Choosing a Car Repair Service After a Crash: What Policyholders Should Know

Accidents happen, and having a clear plan after an incident is essential. Once you have obtained a police report, the next step is arranging vehicle repairs. Choosing the right workshop is critically important and requires an understanding of your insurance policy.

In a dynamic metropolis like Dubai, car repair services are regulated by strict quality standards. but the responsibility still lies with the policyholder to ensure the vehicle is restored to its original condition. This guide explains how to choose the right car workshop and avoid costly mistakes.

Types of Repairs Covered by Insurance Policies

When purchasing car insurance, one of the most important decisions is selecting the type of repair coverage included in your policy.

Agency Repair (Dealer Repair)

If your vehicle is less than three years old, most insurance policies include agency repair at an official brand-authorised service centre. This is considered the highest standard of repair. Only original manufacturer parts are used, and all work is carried out by certified technicians.

The main advantage of agency repair is the full preservation of the factory warranty. It also helps maintain strong resale value, as the vehicle’s service history remains listed as a “Full Option Agency History.” Dealer workshops use manufacturer-approved diagnostic equipment and follow strict repair procedures. However, repairs at authorised dealerships can take longer due to higher demand and more detailed approval processes.

Non-Agency Repair (Independent Service Stations)

For vehicles older than three years, insurers typically offer repairs through a network of approved independent workshops. Many large technical centres are highly certified and equipped with modern tools and paint facilities. In many cases, their repair quality is comparable to that of authorised dealers, which is why leading insurance providers often recommend them.

Depending on policy terms, non-agency repairs may use either original parts or certified OEM alternatives. OEM parts are usually permitted for vehicles older than five years.

What to Consider When Choosing a Repair Workshop: A Policyholder Checklist

Selecting a repair workshop should never be a random decision. Even when your insurer recommends a specific service centre, it is wise to review alternative options. To ensure the repair meets quality and safety expectations, consider the following factors.

Certification and RTA Rating

All workshops in Dubai must meet mandatory certification requirements. Choosing a service centre with a high RTA rating increases the likelihood of proper facilities, trained technicians, and compliant repair standards. This helps ensure the workshop performs full structural repairs rather than superficial cosmetic fixes.

Brand-Specific Expertise

Many independent workshops specialise in specific vehicle brands, such as German or Japanese models. Selecting a workshop with brand-specific diagnostic software is essential for accurate fault detection, proper system resets, and correct calibration of safety and driver-assistance systems after an accident.

Body Geometry Restoration Equipment

If the vehicle has suffered significant impact damage, the workshop must have a frame straightening bench with a computerised measuring system. Without this equipment, restoring factory body and frame specifications is not possible, which can compromise vehicle handling and long-term safety.

Warranty on Repair Work

Reputable car repair services always provide a written warranty for paint and bodywork, typically ranging from six to twelve months. In harsh climates, poor-quality paintwork can quickly blister or fade, making a warranty especially important.

Paint Booth Cleanliness

You should not hesitate to inspect the paint facility. If painting is done in a dusty environment without proper ventilation or a sealed paint booth, defects such as dust contamination and “orange peel” texture are almost unavoidable. These imperfections significantly reduce the vehicle’s appearance and resale value.

Risks Associated With Non-Original Parts

The automotive parts market is heavily saturated with aftermarket alternatives. Insurance companies may require the use of non-original parts for older vehicles, depending on policy conditions. However, policyholders should be aware that non-original body panels may not match factory dimensions precisely, leading to uneven panel gaps and alignment issues.

More importantly, non-original structural or safety components, such as deformation zones, may not perform as intended in a subsequent accident. A qualified professional workshop can help source original parts where possible and advise on safe alternatives when necessary.

What to Do After an Accident: Step-by-Step for Policyholders

Step 1: Obtain a Police Report

Vehicle repairs cannot begin without a police report. Once the report is issued, the insurance company will provide instructions and direct you to approved workshops.

Step 2: Insurance Damage Assessment

Do not disassemble or repair the vehicle before it has been inspected by the insurance company’s appointed representative. Premature repairs may lead to claim rejection.

Step 3: Repair Quote Approval

Ensure that the full scope of work proposed by the workshop is formally approved by the insurance company. This helps prevent unexpected expenses or partial coverage issues.

Step 4: Vehicle Handover and Inspection

Before accepting the vehicle, inspect all repaired areas under natural lighting to confirm accurate colour matching. Test all electronic and safety systems to ensure proper functionality. Once satisfied, you may sign the vehicle acceptance and handover documentation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right repair workshop is an investment in both safety and long-term vehicle value. Ask questions, review repair details carefully, and insist on transparency throughout the process. A properly repaired vehicle protects not only your investment, but also your peace of mind.