What Is An Insurance-Preferred Repairer?

Jason Barker • April 30, 2024

An insurance-preferred repairer, otherwise known as an approved repairer, is one which is authorised by your insurance provider to repair your car in the event of a claim. This could be because the insurance provider has beneficial pricing rates with the repairer, enabling them to carry out the work for a reduced cost.

There is an assumption that a preferred or approved repairer offers better quality repairs and customer service, simply because they are recommended by or associated with an insurance company. However, in some instances, this isn’t the case. For example, CARS of Grimsby is an independent repair centre, not affiliated with any insurance companies. However, we have committed to offering the best service to customers across all aspects. This includes offering faultless service to customers, only using new and genuine parts, and working in accordance with manufacturer repair methods.

An independent repairer relies on reviews and referrals to generate new business, so the service received is likely to be better than that offered by a preferred repairer which already has a guaranteed workflow. As a result, it is clear that high-quality repairs can be found outside of the approved repairer network.

Many insurance companies specify to individuals that they have to use one of their preferred repairers. However – this is not true! It is your right to take your vehicle to any repairer of your choice. Your insurer may state that they apply an additional excess for taking your vehicle to an alternative repairer. However, here at CARS, we have various excess support options available to our customers, so this fee may not be payable. We also take over all communication with our customers’ insurance companies, making the claim process as stress-free as possible!

The most important point to remember is that in the event of an accident, you should always contact CARS before contacting your insurance company. This will ensure that you receive trustworthy and non-biased advice, tailored to your circumstances.

The following blogs will provide more information around insurance-preferred repairers, and how to ensure you are selecting a repairer that will return your car to a safe, roadworthy state:

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A New Chapter Is Coming to CARS of Grimsby

By Ebony Morgan • July 22, 2026

For many years, CARS of Grimsby has supported motorists with trusted accident repair and vehicle care services. As a family owned and run business, we have always believed that great service comes down to doing the job to the best of our ability, communicating honestly and treating every customer as an individual. Those values have helped us build strong relationships with motorists, insurers and businesses, and they remain just as important to us today. Now, we are preparing to begin an exciting new chapter. Decades of Accident Repair Experience in Grimsby CARS of Grimsby is best known as an established and multi-award-winning accident repair centre, helping customers get back on the road following everything from minor bumps to more significant damage. That work has given our team a detailed and thorough understanding of vehicles and their condition. When you spend years repairing bodywork, checking panel alignment and assessing previous damage, you learn to notice the details that may not always be obvious at first glance. You also learn how important quality, safety and honesty are to motorists. Our team has developed this knowledge through experience, ongoing training and working with a wide range of vehicles over many years. It is experience we are proud of, and it will remain at the heart of the next chapter of CARS of Grimsby.

Coffee with CARS is always a good idea!

By Ebony Barker • July 1, 2026

Had an accident and not sure what happens next? You’re not alone. At CARS of Grimsby, our friendly team are on hand to offer honest advice and guidance throughout the insurance claims process. We’ll help you understand your options, and explain what you do (and don’t) have to do after an accident.