That’s interesting—my experience with Progressive was almost the opposite. I had to push pretty hard for OEM parts after a fender bender in Queens, and it felt like the shop and adjuster were just checking boxes. Do you think it depends more on the shop or the adjuster? I always wonder if certain shops have more pull with insurance companies in NYC. The paperwork part is huge though... I’ve seen claims go sideways just because someone missed a receipt or estimate.
I always wonder if certain shops have more pull with insurance companies in NYC.
Honestly, I think you’re onto something there. In my experience, the shop makes a huge difference—some of them seem to have the adjusters on speed dial, while others act like they’ve never seen an insurance claim before. I had a Geico claim in Brooklyn and the shop basically told me which adjuster to ask for. Still, paperwork is the real killer... one missing doc and suddenly you’re in insurance limbo for weeks.
I’ve noticed the same thing with certain shops—some just seem to have a “system” with the insurers, while others are totally lost. But I’m curious, has anyone actually had a shop push back on using OEM parts versus aftermarket, especially with higher-end cars? I’ve had Progressive try to steer me toward cheaper parts, but I wonder if Geico is any better about that in NYC. Does it really depend on the shop’s relationship with the adjuster, or is it more about the policy itself?
I’ve had Progressive try to steer me toward cheaper parts, but I wonder if Geico is any better about that in NYC. Does it really depend on the shop’s relationship with the adjuster, or is it mo...
Honestly, I’ve been through this dance with both Geico and Progressive in NY. Here’s the deal: it’s mostly about your policy wording, not just the shop or adjuster. Progressive definitely tried to push aftermarket on my BMW, and the shop didn’t fight it much. Geico wasn’t much better, but I found if you push back and insist on OEM—especially if your car’s newer—they’ll sometimes cave. Still, it’s a hassle. The shop’s relationship with the insurer helps, but if your policy doesn’t specify OEM, you’re usually stuck arguing. My advice: check your policy, then pick a shop that’s willing to go to bat for you.
Yeah, been there—Geico and Progressive both love those “discount” parts. I swear, my car’s had more knockoff pieces than a Canal St. purse. If your policy’s vague, it’s a battle every time. Sometimes feels like the shop just shrugs and says, “good luck.”