How can I ensure my 3-week-old Ford Ka's accident damage is repaired correctly?

My 3-week-old Ford Ka was hit from the rear at around 30mph whilst we were waiting to turn right. The car has gone to my insurer's 'approved' repairer and there is £3600 of repair work with over 40hrs labour needed to repair damage to the rear end and near side (including the rear wheel). Clearly I had hoped that the car would be written off, however Admiral insists it has to be repaired (unfortunately they also insure the person who hit me) as it's less than 50 per cent of the cost of the car. My worry is that the car will never be good as new - how do I make sure that everything is fully repaired? Is it worth paying for an independent inspection?

Asked on 12 July 2010 by vee_twin

Answered by Alan Ross
Given that the approved repair company is, as it says, approved (by the insurance company), then you should assume that all repairs will be completed to a good standard. In the first instance, you should (when the car is ready for you to collect) ask the repair company for a list of all work completed. Then you yourself should be able to inspect all paintwork/trim/etc to see if it's acceptable. One note; when checking the paint work, stand quite a way back from the car at first so you can see the resprayed area v the original. Do take your time when collecting the car (take a friend with you).

Having accepted the car you could, if you wish, arrange for a independent inspection (taking into account the cost). Or you could wait until the next time you take your car to your Ford dealership for service and ask them to check the car out (this should not cost you). Overall, most insurance companies have "approved" repairers who are acknowledged as experts in crash repairs and complete the job correctly.
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