Auto body repair & detailing: Accident Damage Repair or Replace?, mitsubishi mirage, accident damage

Question
Hi Ken:
I was recently involved in a low speed accident where my 99 Mitsubishi Mirage drivers side door and rear panel were dented.  The repair shop told me they would replace both the door and real panel.  Then, without informing me, at the request of the insurance company, they repaired both the door and panel instead of replacing them.  Would repairing versus replacing have any impact on the value of the car after repairs?  If so, how can I determine the difference?
Thanks!  AJ.

Answer
The insurance company dictates how it is repaired or replaced depending on the age of the vehicle. No this will not diminish the value if it is a good repair. Meaning if you can look at it and not notice the repair had been done then it is a good repair and the value is the same as before the accident. If you can notice that it has been repaired then you need to have a little talk with the shop and insurance company and have it fixed properly.
           Thank you for the question!
           Ken