Follow the money and you will find the solution.

Suggestion - Take the money from the Insurance Company and sub out the work for your self.

The auto shop probably wants to service all parts from a single source. That source has the parts you listed.

Wit the single source - the auto body shop will get your car in and out faster. Hence saving them selves’ money.

The "better" prices you were quoting were from different sources - too much pain for the auto shop to experience for a car they have no affinity with.

You, on the other hand, like the car and want what’s best - new parts.

My story is slightly similar - 1985 560SL - I had a slight fender bender - but the hood needed replaced.

Poof - the appraiser decided the car was a total - before they even knew what the totaled value is. The appraiser told me the story of "fast turn around" and the needed profit.

I gladly took their money. As a spare car I had all some to shop and get quotes. I did none of the physical body work, but found an auto shop who would do the work with the parts I provided. I was clear with him that I want all to be happy - and he charged me the rate he wanted (included some of the profit he would have gained from the parts.) I made out! The car is on the road - in great shape with extra money in my pocket.

Summary - don't settle - compromise.

__________________
Thanks for the help
Bill Fisher

'86 560SL (186K) - Now a 'classic' : Registered as an Historic Vehicle
02 E430 in the stable
'14 LS460 (Lexus)
- - - - -
'95 E420 (198K) found a new home
'99 E320 (80K) (gave it's life for me as we hit a bumper)
'95 E420 (231K) Sold to a happy buyer, new to Mercedes
'90 300E (65K) Sold to an Mercedes Lover
'92 190E (215K) - retired to the salvage yard
'93 500SEL (214K) - Moved to another family, still runs like a young pup