My take on the NRMA repair system
For the last 3 wks I have helped out at the local auto repair centre.
This is my personal understanding on NRMA insurance repairs from the viewpoint of the repairer.
The process
All damage is photographed and details placed on NRMA secure site for tendering.
The repairers' then determine the cost of parts and, with their labour, then bid for the repair.
The repairer, wherever they may be, with the lowest quote gets the repair.
So your car is being repaired by whoever quotes the cheapest price.
The car is delivered to repairer and repairs are undertaken and the car returned.
What actual parts are used is at the discression of the repairer.
where it is repaired is at the discretion of NRMA.
The Result
In order to maximise profits (the quote was so low) that the repairer uses 3rd party components.(commonly referred in the industry as "taiwanese" parts)
These parts are usually made from 2mm mild steel not the usual 4mm hardened steel.
eg if a car is "T boned" ie the center pillar is damaged, there is a good chance that a cheaper replacement pillar is used.
There is no way one can tell the difference, after completion, until the next accident.
Reasoning
The repairers need to stay in business.
If costs are cut, cheaper parts will be substituted to complete the repair.
This is of necessity.
Long range repercussions
more parts are now imported. Any parts manufactured in Aussie are no longer being purchased. Therefore aussie jobs will be lost. Aussie businesses will go broke.
This was a real eye opener for me.
Thought I would share my knowledge or those on this
forum.
Techie