Do I Have to Use the Body Shop My Insurance Recommends in California?

If you’ve been in a car accident in California, your insurance company may suggest or even pressure you to use a specific repair shop. But do you have to? The short answer is no. In California, you have the legal right to choose your own collision repair shop, regardless of what your insurance provider recommends.

At Class Auto Center in Long Beach, CA, we regularly help drivers make informed decisions about where and how their vehicles are repaired—and we work with all major insurance providers while keeping your best interests at the center of every repair.

What California Law Says About Insurance Steering

In California, insurers cannot require you to use a specific body shop. This is known as anti-steering law, and it’s designed to protect consumers from being forced into using shops that may not meet their preferred standards.

Your rights include:

• The right to select the repair facility of your choice

• The right to receive an accurate repair estimate

• The right to be informed if non-OEM parts are being used

• The right to repairs that restore your vehicle to pre-loss condition

Why Insurance Companies Recommend Certain Shops

Many insurance companies have Direct Repair Programs (DRPs)—networks of shops that agree to discounted pricing in exchange for referrals. While DRPs may offer convenience, they don’t always prioritize OEM parts, factory-certified repairs, or long-term vehicle value.

Some DRP shops may:

• Use aftermarket or salvage parts to reduce cost

• Skip manufacturer repair procedures

• Lack certification from automakers like BMW, Porsche, or Honda

Why You Should Choose a Certified Collision Center

Choosing your own shop—especially one that’s OEM certified—ensures your vehicle is repaired to factory standardsusing genuine parts and approved procedures.

At Class Auto Center in Long Beach, we are:

• BMW Certified

• Porsche Approved

• Honda Certified Collision Center

• Staffed by I-CAR Gold Class technicians

• Backed by a lifetime warranty on all repairs

We also work directly with your insurance company to handle estimates, approvals, and paperwork—without compromising the quality of your repair.

FAQs

Q: Can my insurance refuse to pay if I don’t use their shop?

No. In California, your insurer must pay for repairs covered under your policy, regardless of which licensed shop you choose.

Q: Will it cost me more to choose my own body shop?

Not necessarily. We work with all major insurers to ensure repairs are covered and help you understand any out-of-pocket costs upfront.

Q: How do I know if a shop is certified by my vehicle’s manufacturer?

Ask to see proof of certification or check the automaker’s official website. Class Auto Center is certified by BMW, Porsche, and Honda.

The Bottom Line

You are not required to use the body shop your insurance company recommends in California. You have the right to choose a shop that meets your standards for safety, quality, and long-term value.

If you drive a luxury or performance vehicle, choosing a manufacturer-certified collision center like Class Auto Center can help preserve your car’s integrity, warranty, and resale value.

Need Help After an Accident?

Call Class Auto Center in Long Beach. We’ll handle your repair the right way—on your terms.