Collision repair generally goes from assessing the damage, to repairing or replacing parts, to preparing and painting, and finally to a check and hand-back. The exact steps depend on the vehicle and the damage, and hidden damage can change the plan. O’Hara and Sons Automotive does auto body and collision repair and paint. Call (267) 995-0203, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM, to talk about your car.
What are the usual stages?
- Tell the shop what happened. Direction of impact, areas hit, warning lights, leaks, whether airbags went off, and whether the car can move.
- Inspect the damage. Photos help, but damage behind a bumper or panel may only show once parts come off.
- Agree on the plan. If insurance is involved, share the claim number, adjuster contact and any estimate. You choose the shop. See choosing your repair shop in Pennsylvania.
- Repair or replace damaged parts. This can mean reshaping panels or replacing parts.
- Prepare surfaces and paint. Preparation comes before color. See auto paint.
- Reassemble and check. Panel fit, trim and adjacent surfaces matter to the result.
- Hand-back and paperwork. Ask for a summary of the work performed.
What if more damage turns up?
It happens. Ask the shop in advance how it will tell you, who authorizes added work, and how that fits with your insurance.
What should I bring?
- Vehicle information
- Claim number, adjuster contact and any estimate
- Photos of the damage and notes on earlier repairs in the same area
- Your belongings and important documents (take them with you)
Call before dropping off. Do not drive a car that seems unsafe just to get it looked at. If it cannot be driven, ask about getting it to the shop. Our sister company O’Hara & Sons Towing shares the same yard.
Sources and notes
- 31 Pa. Code § 62.3: https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/031/chapter62/s62.3.html
- This describes the general stages, not a promise of timing or scope for any job. Last checked: October 24, 2026.
Talk to the shop
O’Hara and Sons Automotive, (267) 995-0203, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–6 PM. Collision repair · Contact
A LITTLE CLARITY
Good questions.Straight answers.
Still wondering about something? Call (267) 995-0203, Mon–Fri, 8 AM–6 PM.
Can I send photos for a quote?
This website does not take photo uploads. Call (267) 995-0203 to talk it through.
Can I use any shop I want?
In Pennsylvania, appraisals must say there is no requirement to use a specified shop. See the page linked above.
Is cosmetic damage always only cosmetic?
No. A scuff or dent does not tell you the condition of brackets, sensors or mounts behind it.
Does the shop handle insurance claims?
See our insurance claim guide and call us with your claim details.
Does O’Hara and Sons Automotive do paint too?
Yes, auto paint and refinishing is one of the services.
BODY WORK OR EVERYDAY UPKEEP
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Tell us what you drive and what needs attention.
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