There are different types of body shops out there as we are all not looking for the same quality of work. The first rule Ill give you is that you get what you pay for. If you want to pay $599.00 to have your entire car painted, thats fine. It may be a huge improvement over how your car looked initially, but it wouldnt have suited me in either case mentioned above. I wanted that three month old truck to look like it looked the day I purchased it, and the paint on the hood of that ten year old sports car had to match the rest of the car perfectly.

The best way to find a body repair shop is the most definately the same way you found your auto mechanic, word of mouth. Talk with friends and work associates, ask your mechanic. Talk to your neighbors and get their opinions. Everyone knows someone whos had a great, or bad knowledge. Listen when many people talk about their cars and experiences theyve had. I called the dealership where I had purchased my truck for a referral.

When you think that youve narrowed it down to a particular shop, check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been lodged. Remember that you may find they have a few, but no business can keep every one happy. Talk with the shop manager if you have any questions or concerns.

Take a look around the shop. Is is kept clean? It will not be sparkling clean due to the type of work, but you shouldnt see dust and filth and chemicals spilled on floors.

Ask to see their work. They should have before and after pictures of their work and will also have cars they are currently working on. Do they have letters of recommendation? A lot of business keep letters from happy customers.

Do they give any type of warranty? Some body shops offer a limited warranty.

Finally, make use of your gut. How are they interacting with you? Are they taking the measure to answer your questions completely or do they seem put off by them? If they seem put off, its time to look elsewhere.