Should I Use the Insurance Recommended Body Shop?
Wisconsin law gives you the right to choose any auto body shop. Learn why your choice matters and how to pick the best repair shop.
After a car accident, your insurance company might push you toward their preferred body shop. They may say it's faster or easier. But here's what they often don't tell you: you have the legal right to choose any collision repair shop in Wisconsin. Your choice can affect the quality of repairs, your out-of-pocket costs, and even how long your car stays in the shop.
Your Legal Rights with Insurance Body Shops
Wisconsin's anti-steering law protects your freedom to choose where your vehicle gets repaired. This law stops insurance companies from forcing you to use their preferred shop network. According to state law:
"No insurer may require that, as a condition of the coverage specified in sub. (1), repairs to a motor vehicle must be made by a particular contractor or repair facility. For purposes of this section, a consumer has the right to select the motor vehicle repair facility of his or her choice."
What Are Insurance Company Recommended Shops?
Insurance companies create networks of preferred or recommended body shops. These shops agree to follow the insurer's repair guidelines and pricing. Some programs are called DRP (Direct Repair Program) or in-network shops.
Insurance-preferred shops often get more business from the insurance company. In return, they may agree to specific repair methods or cost limits that benefit the insurer. While many preferred shops do good work, their first loyalty is to the insurance company that sends them customers.
Pros & Cons of Using Preferred Body Shops
Benefits of insurance recommended shops:
Faster claim approval since the shop has a relationship with your insurer
The insurance company may offer a guarantee on repairs done at preferred shops
Risks of using insurance preferred shops:
May use cheaper parts to keep costs down for the insurance company
Could rush repairs to process more insurance claims quickly
When to Use an Insurance Preferred Shop
An insurance-recommended collision center might be right for you if:
You don't have a trusted mechanic or auto shop you already use
The preferred shop has excellent reviews and a strong reputation
However, if you want the best quality repairs, a lifetime warranty on work, or have a relationship with a local body shop, choosing your own repair facility often makes more sense.
How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop
Not all collision repair shops are the same. Here's what to look for when choosing where to take your damaged vehicle:
Reviews: Check online reviews from other drivers who've had collision repairs done
Warranty: Ask about their warranty on repairs and paint work
Parts: Find out if they use original manufacturer parts or aftermarket options
Communication: Choose a shop that explains the repair process clearly
A quality auto body shop should provide a free consultation and repair estimate. They should also work directly with your insurance company to ensure you don't pay more than your deductible.
How Car Insurance Repair Claims Work
Whether you're dealing with a fender bender or major collision damage, the insurance claim process follows similar steps. Here's what you can expect in most cases:
Report the accident: Contact your insurance company right after the car accident to start your claim
Choose your repair shop: Pick any licensed body shop in Wisconsin - this is your legal right
Get a repair estimate: Your chosen shop will inspect the damage and provide a detailed estimate
Insurance review: An adjuster will review the estimate and approve covered repairs
Pay your deductible: You'll pay your deductible amount to the shop before or after repairs
The shop handles most communication with the insurance adjuster. They'll make sure the insurance company approves all necessary repairs before starting work on your vehicle.
Common Questions About Insurance & Repairs
Is it worth going through insurance for a dent?
This depends on your deductible and the repair cost. If fixing the dent costs less than your deductible, you'll pay out-of-pocket anyway. For a $300 dent with a $500 deductible, you won't get any insurance money. This depends on your deductible and the repair cost. If fixing the dent costs less than your deductible, you'll pay out-of-pocket anyway. For a $300 dent with a $500 deductible, you won't get any insurance money. But for larger damage, filing a claim makes sense. Just remember that at-fault accidents can increase your insurance rates.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you're comfortable self-insuring. Some drivers prefer to handle minor repairs themselves to keep premiums low and save claims for major incidents. Others prefer the peace of mind of letting insurance cover anything beyond their deductible. There's no wrong answer—just what fits your budget and risk tolerance.
Will I pay more if I don't use the recommended shop?
No. At Auto Color, we charge only what your insurance policy covers. You won't pay anything beyond your deductible, no matter which auto repair shop you choose. Any shop that tries to charge you extra fees beyond what insurance covers should be avoided.
How long will my car be in the body shop?
Repair time depends on the damage. A simple dent might take 2–3 days. Major collision repairs can take 2–3 weeks. Your shop should provide an estimate for how long repairs will take. Quality shops ensure repairs are done right, not just fast.
Why Choose Auto Color?
Auto Color is a Wisconsin-based collision center serving drivers in the Madison area. We work with all major insurance companies and handle the entire claim process for you.
What sets us apart:
Local ownership and community commitment
Quality repairs that restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition
Clear pricing - you only pay your insurance deductible
Expert team that handles all communication with your insurer
Respect for your right to choose your own repair shop
We believe in transparent auto repair service. From your first call to picking up your repaired car, we keep you informed every step of the way.
Your Next Steps
Don't let insurance companies pressure you into a decision about your vehicle's care. You have legal rights and options. Whether you're dealing with a minor dent or serious collision damage, choosing the right repair shop matters.
Ready to get your car repaired the right way? Contact one of our convenient Madison-area locations for a free consultation. We'll review your damage, explain your options, and work directly with your insurance company.
Have questions about filing an insurance claim or want to learn more about our repair process? Our team is here to help guide you through every step.
