When your car breaks down, a tow truck takes you to the nearest auto body shop but are you obligated to have repairs done there? In Connecticut, the answer is a firm “no” – you have the right to get your car repaired anywhere you choose.

Learn more about right-to-repair laws in Connecticut, including what to consider in terms of quality, cost and insurance coverage.

Are There Restrictions on Where I Can Have Car Repairs Done?

After an accident, your insurance carrier may provide a list of auto body shops they endorse for repairs, including all locations with which they have contractual agreements. However, you’re not restricted to the carrier’s list or the specific location where a tow company took your car.

Are There Restrictions on What My Repair Shop Can Charge?

Your insurance company and the auto body shop will typically work together to agree on the scope and cost of repairs. Yet sometimes, your repair needs may exceed the initial estimate provided by your insurer, especially if hidden or structural damage is discovered after the vehicle inspection.

In Connecticut, you still have the right to choose how those repairs are completed. A reputable auto body shop will walk you through your options and explain any differences in pricing, including the use of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts versus aftermarket or recycled parts:

• Aftermarket parts are not made by a particular manufacturer and may vary in quality or fit.
• Recycled or salvaged parts are allowed under Connecticut law, but shops must inform you before using them.
• OEM parts are often preferred for safety and performance but may not be fully covered by insurance.

If there’s a pricing dispute between your insurance company and the shop, you have the right to file a complaint with the Connecticut Insurance Department. In some cases, you may be referred to an arbitration program to help resolve the issue without going to court.

A trusted repair shop like DaSilva’s Auto Body can help guide you through these steps, advocate on your behalf, and make sure your car is repaired properly and safely.

How Do I Know If My Repair Shop Is Licensed?

Connecticut law requires all operating repair shops to be licensed with the Department of Motor Vehicles. You can review the official list of shops online.

Will I Receive a List of Repairs and Costs?

Connecticut requires all repair shops to provide customers with an estimate for total costs and labor, and obtain written authorization before starting any work, including a diagnosis or repairs.

Shops must also keep records of all repairs, with descriptions of the work performed. However, the state has some exceptions:

• If the vehicle was left at the shop after hours, the shop is authorized to obtain verbal approval to begin repairs.
• A diagnosis may be needed to determine the full extent of the repairs. As a result, shops may provide your estimate and request authorization following diagnostics. Authorization can be given in writing or verbally.
• Customers can also authorize work without a written estimate. For recordkeeping, shops must still obtain customer consent in writing before performing all repairs.

Is There a Required Timeline for Repairs?

Auto body shops in Connecticut cannot push out repairs indefinitely. Instead, they’re required to complete repairs the same day a car is dropped off at their location.

There is one exception to this rule. The shop tells you they can’t make all repairs within this timeframe, they provide you with a date when all repairs will be completed, and you agree to these terms. Under these conditions:

• You must provide authorization for the change of date.
• The shop must provide a statement or invoice that lists all work done, including price, parts and warranties.

What If My Vehicle Is Declared Totaled?

Connecticut law grants you the right to repair your vehicle even if your carrier declares it totaled. However, your carrier is not required to pay for the work performed. If you decide to go this route:

• Your insurance carrier must inform you where you can receive the salvage value for your vehicle.
• You must pay for all work out of pocket to keep the vehicle road-ready.
• The Department of Motor Vehicles will add “salvage” to the vehicle’s title.
• The DMV must inspect your vehicle before you can drive it again.

Will I Receive a Rental Vehicle While My Car Undergoes Repairs?

If your vehicle has been damaged by no fault of your own, Connecticut law states that you can request a comparable rental vehicle or receive equivalent compensation while your vehicle is in the shop and as your insurance carrier settles your claim.
 
Concerned about insurance coverage? DaSilva’s Auto Body works with your carrier to resolve all claims while communicating transparently with you. For questions or to make an appointment, contact us today.