The Five Major Stages of the Auto Body Repair Process

While your car is being repaired at Oakland Auto Body, it will go through several different stages before it is completed. We want you to be completely at ease while that is happening. The pictures and captions below should help you understand the process better. And you can always talk to your customer service representative here at Oakland Auto Body and they can answer any questions you may have more specifically.

Repair Preparation

This stage includes all of the tasks that need to be done prior to the commencement of repairs, including:

  • Visual Damage Repair Assessment (Estimate)
  • Insurance Authorization
  • Order and Receive Parts
  • Removal of damaged parts
  • Revisions to Repair Assessment
  • Insurance Authorization of Revisions
Structure and Body Repair

This stage includes all the processes necessary to correct structural and sheet metal damage caused by the accident, including:

  • Correct Structural or Frame Damage
  • Weld on structural parts
  • Pre fit bolt-on sheet metal parts
  • Repair sheet metal
Refinishing

This stage includes all steps and processes necessary to restore the paint surface of the vehicle, for both sheet metal and plastic parts, including:

  • Cut-in parts
  • Surface preparation
  • Color and Clear Coat
  • Rub and Polish

Re-assembly

This stage includes all of the steps required to complete the repair of the vehicle, including:

  • Reinstall Lights and Trim
  • Reinstall any parts that were painted of  the vehicle
  • Mechanical systems including suspension alignment and air conditioning
  • Electrical systems
Prepare for Delivery to Customer

  • Quality Inspection of all repairs
  • Clean vehicle inside and outside
  • Prepare final paperwork