Insurance providers in North America are reassessing repair strategies as spare parts shortages push OSAGO-type repairs to the forefront of policy discussions. Industry observers note that limiting the use of new components may be necessary in the near term while the market adjusts to the disruption. Stakeholders are preparing a briefing for financial regulators to outline routes that keep repair costs manageable without compromising safety or vehicle reliability.
Right now, the consensus among major insurance associations is to explore practical options that align with current supply realities. It is not feasible to source roughly 15 to 30 percent of parts, whether aftermarket or factory originals, from existing inventories. Car makers and distributors point to a temporary policy around cross-brand compatibility and alternative sourcing as worth considering, with careful attention to manufacturing origin and brand compatibility.
The ongoing shortages and distribution hurdles have driven a sharp shift toward cash settlements for repairs. Analysts report a roughly 40 percent rise in out-of-pocket payments from March through September when compared with the same period two years earlier, reflecting both tighter credit terms and the slower flow of parts into service networks.
Despite expectations, ordering original components through non-traditional channels has not yet yielded the anticipated relief. The gap is most acute for several premium and mass-market brands, with delivery delays for certain items stretching to two months or longer in some cases. This variability underscores the need for insurers to build flexible timelines into claim settlements and repair planning.
Another area receiving attention is the repair timeline itself. Some insurers suggest extending the standard repair window from 30 days to 60 days to accommodate delays in part deliveries. There is also concern about shops that refuse OSAGO repairs because they cannot satisfy a guaranteed 30-day turnaround. In light of these challenges, insurers are evaluating options to streamline authorizations and work with a broader network of repair facilities, while maintaining transparency and fairness for policyholders.
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