Costs
Why can two auto body repair quotes be so different?
Two auto body repair quotes can differ because they may account for different damage, repair methods, paint work, parts, or labor. Here is what to compare before choosing one.
· 3 min read · King Collisions
The short answer
The short answer
The price of auto body repair depends on the extent of the damage and what the repair includes. Two quotes can be very different when one uses PDR or repairs a part while the other includes broader auto body work, bumper repair, replacement parts, or additional paint service.
The visible damage may not show the full job
A dent, scrape, or damaged bumper can look straightforward from the outside, but an auto body technician still needs to assess the affected area and how the damage changes the repair. The quoted work may differ if one inspection identifies damage around the visible mark and another does not.
The size, location, shape, and condition of the damaged area all affect the work involved. A quote based on a quick description or a few photos may not cover the same work as a quote prepared after the vehicle is examined.
The repair method changes the price
Not every dent needs the same approach. PDR may be suitable for some dents when the paint and access allow it, while other damage may call for dent repair, conventional auto body work, or replacement of a damaged part. These methods require different amounts of labor and materials.
Bumper repair can also vary depending on whether the bumper can be repaired or needs more extensive work. If one quote describes a targeted repair and another includes a broader repair, the different prices may reflect different solutions rather than different pricing for identical work.
Paint work adds more decisions
Paint service is not always limited to covering the exact spot that was damaged. The quote may include preparation, the repaired area, and the surrounding paint work needed for the finished repair. A quote that leaves out part of that process can appear lower at first.
Ask whether the quote includes the paint service connected to the repair and which areas will be worked on. This helps show whether two quotes are actually describing the same finish and the same amount of preparation.
Compare the written scope, not just the total
Put the quotes side by side and compare the listed damage, repair method, parts, labor, paint service, and any work that is excluded. A lower price may reflect a narrower scope, while a higher price may include work the other quote leaves out.
If the inspection reveals additional damage after work begins, ask for the change to be explained and priced before approving it. Clear written details make it easier to understand what each quote covers and why the totals differ.
Follow-up questions
Answers before you book.
Is the lowest auto body repair quote usually the best choice?
Not necessarily. First check that both quotes cover the same repair method, parts, labor, paint service, and damaged areas. A lower quote may describe less work.
Can PDR make a dent repair quote lower?
It can, depending on the dent and whether PDR is suitable. PDR and conventional dent repair involve different methods, so the quote should explain which approach is included.
What should I ask when two quotes are far apart?
Ask each auto body technician to explain the repair method, paint work, parts, labor, and exclusions in writing. Then compare those details instead of comparing only the final price.
Keep reading
More from the blog.
How should I plan auto body repair before booking it?
Before booking auto body work, decide which damage needs attention, have the affected area measured, and confirm the full scope in writing.
Read the postCan a small dent become a bigger auto body repair?
A small dent may look harmless, but cracked paint, a loose bumper, or a shifted panel can point to more damage. Learn what to check early and what delaying repair can add.
Read the postAll auto body repair services
What we do, what it costs, and how each visit actually goes.
Browse servicesDamage to your car should
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Contact King Collisions to discuss the damage to your vehicle and the type of auto body repair it may need.
