, fit, and long-term value. Ask which parts the shop plans to use and why.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are designed specifically for your vehicle. Some insurance companies prefer aftermarket parts to reduce costs, but those parts may not meet the same standards.
At VICE, we advocate for proper parts selection and document everything for attorneys and clients.
Do You Work Directly With Insurance Companies?
A strong repair partner should handle insurance communication for you. Ask if the shop:
- Negotiates repair approvals
- Submits supplements for hidden damage
- Pushes back when insurers try to cut corners
This saves time, reduces stress, and helps avoid delays.
What Happens if Hidden Damage Is Found?
Many issues aren’t visible until the vehicle is disassembled. Ask how the shop handles hidden damage and supplemental estimates.
A reliable shop will explain the process clearly and keep you updated—not surprise you later.
Is There a Warranty on the Repairs?
Quality shops stand behind their work. Ask if repairs come with a lifetime guarantee and what it covers.
A warranty shows confidence in workmanship and protects you long after the repair is complete.
Is My Vehicle Protected While It’s in Your Care?
Ask if the shop carries garagekeepers insurance. This protects your car from theft, weather damage, or accidents while on-site.
If a shop can’t clearly explain how your vehicle is protected, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Will I Get Updates During the Repair Process?
Clear communication matters. Ask how often you’ll receive updates and whether your attorney will be informed if needed.
At VICE, transparency is part of the process—clients and attorneys stay informed every step of the way.
Do You Offer Towing or Rental Car Assistance?
If your car isn’t drivable, towing coordination is critical. Rental or loaner car support also helps you stay mobile during repairs.
A shop that manages these details helps the entire claim move faster.
Choosing a collision repair shop isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, quality, and protecting your rights. Asking the right questions upfront can prevent delays, poor repairs, and insurance-driven shortcuts. At VICE, we help clients and attorneys make informed decisions by managing the repair process from start to finish. When you know what to ask, you stay in control.
Choosing a collision repair shop isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, quality, and protecting your rights. Asking the right questions upfront can prevent delays, poor repairs, and insurance-driven shortcuts. At VICE, we help clients and attorneys make informed decisions by managing the repair process from start to finish. When you know what to ask, you stay in control.
