Collision Repair Process Steps: What Happens to Your Car
If your car was just hit, you probably want to know what happens next. The collision repair process steps at AW Collision San Jose run in a set order: intake and damage assessment, insurance and estimate coordination, frame and structural repair, body and panel repair, color-matched painting, and a final quality check. Here is what each step involves and how long the whole process can take.
What are the collision repair process steps from drop-off to pickup?
Your car goes through six steps: intake and damage assessment, insurance and estimate coordination, frame and structural repair, body and panel repair, color-matched painting, and a final quality check. Structural work comes before cosmetic work, so the car is sound underneath before it is refinished on top.
| Step | What happens |
|---|
| 1. Intake and damage assessment | We inspect the car and document the damage |
| 2. Insurance and estimate coordination | We work with your insurer on the estimate and repair plan |
| 3. Frame and structural repair | Computerized laser measuring guides frame and unibody work |
| 4. Body and panel repair | Damaged panels are repaired and prepared for paint |
| 5. Color-matched painting | Computerized color matching is used for the paint |
| 6. Final quality check | We review the finished work before the car is returned |
What happens at intake and damage assessment?
We look over the car to see what was damaged, including damage that is not obvious from the outside. Estimates are free and no appointment is required, though an in-person inspection gives the most accurate number.
You can walk in during business hours and have the car looked at. If it is not safe to drive, call us first at (408) 392-1200.
How does insurance and estimate coordination work?
We work with all major insurance providers and handle the back-and-forth on the estimate with your insurer. We also speak up for proper repairs and OEM parts, not just the cheapest option.
This is the step where the repair plan gets settled, so the work that follows matches what your car actually needs.
What is frame and structural repair?
Frame and structural repair puts the car's underlying structure back where it belongs after an impact. We use frame and unibody repair with computerized laser measuring to check the structure against specifications.
Doing this before any body or paint work matters because panels and paint only look right if the structure underneath is straight.
How are body panels repaired?
Once the structure is sound, we repair the damaged body panels. This step shapes the car's exterior back into place and gets the surfaces ready for paint.
How does color-matched painting work?
We use computerized color matching so the new paint blends with the rest of your car. The goal is a finish that looks like it came with the vehicle.
Paint work on the car is covered by our written lifetime warranty on body and paint work for as long as you own the vehicle.
What happens in the final quality check?
Before the car goes back to you, we check the finished repair. This is the last look at the body work and paint to make sure it meets our standard.
How long does collision repair take?
Repair time depends on the damage and on parts availability. Small repairs can take 3 to 5 days, and extensive structural damage can take 2 to 3 weeks.
You get updates throughout the repair. If you need a car in the meantime, we offer Midway rental.
What certifications does AW Collision San Jose have?
The San Jose shop is an I-CAR Gold Class Collision Repair facility. It also holds certifications or authorizations from Acura, Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Lexus and Toyota.
What else do people ask about collision repair?
Here are the questions we hear most often, with short answers. If yours is not listed, call or stop by the shop.
Do I need an appointment for an estimate?
No, an appointment is not required, and estimates are free. An in-person inspection is the most accurate way to get one.
Will you work with my insurance company?
Yes, we work with all major insurance providers. We also speak up for proper repairs and OEM parts, not just the cheapest option.
Is the repair guaranteed?
Yes, we provide a written lifetime warranty on body and paint work for as long as you own the vehicle. Ask us for the details when you get your estimate.
Can I drop my car off after hours?
Yes, after-hours drop-off is one of our services. Call us at (408) 392-1200 to plan it.
Do you offer paint protection film or detailing?
Yes, both are part of our services along with collision repair, frame and unibody repair, and paint work. Ask about them when you bring your car in.
Ready to start your repair?
Bring your car to AW Collision San Jose at 1729 Junction Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112, or call (408) 392-1200 to talk through your damage.
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Estimates are free and no appointment is needed.