Protect yourself against auto body shop fraud when your vehicle needs repairs

Body shop fraud is a deceptive practice at some auto body shops where they try to overcharge you, perform unnecessary repairs—or both. This type of scam is on the rise, but with a few pointers, you can protect yourself against insurance fraud and find a mechanic you can trust. We know you want to get back on the road. Don't let your eagerness lead to being overcharged or sold unnecessary parts or repairs.

Here you'll find out about the most common types of body shop fraud, what warning signs to look out for, what steps you can take to avoid being scammed and what to do if it happens to you. Finally, learn how to find trusted mechanics that have been approved and vetted by TD Insurance.

Here are some of the most common types of body shop fraud happening today:

• Improper or unnecessary repairs: Charging for repairs that are not needed, exaggerated or never actually done, or billing for new or original manufacturer parts but installing used, counterfeit, or aftermarket parts instead.
• Overbilling: Inflating labor hours or repair costs to maximize insurance payouts.
• Hidden fees: Unexpected charges for diagnostics, administrative tasks, or other small services that were not discussed upfront.
• Kickback schemes: Tow truck operators, rental agencies, or others colluding to steer vehicles towards their shop for a kickback.
• Double dipping: Accepting payment from both the customer and the insurance company.
• Fraudulent towing fees: Excessive fees for towing a vehicle or for “storing” it at their shop.

Something seem off? It probably is. Watch out for these potential red flags:

• Pressure tactics: Be wary when the body shop pressures you into a quick decision.
• Unusually low estimates: If an estimate sounds too good to be true, more than likely, it is.
• Lack of transparency: Ensure invoices are detailed and clearly indicate what charges are covering.

A little advance research can pay off big when avoiding scams. These tips can help protect you from body shop fraud:

• Research and read reviews: Investigate body shops, read reviews or ask for referrals from family or friends before making a choice.

Here's how to protect yourself if you think you may be a victim of body shop fraud:

• File a fraud report: Contact your provincial insurance fraud bureau and file a report at the reporting portal of your insurance provider. TD customers should report suspicious activity to our reporting email address.
• Seek legal advice: Consult a lawyer if necessary.
• Gather evidence: Photos, written details, contact and witness information can all be helpful if you need to make a case.
• Report the accident: Call any known insurance companies involved.
• Avoid confrontation: Don't confront the auto shop with your suspicions.

If you are a TD Insurance customer, we offer solutions that can protect you against potential fraud. For instance, you can get repairs you can trust at TD Insurance Auto Centres or from our network of preferred vendors.

TD Insurance also has a network of body shops, called TD Insurance Auto Centres, that can serve as your trusted body shop to fix any car insurance related claims. There, you'll find:

• On-site claims Advisors to walk you through every step of the car insurance claim process,
• On-site Certified Repair Technicians who will estimate the damage and repairs required,
• On-site car rentals to provide you with a rental while your vehicle is being repaired,
• A lifetime guarantee for your repairs, if they are completed at a TD Insurance Auto Centre, for as long as you own your car and remain insured with us, and,
• Many convenient locations across Canada.

TD Insurance has an extensive and reliable network of trusted vendors. Ultimately the body shop you go with is up to you, but choosing a preferred vendor means selecting a repair shop from a network of approved and reputable body shops that have been properly vetted by TD Insurance. Repairs made within our preferred network of vendors are backed by a lifetime guarantee for as long as you own the car and remain insured with us. Ask your claims advisor for preferred vendors in your area.

Use the tips provided here to help you watch out for fraud when you need auto repairs. We've shown you the most common scams, what red flags to watch out for, how to research body shops and what to do if you think you've been scammed. You've also seen how TD Insurance customers can avoid fraud by using TD Insurance Auto Centres for insurance related claims and our network of preferred vendors. With a little knowledge and caution, you'll be better equipped to get auto repairs without falling for body shop fraud.