Collision and Auto Body Repair Guide for Vaughan Drivers

Start with safety and documentation

After a collision, make sure everyone is safe, follow police or insurer instructions where required, and document the damage with clear photos.

Photos are useful for the first conversation, but they do not always show hidden damage behind bumper covers, panels, liners, brackets, wheels, or underbody parts.

What collision repair can involve

• Visible body and panel repair.
• Paint and refinishing.
• Bumper, dent, scratch, and lease-return repairs.
• Hidden damage review after parts are removed.
• Mechanical concerns connected to the impact, such as pulling, rubbing, leaks, warning lights, or tire wear.

Insurance and private-pay decisions

Insurance may be the right path for larger damage, but the decision depends on the policy, deductible, claim details, and insurer process. Private-pay can make sense for smaller damage when the customer does not want to open a claim.

Call the shop with the claim details or photos and ask what it can handle.

Why estimates can change

A first estimate is based on visible damage and known information. If hidden damage is found after disassembly or inspection, the estimate should be updated and explained before additional work proceeds.

Paint and pickup checks

• Ask whether the repair involves refinishing one panel or blending into adjacent panels.
• Inspect panel gaps, trim, lights, warning lights, paint appearance, and whether anything rubs or feels loose.
• Ask what care instructions apply after paint work.