Know Your Rights

At Clarkston Auto Body we are concerned about our customers because they are the reason we are in business. Our customers deserve special attention and we do our best to see that they are satisfied with the service that we provide.

We have listed below some useful things that all of our customers should know.

You have the right to have your vehicle repaired at the collision shop of your choice. Your insurance company may suggest or recommend a repair facility but the choice is ultimately up to you.

You do not have to accept the lowest bid on your job. Collision shops should be writing a complete estimate of repairs needed, not leaving out areas to become the lowest bid. There is no law that requires you to get two estimates to satisfy an insurance company.

A professional collision repair facility will negotiate prices, items to repair and the quality of parts used for you. Do not settle with an insurance company before having your vehicle inspected by a professional collision repair facility as it may disqualify you from receiving additional compensation if there is hidden damage.

You have the right to receive all damaged parts back if you wish (or view all discarded ones if too large.)

You have a right to know if your insurance company is ordering the shop to use OEM parts, aftermarket parts, or salvage. The kind of parts used should be clearly noted on the estimate and explained to you by your estimator or adjuster.

OEM: genuine factory parts

Aftermarket parts: new, not manufactured by the original car maker

Salvage: recycled parts from other vehicles

 

For an informative pamphlet prepared by the State of Michigan click here:

Consumer Guide: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/sos-356_15976_7.pdf