is it the norm for auto body repair shops to use second hand parts?

Question

car damage- $5500
insurance co who only approves to pay for used parts- Geico
used parts- bumper, metal, radiator

2001 isuzu rodeo

Answer 1

is very common practice happens more often than new parts

Answer 2

On some vehicles, and yours probably falls into this category, if used parts were not authorized, the cost to repair the vehicle using all new factory parts would exceed the "total" value of the car.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with using good used sheet metal, bumper covers, wheels and other parts. Radiators, condensors, and other "wear" items shouldn't be used because the condition can't be verified.

A "factory" hood can cost 4 to 5 times as much as a used hood from a salvage yard. I recently bought a wrecked car, (right fender, both doors) for $600.00. I was able to find the exact color replacement parts at a salvage yard fo $450.00. I sold that car fo $3700.00!

There is a good market for salvage parts.

Answer 3

I would suggest that you graduate high school and go to college. If you plan to work at a body shop with no formal education you will never make any money. If you would like to gain experience as a mechanic that applying for a job at an auto body shop may be a good idea. You should still try to get a degree and use your education and experience to get a job that pays well.

Answer 4

We have Erie Insurance and their authorized body shop quoted new parts in general, but some used parts too. It's just a matter of how much cost cutting each company ends up doing. However, if the job holds up like it would with new parts and looks good too, then it's hard to complain, especially if you didn't read the fine print when you signed up with Geico.

Answer 5

Its a common practice, but remember that YOU get to decide where to take your car for repair. If you do not feel that the recycled parts are good, tell the repair shop that you will take your care somewhere else for repair. They can usually find a way to accomadate you.

I have GEICO also and after some haggling and yelling we found new parts.

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Answer 6

It happens all the time. You should have checked your policy. I used to have Geico. They are no different than any other company. If they can save somoe money then they will. Used parts, usually are good, except maybe radiators.

Answer 7

used parts are fine - EXCEPT try to get a new OEM radiator , some aftermarket units are not as good and used radiators can be a problem on some vehicles.
ps i sell aftermarket parts .

Answer 8

yeah they do that all the time it's cheper on them
5500 not surprised they totled it but thats cool they are going to fix some of it WHAT KIND OF CAR OR TRUCK IS IT??