Understanding FCA Company Car Program Rules: A Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle Damage & Repair

Navigating the intricacies of a company car program can be challenging, particularly when it comes to understanding the policies surrounding vehicle damage and repair. For participants in the FCA (now Stellantis) Company Car Program, knowing the specific rules and procedures is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid potential financial responsibilities. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Fca Company Car Program Rules pertaining to vehicle damage repair, designed to help participants understand their obligations and the correct steps to take in case of vehicle incidents.

This article will delve into the essential aspects of the Stellantis Vehicle Damage Repair Policy, ensuring you are well-informed about everything from reporting an accident to handling repairs and understanding financial responsibility. Whether you are a long-time participant or new to the program, this guide serves as your go-to resource for understanding the FCA company car program rules related to vehicle care and maintenance.

Reporting Accidents and Damage Under FCA Company Car Program Rules

The first and most critical step when your company-owned vehicle is damaged or involved in an accident is to report it correctly. According to the FCA company car program rules, immediate reporting is mandatory to ensure compliance with both company policy and legal requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow if you experience vehicle damage:

Ensure Safety First: Your immediate priority is safety. If anyone is injured, provide assistance and call for medical help if needed.
Contact Law Enforcement: File a police report. This is a crucial step, as police reports are often required for insurance claims and company records. Adhere to the specific laws of the state or region where the accident occurred when reporting to the police.
Complete the Accident/Damage Report Form: Before leaving the scene of the accident, fill out all sections of the Accident/Damage Report Form. It is essential to keep a copy of this completed form for your records. While the original article mentions a link, for this rewritten article and general SEO best practices, we should aim to embed or directly link to such forms within the website where this article is published.
Notify Stellantis Claims (CEI) Immediately: As soon as possible after the accident, call Stellantis Claims (CEI) at 1-800-313-7448. Crucially, identify yourself as a Stellantis employee. Experienced claims specialists are available 24/7 to assist you.
For Injury or Third-Party Damage: If there are injuries or damage to third-party vehicles or property, also contact Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. at 1-866-850-1933, or 1-248-452-6050 for guidance.
Adhere to Stellantis Procedures: Ensure you comply with all Stellantis accident and fleet procedures. This includes cooperating fully with any investigations.
Authorized Dealership for Repairs: Remember, all vehicle repairs and necessary paperwork must be handled by an authorized Stellantis franchised dealership.

Alt Text: Contact details for Stellantis Claims (CEI) and Gallagher Bassett Services, key contacts for reporting accidents and damage under the FCA Company Car Program Rules, ensuring compliance and proper procedure.

By following these steps diligently, you ensure adherence to the FCA company car program rules regarding accident reporting, facilitating a smoother process for damage assessment and repair.

Understanding the Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy Under FCA Company Car Program Rules

Following the initial accident report, the next critical phase involves the vehicle damage appraisal. The FCA company car program rules stipulate a clear process for damage assessment to ensure fair and accurate repair procedures.

Upon receiving your accident report, a Stellantis Claims (CEI) representative will assign a vehicle damage claim number. This claim number is essential for all subsequent communications and repair processes. The CEI representative will then coordinate with a Stellantis franchised dealership to conduct an initial damage inspection. This appraisal is mandatory before any repairs can commence on your company-owned vehicle, ensuring adherence to the FCA company car program rules.

Exceptions to Damage Appraisal:

It’s important to note that under specific circumstances, a vehicle damage estimate is not immediately required. These exceptions are primarily for safety and essential maintenance items:

Safety-Related Repairs: Repairs that are safety-critical, such as headlights, taillights, rearview mirrors, and side mirrors, must be addressed immediately. These repairs do not necessitate a prior appraisal to ensure vehicle safety. If a Stellantis dealership is unavailable, a licensed repair facility can perform these repairs, with reimbursement to be requested later.
Tires: Tire-related issues are handled under a separate Tire policy, detailed under the “Maintenance, Modifications & Roadside” section of the program guidelines. Again, in a live website context, linking to this specific “Tire page” would enhance user experience.
Wheel Alignments: Similar to tires, wheel alignments are considered routine maintenance and do not require a damage appraisal unless linked to accident damage.
Windshield Glass Replacement (No Body Damage): If the windshield needs replacement due to chips or cracks and there is no accompanying body damage, a claim for damage appraisal is not needed. However, if body damage is present, a claim must be filed to assess the full extent of the damage. Details on glass-related issues are also found under the “Glass page” within the “Maintenance, Modification & Roadside” section.
Stolen Radios and Equipment (No Body Damage): If a radio or equipment is stolen and there is no related body damage, a damage appraisal is not required for the theft itself. However, any body damage resulting from the theft would necessitate an appraisal.

Alt Text: Essential vehicle components like headlights, taillights and mirrors, highlighting parts that qualify for immediate safety repairs under FCA Company Car Program Rules without preliminary damage appraisal, ensuring vehicle safety.

Understanding these exceptions is crucial for participants to navigate the FCA company car program rules efficiently and ensure timely repairs, especially when safety is concerned.

Authorized Repair Facilities and OEM Parts: Key FCA Company Car Program Rules

A cornerstone of the FCA company car program rules is the mandate for using authorized repair facilities and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for all repairs on company-owned vehicles. This policy is in place for several important reasons:

Quality Assurance: Stellantis franchised dealerships and sublet facilities referred by them are certified to meet Stellantis’s high standards for repair quality and service. Using OEM parts ensures that the replacement components are of the same quality and specifications as the original parts of the vehicle, maintaining vehicle performance and safety.
Warranty and Compliance: Repairs performed outside of authorized facilities or using non-OEM parts may not be compliant with Stellantis’s vehicle warranties and the FCA company car program rules. Furthermore, federal and state laws require full disclosure of all body damage repairs when a company-owned vehicle is sold. Using authorized facilities and OEM parts helps ensure compliance with these legal disclosure requirements.
Financial Responsibility: The policy explicitly states that repairs performed by independent facilities are not authorized and will not be reimbursed by Stellantis. Participants who choose to have their company vehicle repaired at an unauthorized facility will be personally responsible for all resulting costs.

Participant Responsibility and Negligence:

While the program covers vehicle damage under normal circumstances, participants can be held financially responsible for repairs if the damage is due to negligence or unauthorized modifications. The FCA company car program rules clearly outline scenarios where participants may bear the repair costs:

Negligence: This includes, but is not limited to, interior and exterior damage caused by the custodian or any vehicle occupant, such as spills, upholstery damage (tears or burns), using the wrong fuel, damage from improper ice scraping, pet damage, cracked or damaged screens, and damage resulting from loading, unloading, or transporting cargo, including improperly secured tonneau covers.
Unauthorized Modifications: Any modifications to the vehicle not approved by Company Vehicle Operations are also grounds for holding the participant responsible for related damages.

Alt Text: Visual examples of interior and exterior vehicle damages such as spills, tears, and scratches, illustrating types of negligence that could result in financial responsibility for participants under FCA Company Car Program Rules.

It is crucial for participants to understand these stipulations within the FCA company car program rules to avoid unexpected expenses and maintain good standing within the program. Proper vehicle care and adherence to guidelines are key to preventing negligence-related damage.

Loaner Vehicle Policy During Repairs Under FCA Company Car Program Rules

Understanding the loaner vehicle policy is an important aspect of the FCA company car program rules, especially when your company vehicle requires repair. Stellantis provides options for loaner vehicles to minimize inconvenience during repair periods, with the specifics varying by location and repair duration.

For Participants in Southeastern Michigan:

Participants located within Southeastern Michigan (SE MI) should contact the Loaner Department at the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center at (833) 550-5783 to arrange a loaner vehicle if their company car will be under repair for three days or more. It’s important to note that if any damage occurs to the loaner vehicle itself, the same Vehicle Damage Appraisal Policy and FCA company car program rules apply.

For Participants Outside Southeastern Michigan:

For those residing outside SE MI, two primary options are available for obtaining a loaner vehicle:

Indiana Residents: Participants in Indiana can request a loaner by emailing [email protected]. This option is currently limited to Indiana and is subject to vehicle availability. Insurance is included with this loaner option. If a local loaner in Indiana is not available, the Business Travel option should be utilized.
Business Travel Rental: All participants outside SE MI can book a rental loaner through Business Travel’s designated provider at (669) 272-1325. This option is available for drivers aged 18 and over. For younger drivers, the participant can rent a vehicle and provide an alternative household vehicle for the dependent driver. Insurance is included in the Stellantis contracted rate when renting through Business Travel for loaner rentals. When calling Business Travel, it is crucial to state that you are a participant in the Company Vehicle Program.

Reimbursement and Important Notes:

Rental Reimbursement: If arranging a rental independently becomes necessary and pre-approved, the reimbursement rate is $35 per day, with a maximum of $350 per incident. This reimbursement is designed to cover a compact size vehicle rental. Approval from Company Vehicle Operations is required for larger vehicles if there is a demonstrated need.
Lease Payments Continue: It is important to remember that your monthly lease vehicle payment continues even while your company car is undergoing repairs and you are using a loaner vehicle.
Timely Repairs: Participants should not leave their vehicle at the dealership until parts are ordered and the dealership is ready to begin repairs, unless otherwise directed. This minimizes the time needed for a loaner vehicle.
Rental Duration and Extensions: If repairs are expected to exceed 10 days or the maximum rental reimbursement, contact the dealership to understand the delay. For rental extensions beyond 10 days, contact Company Vehicle Operations via email for approval, and repeat this extension request every 10 days if repairs are still ongoing.

Alt Text: Flowchart illustrating the process for participants to obtain loaner vehicles under FCA Company Car Program Rules, differentiating procedures for Southeastern Michigan and outside Southeastern Michigan residents.

By understanding these loaner vehicle provisions within the FCA company car program rules, participants can effectively manage transportation needs while their company vehicles are being repaired, ensuring minimal disruption to their schedules.

Totaled Vehicles and Program Termination Under FCA Company Car Program Rules

In unfortunate cases where a company vehicle is declared a total loss, the FCA company car program rules outline specific procedures for both vehicle replacement and program termination, depending on the participant’s circumstances and preferences.

Procedures for Totaled Vehicles:

If an authorized appraiser determines that your company vehicle is a total loss, you will be notified. Upon notification:

Remove Personal Items: Immediately remove all personal property from the totaled vehicle.
Retrieve Documents: Take out the license plate, vehicle registration, insurance certificate, and any other lease-related documents from the vehicle.
Return Items to Lapeer Road: Return all retrieved items, except for the insurance certificate, to the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center at the address provided (Stellantis CIMS: 438-01-00 4300 S. Lapeer Road Orion Twp., MI 48359). The insurance certificate should be transferred to your new vehicle if you are replacing the totaled vehicle.
Notify Company Vehicle Operations: Inform Company Vehicle Operations of the totaled vehicle status by submitting an Interim Vehicle Replacement Form, available 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 vs. Program Termination:

Vehicle Replacement: Participants are generally expected to replace totaled vehicles to remain active in the lease car program.
- Within Southeastern Michigan: Return any loaner vehicle obtained from the Lapeer Road Marshaling Center and select an interim vehicle. Retain the interim vehicle until a new company car is ordered and delivered. A new vehicle order can be placed during the second or third ordering phase after the total loss is processed.
- Outside Southeastern Michigan: Contact Company Vehicle Operations for assistance with vehicle replacement. A new vehicle order can be placed if Stellantis is still producing vehicles.
Program Termination (No Replacement): Participants who choose not to replace a totaled vehicle must formally terminate their participation in the program.
- Procedure for Termination: Submit a completed Termination Form, found under the “Bulletins and Forms” tab on the Company Vehicle Operations website. Indicate the totaled status of the vehicle on this form. Submit the signed form to the number or address specified on the form.
- Lease Payment Discontinuation: Submitting the Termination Form will stop monthly lease payments from being deducted from your payroll or pension check, effective from the date the vehicle was totaled. If a new vehicle order was already placed and you decide not to proceed, this should also be noted on the Termination Form.

Alt Text: Decision tree outlining options for participants dealing with totaled vehicles under FCA Company Car Program Rules, detailing steps for vehicle replacement versus program termination based on location and preference.

Understanding these procedures within the FCA company car program rules is essential for participants to manage the process smoothly in the event of a total vehicle loss, whether they choose to continue in the program with a replacement vehicle or opt for program termination.

Dealer Billing and Third-Party Contacts Under FCA Company Car Program Rules

The FCA company car program rules also specify guidelines for dealer billing and handling communications from third parties related to vehicle incidents. These rules are primarily for administrative and legal clarity.

Dealer Billing Process:

For dealerships completing repairs on company vehicles, the billing process is clearly defined to ensure proper payment and record-keeping:

Submission of Documentation: Stellantis franchised dealerships must submit the repair order/invoice and the vehicle damage appraisal to Company Vehicle Operations for payment.
Submission Method: Documents should be submitted to Fleet Operations – Vehicle Claims via email at [email protected] or via phone at (833) 550-5783.
Billing Code: Dealerships will receive credit for the repair amount under Billing Code “0057” on their Dealer Billing Statement.

Handling Third-Party Contacts:

To manage liability and legal processes effectively, the FCA company car program rules dictate how participants should handle communications from third parties:

Referral to Gallagher Bassett: Any claims or contacts received from a third party—whether an individual, attorney, or insurance company—must be immediately referred to Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. for handling and response.
No Claim Settlement Authority: Participants and custodians of company-owned vehicles are explicitly not authorized to settle any claim involving a Stellantis-owned vehicle. All claim settlements must be managed by authorized Stellantis representatives or Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc.

Alt Text: Diagram outlining dealer billing and third-party contact procedures under FCA Company Car Program Rules, emphasizing the roles of dealerships, Company Vehicle Operations, and Gallagher Bassett Services in claims and billing processes.

These guidelines within the FCA company car program rules ensure that financial transactions and legal interactions are handled consistently and professionally, protecting both the participant and Stellantis.

Conclusion: Adhering to FCA Company Car Program Rules for Vehicle Damage and Repair

Understanding and adhering to the FCA company car program rules regarding vehicle damage and repair is paramount for all participants. This comprehensive guide has outlined the key aspects of the policy, from accident reporting and damage appraisal to authorized repairs, loaner vehicles, and procedures for totaled vehicles.

By following these guidelines, participants can ensure they are in full compliance with program requirements, avoid potential financial liabilities due to negligence or unauthorized actions, and facilitate a smooth process in case of any vehicle-related incidents. Remember, the FCA company car program rules are designed to protect both the company and the participant, ensuring fair and efficient handling of vehicle maintenance and repair within the program. Always refer to official Stellantis documentation and contact the appropriate departments for any specific questions or clarifications to remain fully informed and compliant with the FCA company car program rules.