Key takeaways
- Most car insurance providers have a preferred network of repairers they use to fix your vehicle.
- Some companies let you choose your own repairer, possibly as an optional add-on.
- Your own repairer might be faster and more convenient, but it could make claiming a bigger hassle.
What is choice of repairer in car insurance?
Car insurance policies that offer you a choice of repairer let you choose the mechanic if your vehicle has been damaged. Many comprehensive car insurance policies include a choice of repairer as a policy feature, some don't cover it at all and with others it's an optional add-on. If you don't have a choice of repairer, the insurer will choose the repairer.
Who offers a choice of repairer in Australia?
Here's a list of all the major car insurers in Australia, including if they let you choose your repairer with their comprehensive policy. If it is listed as optional, you'll have pay extra to choose your own repairer.
Provider | Choice of repairer |
---|---|
AAMI | |
Allianz | |
Bingle | |
Budget Direct | Optional |
GIO | |
Kogan | Optional |
NRMA | Optional |
RAA | |
RAC | |
RACT | |
RACV | Optional |
RACQ | |
Real | |
Suncorp | |
Virgin | Optional |
Westpac | |
Everyday | |
Youi | Optional |
CommBank | |
QBE | Optional |
Is choice of repairer worth it?
"It's a trade-off between speed and convenience," one of our case studies Samantha Odo says. If you want it done well and quickly, it might be better to use your own repairer. If you don't want to worry about upfront expenses or communication issues between the insurer and the repairer, your car insurer's preferred repairer is probably ideal.
It's an optional extra with a handful of car insurers including Budget Direct and QBE. If you choose this add-on, you can expect to pay approximately 10–20% more for a policy, according to our research.
Pros of choosing the repairer
- Can be faster as there's less chance of a backlog
- Can be closer to home than the insurer's repairer
- You can go with a repairer you know and trust
Cons of choosing the repairer
- Repairer's guarantee only – not the lifetime guarantee you get with the insurer's repairer
- You may need to pay upfront and wait for the insurer to reimburse you
- You may need to negotiate the price with the repairer, not the insurer
Car insurance customers' experiences
The repair shop assessed the damage quickly and provided a detailed repair estimate. They also communicated directly with my insurance company, making the entire process more efficient. The repairs were completed on time, and the quality of the work was excellent. I felt like I made the right decision by hiring a reputable repairer, as it provided me with peace of mind throughout the process.
My experience using the insurer's recommended repair shop was a mixed bag. On the positive side, the process was very convenient. The insurance company provided me with a list of their preferred repair shops, and I chose one in my area. They were familiar with the insurance procedures, which meant less hassle for me. The repair shop had a direct billing arrangement with the insurer, so I didn't have to pay out of pocket and then wait for reimbursement, which was a relief.
However, the downside was that I felt like I had limited control over the repair process. The repair shop's communication left a lot to be desired. They didn't keep me well-informed about the progress, and I had to make several calls to get updates. This lack of transparency was frustrating, and I felt somewhat in the dark about what was happening with my car.
The quality of the repair work was decent, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I might have received better service and communication had I chosen my own trusted repairer. The entire experience made me realise the importance of clear and consistent communication during the repair process, and the value of having the freedom to choose a repair shop based on my own experiences and preferences.
In the future, I might be more inclined to use my own repairer, even if it involves more paperwork and potentially paying upfront.
Frequently asked questions
More guides on Finder
-
High-risk car insurance
Learn the factors that may cause you to be considered a high-risk driver and whether you might be eligible for cover.
-
Car registration Victoria
Find out how to get your car registration transferred in Victoria.
-
Third party, fire and theft car insurance
Cover for your vehicle against fire and theft, and legal liability cover if you’re responsible for an accident that damages someone’s car or property.
-
Blue Slip NSW
Your guide to Blue Slips.
-
Car insurance lost keys
Lost your car keys? Find out whether your comprehensive car keys will cover the cost to replace them in this handy guide.
-
Rideshare car insurance
Find out what car insurance options are available for rideshare drivers, including Ubers.
-
Can DUI offenders get car insurance?
Your guide to car insurance when you've been convicted of drink driving.
-
Car Insurance Tasmania
Read the guide to getting car insurance in Tasmania including what to look for in a policy and your CTP requirements.
-
Car insurance for P-platers
Find affordable and comprehensive car insurance for P-platers with this handy guide.
-
Best car insurance – so good, it’ll give you whiplash
Explore our analysis and see how you can find the best car insurance for your needs.
Ask a question