Did you know you have the right to choose your own repairer?
Yes are you free to choose your own repairer and it’s your legal right to do so.
Under the UK car insurance repair rights, you’re not obliged to go with an approved repairer chosen by your insurance.
the advantages are
You choose who fixes your car.
Your choice may be more local to you.
Approved repairers may not always fit original parts to save costs (check your policy terms)
What you need to know.
Once you decide to choose your own repairer, you will need to get an estimate of the repair costs which needs to be sent to your insurance provider. The estimate must be approved by your insurance provider before any repair work begins.
Regardless of whether you use an approved repairer or your own choice, make sure you read your policy documents carefully so you understand exactly what terms and conditions apply to repairs.