When your vehicle suffers damage in an accident, the first thing that comes to mind is your safety. The second? How Long Does Auto Body Repair Take?
At Collision Concierge of MD, we get this question every day from drivers across Maryland — especially in Monkton, Towson, Hunt Valley, and surrounding areas.
The truth is, auto body repair timelines depend on several factors, including the extent of damage, availability of parts, insurance approvals, and more. In this article, we’ll break down the typical repair timeframes and help you understand what to expect during each step of the process.
Why Auto Body Repair Timelines Vary
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A small bumper scratch might take a day, while collision frame damage could take weeks. Here’s what impacts the timeline:
1. Type of Damage
- Minor Damage (scratches, small dents): 1–3 business days
- Moderate Damage (panel replacement, some paint): 3–7 days
- Major Collision Damage (frame repairs, multiple parts): 1–3+ weeks
- Severe Damage or Insurance Total Loss: Could take longer depending on assessments
Each repair begins with an inspection to assess the extent of the damage. Sometimes what looks simple from the outside may involve hidden issues behind the panel or bumper.
2. Insurance Company Approval
Once we assess the damage and prepare a repair estimate, the insurance company must approve it before any work begins.
If additional damage is found during repairs, a supplemental request is sent to the insurer, and every approval step adds time.
Our team at Collision Concierge handles the paperwork and back-and-forth so you don’t have to.
3. Parts Availability
Today’s vehicles, especially newer models, often require OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. If the part is not in stock locally, we may need to order it, which can delay repairs by several days.
We always notify our customers if parts sourcing will impact their timeline.
4. Paint Matching and Drying
Paintwork isn’t just spraying a new coat — it involves precise color matching, prepping the surface, applying multiple coats, and allowing time to cure. This process alone can add 2–3 days, depending on how many panels need to be painted.
How We Speed Up the Process at Collision Concierge of MD
At our Maryland repair center, we’ve streamlined the entire process to reduce downtime for our customers:
- Free estimates delivered quickly
- Certified auto body technicians
- Advanced paint booth for faster curing
- On-site frame straightening
- Direct insurance communication
- Loaner cars available for longer jobs
Whether your repair takes 2 days or 2 weeks, we keep you updated at every step and aim to deliver your vehicle on-time and in pre-accident condition.
Common Delays You Should Know About
Even with the best repair process, some delays are out of our control. These include:
- Delayed insurance responses
- Backordered parts
- Weather-related delivery issues
- Hidden structural damage discovered mid-repair
But don’t worry — we believe in full transparency. If anything changes, you’ll be the first to know.
Can Auto Body Repair Be Done Faster?
Yes — but it should never come at the cost of safety or quality. Shops that promise “same-day repairs” for all types of damage may cut corners.
At Collision Concierge of MD, we prioritize quality workmanship, so your car doesn’t just look good — it’s also safe to drive.
What You Can Do to Speed Things Up
Here are some tips to avoid unnecessary delays:
- Schedule an inspection immediately after the accident
- Share your insurance info early
- Choose a shop that communicates directly with insurers
- Approve supplements quickly when contacted
Our team will walk you through the process so you never feel stuck or confused.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does auto body repair take? It depends — but knowing the process helps you plan better.
At Collision Concierge of MD, we combine skill, technology, and top-tier service to get your car back on the road as soon as possible — with no compromise on safety or quality.
If your vehicle was recently damaged and you’re wondering how long repairs might take, give us a call or stop by for a free, no-obligation estimate.
Let us handle the repair — you focus on getting back to life.
FAQs – Auto Body Repair Timelines
1. How long does it take to fix a car after an accident?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs like dents or scratches usually take 1–3 days, while major collision repairs can take 1–3 weeks or more.
2. Why do auto body repairs take so long sometimes?
Delays are usually caused by insurance approvals, backordered parts, hidden structural damage, or high repair volume at the shop.
3. Can auto body repairs be done in one day?
Only small cosmetic repairs like scratch buffing or paint touch-ups can be completed in one day. Structural damage or panel replacement takes longer.
4. Will my insurance affect how long the repair takes?
Yes, the insurance company must approve the repair estimate before work starts. Delayed responses or additional approvals (called supplements) can increase repair time.
5. What if the repair shop finds more damage during the process?
This is common. If hidden damage is found, the shop will submit a supplement to your insurance. This may extend the timeline, but ensures complete and safe repair.
