Understanding the vehicle damage and repair policy is crucial for participants in the Stellantis New Car Lease Program. This comprehensive guide outlines the procedures for handling vehicle damage, accidents, repairs, and insurance claims, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free leasing experience.
Repair Procedures and Requirements
All repairs on a Stellantis leased vehicle must be carried out at a Stellantis franchised dealership or a sublet facility referred by the dealership. The use of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts is mandatory for all repairs. This ensures quality and maintains the vehicle’s warranty. Federal and state laws require full disclosure of all body damage repairs when a company-owned vehicle is sold.
Claim Process and Contact Information
For all damage claims and appraisals, contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) at (800) 313-7448. Obtaining a vehicle damage claim number and an authorized damage appraisal before commencing any repairs is essential.
Participant Responsibility and Negligence
Participants in the Stellantis new car lease program may bear up to 100% of the repair costs if the damage results from negligence or unapproved modifications. Examples of negligence include interior or exterior damage caused by spills, tears, burns, using the wrong fuel, ice scraping damage, pet damage, and damage from improperly secured cargo. Repairs performed at unauthorized independent facilities are not reimbursable, and the participant is responsible for the associated costs. Personal property damage due to accidents is not covered.
Accident Reporting Procedures
In case of an accident or vehicle damage:
- Prioritize the safety of injured individuals and seek necessary medical assistance.
- File a police report according to the laws of the state where the accident occurred.
- Complete the Accident/Damage Report Form before leaving the accident scene.
- Contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) at (800) 313-7448 immediately after the accident.
- For injury-related inquiries or third-party damage, contact Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. at (866) 850-1933 or (248) 452-6050.
- Adhere to all Stellantis accident and fleet procedures.
- Ensure all repairs and paperwork are handled by an authorized Stellantis franchised dealership.
Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy
A Stellantis Claims (CEI) representative will assign a claim number, coordinate the damage inspection with a Stellantis dealership, and manage the claim and repair process.
Exemptions from Damage Appraisal
Certain repairs do not necessitate a vehicle damage estimate:
- Safety-related repairs: Headlights, taillights, mirrors, and other safety-related items should be fixed immediately without an appraisal. If a Stellantis dealership isn’t available, a licensed repair facility can perform the repairs, and the participant can seek reimbursement.
- Tires: Refer to the Tire page under the Maintenance, Modifications & Roadside tab for detailed information.
- Wheel alignments.
- Windshield glass replacement: Only if there’s no accompanying body damage. Refer to the Glass page under the Maintenance, Modifications & Roadside tab.
- Stolen radios and equipment: Only if there’s no body damage.
Other Damages and Repairs
Body Damage: Damage exceeding the standards outlined in the Company Vehicle Operations Wear Square requires an accident claim and repair estimate from a franchised dealer. Repairs under $1,000 require prior approval from Company Vehicle Operations.
Rims/Wheels: Damaged rims or wheels require a claim for repair or replacement. Scratched rims may not be covered depending on the severity.
Vandalism, Hail, and Salt Water Damage
Report vandalism to Stellantis Claims (CEI) and file a police report. Body damage from vandalism requires an appraisal. Glass repair or replacement is included in the vandalism repair appraisal. Hail and salt water damage to the vehicle body (excluding glass) is generally not covered under the Stellantis new car lease program. However, all hail-damaged vehicles must be inspected for disclosure at turn-in.
Totaled Vehicles
If a vehicle is declared a total loss, the participant must remove all personal belongings, license plates, registration, and lease documentation. Contact Company Vehicle Operations for instructions and to initiate the replacement process. Participants within Southeastern Michigan should return loaner vehicles obtained from the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center.
Loaner/Rental Policy During Repairs
Participants in Southeastern Michigan can arrange for a loaner vehicle from the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center at (833) 550-5783 if repairs take three days or more. Outside Southeastern Michigan, loaner options are available through Business Travel. Reimbursement for rentals is capped at $35 per day, up to a maximum of $350 per occurrence.
Conclusion
The Stellantis new car lease program provides comprehensive guidelines for handling vehicle damage and repairs. By understanding these procedures and adhering to the policy, participants can ensure a seamless leasing experience. For further clarification or assistance, contact Stellantis Claims (CEI) or Company Vehicle Operations.
