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How does a car repair estimate work?

If you're in an accident and need to file a claim, getting a repair estimate helps you understand the damage to your vehicle and how much it will cost to repair.

Car repair estimate FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about car repair estimates.

What is a car repair estimate?

A car repair estimate is a breakdown of what needs to be repaired on your vehicle and how much it will cost to repair it back to its previous condition. Car repair estimates typically include details like parts, labor rates, and estimated repair time based on the visible damage from your reported accident.

Find out how to read your car repair estimate.

When do you get a repair estimate?

After you file a claim, your auto insurance company will help you get an estimate. This usually happens quickly after you file your claim with your insurer.

Where and how do you get a repair estimate?

Your insurance company may directly give you an estimate or help you find a repair shop that can inspect your vehicle and provide an estimate.

If you go with one of our network repair shops, we'll manage the repair for you, pay the shop directly, and guarantee the repair for as long as you own or lease the vehicle.

If you choose a shop yourself, we can typically also work with them to get an estimate.

Progressive makes it easy to get a repair estimate. In many cases, you can get an estimate by uploading photos through our Guided Photo process. Or, if you're ready to repair your vehicle now, we can also recommend a trusted shop from our network that can write an estimate for that repair. If you've already selected a shop for your repairs, we'll work with that shop to get an estimate.

What does my car repair estimate include?

Your estimate should include estimated costs for the parts, labor, and materials needed to repair the visible damage related to your claim. Sometimes additional damage is found during repairs — this is normal. In that case, we'll work with the repair shop on an updated estimate.

What happens after I get my estimate?

After reviewing your estimate, you have a few options:

You can opt to receive direct payment for the estimate amount (minus your deductible), even if you don't repair your car right away.
You can choose a shop and move forward with the repairs.

And if you're not sure, you can take some time to decide.

If you're ready to repair your vehicle, your claims representative can help you get started with the repair — whether it's through one of our trusted network shops or a shop you find yourself.

Did you use Progressive's Guided Photo? Here's what to expect after you receive your photo estimate:

Show video transcript

VOICEOVER:

So you've uploaded photos for your claim and received your estimate — now what?

Let's walk through your options after you get your estimate.

Your first option is to receive the payment for the cost of repairs, minus your deductible, if applicable.

Another option is to get your car repaired at any repair shop you choose, including one of our network shops.

Or, if you're unsure about what to do next, work with your representative to find the option that works best for you.

If you prefer payment, choose digital deposit or physical check.

If you're ready for repairs, contact your representative to coordinate the drop off process with you.

If the shop has questions about the estimate, they'll reach out to us — and we'll work directly with them to review.

Haven't picked a repair shop? Your claims representative can walk you through options, including network shops — and we'll manage the repair process with them.

And if you're not sure what to do next, no worries. Reach out to your representative to help.

Payment, repair, or still deciding — whatever you choose, we're here to help.

Do I have to make repairs after an insurance claim?

In most cases, repairing your vehicle is your choice. However, if you have a loan or lease, check with the lienholder or leasing company to confirm if they have repair requirements.

What portion of the car damage estimate am I responsible for?

If you have collision coverage or comprehensive coverage that applies to the damage, you'll be responsible for paying your applicable collision auto deductible or comprehensive auto deductible. You can find your deductible amount in your policy documents or by logging in to your account.

In some situations, you may be responsible for additional costs. If that's the case, your claims representative will provide details.

How does repair payment work if I finance or lease my vehicle?

If you have a lienholder, any payment issued may include both you and the lienholder as payees. If you choose not to repair the vehicle, contact your lienholder to find out how to receive payment. If you repair the car through a shop in Progressive's network, we'll pay the shop directly — there's no need to include a lienholder on the payment.

Note: Some services described are only available if you purchased coverages like comprehensive, collision, and rental car reimbursement before the damage occurred. Coverage is subject to the terms of your policy. Please refer to your policy to verify coverage.