After an accident, one of the first questions we hear is "When will I get my car back?" It is a fair question when you still need to get around Tempe and Mesa.
The honest answer is that it depends on the car and the damage. This post explains what drives the timeline, how a repair moves through our shop, and what you can do to keep things moving.
How long does collision repair usually take?
At Harvil Auto Body, small dents or paintless dent repair (PDR) often take 1 to 2 days. Full collision repairs can take up to a week or more, depending on parts and the extent of the damage.
Every car is different, so the timeline depends on your vehicle. We keep you updated throughout the repair, so you are not left wondering where things stand.
What affects how long my repair takes?
A few things have the biggest effect on the schedule.
Damage severity. A scuffed bumper cover and a front end with damaged structural parts are very different jobs.
Parts availability and backorders. We cannot finish the repair until the right parts arrive. Some are readily available. Others ship from farther away or are on backorder. Parts choice can play a role too. Our post on OEM vs. aftermarket parts covers the differences.
Insurance approval and supplements. If insurance is paying, the insurer usually needs to approve the estimate before work begins. If more damage turns up later, the insurer reviews an added estimate, called a supplement. We work with all major insurers and coordinate approvals and paperwork, but the review itself is on their schedule.
Hidden damage found after teardown. The first estimate is based on what we can see. Once we remove the bumper, panels, or trim, we sometimes find bent brackets, cracked mounts, or other damage that was hidden. When that happens, we contact you, explain what we found, and get insurance approval before continuing.
Paint and cure time. Paint is not a single step. It involves prep, primer, color, and clear coat, and each layer needs time to set properly. We use computerized paint matching so the new finish blends with the rest of your car.
Sensor and camera checks. Many newer vehicles have cameras and sensors in the bumpers, grille, mirrors, or windshield area for features like lane keeping or automatic braking. Some newer vehicles need sensor or camera checks after repair to make sure those systems work as intended, which can add time.
How does a repair move through the shop?
Here is the general path most collision repairs follow with us:
Estimate. Walk in during our hours or request a virtual estimate online. We document the visible damage and write the initial estimate.
Insurance approval. If you are filing a claim, we send the estimate to your insurer and coordinate the approval, if needed.
Teardown. We take apart the damaged area to look for anything hidden.
Supplement, if needed. If we find more damage, we call you, explain it, and get approval before going further.
Parts ordering. We order the parts the repair calls for.
Body and structural repair. Our I-CAR certified technicians repair or replace damaged parts following OEM repair procedures.
Paint. We prep, match, paint, and let the finish cure.
Reassembly and checks. We put the car back together and make sure any needed checks are completed.
Final inspection and pickup. We look the car over, then call you to pick it up. Our paint and workmanship are backed by a lifetime warranty.
What can I do to keep my repair moving?
Start your claim early. Report the accident to your insurer as soon as you can. Our guide on the first 24 hours after a car accident in Tempe walks through what to do right away.
Tell your insurer which shop you chose. In Arizona, you can choose your own body shop. Telling the adjuster early helps avoid back-and-forth.
Keep your claim info handy. Your claim number, adjuster's contact info, and policy details help us move approvals along. See how to handle insurance after a car accident in Arizona for more.
Respond quickly to calls. If we find hidden damage or need a decision, a fast reply keeps the car from sitting.
Ask about a rental. We can set up a rental through our partners, which makes the wait easier.
FAQ
Why did my repair date change?
Two common reasons are parts delays and hidden damage found after teardown. When something changes, we let you know and explain why.
What happens if you find more damage during the repair?
If additional damage is found, we contact you, explain it, and get insurance approval before continuing. That way you know what is happening before the work goes further.
What if my car might be a total loss?
If the damage is severe, the insurer may decide repair costs are too high compared to the car's value. Our post on how to tell if your car is a total loss explains what to expect.
Do I need an appointment for an estimate?
No. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Thursday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. You can also request a virtual estimate online.
Get a timeline for your repair
The best way to know how long your repair will take is to have us look at the car. We are a family-owned shop in Tempe since 1975, now in our fourth generation, serving Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and the East Valley.
Harvil Auto Body
2338 E Broadway Rd
Tempe, AZ 85282
(480) 966-7180
Monday through Thursday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed Friday through Sunday.
Browse our services or contact us to request a virtual estimate. Or just stop by.