“Do you waive deductibles?” This question is surprisingly common at auto body repair shops. At Car Repair Online, our answer is a firm “no,” and for good reason. We aren’t the type of collision repair center that cuts corners. It’s tempting to be drawn in by repair shops offering to eliminate your deductible, but it’s crucial to understand how some shops achieve this seemingly beneficial offer. Often, the reality involves compromising the quality of your repair by billing your insurance company for services or parts that are simply not provided. While this might seem appealing to consumers struggling to afford their deductible, or those simply unaware, it’s a practice that ultimately undermines quality and safety.
Airpark Collision Center, and by extension Car Repair Online, has cultivated a reputation for excellence, particularly when it comes to repairing high-end vehicles. For us, quality is paramount. Skipping necessary repairs or omitting parts is simply not an option. Our commitment to superior repairs is deeply ingrained in our philosophy because we understand our clientele. Our customers, both new and returning, are discerning consumers who drive modern vehicles. They prioritize having their vehicles repaired correctly and, most importantly, safely. This shared commitment to quality and safety is why we have proudly offered a lifetime warranty on our auto body repairs since our inception in 2006. We believe in standing behind our work and providing lasting value.
Some collision repair facilities might claim to complete every billed repair and install every part while still offering a deductible waiver. They might suggest they are simply providing a discount, perhaps $500 or $1000, to offset your deductible cost. However, a closer look reveals that this explanation often doesn’t add up mathematically. It begs the question: how can a business realistically absorb such significant costs without compromising somewhere else? Several concerning practices might be at play when a shop offers to “waive” your deductible:
- Used or Aftermarket Parts: Your vehicle might be fitted with used or aftermarket parts, even though your insurance company is billed for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. This difference in part quality can affect the longevity and performance of the repair.
- Repaired Instead of Replaced Parts: Components that should be completely replaced, especially those crucial for structural integrity, might be repaired instead. This shortcut can compromise the safety and future value of your vehicle, particularly in the event of another accident.
- Volume Over Quality: To compensate for lost profits from “waived” deductibles, some collision centers may prioritize high volume, rushing repairs and potentially overlooking crucial details. This focus on speed can come at the expense of meticulous workmanship.
- Substandard Materials: To cut costs, some facilities might resort to using lower-quality or substandard materials, including paint products. This can lead to cosmetic issues, reduced durability, and a repair that doesn’t stand the test of time.
In essence, be very wary of auto body repair shops that heavily promote deductible savings. The promise of a waived deductible might mask underlying shortcuts in your repair, potentially diminishing your car’s value and compromising safety. If a shop seems overly eager to employ such tactics, it might indicate financial instability, raising concerns about their long-term viability and ability to honor warranties.
Car Repair Online, mirroring the philosophy of Airpark Collision Center, encourages you to shop around and compare repair facilities. You’ll likely notice a distinct level of professionalism at shops that don’t rely on desperate measures like deductible waivers to attract customers. Airpark Collision Center, and by extension Car Repair Online, is rooted in the local community. We value our reputation and are committed to the quality and safety of every vehicle we repair. As we continue to serve the community for over a decade, our reputation as a leading collision repair center is built on honesty and delivering genuinely high-quality work. This commitment to integrity sets us apart in the auto body repair industry.