Synopsis
Xcel Collision emphasizes your legal right in Michigan to choose your auto body repair shop after an accident, even if your insurance company recommends a specific facility. It explains how selecting an independent repair shop, like us, gives you better quality, personalized service, and more control over repairs. We also outline how to communicate with your insurer and the benefits of choosing a trusted, local shop for your vehicle’s repairs.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan law allows you to choose your repair shop, not just the one recommended by your insurance company.
- Insurance-recommended shops may prioritize cost over quality, potentially compromising your vehicle’s safety.
- Xcel Collision offers manufacturer-approved repairs, certified technicians, and personalized customer service.
- Get autobody repairs that meet your expectations by selecting a reputable, independent shop like Xcel Collision.
- Always ask about warranties on repairs and parts to protect yourself in the long term.
If you’ve been in a collision in Clawson, MI, your insurance company may pressure you to use their preferred auto body shop. But under Michigan law, that choice is entirely yours. Many drivers in Oakland County and surrounding communities don’t realize they are not obligated to use the repair facility suggested by their insurer. This can lead to frustration, delays, and concerns about the quality of repairs. Some insurance-recommended shops may prioritize cost savings over proper restoration, leaving you with incomplete repairs or aftermarket parts. Choosing a trusted, auto body shop in Clawson, MI, like Xcel Collision, allows you to work with professionals who understand your rights, use manufacturer-approved repair processes, and prioritize the long-term safety and value of your vehicle. Xcel Collision explains your legal rights under Michigan law, what to expect from insurance companies, and how to make informed decisions when selecting an autobody repair center.
Your Right to Choose an Auto Body Shop in Michigan
In Michigan, you have the legal right to choose your auto body repair shop after an accident. According to the Michigan Department of State, your insurance company cannot require you to use a specific repair facility. This means that drivers in Clawson, in Oakland County, MI, and throughout the state can select an auto body shop they trust, even if it’s not on their insurer’s recommended list.
Insurance companies often suggest shops that are part of their Direct Repair Program (DRP), which means these shops follow pre-established pricing and procedures agreed upon with the insurer. By choosing an independent shop outside the DRP network, you maintain more control over the repairs and the quality of service.
The Importance of Your Repair Shop Choice
When you’re dealing with vehicle damage after an accident, your decision on where to get repairs matters. Michigan law allows you to choose a repair shop based on your preferences, whether it’s because of trust, location, or specific repair methods. For instance, if you prefer to support an auto body repair shop in Clawson, MI, like Xcel Collision, or want to work with a shop recommended by a neighbor, you can do so without worrying about your insurer’s preferences.
This freedom ensures that you can choose the best option for your car and helps you feel more confident that the work being done aligns with your standards. Whether you want a shop that uses specific parts or offers personalized service, Michigan law supports your ability to select the repair center that best suits your needs.
Benefits of Choosing Your Own Auto Body Shop
Michigan law lets you choose the auto body repair center you trust, not your insurance company’s preferred shop. This right protects your vehicle’s safety and repair quality after an accident.
Quality of Workmanship
You’re more likely to receive safer and more precise repairs from shops that aren’t tied to insurer networks. At Xcel Collision, we follow manufacturer specifications whenever possible and focus on restoring vehicles to a safe condition. Our certified technicians, who are also co-owners, bring 48 years of combined experience to every repair. We don’t cut corners to save time or money. Instead, we uncover hidden damage, use modern equipment, and focus on structural integrity and finish.
Unlike some auto body repair shops recommended by insurers that prioritize speed over accuracy, we repair every vehicle as if it were our own. That’s how Xcel Collision maintains trust with drivers across Clawson and Southeast Michigan seeking dependable local auto body repair.
Personalized Customer Service
Independent shops often offer better communication and transparency than insurer-recommended facilities. At Xcel Collision, you’ll always speak with someone who’s personally involved in your repair. We offer same-day free estimates, honest timelines, and frequent updates—no surprises, no runaround. We don’t answer to insurance companies—we answer to you. Xcel Collision is your best choice if you are searching for an auto body repair shop near you Oakland County, MI, that maintains open communication and excellent service standards.
Local Reputation and Accountability
Locally owned shops are more invested in long-term relationships than national chains. Located in Clawson, in Oakland County, MI, Xcel Collision is proud to serve our community with reliable auto body repair backed by integrity. Our fast turnaround, transparent service, and commitment to quality make us a trusted name in auto body repair alternatives for drivers looking for the best among auto body shops in Michigan.
Risks of Using Insurance-Recommended Shops Without Research
Insurance-recommended repair shops may prioritize cost savings over quality. Some insurer-preferred shops focus on minimizing expenses, potentially compromising repair quality. This can lead to the use of aftermarket parts or shortcuts that may not meet manufacturer standards.
Using non-OEM parts can affect your vehicle’s safety and warranty. Michigan law mandates that repair facilities inform customers in writing if non-original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are used. Non-OEM parts may be of lesser quality and could void your vehicle’s warranty. Lack of thorough inspections can result in hidden damage being overlooked. Some shops may not conduct detailed assessments, leading to undetected issues that compromise vehicle safety and performance.
To protect your vehicle, research and choose a reputable repair facility. Verify that the shop is certified by the Michigan Department of State, uses OEM parts, and provides clear, written estimates. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also help ensure quality repairs.
How to Choose the Right Auto Body Repair Shop in Clawson, MI
Look for Certifications (e.g., I-CAR, OEM)
Certified repair shops follow industry-standard procedures and safety guidelines. Xcel Collision is an auto body shop in Clawson, MI, that has I-CAR-certified technicians, meaning our team is trained to repair vehicles to factory standards. We also follow manufacturer guidelines when applicable, which helps preserve structural integrity and safety features.
Whether you’re driving a late-model sedan or a newer SUV, these certifications matter. They signal that the work will meet manufacturer expectations, not just basic repair minimums. Many auto body shops in Michigan may lack these credentials, so it’s worth asking before you commit.
Ask About Warranty on Repairs
Shops that back their work with a warranty give you less stress. At Xcel Collision, we provide a limited lifetime warranty on in-house repairs and paint services (excluding paintless dent repair). That means if something goes wrong with the workmanship down the line, you’re covered for as long as you own your vehicle. Parts installed during autobody repair at Xcel Collision come with a manufacturer’s parts warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and enforces installation following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Not every auto body repair shop offers this kind of guarantee. Ask for the warranty policy in writing and make sure it includes parts and labor. This can help you avoid unexpected issues after the work is done.
Read Reviews and Check Local Reputation
Online reviews and referrals offer insight into the shop’s quality, timeliness, and communication.
In the Clawson area, our customers often come to us through Google Reviews, community referrals, or word of mouth. When researching auto body shops in Michigan, you’ll find Xcel Collision’s reputation speaks through real experiences.
Check reviews for consistent comments about service quality, wait times, and how issues were handled. The feedback you see can help you choose confidently, especially when Michigan law gives you that right.
Here is a five-star review our team received on Google: “I would highly recommend Xcel Collision for any auto body repair and paint work you find yourself needing. Extremely professional and friendly service. I quoted 3 repair shops and not only was Xcel very competitive, they just presented a level of care and professionalism that made me confident that my vehicle was going to be repaired to the fullest extent. And it was.”
Why Xcel Collision is a Top Choice for Autobody Repair in Oakland County, MI
Trusted Local Business, Not a Chain
Xcel Collision is a locally owned and operated auto body shop with deep roots in Clawson, in Oakland County, MI. When you bring your vehicle to us, you’re not dealing with a franchise or corporate chain. Every customer matters to us. We’ve built long-term relationships with drivers in Clawson and surrounding areas in Oakland County, by providing reliable autobody repair with personal attention. You’ll always speak directly with our team, not a call center. Whether you need help with a claim, have questions about repairs, or just want an honest opinion, we’re here for you.
Skilled Technicians
Xcel Collision has a team of I-CAR-certified technicians who are also Michigan state-certified collision specialists. We undergo extensive training and are up to date with the latest auto body repair techniques for the latest vehicles.
Full-Service Auto Body Repair Shop
Xcel Collision offers complete autobody repair services to restore your vehicle after a collision.
As a full-service auto body repair shop in Clawson, MI, we provide everything from paint matching to aluminum panel repair. Whether you’ve been rear-ended or suffered frame damage, our technicians handle the full repair process in-house.
Xcel Collision’s autobody repair services include:
- Paint color matching using modern equipment
- Ding and scratch removal
- Frame straightening with laser-guided technology
- Bumper repairs
- Aluminum repair and body work
No matter the make or model, we’re committed to making your car look and feel brand new.
Customer-First Philosophy
We focus on communication, transparency, and support throughout your repair experience.
From your first call to the final inspection, we keep you updated every step of the way. If you’re working with insurance, we’ll work directly with your provider.
Xcel Collision always provides clear estimates, honest timelines, and detailed walk-throughs of all autobody repairs. That’s the standard we hold ourselves to. We are ready to help if you’re searching for auto body shops in Michigan that offer integrity, local service, and quality autobody repair.
What to Say to Your Insurance Company
Tell your insurance company you’re choosing an auto body repair shop of your preference. Michigan law gives you the right to pick any licensed auto body shop, regardless of your insurer’s recommendation. You don’t have to use a “preferred” shop on their list. If you’ve chosen our auto body shop in Clawson, MI, just inform them clearly.
After that, we’ll coordinate with your insurer to process the claim. You still receive full claim benefits, even if you decline their suggested shops. Xcel Collision works directly with insurance companies and advocates for your vehicle to receive the highest quality of autobody repair. We help with all paperwork and can communicate directly with your adjuster. That way, your repair moves forward without delays or confusion, while protecting your right to choose a trusted local auto body repair shop.
Stand By Your Right to Choose Quality Auto Body Repair at Xcel Collision in Clawson, MI
You have the legal right to choose your own auto body repair shop in Michigan and use it to protect your vehicle. Insurance companies may suggest a shop, but you are never required to follow that recommendation. You may select a certified, experienced auto body shop in Clawson, MI, like Xcel Collision, that meets your expectations, not just your insurer’s.
At Xcel Collision, we work directly with insurance carriers while prioritizing your needs and preferences. From minor autobody repairs to major collision work, our focus is always on quality and precision.
You deserve autobody repair done right by professionals. If you’ve been in an accident and need help getting started, contact Xcel Collision at (248) 965-3432 or [email protected] for a free estimate or guidance on your claim. We provide the best auto body repair services in Clawson, and surrounding areas in Oakland County, MI, so that you can focus on getting back on the road.
