Find an auto body shop near you
An auto body shop repairs damage to a car's frame, panels, glass and paint, usually after a collision. People need one after an accident, for dents and scratches, or for rust and hail damage. A good shop writes a detailed estimate, works with your insurer, and stands behind its paint and repairs.
Find auto body shops by city
- New York, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Phoenix, AZ
- Philadelphia, PA
- San Antonio, TX
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- Dallas, TX
- San Jose, CA
- Austin, TX
- Jacksonville, FL
- Fort Worth, TX
- Columbus, OH
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- Indianapolis, IN
- San Francisco, CA
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- Atlanta, GA
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- Raleigh, NC
- Long Beach, CA
- Virginia Beach, VA
- Miami, FL
- Oakland, CA
- Minneapolis, MN
- Tulsa, OK
- Bakersfield, CA
- Wichita, KS
- Arlington, TX
What do auto body shops do?
- Collision repair
- Dent repair and paintless dent removal
- Bumper repair and replacement
- Paint matching and refinishing
- Scratch and scuff repair
- Frame straightening
- Hail damage repair
- Rust repair
- Glass and windshield replacement
- Insurance claim estimates
How do you choose a good auto body shop?
- You can usually choose your own shop. Your insurer may suggest one, but you are not always required to use it.
- Ask for a written, itemized estimate that lists parts and labor.
- Ask whether they use OEM, aftermarket or used parts, and whether your policy covers OEM.
- Ask about I-CAR training or manufacturer certification for your make.
- Ask for a written warranty on paint and workmanship.
- Look at finished cars in daylight to judge paint match.
- Ask whether they do frame and alignment work in house.
Some states and cities license or register auto body and collision shops; ask how the shop is registered where that applies.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Can I see an itemized estimate?
- What parts will you use?
- Will you deal with my insurance company directly?
- What warranty do you give on paint and repairs?
- How long will the repair take?
- Will you check the frame and alignment?
- Will you call me if you find more damage?
Red flags to watch for
- Offering to waive your deductible by inflating the claim. That is insurance fraud.
- Cash-only work with no written estimate or invoice.
- Pressure to sign over insurance checks before work is done.
- Paint that does not match in daylight, or overspray on trim and glass.
- No answer on what parts they used.
What changes the price?
- Extent of the damage
- Parts type: OEM, aftermarket or used
- Paint color and finish, such as tri-coat or pearl
- Frame or structural repair
- Sensors and cameras that need recalibration
- Your insurance coverage and deductible
Questions people ask
Do I have to use the shop my insurance company recommends?
In many cases you can choose your own shop. Check your policy and ask your insurer. A recommended shop may offer faster claims handling.
What is paintless dent repair?
It is a method of pushing dents out from behind the panel without repainting. It works well for small dents and hail damage where the paint is not cracked.
Why does my repair need sensor calibration?
Many newer cars have cameras and sensors in bumpers, mirrors and windshields. After a repair they may need recalibrating so safety features work right.