Everything You Need to Know About Collision Repair

At Lackey Body Works, we understand that getting into an accident, whether minor or major, can be a stressful experience. The repair process can feel overwhelming, but we're here to make things easy for you. In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about collision repair—from what it is, how it works, to how long it typically takes.

What is Auto Body Collision Repair?

Auto body collision repair is the process of fixing a vehicle that’s been damaged in an accident. Whether your car has a small scratch from a fender bender or major frame damage after a high-speed crash, collision repair is all about getting your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition.

The main goal of collision repair is to restore your car’s structural integrity, mechanical systems, and aesthetic appeal. This includes everything from replacing damaged parts, repairing the body, to fixing the paint. Auto body shops like Lackey Body Works use specialized tools and expertise to handle these repairs, so your vehicle will be safe and look great when it’s done.

How Does Collision Repair Work?

The collision repair process can vary depending on the extent of the damage, but it generally follows a few key steps:

1. Initial Review and Estimation

When you bring your vehicle to Lackey Body Works, the first thing we do is assess the damage. Our team will thoroughly inspect your car to understand the full extent of the damage. We’ll take photos, check structural integrity, and give you an accurate estimate of how much the repairs will cost and how long they’ll take.

2. Insurance Review

Once we’ve got an estimate, we’ll work with your insurance company to get the repair process approved. This might take a few days, but we handle all the paperwork and communication so you don’t have to worry about it.

3. Parts Ordering and Replacement

After approval, we’ll order any necessary parts. If your car needs common parts, like a bumper or fender, they’ll arrive pretty quickly. For specialized parts or if your vehicle is rare, it might take a little longer. We always make sure to use high-quality parts that meet your vehicle’s specifications.

4. Repairs and Repainting

Once we have all the parts, we begin the repair work. This could include mechanical repairs, such as fixing the suspension or engine, or body repairs like straightening the frame, removing dents, or replacing parts. We also handle repainting your car to make sure it looks just as good as before.

5. Quality Check and Final Touches

Before your car is ready for pickup, we do a final inspection to make sure everything is perfect. We’ll take your car for a test drive, clean it up, and do a walkthrough with you to ensure you're happy with the results.

How Long Does Collision Repair Take?

If you're wondering, "How long does collision repair take?", the answer depends on the severity of the damage and the repairs needed. Here’s a general timeline:

Minor Repairs (1-3 days)

If your car just has some small dents, scratches, or bumper damage, repairs can usually be done quickly—often within 1-3 days. These repairs don’t involve heavy mechanical work or complex parts, so they’re much faster.

Major Repairs (1-3 weeks)

More serious damage, like frame repairs or issues with the suspension, can take 1-3 weeks to fix. These repairs often require specialized parts and more detailed work to restore the vehicle's structural integrity.

Full Restoration (4-8 weeks or longer)

In the case of severe damage, such as a high-speed collision or rollover, repairs can take 4-8 weeks or even longer. This type of repair involves replacing most of the vehicle’s major parts and ensuring everything is up to factory standards.

Other factors, like insurance claims and parts availability, can also influence repair time. If your insurance company needs time to approve the claim or if parts are on backorder, that could add a few days or even weeks to the process.

FAQs About Collision Repair

1. What’s the difference between minor and major collision repair?

Minor repairs involve things like small dents, scratches, or light bumper damage. These are usually cosmetic fixes that don’t affect the vehicle’s safety. Major repairs, on the other hand, include frame damage, suspension work, or repairs to vital systems like the engine or transmission.

2. Do I need to file an insurance claim for collision repair?

You don’t always have to file a claim for minor repairs if you’re willing to pay out-of-pocket. However, for more expensive repairs, especially major damage, filing an insurance claim is usually necessary. At Lackey Body Works, we work with your insurance provider to make sure the process goes smoothly.

3. How long does it take to replace a windshield?

Windshield replacements typically take 1-2 days, depending on the damage. For minor cracks or chips, it may be a quick fix, but for severe damage or needing a new windshield, it can take a little longer to remove and replace.

4. Can I drive my car while it’s being repaired?

Once the repair shop starts working on your car, it’s generally not safe to drive it, especially if it’s missing key parts or has structural damage. However, we’ll keep you updated on the status of your repairs and let you know when it’s safe to pick up your car.

5. Will my car look the same after repairs?

Yes, the goal of collision repair is to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. We ensure that the paint matches, the body lines are smooth, and all parts function properly so that your car looks and performs just like it did before the accident.

FAQs About Lackey Body Works

1. How can I get an estimate from Lackey Body Works?

You can get a free estimate from us either by calling or visiting our shop. We’ll inspect your vehicle and provide a quick, accurate estimate for repairs. If you need help with insurance, we’ll work directly with your provider too.

2. Does Lackey Body Works offer a warranty?

Yes! We offer a lifetime warranty on all our collision repair work. We stand by the quality of our repairs and ensure your car stays in top shape after the job is done.

3. What types of vehicles does Lackey Body Works repair?

We repair all makes and models, from standard sedans to luxury cars, trucks, and vintage vehicles. Whether your vehicle is domestic or foreign, we have the expertise to handle it.

4. How long has Lackey Body Works been in business?

Lackey Body Works has been serving the community for over 20 years, providing top-quality collision repairs and excellent customer service. We’ve built a reputation for trust and reliability in the auto repair industry.

At Lackey Body Works, we’re committed to making your collision repair experience as smooth as possible. From minor fixes to major restorations, we’ve got you covered every step of the way. Have any questions? Contact us today for more info or to schedule your free estimate!