Every body repair comes down to the same question: is it worth fixing? The answer depends on the estimate, your car's value, your deductible and your plans for the car. This guide ties the decisions together and points you to the detailed posts.
Key takeaways
- Estimates are free, so collect two.
- Compare cost with value and deductible.
- Quality of repair affects resale.
Start with estimates
Get at least two written estimates for anything above a cosmetic fix. Our post on why quotes differ explains how to read them. A free estimate at International Auto Center includes a walk-around.
Compare cost with value
If repair cost approaches the car's worth, selling as-is or taking an insurer's total-loss payout may make more sense. For repairs that cost far less than the car's value, repair is usual. Read about diminished value after repair.
Think about the days without a car
Rentals and the time a car spends in the shop matter. Our rental-car guide explains what policies commonly cover.
Protect the repair
New paint needs a gentle first month. See our new paint care guide.
If you run vehicles for work
Fleets lose money to downtime. Our fleet repair checklist and fleet page explain how to plan.
If your car is older or special
Restoration is a different budget and a different set of priorities. See restoring a classic car.
Spot trouble early
Our guides on body shop red flags and windshield chips help you avoid costly surprises.
In this guide
- Why Body Shop Quotes Differ, and Why a Second Opinion Pays
- Restoring a Classic Car's Body and Paint: Where to Start
- Repair or Sell a Damaged Car? Understanding Diminished Value
- Fleet Vehicle Collision Repair: A Manager's Checklist
- Rental Car While Your Car Is in the Body Shop: California
- How to Care for New Paint in the First 30 Days
- Windshield Chip: Repair It or Replace the Glass?
- Auto Body Shop Red Flags to Watch For in California
- Stuck After an Accident: Tow, Roadside or Insurance First?
Get a free estimate in Santa Clara
Questions about free estimate? Read our Free Estimate page, call (408) 243-2530, or send photos through the estimate form. International Auto Center Body Shop, 1499 Lincoln St, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Frequently asked questions
How many estimates should I get?
Two or three for larger repairs.
Is it better to sell a damaged car?
Compare repair cost, value and your needs.
Does repair quality affect resale?
Yes, documented repair helps.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes.
Related reading
- Why Body Shop Quotes Differ, and Why a Second Opinion Pays
- Restoring a Classic Car's Body and Paint: Where to Start
- Repair or Sell a Damaged Car? Understanding Diminished Value
- Fleet Vehicle Collision Repair: A Manager's Checklist
- Rental Car While Your Car Is in the Body Shop: California
- How to Care for New Paint in the First 30 Days
- Windshield Chip: Repair It or Replace the Glass?
- Auto Body Shop Red Flags to Watch For in California
- Stuck After an Accident: Tow, Roadside or Insurance First?
Sources
- California Legislature, Insurance Code section 1874.87 (Auto Body Repair Consumer Bill of Rights)