Straight Edge Collision

10/16/2026

🚗 Alberta Insurance Claims & Your Rights: FAQ

At Straight Edge Collision, we work for you, not the insurance company. If you’ve recently been in an accident, you might be getting a lot of high-pressure calls from your insurance provider trying to dictate where you take your vehicle. It is important to know that the high-pressure tactics you hear from insurance adjusters are completely scripted. Insurers train their staff with pre-written corporate scripts designed specifically to scare you into using their network so they can protect their own bottom line.

Here are the facts every Alberta driver needs to know to protect their safety and their investment.

⚖️ 1. Do I have to use the repair shop my insurance company recommends?

No. Under Section 557 of the Alberta Insurance Act, you have the absolute legal right to choose any licensed collision repair facility. Your insurance company cannot force you to use their "preferred" or "direct repair program" (DRP) network.

💰 2. Will I be stuck with out-of-pocket expenses if I choose an independent shop?

No. A common tactic is telling customers they will have to pay the difference if they choose an outside shop. At Straight Edge Collision, we work directly with all major insurance providers. We use standard digital industry software to submit photos and line items, negotiating the repair costs directly with them. Aside from your standard policy deductible, applicable betterments (GST if GST registered), you will face zero unauthorized out-of-pocket expenses.

🛠️ 3. Will using an independent shop void my vehicle warranty?

Absolutely not. Choosing an independent shop does not affect your vehicle manufacturer's warranty. Furthermore, the insurance company does not warranty physical repairs—the body shop does. We provide a full lifetime warranty on all of our workmanship, giving you complete peace of mind.

📉 4. Why does my insurance provider want me to go to their network shop?

Insurers partner with specific shops to protect their own bottom line. Network shops often sign contracts agreeing to lower labour rates and the use of cheaper, alternative, or aftermarket/junkyard parts to keep costs down. Because Straight Edge Collision is completely independent, our only priority is restoring your vehicle to strict factory safety and quality standards.

⏱️ 5. Will choosing my own shop cause major delays in my claim?

Only if the insurance company chooses to delay it on their end. We submit estimates and digital images instantly. If your insurer tries to delay your approval as a pressure tactic, let us know. We handle the administrative follow-ups and push back on your behalf to get your vehicle back on the road safely and quickly.

💬 Have questions about an active insurance claim?
Don't let them steer you. Bring your vehicle or estimate to Straight Edge Collision today. Give us a call at 780-402-9494—we will guide you through the process step-by-step!

07/21/2026

01/06/2025

Subaru says asTech OEM compatible scans not approved for certified network

In an email sent to its Certified Collision Network (SCCN), Subaru reaffirmed that it requires the use of Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) software for vehicle scans and does not approve “OEM compatible” scans.

Subaru notes that asTech recently announced a new Rules Engine that informs shops if an OEM-compatible scan is available. The proper configuration would seemingly also be applicable to all businesses, certified or not, who wish to perform scans in accordance with Subaru’s documented position on Pre- and Post-Scanning of Collision Vehicles. The OEM says it will continue to approve asTech remote diagnostic scanning as one of the options for SCCN standards. However, it says the Rules Engine must be configured to comply with Subaru standards.

Read more: https://rpb.li/2v5

01/03/2025

Repair associations and automakers provide CIC eye-opening perspective on drivers behind R2R initiatives

Collision Industry Conference’s (CIC) panelists representing independent repair businesses and automakers said during a Denver meeting that their member’s interests don’t necessarily align with those promoting modern-day “right to repair” (R2R) in federal and state initiatives.

Proponents of the federal Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR ACT, H.R. 906) claim regularly on Capitol Hill that they represent independent repair businesses, but their interests in the bill don’t necessarily promote thorough repairs and utilization of repair information, as much as they are focused on giving vehicle owners the tools and information they need to choose aftermarket parts.

Read more: https://rpb.li/1fx

01/01/2025

🎉 Wishing you all the best as we step into 2025! May this new year bring joy, prosperity, and endless possibilities. Let’s make this year the best one yet!

01/01/2025

SCRS Quick Tip video leads to updated refinish position statements

A recent Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) Quick Tip video about tinting to a blendable match led to an industry-wide conversation that resulted in updated positions from AkzoNobel and BASF and updated I-CAR curriculum.

The video starts with Mike Anderson, owner of Collision Advice, stating a recent question he received from a repair planner. “They said that they actually had a tint labor operation on their repair plan and then also a line for blending and they said that the third-party payer kicked their estimate back and said, ‘You can’t have both tint and blend on an estimate or repair plan.’” Anderson goes on to say in the video that every paint manufacturer states that when tinting, you are tinting to achieve a blendable match

Read more: https://rpb.li/Udy7

12/30/2024

Updated: GEICO updates asTech pricing agreement; industry and competition react

GEICO released an updated standardized pricing sheet Monday for asTech scans and collaborations following “discussion and feedback,” according to an email to Auto Repair Xpress (ARX) Network shops, provided to Repairer Driven News (RDN). The insurance company announced an agreement for standardized pricing with asTech earlier this month. The announcement was instantly met with criticism from independent collision repair shops on social media and during a Collision Industry Conference (CIC) meeting held in Denver.

Concerns about the agreement attempting to establish “standardized” or prevailing market prices for scanning and calibration operations have been raised. Another criticism is that it appears GEICO will prioritize the recommendation of asTech’s Rules Engine on whether an aftermarket scan is a sufficient replacement for an OEM scan; which was not amended in the updated Monday email communication. Per GEICO’s price sheet, it appears it has increased the price it established with asTech for OEM pre-scans with remote support and OEM post-scans with remote support including DTC clear, steering angle sensor, and seat weight sensor.

Read more: https://rpb.li/LsGD8

12/26/2024

Hyundai Motor And Kia Unveil Advanced Temperature Control Technologies

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have introduced a series of temperature control technologies aimed at improving passenger comfort and energy efficiency in vehicles. These innovations were showcased at the “Heat Tech Day” event in Seoul, reflecting the companies’ ongoing efforts to lead in automotive technology, especially in the context of electric vehicles (EVs).

The event highlighted three key innovations: Nano Cooling Film, Radiant Heating System, and Metal-Coated Heated Glass. Each technology addresses different aspects of climate control within vehicles, catering to both hot summers and cold winters.

Nano Cooling Film

This advanced material is designed to significantly lower the interior temperature of vehicles, addressing the challenges of hot weather. Unlike traditional window tints, which merely block sunlight, the Nano Cooling Film actively reduces internal temperatures by up to 12°C. Composed of three layers, it not only reflects solar energy but also allows internal heat to escape.

Read more: https://rpb.li/ca8S1v

12/26/2024

Celebrate Boxing Day in Canada!

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a day of amazing deals, family gatherings, and post-Christmas cheer. Enjoy incredible sales, spend time with loved ones, and relax after the holiday rush.

How do you plan to spend your Boxing Day? Let us know in the comments!

12/25/2024

Warm wishes for a Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. May the spirit of the season bring you closer to family and friends, and may your heart be filled with gratitude and happiness. Merry Christmas from all of us!