What You Need to Know About Direct Repair Programs (DRPs) – and Why Sharp Auto Body Is Different
After an accident, dealing with repairs and insurance claims can be confusing and stressful. One term you may hear tossed around is Direct Repair Program, or DRP. But what does that actually mean—and how does it affect the quality of the repairs your vehicle receives?
What Is a Direct Repair Program?
A Direct Repair Program is a partnership between insurance companies and certain auto body shops. These shops agree to follow specific guidelines laid out by the insurance company in exchange for being part of their “preferred” network. On the surface, it might sound like a convenience—after all, who wouldn’t want a shop that’s already set up to work smoothly with their insurance?
However, those “guidelines” are usually focused on reducing costs and speeding up turnaround time. While efficiency is important, it shouldn’t come at the expense of your safety or the long-term value of your vehicle. Unfortunately, in many DRP arrangements, it often does.
What’s the Catch?
When a shop participates in a DRP, it typically agrees to use certain parts and procedures that help the insurance company save money. This often means using aftermarket parts—parts made by third-party manufacturers that are not approved by your vehicle’s original maker. While these parts may be cheaper, they’re also more likely to be lower quality and may not fit or function exactly like the original.
Over time, these differences can add up to real problems. From reduced crash protection to poor alignment or faulty electrical connections, the use of non-OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts can compromise your car’s performance and even its safety. What’s more, using these lower-quality parts can decrease your vehicle’s resale value.
You Have the Right to Choose
Here’s the most important thing to know: Insurance companies cannot force you to use a specific repair shop. That practice—called steering—is illegal in many states, including Illinois. You have the legal right to choose the auto body shop that you trust to work on your vehicle.
Sometimes, insurance representatives might strongly suggest that you go to a particular shop or make it sound like you won’t get full coverage if you don’t. Don’t be pressured. You’re not required to use a DRP shop, and in many cases, you’re better off not doing so.
Know What’s Going Into Your Car
Before repairs begin, it’s wise to review your insurance policy and request OEM parts whenever possible. These are the same parts your vehicle was built with—designed to fit perfectly, perform reliably, and maintain your manufacturer warranty. Insurance companies may push back on this request, but as the vehicle owner, you have the right to ask for the safest, most reliable repairs available.
Why Sharp Auto Body Is Different
At Sharp Auto Body, we do things differently. We are not part of any Direct Repair Program. That means we don’t answer to insurance companies—we answer to you, our customer.
We work for you, not for your insurance provider. Our priority is making sure your vehicle is repaired safely and correctly, using the best parts available. If your insurance company tries to cut corners, we’ll push back and advocate for the quality repairs you deserve.
We’ll also walk you through every step of the process, help you understand your rights, and make sure you feel confident in the decisions being made about your car.
In Summary
- DRPs are partnerships between insurance companies and body shops designed to save the insurer money.
- These shops may use cheaper, aftermarket parts that could impact the safety and value of your car.
- You are not required to use a DRP shop, even if your insurance company suggests it.
- You have the right to request OEM parts and choose the shop you trust.
When you bring your vehicle to Sharp Auto Body, you’re choosing quality, integrity, and personalized service over insurance company shortcuts. We fight for the repairs you need—not the cheapest fix your insurer prefers.
Got questions or need help after an accident? Just give us a call at 847-526-1343. We’re here to help you get back on the road safely—with confidence and peace of mind.
