Auto Insurance Claims: fix or request new parts, insurance estimate, wavy lines


Question
i had small accident, bumper is dented and scratched fender is bent a little, insurance estimate says fix and refinish. do i have the right to request new parts cause car is pretty new.
Lukas from Illinois

Answer
Hi Lukasz,
Since your damage is cosmetic and very minor, you really don't have the right to demand new parts.
If the damage was very major and included mechanical parts such as the radiator, water pump or serpentine belt, you do have the right to demand brand new OEM parts (Original Equipment from the Manufacturer), if your car was still under warranty, because use of anything else would void your warranty.
Once the car is repaired, inspect it very carefully before accepting delivery.  If the repaired, re-chromed bumper has wavy lines, you have the right to reject repairs until they replace it with a "perfect" bumper.
I trust this answer has been of help, please write again if I can be of more assistance.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area 10-31-07 3:40 PM PST