Although there is no formal Consumer Bill of Rights for auto body repair, we feel that the below should be. If your auto body shop doesn’t agree with it, you may want to consider going somewhere else.

1. Your choice is the one that is important in where you choose to get your auto repaired. You can choose any shop you want. Scout around, get recommendations and find a good one.
2. You’re entitled to have your vehicle fixed all the way up to the exact state it was in BEFORE the accident. Even still, it will have lost value. Don’t let the insurance company, repair shop or anyone else tell you differently. The drop in the value of your car is called Diminished Value. You can get this money back from the insurance company of the person that hit you. In some cases, this results in thousands of dollars back in your pocket! For more information, go to Advocate Auto Claims (link: http://www.advocateautoclaims.com). Recoverign this money will not raise your insurance as it is being paid by the insurance company of the person that hit you.
3. Although you’re only required by law to obtain one repair estimate, it’s often a good idea to get three or more if at all possible. You may be surprised at the results. You aren’t required by law to show the insurance company all of them. A low estimate may simply mean that they are leaving out necessary labor or parts, so look in detail and listen to what the mechanics say. If you have questions, ask the shop manager.
4. Choose a shop that has the latest and correct repair equipment; not all of them do. Look for certified shops and technicians, but not necessarily ones that are on insurance companies lists, because many of them cut corners for the insurance company.
5. Make sure your repair shop does not use used or rebuilt parts without your authorization. You are entitled to the correct and new parts for your vehicle.
6. Always get a written warranty that covers labor, materials, parts and paint.
7. It is against the law for any repair shop, painting, auto glass, or collision repair facility to bury or otherwise absorb a deductible of an insurance policy for any covered automobile.