|
|
|
|
|
|
Auto Insurance Company Practices
The repair shop ripoff takes a new twist as insurers open their own car repair businesses
Insurance companies have started buying or investing in car repair businesses about three years ago. Insurance companies owning a car repair
facilities can result in the consumer receiving bad service and inferior replacement parts. Many people in the auto repair industry have
complained they are pressured by the insurance companies that own them to keep costs down, and if they don't, they risk losing referred business.
Car owners have rights when getting their car repaired after a collision, but it applies to routine maintenance repairs too.
The Automobile Service Association (ASA) suggests car owners ask insurance companies the following questions when looking for a repair shop
after a collision:
Do I have to obtain three estimates?
This is an old practice, you don't have to obtain three estimates. This was a practice, not a requirement, which put the onus on the
consumer to get the lowest price.
May I choose any repair shop?
Yes, you can choose any repair shop you wish, and any attempt to direct you to a particular shop should be viewed
skeptically. Often, the new car dealer may not have a collision repair shop and a car owner will be sent to one
with which they have a contract. It's not a requirement that they have one.
How can I be sure that they are going to repair my vehicle with quality parts?
The insurance company is required to disclose any parts used other than OEM car parts. The car owner is supposed to agree if the insurance company
says it will use other market parts, rather than have those parts forced on them. In some states, however, there are no regulations that require this.
The Automotive Service Association recommends the following simple and inexpensive preventive checks for car owners to maintain their car:
- Always consult your owner's manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly, every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
- Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large
role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.
- Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and
safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.
- Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.
- Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.
- Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if it is low,
except in the case of maintenance-free batteries.
- Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and tail lights.
Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins.
- Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
- Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging
or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.
- Always consult the vehicle owner's manual for individual service schedules as manufacturer maintenance requirements vary greatly.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
This site is protected under both U.S. Federal copyright law and international treaties. No part of this site,
including text, layout or images, may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any method.
|
