27-02-07

Bodyshops given extra support to save MG Rovers

Enhancements to XPart’s Close Call scheme provide new opportunities for bodyshops

Bodyshops are being given a further opportunity to generate income from the repair of MG Rover vehicles that have been classified as an insurance write-off, thanks to changes in XPart’s Close Call programme. Under the revised programme, bodyshops can now apply directly to XPart for a reduction in the cost of the parts required to rebuild a written-off vehicle. Previously, claims had to be made through insurance companies.

“The revision to the Close Call process is great news for everyone involved in the repair of MG Rover vehicles,” comments Craig Cooper, general manager, XPart. “We received very positive feedback about the programme, but some bodyshops felt it could be further improved if they were able to submit a request to Close Call directly, rather than through busy insurance companies who may not have the resource available to help ensure the car stays on the road.”

Close Call was introduced by XPart last April in an attempt to help reduce the number of MG Rover cars that were being written off by insurers. Aimed at category C and D write-offs, claimants submit a list of replacement parts that are required to repair the vehicle. The list is reviewed by the XPart team and, if possible, a revised price offer is made for the cost of the parts to try and ensure that parts cost is not a factor in the car being written off. Since the programme’s introduction, more than 80 per cent of claims have resulted in the revised offer being accepted and the car being saved.

“The success rate of Close Call is another demonstration of our commitment to supporting the UK’s 1.8 million MG Rover owners,” says Cooper. “This innovative approach ensures that bodyshops are able to generate revenue through the accident repairs, garages also benefit from ongoing servicing and above all, owners do not lose their cherished vehicles.”

The revised Close Call programme is being rolled out through the MG Rover parts wholesaler network and is also being expanded into seven European countries. To make a claim, bodyshops should contact their nearest MG Rover parts wholesaler for a request form and details of the process.

XPart is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Logistics Services UK Limited, one of the automotive industry’s leading supply chain management companies. It has established a network of more than 220 XPart AutoService centres across the UK, providing franchise-quality repair at aftermarket rates. Its product range contains more than 33,000 parts for all makes of vehicle and since 2001, it has been responsible for the supply of genuine MG Rover parts.

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