What is Collision Repair?

Restore your car’s safety, functionality & style after an accident with expert repairs. Learn about the process & why it’s crucial to ensure vehicle's is restored to its original condition. Proper repairs not only enhance safety but also maintain car's performance.

Excellent collision repair service can be achieved in many ways, but make sure you are in the right shop not to be left disappointed and unsatisfied.

No doubt it’s rewarding to get the most reliable auto repair body shop on the first try, but most people are either misguided or confused about the collision repair process and services. That is why we have made a guiding list that helps you understand when and where to turn. I am confident this comparison removes the hassle and the time wasted on the internet and keeps you well-informed about what to choose and when to choose.

Compact Comparison Table
Collision Repair Center Auto Body Shop
Introduction
Focus mainly on damages caused by accidents and collisions. Focuses mainly on cosmetic and surface-level repairs.
Types of damages
Structural issue Dent, scratch
Mechanical issue Rust
Panel issue
Services
Frame straightening
Structural repairs
Dent repair
Scratch removal
Paintwork
Advanced diagnostics for post-collision vehicle systems
Usage of sensors, cameras, and electronic systems.
Pinstriping, or clear-coat protection
Alignment and suspension repair caused by impact. Panel replacement
Reshape
Engine, transmission, and cooling system repairs Doors, hoods, or fenders repair
Control arms, tie rods, or shocks replacement Paintless dent repair (PDR) for minor and shallow dings.
Insurance claim assistance and coordination. Rust removal and refinishing.
Full restoration to pre-accident condition. Custom paint jobs or touch-ups.
Methods and tools
Often equipped with specialized tools like frame machines, hydraulic tools, and laser alignment systems Paint-matching systems, paint booths, and tools for body panel repairs.
Advanced scanning tools for recalibrating safety systems (e.g., ADAS - Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including lane-keeping assistance, automatic braking, and parking sensors. May lack the high-tech tools needed for structural or electronic diagnostics.

Step-by-Step Guide to Auto Collision Repair Process

Advances in technology and the collision repair industry present tremendous opportunities along with risks for cars and drivers. That’s why Regal Repair is beside you to encompass you throughout the repair process, providing you with comprehensive and easy-to-digest information. Commitment to first-rate quality makes Regal Repair more popular not only for the services we offer but also for other significant benefits attached to them. With this step-by-step guide, the details of collision repair work for you will be entirely  unleashed.   

💰Initial Evaluation and Cost Estimate

As soon as the car is in the repair shop, a team of seasoned professionals assesses the collision damage, using advanced equipment. After careful examination of all damaged parts, an initial evaluation is ready. Thus, the car owner and the insurance company get the estimate to make calculations on repair costs with clear expectations. Get an estimate from Regal Repair if you have a collision.  

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📋Coordination with Insurance and Approval

When the repair estimate is completed, negotiation with your insurance company begins. Regal Repair offers insurance claim assistance. This stage requires careful consideration as it involves many details and approval processes. At this stage, it is important to confirm the insurance coverage and its alignment with repair costs, as well as deductibles. The approvals are less crucial than clarification about all repair details and direct communication with the insurer. A standout feature of Regal Repair is to back our customers in their insurance efforts, supporting the approval process. 

Disassembly for Detailed Inspection 🛠️

After dealing with the insurance company, the next important step is to disassemble the car. This process helps the technicians to reveal any hidden damage to the vehicle body and inspect every aspect, including the structural integrity of hoods and body panels.  Only after it, the technicians can make a detailed and accurate plan of repair work.

Sourcing Replacement Parts and Repair Preparations

 auto body shop in LA

Unfortunately, every collision ends up with various parts replacement on the car. When careful assessment of the damage is done, the collision repair shops place an order for the necessary parts. Generally, they order high-quality OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts intending to ensure the vehicle’s structural integrity and performance. All this preparation aims to restore the damaged car to its pre-accident condition and even better. 

Restoring and Repairing the Vehicle’s Body

Body repair work is a paramount aspect of auto collision repair. By using advanced tools and equipment, experts put significant effort into mending and reshaping the car’s bodywork, including panels, fenders, and bumpers.

No matter the extent of the damage, the technicians work tirelessly to fix the 

motor vehicle to its original form. They go the extra mile to ensure that every aspect is perfect, from the wheel alignment to the adhesion of body parts. At this stage, it seems that the difficult part is completed.

Sanding, Refinishing, and Painting 🧑🔧️

If the former stages are successfully completed, it means the car is very close to the final restoration. The structural and mechanical repairs are critical in car restoration. Next comes the cosmetic stage. At this point, technicians use sanding to remove dents, scratches, or old paint layers. Then they prime the car and move it to the car paint shop or car paint booth, where the color mixture and texture complete the process. This process is not only aesthetic but also protective for the cars.

🏎 Reassembly and Component Alignment

Due to earlier stages, everything is functioning, and the cosmetic repairs are completed. What comes next is components reassembling and alignment. Right at this stage, all parts are reinstalled based on the disassembling process. While it may seem easy, this stage is crucial. Detailed reassembling is equal to components’ alignment and adjustment, ensuring that the vehicle operates flawlessly. 

Final Quality Check and Inspection ✅

Without a final quality check and inspection, no one returns the car to the owner. Even if it seems perfect, the car goes through strict quality control. A couple of checks and inspections are made to ensure that functionality is completely restored and appearance meets the customers’ expectations.

Cleaning the Vehicle and Customer Walkthrough

Voilà, the final touch! The car goes to the final stage. Before showcasing the car, it is carefully washed, cleaned, and polished until it gleams. When the car is completely ready, the shop proudly organizes a detailed car walkthrough with a customer, reaching their satisfaction. At this point, the customer checks the car personally and compares the car’s condition before and after the accident. The lit-up eyes are the emotions Regal strives to harvest—it's the kind of satisfaction that drives our passion for perfection. The sweet benefit of finalizing the showcase is the warranties that various collision repair shops offer the customers. Regal Repair offers industry-leading warranties: two-year or even lifetime.

Conclusion

Combining all the stages and steps, we recommend you spend much time before choosing a collision repair center. Your car isn’t just a means of transportation; it is an investment worth considering. Therefore, make an informed decision. Trust me, good decisions buy you a good experience; better services buy you more time. Take that extra time to research, ask questions, and feel confident in your choice. Your car will thank you, and so will your future self.

FAQ

❓What is collision repair?

✅ Collision repair is a service for damaged cars that are exposed to accidents. If the issue is structural or relates to mechanical functionality, we turn to collision repair centers. If the damage has only a cosmetic character, then we turn to auto body shops to fix it.  

❓ What should I do first after a car collision?

✅ Reasons for car collisions can be different, but what to do after a car accident. Definitely, the first thing to do is to call the police, then try to figure out whether the car is still operable, and only after that take some action. You may need a towing or shipping service. Also, think about finding a trusted repair center for the car. 

❓Does Regal Repair Collision Repair shop provide warranties on their work?

✅ Absolutely, we do. Regal Repair stands behind every repair we complete, offering a lifetime guarantee on all of our work. Keep in mind that the warranty doesn’t cover defects or damages related to rust, abuse, subsequent collision or theft, stone chips, scratches, or improper care and/or maintenance.

❓How do I know if my car was repaired properly?

✅ Due to current technologies and innovations, body shops can provide you with visual materials about your car status. For example, if you choose Regal Repair you have a feature to check your car repair status, simply clicking the button on the web or app. 

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Collision Repair Coupons

Save even more at Regal Repair for all your collision repair needs. Take advantage of our special collision repair coupons and deals to get your vehicle back in shape without overspending. Whether it's a minor dent or major damage, our offers provide affordable, high-quality repair solutions. Don't miss out on these limited-time discounts – explore our deals today and ensure your car receives the best care at the best price! Please mention the website coupon at the time of the vehicle estimate.
Repair Your Vehicle at Regal and Get
$500
Coupon With Any Collision Repair
Min. $2800 repair job. Coupon may be used toward any Regal Repair services.
Need Tow Services? Get a
FREE
Towing with Collision Repair
Collision towing to the nearest
Regal Repair Center, within a 50-mile radius, all others at owner’s expense.
Before returning your leased car to the Dealer, get
FREE
Lease Return Repair Inspection
Can be combined
Make it easy with a
FREE
Car Loaner or Rental
Up to $80 of rental car cost, with min. repair cost of $2800
* Not valid with other services or promotions. For a limited time only. Additional exclusions may apply. Offer must be mentioned/presented at time of estimate. Void where prohibited.

Expires on 12/31/

Multiple Collision Repair centers, conveniently located Near You.

Your trusted auto body shop and collision center, proudly serving you from our locations in North Hollywood, and Venice Los Angeles, CA. For added convenience, we offer post-accident vehicle pickup and towing, along with doorstep delivery after repairs are completeEnsuring your vehicle's best care is always within reach. Let us take care of your collision repair needs, insurance negotiations, car rentals, and put your mind at ease. Get a free estimate today! Call us, schedule an appointment online or stop by during business hours.
N. Hollywood, CA
Regal Repair - North Hollywood is conveniently located on Cahuenga Blvd. in NoHo near Toluca Lake. The nearest cross street is Chandler St.

Regal Repair - NoHo

Address: 5430 Cahuenga Blvd., N. Hollywood, CA 91601
Hours of Operation
Mon-Fri:8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (by appointment)
Sunday: Closed
Services offered: Complete Collision Repair Facility, Auto Body Repair and Paint, Mechanical Services, Wheel Alignment and Tires.
24/7 Emergency Service Available
Los Angeles, CA
Regal Repair - Burbank is conveniently located on S. Victory Blvd. in Burbank, CA off I-5 at South. The nearest cross street is W. Alameda Avenue.

Regal Repair - LA

Address: 5252 W. 111th St., Los Angeles CA, 90045
Hours of Operation
Mon-Fri:8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (by appointment)
Sunday: Closed
Services offered: Collision Repair Center
24/7 Emergency Service Available
Venice, CA
Regal Repair - Venice is conveniently located on Lincoln Blvd. in Venice, CA, Near Santa Monica, CA. The nearest cross street is Venice Blvd.

Regal Repair - Venice

Address: 2101 Lincoln Blvd., Venice, CA 90291
Hours of Operation
Mon-Fri:8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (by appointment)
Sunday: Closed
Services offered: Collision Repair Facility, Auto Body Repair and Paint, Mechanical Services.
24/7 Emergency Service Available