Did You Know?

Paint Creations Inc

Know Your Rights 

 

You Have the Right to Choose Your Repair Shop 

In Illinois, insurance companies cannot require you to use a specific body shop. Even if they recommend a “preferred” repair facility, the choice is yours.   


What This Means for You 

You are free to choose: 

  • A shop you trust 
  • A certified collision center 
  • A manufacturer-trained repair facility 
  • A shop experienced with your vehicle brand 


Insurance companies may suggest shops within their Direct Repair Program (DRP), but Illinois consumers maintain the legal right to decide where repairs are completed. 


Insurance Steering Can Be Misleading 

“Insurance steering” happens when an insurer pressures customers toward certain repair shops.  Examples may include statements like: 

  • “We can’t guarantee repairs there.” 
  • “Repairs may take longer.” 
  • “You may have to pay more.” 
  • “That shop is not approved.” 


Illinois consumers should know: 

  • The repair warranty comes from the repair shop performing the work 
  • You are not obligated to use an insurer’s preferred facility 
  • You have the right to authorize repairs yourself   

 

We Work for You — Not the Insurance Company 

Our goal is to restore your vehicle safely and properly while helping you understand your rights throughout the claims process. We advocate for: 

  • OEM repair procedures 
  • Proper safety calibrations 
  • Honest communication 
  • Quality repairs 


If you have questions about your insurance claim, our team is here to help. 



Parts Explained


Understanding Collision Repair Parts

When repairing collision damage, body shops and insurance companies typically choose from four types of replacement parts:

  • OEM Parts: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the vehicle manufacturer or the original supplier. These are the same parts the vehicle came with from the factory.
  • Best for: Exact fit, factory appearance, and newer vehicles.
  • Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers designed to fit the vehicle like the original part.
  • Best for: Lower-cost repairs and wider part availability.
  • Used / Recycled Parts: Used parts are original factory parts removed from another vehicle, usually from a salvage or recycling yard.
  • Best for: Cost savings and hard-to-find parts.
  • Non-OEM Parts: “Non-OEM” is a broad term for any replacement part not made by the vehicle manufacturer. This often includes aftermarket or reproduction collision parts.
  • Best for: Budget-conscious repairs, though quality can vary.