A facility equipped to repair collision damage, restore paintwork, and correct structural frame issues on vehicles. Unlike mechanical garages that handle engines and drivetrains, these facilities focus entirely on the exterior shell, employing specialized tools like frame straighteners, paint booths, and welding equipment.
Drop the bumper cover at the body shop so they can paint-match it before we do the mechanical install.
Mechanics and body technicians rarely cross over; mechanical shops usually sublet collision work to dedicated body shops.
Also heard as
- collision center
- panel beater
Related terms
Body in white
The welded sheet metal shell of a vehicle before painting, trim, or powertrain installation.
Frame table
A heavy, perfectly flat metal platform used to build or straighten vehicle chassis.
Orange peel
A paint defect where the clear coat dries with a dimpled, uneven texture resembling fruit skin.