When your vehicle has been in an accident, getting it back on the road isn’t just about fixing dents or applying fresh paint. A proper collision repair requires precision, safety checks, and careful attention to every step in the process. At Flame Auto Repair in Hollywood, FL, we follow a structured approach that ensures your car is restored to pre-accident condition or better.
Here’s a look at the seven key steps we follow to make sure your vehicle gets the repair it truly needs.
1. Initial Damage Assessment
Everything begins with a thorough inspection. After a collision, some damage is visible, but other problems may be hidden beneath the surface. Our team checks both the exterior and structural components for signs of stress or damage. We also assess safety features like airbags and seat belt tensioners. The goal is to identify all the damage, not just what can be seen at a glance.
We use digital imaging and measurement tools to ensure no part of the car is overlooked. This step helps avoid surprises later and sets the foundation for a proper repair plan.
2. Repair Planning and Estimate
Once we understand the full scope of the damage, we create a detailed repair plan. This includes the labor, parts, and materials needed to restore your vehicle. Our technicians work closely with insurance companies to provide accurate estimates and to ensure approvals go smoothly.
At this stage, we also order any necessary parts so that repairs can begin promptly once everything is in place. Our focus is on efficiency without sacrificing quality.
3. Structural Repair and Realignment
If the frame or unibody is damaged, structural repairs come next. Modern vehicles are designed with specific crumple zones and reinforced areas to protect passengers. Even a small misalignment can impact safety, steering, or future wear on the vehicle.
Using computerized measuring systems, we bring the frame or unibody back to factory specifications. This ensures that your vehicle not only looks straight but also drives safely and tracks properly.
4. Body Panel and Cosmetic Repair
With the structure restored, we move to cosmetic repairs. This may include replacing or repairing doors, fenders, bumpers, and other panels. We ensure that all parts fit properly and that panel gaps are even and symmetrical.
If panels are being repaired rather than replaced, we smooth dents, address imperfections, and prepare surfaces for paint. Our technicians take great care during this process so the final product looks flawless.
5. Paint Preparation and Refinish
Color matching and surface prep are crucial. We take the time to blend new paint with existing areas so your vehicle looks like it was never damaged. Using a dust-free environment and top-tier paint systems, we apply primer, basecoat, and clearcoat in layers for a deep, long-lasting finish.
After painting, the vehicle is cured and polished. We inspect for any minor flaws and correct them before moving forward.
6. Reassembly and Safety System Check
After painting, all repaired and replacement parts are reinstalled. This includes moldings, trim, lights, sensors, and any disassembled interior parts. During reassembly, we test electronic systems, cameras, lane sensors, and radar-based features to ensure everything functions correctly.
If airbags were deployed or if any part of the safety system was triggered, we perform full diagnostics and replacements as needed. We treat this step with the utmost importance because your vehicle’s safety is our priority.
7. Final Inspection and Quality Control
Before we hand the vehicle back to you, we conduct a final inspection. We check panel fit, paint finish, alignment, and cleanliness. Most importantly, we perform a test drive to make sure everything feels right and handles as expected.
We don’t consider a repair complete until we’re confident that your vehicle is safe, reliable, and looks the way it should. We also walk you through the repairs so you understand what was done and can leave with full peace of mind.
Get Collision Repair You Can Trust at Flame Auto Repair in Hollywood, FL
After an accident, you need a team that understands both the technical and safety aspects of collision repair. At Flame Auto Repair in Hollywood, FL, our process is built around restoring your car with the care and precision it deserves. Whether you’ve had a minor fender bender or major collision damage, we’re ready to help you get back on the road safely.
Schedule your estimate or visit us today to experience our trusted repair process from start to finish.
