A pilot project to promote the use of recycled parts has been received with poor enthusiasm by customers of insurer Allianz Cornhill.

However, the initiative is expected to continue until the end of the year, after which its results will be assessed.

Policyholders with vehicles aged five years or older are being asked to consider the use of recycled parts in repairing their vehicles. In an earlier trial, Allianz Cornhill found 20% of repairs could include recycled components, and their usage could save £100 per claim, on average.

“However, a survey of customers suggested that there is a lack of enthusiasm for recycled parts.

Although many people were keen on the concept, the thought of a recycled part used on their own vehicles did not appeal,” says Dane Loosley, motor damage claims manager.

It mostly includes cosmetic parts such as panels and trim. Bodyshops in Allianz Cornhill’s approved repairer programme will be supplied by salvage distributor Car Transplants.

“Availability and distribution needs to be effective to ensure that bodyshops are provided with fast and accurate delivery of parts. The main problem, which many believe will be the downfall of recycling, is identifying the correct part and being able to source it quickly.”

Loosley says customers should benefit as vehicles written-off for economic reasons may be repairable with lower cost recycled parts.