Don’t Fall for These Common Collision Repair Myths
When it comes to getting your car repaired after an accident, misinformation is everywhere. From insurance myths to misconceptions about parts and quality, many drivers end up making the wrong choices—often costing them time, money, and peace of mind.
At Russ Ward Auto Body, we’ve been setting the record straight in Anaheim since 1958. Here are the top 5 collision repair myths—and the facts that can help you make smarter decisions.
Myth #1: You have to use your insurance company’s “preferred” shop.
Busted: California law protects your right to choose!
Your insurance provider may suggest a “preferred” or “DRP” (Direct Repair Program) shop—but they cannot require you to use one. You’re free to choose any licensed and certified repair facility, including Russ Ward Auto Body, a Gold Class I-CAR Certified shop that works with all major insurance providers.
✅ Pro tip: Choosing your own shop means you get repairs done your way, not just the cheapest way.
Myth #2: All body shops offer the same quality of work.
Busted: Certification and experience matter—big time.
Just because a shop says they do collision repair doesn’t mean they follow factory guidelines. At Russ Ward, our Gold Class I-CAR Certification puts us in the top 20% of shops nationwide. That means ongoing technician training, safety-first repair methods, and modern tools to ensure your car is restored properly.
🔧 When safety systems are involved—like airbags or ADAS—precision is everything.
Myth #3: Insurance won’t cover everything.
Busted: A good shop will fight for your full benefits.
Worried about unexpected out-of-pocket costs? At Russ Ward Auto Body, we work directly with your insurance company to make sure you receive maximum coverage. We even offer up to $500 in deductible assistance to help ease the burden.
💸 We don’t just repair cars—we advocate for our customers.
Myth #4: Shops always use aftermarket parts.
Busted: Not true—especially when OEM parts are available.
While some insurance companies push for cheaper aftermarket parts, we prioritize OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts whenever possible, especially when it affects safety, fit, or appearance. We’ll walk you through your options—and explain what’s best for your vehicle.
⚙️ OEM parts = factory specs, factory quality, factory performance.
Myth #5: Small dents or scratches aren’t a big deal.
Busted: Even minor damage can hide bigger problems.
A small dent might seem cosmetic, but it can hide underlying frame or sensor damage that affects safety and resale value. Let our certified techs check it out—we offer free damage assessments so you can drive with confidence.
🚗 Better safe than sorry. Let us take a look—no pressure, no guesswork.