car insurance choose your own repairer

Yes, some comprehensive car insurance policies in Australia let you choose your own repairer, but it often comes with strings—an extra premium, a higher excess, or the insurer needing to approve the quote first.

The upside is simple: you pick a workshop you trust, maybe the same guru who’s been straightening bumpers since Holden left the building.

The trade‑offs can include slower approvals, no “lifetime repair guarantee” from the insurer, or limits on labour rates and parts (genuine vs OEM vs reconditioned).

Read the PDS for wording like “choice of repairer”, “preferred repairer”, or “managed repair”, and confirm towing, storage, and hire‑car cover so there are no surprises after a bingle.

If you’re not at fault, you may have more leverage, but always get authorisation in writing before the spanners fly.