Don’t Let Your Insurer Hijack the Repairs – Your Legal Right to Choose a Panel Beater
- Author
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 18 hours ago
Insurers love to steer you to their “approved” panel shops. But cost pressures on those networks can lead to corner-cutting, substandard parts and rushed workmanship. Here’s how to spot steering, understand the real risks and stand your ground under South African law.
The hidden risk: why cost-cuts can cost you more
Preferred-shop panels negotiate 10–20% discounts for insurers—but those savings often come from squeezing margins at the workshop:
• Inferior parts. Cheap aftermarket or second-hand components may fit poorly and corrode faster.
• Rushed workmanship. Skipping prep or curing steps leads to paint failure, misaligned panels and hidden damage.
• Inadequate diagnostics. Quick visual checks replace full structural or electronic system scans, risking missed issues.
Long-term cost fallout
Saving today | Paying tomorrow |
Lower insurer payout on claim | Early rust, repaint jobs, warranty disputes |
Faster turnaround promises | Repeat visits, diminished resale value |
Simplified claims admin | Stress, phone calls, escalation to FSCA |
True Warranty vs. Myth
What insurers tout: “Lifetime guarantee”
Reality: The panel shop issues your guarantee—not the insurer. Cheap repairs often carry limited, small-print warranties.
Real-world case study
A Pretoria motorist’s insurer-panel repaired hail damage at R18 000; within six months the paint delaminated. The follow-up fix cost R12 500—plus extra days without a car, all at private rates.
Checklist: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Book
Do you use OEM parts or aftermarket?
What’s your SAMBRA grading and last audit date?
Can you match or beat my insurer’s rate card?
How long does paint curing take?
Do you perform full electronic/frame diagnostics?
What does your workmanship guarantee cover?
Can I get written approval from my insurer here?
How to lodge an FSCA conduct complaint
Gather your evidence (emails, call logs, quotes).
Visit the FSCA complaints page:
https://www.fsca.co.za/Customers/Pages/Complaints-and-Questions.aspx
Select “Complaints” and upload proof.
Note your reference number and follow up if you haven’t heard within 30 days.
Why insurers prefer their own networks
Insurer motive | What it means for you |
Volume discounts on labour/parts | Pressure on shops to cut corners |
Streamlined claims administration | Less flexibility, more red tape |
Predictable quality metrics | Standardised processes, not bespoke |
Lower warranty risk for them | Limited warranty coverage for you |
Glossary of Key Terms
Steering: Tactics to influence your choice of repairer.
Network rate: The labour rate insurers will reimburse.
Audatex: Industry-standard estimating software.
PPR Rule 17: FSCA rule on fair claims handling.
TCF Outcome 6: No unreasonable post-sale barriers.
Bottom line for motorists
Steering may save insurers money, but it can cost you in safety, time and resale value. You have the right—under the Competition Commission Guidelines and FSCA rules—to choose any SAMBRA-graded repairer. Own your claim and keep your car in top shape.
Ready to steer clear of shortcuts?
Call 067 072 0925 to book with HJ Bosch & Sons.
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