Collision repair is fixing a vehicle after an accident. It includes repairing or replacing damaged parts, restoring the frame, and repainting to make the car look and work like it did before the crash.
Each year, around 6 million car accidents occur in the United States, with many resulting in significant vehicle damage that requires repair.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), collision repairs aren’t just cosmetic—they play a vital role in maintaining vehicle safety and performance.
Understanding the process of collision repair can help car owners make informed choices and ensure their car is fully restored.
In this guide, we break down each step of collision repair, from initial assessment to final quality checks, to help you navigate the repair journey smoothly.
Types of Collision Damage
There are 4 types of collision damage depending on area, intensity, and more factors. So, understanding the kind of damage is essential to restoring the car effectively.
Dents and Dings: Often from minor accidents, dents and dings may only affect the surface and can be easily repaired.
Paint Scratches: These can result from minor impacts or scraping, impacting the car’s appearance and requiring color-matching.
Frame Damage: When the impact affects the car's structure, the frame might be bent or misaligned, needing specialized repairs.
Cracks and Broken Parts: This can include broken bumpers, headlights, or glass, each requiring individual part replacement.
Initial Damage Assessment and Estimate
To assess the damage to your car, a technician will:
Inspect the vehicle visually and use digital tools for hidden damage
Provide an estimate based on parts and labor needed for repairs
Discuss insurance requirements and coverage, helping you understand repair costs
The initial assessment is key to ensuring the repair meets both safety and budget expectations.
Repair Planning and Parts Sourcing
Once the assessment is complete, technicians prepare a repair plan and source the needed parts. This involves:
Tailored Repair Plan: Outlining necessary work for each damaged area
Sourcing Quality Parts: Whether original or aftermarket parts are chosen based on availability, budget, and the level of repair required
Careful planning prevents delays and ensures high-quality repairs.
Structural and Frame Repairs
The car's frame is vital to both safety and performance. When the frame is compromised, repairs must focus on restoring its strength and alignment.
Frame Straightening: Specialized equipment aligns the frame back to its original shape.
Structural Testing: To confirm stability, frame repairs are checked for precision and durability.
These steps ensure the car’s foundational safety is restored before moving on to cosmetic repairs.
Bodywork and Dent Removal
Bodywork repairs involve removing dents and restoring the car’s original shape and contours. Techniques include:
Dent Removal: Using suction or hammering methods, dents are smoothed out.
Filling and Sanding: Damaged surfaces are filled, sanded, and shaped for painting.
Attention to detail here is critical for seamless results, preparing the vehicle for a smooth paint application.
Painting and Refinishing
Painting not only restores the car’s look but also protects it from rust and further wear (Click here to learn how to repair rust effectively). This step includes:
Color Matching: Ensuring the new paint matches the original color exactly
Primer, Paint, and Clear Coat Application: Layered for a durable and polished finish
A professional paint job blends with the rest of the car, creating a flawless look and added protection.
Reassembly and Quality Check
After repairs, the vehicle is reassembled and thoroughly inspected. This includes:
Part Reinstallation: All components, like bumpers, mirrors, and glass, are carefully put back in place.
Final Adjustments: Any necessary alignment and final detailing ensure a cohesive look.
A quality check verifies that repairs meet both aesthetic and safety standards, making sure the car is ready for the road.
Final Delivery and Aftercare
Once repairs are complete, the car is returned to the owner with a final inspection. Technicians may offer tips for maintaining the repairs, such as:
Regular Washes: To keep the paint and finish looking new
Routine Check-ups: Preventing small issues from becoming big problems
Flex Auto: Your Trusted Solution for Collision Repair
At Flex Auto in Orlando, our expert team is dedicated to providing reliable and detailed collision repair services.
We understand the importance of quality repairs for both safety and vehicle longevity, and we’re equipped with top tools and techniques to restore your vehicle to its best condition.
From dents to frame alignment, we ensure every aspect of your repair meets high standards.
Choosing Flex Auto means choosing experienced professionals who care about your vehicle’s appearance and performance.
Visit or Book Online to see how we can bring your car back to life with precision and care.
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