Insurance Explained – Specialist Repairer or Not

“The Nissan Figaro is one of the vehicles where we most often see issues arise during repairs made through non-specialist garages. The process is not like repairing a modern day to day vehicle.

“The Figaro had a limited production run, is unique in its construction, and wasn’t officially imported into the UK, meaning parts availability and specialist knowledge are absolutely critical. Owners may choose a business they already know, but many mainstream repairers don’t have the experience, tools, or parts networks required to return a Figaro to its pre-claim condition. This may lead to delays, unfinished repairs, or even the risk of the vehicle being written off unnecessarily.”

“The most common issue is parts. Businesses unfamiliar with the Figaro won’t know where to source components, leading to delays, works carried out incorrectly, or even abandoned altogether. Similarly, when a Figaro owner insures their cherished car with a high street provider, not a specialist, the car will usually be sent to the insurer’s approved repairer.

These non-specialist businesses may contact Nissan for parts prices, only to be told that new Figaro parts are no longer available. Without knowledge of where to source alternatives, they may conclude that the repairs are not viable.”

“With ClassicLine Insurance, the experience is very different. When you insure your Nissan Figaro with ClassicLine, your policy gives you the option to choose who repairs your vehicle in the event of a claim. That gives you real control.

“This means you can choose a repairer with the skills, techniques and tools needed, who understands the repair methods and can source genuine spares or reliable alternatives to keep the value of your unique classic car intact. At the end of the day, accidents happen, and that’s why you have insurance. But when repairs are possible, we’ll work with you to ensure they’re handled in the best way to protect the value of your car.”

“Always do your research, and a helpful place to begin is with the Figaro Owners Club Vehicle Services Directory. This directory lists Figaro dealers, importers, restorers, and workshops known and used by club members. It isn’t an exhaustive or approved list, but it’s an incredibly valuable resource.

“We’ve seen many clients use the directory to find reputable specialists and achieve excellent repair outcomes. Choosing the right workshop helps ensure the job is done quickly and correctly, getting you back on the road sooner. Speak to a few repairers about your requirements and once you have chosen the right one for you, send us a detailed estimate and full incident details before any works begin.”

“There are a few important things to remember:

1. Your Figaro will not follow the same repair journey as a modern day to day car.
2. Talk to and liaise with a Figaro specialist about the damages to your car and ask them to provide a repair estimate to repair your car. A good place to look for a Figaro specialist is https://www.figaroownersclub.com/garages/.
3. This estimate will need to be submitted to your insurer for them to authorise your chosen repairer to repair the car.
4. Be prepared to do a little running around. Insurers can be very efficient when repairing modern day to day cars as they use their own network – your Figaro needs to be repaired outside that network.

“By choosing a Figaro-savvy repairer, you protect the value of your car, reduce unnecessary delays, and make sure it’s returned to the road in the condition it deserves. Our insurance advisors will guide you through the steps to ensure your car is repaired correctly and efficiently.”