Got into a fender bender? Or maybe a major accident? Whether it’s a tiny parking lot scrape or a full-on freeway crash, collision repair can get your car safely back on the road, and looking like it never happened. But if you’re like most drivers, you might be wondering. “What exactly does collision repair include?”
What Is Collision Repair?
Collision repair isn’t just about making your car look good again, it’s about making sure it’s safe, structurally sound, and performs the way it should. It can involve anything from buffing out a scratch to rebuilding the entire front end of your vehicle.
Types of Collision Damage
- Minor damage: Scratches, bumper dents, scuffed mirrors—annoying but mostly cosmetic.
- Moderate damage: Dented panels, misaligned doors, broken headlights—these affect function and appearance.
- Major damage: Bent frames, damaged suspensions, airbags deployed—this impacts the safety and drivability of the car.
What Services Are Included in Collision Repair?
Here’s what’s usually involved in the full collision repair process.
1. Damage Assessment and Estimate
Every repair starts with an inspection. A technician looks at the damage, often using digital tools to check for hidden structural issues. The shop will provide a detailed repair estimate, which can be shared with your insurance company.
Network Auto Body provides a written estimate and will handle insurance communications for you.
2. Frame and Structural Repair
If your vehicle took a hard hit, the frame or unibody might be bent or warped. Using computerized measuring and hydraulic straightening equipment, the shop will restore the frame back to its original specifications.
Why does this matter? Because a warped frame affects alignment, safety systems, and how your car handles in another accident. Network Auto Body specializes in frame repair if needed.
3. Dent and Panel Repair
There are two ways body shops handle dents:
- Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): For small, shallow dents where the paint hasn’t cracked. This method involves massaging the dent out from behind the panel without repainting. It’s fast and affordable.
- Traditional Dent Repair: For deeper dents or damaged paint, the technician sands, fills, and repaints the area. In some cases, panels may need to be replaced entirely.
4. Paint Repair and Color Matching
Modern shops use computerized paint matching systems to ensure the repaired area blends perfectly with the rest of your car. Here’s how it works:
- Sand and prep the surface
- Apply primer
- Spray color-matched base coat
- Finish with a protective clear coat
- Bake and cure for durability
5. Bumper and Fender Repair
Bumpers take a beating in most accidents, but many can be repaired rather than replaced. Technicians will smooth out dents, repaint, and reinstall them. If brackets, clips, or sensors (like parking assist or radar) are damaged, they’ll be replaced or recalibrated.
6. Alignment and Suspension Check
Accidents can knock your wheels out of alignment or damage your suspension. As part of the repair, shops often perform:
- 4-wheel alignment
- Inspection of control arms, bushings, shocks, struts, and tie rods
- Replacement of any bent or broken components
If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel feels off-center, alignment is essential.
7. Glass and Light Replacement
It’s common for headlights, taillights, or even windshields to crack or shatter in a collision. Collision repair includes:
- Headlight/taillight replacement
- Windshield or window replacement
- Re-aiming headlights to ensure safe driving at night
8. Safety System Calibration
Modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and emergency braking. These rely on sensors and cameras.
After a repair—especially one involving your bumper, windshield, or frame—these systems must be recalibrated to work properly. This is a critical but often overlooked step.
Additional Services You May Encounter
Interior Repairs
If airbags deployed or interior components were damaged:
- Airbag replacement
- Seatbelt and steering wheel repairs
- Dashboard or interior trim replacement
Detailing and Final Inspection
After the repairs, your car will typically go through:
- Cleaning and polishing
- Paint touch-ups
- A quality control checklist to ensure all repairs meet manufacturer standards
How to Know What You Actually Need
Not every accident requires every service listed above. For example, a small fender-bender may only need some light paint touch-up and bumper work. But it’s important to get a thorough inspection, even for minor accidents. Hidden damage is real—and it can affect your safety down the road.
FAQs About Collision Repair
Does my insurance cover all of these repairs?
It depends on your policy and the damage. Most insurance policies cover OEM parts and labor if it’s not your fault. Confirm coverage before work starts.
How long does collision repair take?
Minor repairs take a few days. Major repairs with structural or paint work can take 1–2 weeks or longer, depending on parts availability.
Can I choose my repair shop?
Yes! Even if your insurance company has “preferred shops,” you have the legal right to choose any shop you trust.
Contact Network Auto Body for Collision Repair
Understanding what collision repair includes helps you make smarter decisions—about your car, your safety, and your wallet. Whether you’re dealing with a minor fender-bender or something more serious, knowing the full scope of services ensures you won’t be left in the dark.
If you’re in Los Angeles and need expert, transparent, and top-quality repairs, don’t hesitate to reach out to Network Auto Body. Ask questions, request a detailed estimate, and let trained professionals restore your car to like-new condition.
