Navigating Vehicle Damage Repair Under the Chrysler Retiree Car Program

For participants in the Chrysler Retiree Car Program, understanding the vehicle damage repair policy is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive overview, ensuring you’re well-informed about procedures, responsibilities, and how to handle vehicle repairs efficiently while adhering to program guidelines. This policy is designed to protect both you and Stellantis, emphasizing the use of authorized facilities and genuine OEM parts for all necessary repairs.

Understanding the Essentials of the Vehicle Damage Repair Policy

The cornerstone of the Chrysler Retiree Car Program’s vehicle damage repair policy is the requirement that all repairs on company-owned vehicles must be conducted at Stellantis franchised dealerships or their referred sublet facilities. Furthermore, to maintain vehicle integrity and comply with legal disclosure requirements, only Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are authorized for repairs.

This stringent policy is in place for several key reasons:

Legal Compliance: Federal and state laws mandate full disclosure of all body damage repairs when company-owned vehicles are sold. Adhering to OEM parts and authorized repair facilities ensures accurate and transparent vehicle history.
Quality Assurance: Stellantis franchised dealerships are equipped with the expertise and tools to repair vehicles to manufacturer standards, guaranteeing quality and safety. OEM parts are designed specifically for your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Program Integrity: Consistent repair procedures and standards across the program maintain the value and reputation of the Chrysler Retiree Car Program vehicles.

Image alt text: Close-up of various Stellantis OEM car parts including filters, brake pads, and engine components, highlighting the quality and precision engineering of genuine manufacturer parts for vehicle maintenance and repair.

Step-by-Step Accident and Damage Reporting

In the unfortunate event of vehicle damage or an accident involving your Chrysler Retiree Car Program vehicle, immediate and proper reporting is essential. Follow these steps meticulously to ensure a smooth and compliant process:

Immediate Assistance: Prioritize safety. If anyone is injured, seek medical assistance immediately.
Police Report: File a police report at the accident scene, adhering to the laws of the state or region where the incident occurred. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
Accident/Damage Report Form: Complete the Accident/Damage Report Form in detail before leaving the accident location. This form captures crucial information about the incident. Always retain a copy of this form for your personal records.
Contact Stellantis Claims (CEI): As soon as possible after the accident, contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) at 1-800-313-7448. Be prepared to provide the completed information from your Accident/Damage Report Form. It is important to identify yourself as an employee of Stellantis participating in the retiree car program. Experienced claims specialists are available 24/7 to assist you.
Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc.: For injury-related inquiries or questions about damage to third-party vehicles or property, contact Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. at 1-866-850-1933, or 1-248-452-6050.
Compliance: Ensure you fully comply with all Stellantis accident and fleet procedures throughout the reporting and repair process.
Authorized Dealership Repairs: Remember that all vehicle repairs and associated paperwork must be handled exclusively by an authorized Stellantis franchised dealership.

Click here for the complete Accident Reporting Kit and Accident/Damage Report Form. This link should be updated to the correct and accessible document for retiree program participants.

Vehicle Damage Appraisal: Getting Started

Before initiating any repairs on your Chrysler Retiree Car Program vehicle, a damage appraisal is mandatory. This process ensures proper assessment and authorization for repairs.

Contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) First: For all damage claims and appraisals, your first step is to contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) at (800) 313-7448.
Claim Number Assignment: A Stellantis Claims (CEI) representative will provide you with a vehicle damage claim number. This number is essential for tracking and managing your claim throughout the repair process.
Authorized Appraisal: A damage appraisal must be completed and authorized before any repairs commence on the company-owned vehicle. The CEI representative will coordinate with a Stellantis franchised dealership to arrange for the initial damage inspection and will manage the subsequent claim and repair procedures.

Important Note on Participant Responsibility: It’s critical to understand that participants in the Chrysler Retiree Car Program may be held financially responsible for up to 100% of repair costs if the damage is attributed to negligence or unauthorized vehicle modifications.

Examples of Negligence:

Interior damage like spills, upholstery tears, or burns.
Exterior damage caused by the custodian, driver, or occupant.
Using the wrong fuel type.
Damage from improper ice scraping.
Pet damage to the vehicle interior or exterior.
Cracked or damaged radio/infotainment screens.
Damage caused by loading, unloading, or transporting cargo improperly.
Improperly secured tonneau covers leading to damage.

Furthermore, repairs conducted at independent facilities are not authorized under the Chrysler Retiree Car Program policy and will not be reimbursed. Participants are fully responsible for any costs arising from unauthorized repairs. The program also does not cover personal property damaged in an accident.

Repairs That Typically Do Not Require an Appraisal

While most damage necessitates an appraisal, certain safety-related and routine maintenance repairs are exceptions under the Chrysler Retiree Car Program:

Safety Repairs: Repairs critical for vehicle safety, such as headlights, taillights, rearview mirrors, and side mirrors, should be addressed immediately and do not require a prior appraisal. If a Stellantis franchised dealership is not immediately accessible, repairs can be performed at a licensed repair facility. In such cases, participants should pay for the repairs upfront and seek reimbursement from the program.
Tires: Tire-related issues are generally covered under a separate tire policy within the program. Refer to the specific “Tire page” under the Maintenance, Modifications & Roadside tab for detailed procedures.
Wheel Alignments: Routine wheel alignments are typically considered maintenance and do not require a damage appraisal unless related to accident damage.
Windshield Glass Replacement (No Body Damage): If windshield replacement is needed due to chips or cracks and there is no accompanying body damage, an appraisal is not required. However, if body damage is present along with windshield damage, a claim and appraisal are necessary. Consult the “Glass page” under the Maintenance, Modification & Roadside tab for further details.
Stolen Radios and Equipment (No Body Damage): Replacement of stolen radios or equipment does not require a damage appraisal, provided there is no associated body damage. Refer to the program section on ‘Stolen Equipment’ for specific procedures.

For any uncertainties regarding whether a repair requires an appraisal, it is always best practice to contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) for clarification before proceeding.

Handling Body Damage, Wear and Tear, and Wheels/Rims

Navigating different types of vehicle damage within the Chrysler Retiree Car Program requires understanding specific guidelines:

Body Damage:

Any body damage exceeding the standards defined by the Company Vehicle Operations Wear Square necessitates filing an accident claim and obtaining a repair estimate from a franchised dealership. Click here to view the Wear Square guidelines. Ensure this link is current and accessible to program participants.
The Wear Square tool, provided at vehicle delivery or upon request from Company Vehicle Operations, helps measure damage extent and tire tread depth to determine repair or tire replacement needs.
For body damage estimated to be under $1,000, repairs are generally discouraged unless the damage significantly detracts from the vehicle’s appearance or compromises safety or structural integrity. Prior approval from Company Vehicle Operations is required for repairs under $1,000. If such minor damage is not repaired, retain the repair estimate for vehicle turn-in documentation.
If the body damage estimate is $1,000 or more, claim approval from Stellantis Claims (CEI) is mandatory before starting any repairs.

Normal Wear and Tear:

The Chrysler Retiree Car Program does not authorize repairs for normal wear and tear items such as minor scratches, dings, or paint imperfections consistent with typical vehicle use. These should not be repaired under the program’s policy.

Rims/Wheels:

Damage to rims or wheels, requiring repair or replacement, necessitates filing a claim.
In cases where both a tire and rim are damaged simultaneously (e.g., pothole damage), a single claim should be filed with CEI encompassing both items.
Scratched rims may or may not be covered depending on the severity of the damage. It is advisable to file a claim for an appraisal to determine coverage eligibility.

Vandalism, Glass Damage, and Stolen Equipment

Specific procedures apply to vehicle damage resulting from vandalism, glass damage, and stolen equipment under the Chrysler Retiree Car Program.

Vehicle Vandalism:

The Vehicle Damage Appraisal Process is applicable in vandalism cases involving body damage, suspension and/or underbody damage, or stolen equipment.

Body Damage (Vandalism):

Any sheet metal body damage due to vandalism must be appraised and repaired according to the Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy.
Obtain a courtesy estimate from a Stellantis franchised dealership. If the estimate is under $1,000, repairs are typically not authorized.
For estimates of $1,000 or more, a claim must be filed and a police report provided before any repairs begin.

Glass Damage:

If glass damage occurs along with body damage, suspension, underbody damage, or stolen equipment, the Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy must be followed. A claim and police report are required.
Windshield Damage Only (No other damage or stolen equipment): Contact Safelite directly for windshield replacement.
Other Glass Damage Only (e.g., sunroof, window, etc., no windshield damage, body damage, or stolen equipment): A claim must be filed.
Windshield and Other Glass Damage: A claim must be filed if both the windshield and any other vehicle glass are damaged.

Stolen Equipment/Vandalism:

If equipment is stolen or vandalized and there is also body damage, suspension, or underbody damage, the Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy applies. File a claim and provide a police report.
Replacement of stolen Original Equipment by Manufacturer (OEM) parts must be performed at a Stellantis franchised dealership.

Personal Property:

The Chrysler Retiree Car Program and Stellantis are not responsible for theft or vandalism of personal property within program vehicles. Participants should address such losses through their personal insurance.

Hail and Salt Water Damage Policy

Stellantis policy dictates specific handling for hail and salt water damage within the Chrysler Retiree Car Program.

No Body Damage Repair (Hail/Salt Water): Stellantis generally does not repair vehicle body damage (excluding glass replacement) caused by hail or salt water.
Mandatory Hail Damage Inspection: All vehicles with hail damage must undergo inspection to document the extent of damage for disclosure purposes upon vehicle turn-in. Participants must follow the Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy for this inspection and retain the damage appraisal in the vehicle’s glove compartment.
Severe Damage and Vehicle Replacement: Vehicles sustaining severe hail or salt water damage may be eligible for replacement with a new vehicle. Participants must request vehicle replacement through Company Vehicle Operations after the damage appraisal is completed.

Investigations, Legal Proceedings, and Record Keeping

Program participants are expected to fully cooperate in any company investigations related to accidents or vehicle damage involving Chrysler Retiree Car Program vehicles.

Full Cooperation Required: Participants and permittees must cooperate with Stellantis investigations into accidents and damage.
Legal and Government Cooperation: In cases of vehicle theft, vandalism, or damage arising from alleged criminal or civil wrongdoing, participants must cooperate with government authorities and Stellantis. This includes signing criminal complaints, acting as witnesses, and taking other reasonable actions as requested.
Participant Record Keeping Responsibility: It is the participant’s responsibility to maintain copies of all police reports, accident reports, damage appraisals, and any other pertinent documentation related to accidents or incidents of loss.

Loaner/Rental Vehicle Policy During Repairs

The Chrysler Retiree Car Program provides options for loaner or rental vehicles to minimize inconvenience while your assigned vehicle is undergoing repairs.

Southeastern Michigan (SE MI) Participants:

Contact the Loaner Department at the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center at (833) 550-5783 to arrange a loaner vehicle if repairs will take three days or longer.
Loaner Vehicle Damage: If any damage occurs to the loaner vehicle, immediately follow the Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy and contact the Loaner Department at (833) 550-5783.

Participants Outside Southeastern Michigan:

Indiana Residents: Email cvoadesa@stellantis.com to inquire about loaner vehicle availability in Indiana. Note that this option is currently limited to Indiana and vehicle inventory is subject to availability. Insurance is included with Indiana loaners. If a local loaner is not available in Indiana, utilize the Business Travel rental option.
Business Travel Rental: Book a rental loaner through Business Travel’s designated provider at (669) 272-1325. Insurance is included in the Stellantis contracted rate when renting through Business Travel’s provider for loaner rentals. Mention that you are a participant in the Company Vehicle Program when calling.
- Age Requirement: Loaner rentals outside SE MI via Business Travel are permissible for drivers aged 18 and over. For drivers under 18, the program participant may rent a vehicle and provide an alternate household vehicle to the younger driver.
- Validation Letter: When renting through Business Travel for yourself or a dependent driver, email Company Vehicle Operations at cocars@stellantis.com with your CID, Retiree First and Last Name, Dependent First and Last Name (if applicable), and indicate who the rental is for. Upon verification, a validation letter will be emailed to you, which must be presented at the rental counter.

Rental Reimbursement:

Participants may rent a vehicle from the day their assigned vehicle goes in for repair if the repair duration is expected to be three days or more.
The reimbursement rate is $35 per day, up to a maximum of $350 per repair occurrence. The monthly lease vehicle payment continues while the assigned vehicle is out of service.
If possible, wait to leave your vehicle at the dealership until parts are ordered and received and the dealership is ready to begin repairs, especially if the vehicle is drivable.
Compact Vehicle Loaners: Loaner rentals of compact size vehicles typically fall within the $35/day price range.
Larger Vehicle Needs: Approval from Company Vehicle Operations via email is required if a larger vehicle is needed as a loaner.

Extended Repair Durations:

If repairs exceed 10 days or the maximum rental reimbursement amount, contact the dealership to inquire about the reason for the delay.
Contact Company Vehicle Operations for assistance in expediting repairs or if a rental extension is necessary. Email Company Vehicle Operations every 10 days to request a rental extension if repairs remain incomplete.

Totaled Vehicles: Procedures and Options

In the event your Chrysler Retiree Car Program vehicle is declared a total loss, specific procedures must be followed.

Total Loss Notification: If the authorized appraiser determines the vehicle is a total loss, they will notify the participant.
Vehicle Preparation (Total Loss): Upon total loss notification, immediately remove all personal property, the license plate, vehicle registration, insurance certificate, and any other lease-related documents from the totaled vehicle. Return all items except the insurance certificate to the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center at the address provided below. The insurance certificate should be transferred to the replacement vehicle.

Lapeer Road Marshaling Center Address:

Stellantis CIMS: 438-01-00
4300 S. Lapeer Road
Orion Twp., MI 48359
Outside Line: (833) 550-5783

Notify Company Vehicle Operations: Inform Company Vehicle Operations of the totaled vehicle status by submitting an Interim Vehicle Replacement Form, found on the Company Vehicle Operations website under the Forms tab. Allow 2-3 business days for processing before contacting the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center.

Vehicle Replacement Options:

Within Southeastern Michigan: If you received a loaner vehicle from the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center, it must be returned at this time. Select an interim vehicle and retain it until a new vehicle is ordered and delivered. A new vehicle may be ordered during the second or third ordering phase.
Outside Southeastern Michigan: Contact Company Vehicle Operations for assistance. Participants are required to replace totaled vehicles to remain active in the lease car program. A new vehicle order is contingent on corporate vehicle production schedules.

Totaled Vehicles Not Being Replaced:

Termination Form Required: Participants who choose not to replace a totaled vehicle must submit a completed Termination Form, indicating the totaled status. The Termination Form is located under the Bulletins and Forms tab on the Company Vehicle Operations website. Complete, sign, and submit the form to the number or address provided on the form.
Lease Payment Discontinuation: Submitting the Termination Form will stop monthly lease payments from being deducted from payroll/pension checks, effective from the vehicle totaled date. If a new vehicle order was already placed and you decide not to take delivery, indicate this on the Termination Form.

Dealer Billing and Third-Party Contacts

Understanding dealer billing and proper handling of third-party communications is essential for claim processing under the Chrysler Retiree Car Program.

Dealer Billing Procedures:

Stellantis franchised dealerships must submit the repair order/invoice and damage appraisal to Company Vehicle Operations for payment at the following:

Fleet Operations – Vehicle Claims
Email: fcacocarclaims@stellantis.com
Phone: (833) 550-5783

Dealerships will receive a credit for the repair amount on their Dealer Billing Statement under Billing Code “0057”.

Third-Party Communication:

Any subsequent claims or communications from third parties (individuals, attorneys, or insurance companies), whether by phone or mail, must be immediately referred to Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. for handling and response.
No Claim Settlement Authorization: Program participants or custodians are not authorized to settle any claim involving a Stellantis-owned vehicle.

By adhering to these guidelines, participants in the Chrysler Retiree Car Program can ensure a smooth and compliant process for vehicle damage repair, maintaining the integrity of the program and minimizing personal financial responsibility. Always prioritize safety, proper reporting, and communication with Stellantis Claims (CEI) and Company Vehicle Operations for any vehicle damage related incidents.