Adjuster won’t pay dealership repair price. What are my options?

Free Insurance Comparison

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Hello i’m asking for a little advice please if u could answer a few questions. I currently have a open claim and a adjuster came out to assess the damage on my truck its under collision just myself involved snowstorm slid hit a curb. I took my truck to a dealership instead of insurances auto shops. They did an estimate it was under my deductible then adjuster told me a few days later they found more damage. At this point nothing has been paid. Then adjuster says i need my frame replaced but wont pay what dealership is charging 119 dollars hour compared to there shops 49 dollars an hour wanted me to pay the difference. Can they even do this i thought by law i had the choice to take the vehicle where i want. Dealership told me they have paid that rate before with no problems but there not doing it for me. I asked for this current estimate, i want to see the report i disagree with there estimate on replacing the frame how did they figure that i want to know. Replacing a frame is several thousands it seems to me that would be a total loss. My truck bluebook fairmarket value is under 11500. I dont believe there estimate is right and i’m not going to pay the difference of labor charges and adjuster has not shown me this report or estimate so were at a stop. Its been 19 days my truck has not even been touched yet is there anything i could do? I cant afford to fix thats why i filed a claim i have collision insurance.”

Asked April 7, 2016

1 Answer


If an insurance adjuster determines that the cost to repair your vehicle is greater than the vehicle's value, they may declare your vehicle a total loss. If your vehicle is not considered a total loss, but the adjuster is not willing to pay for the repairs at the dealership's quoted price, you have several options.

  • Negotiate with the adjuster: You can try to negotiate with the adjuster to get them to agree to pay the dealership's repair price. Provide the adjuster with any documentation, such as repair estimates or invoices, that support the dealership's price.
  • Get a second opinion: If the adjuster is unwilling to pay the dealership's price, you can get a second opinion from another repair shop. A second opinion may provide more information that can help you negotiate with the adjuster.
  • File a complaint: If you believe that the adjuster is acting unfairly or unethically, you can file a complaint with your state's department of insurance. The department of insurance will investigate your complaint and take appropriate action if necessary.
  • Seek legal assistance: If negotiations with the adjuster and the department of insurance do not resolve the issue, you may want to consider seeking legal assistance. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process and protect your rights as a policyholder.
It's important to keep in mind that your insurance policy may have specific provisions that dictate how repairs will be handled. You should review your policy carefully and consult with your insurance agent or attorney if you have any questions or concerns.

Answered April 11, 2016 by Figgy

Free Insurance Comparison

Compare quotes from the top insurance companies and save!

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption