Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 3/2/2010

Question
I was recently in an auto accident with the other driver being at fault. Her insurance company has paid the body shop of my choice where I picked up my repaired car six days ago. Four days ago my check engine light came on. I called the adjuster and he says I must take it back to the body shop that did the repair. I want to take the car to the local dealership to be mechanically inspected  and repairs made if needed instead of the body shop. Do I have the right to demand this? I am in Ohio.

Answer
Hi Mary,

In most cases, you should take the vehicle back to the original shop. You should call the shop and ask them if they have a mechanic in house or if they would just send it to the dealership for diagnosis. If they would send it to the shop anyway, then tell the adjuster that the shop has no mechanic and you are taking your car to the dealer which is where the shop would send it anyway.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh