Auto Body Repairers

Career summary

Auto body repairers may also be called body and fender repairers, auto body repair technicians, auto body technicians, automotive painters, automotive collision technicians, collision structural repair technicians, or collision refinishing technicians.

#review 4/4/19 lh

Repairers fix damaged parts on vehicles. They remove large dents in metal panels with a jack or prying bar. They knock out smaller dents with hand tools or special hammers.

Repairers can heat and press most types of plastic body panel back to its original shape by hand. They fill dents that cannot be popped out with metal or plastic fillers. They file or grind the filler to match the body shape. Repairers use special machines to straighten the frame and body sections of cars twisted in accidents.

For more extensive damage, restorers remove ruined sections and replace them with new parts. They use cutting tools to cut through and remove metal body parts. They weld new panels in place of damaged sections.

Repairers also do simple mechanical repairs. They change parts of the various systems of an automobile, such as brake, steering, electrical, exhaust, and suspension systems. They also work on airbags and restraint systems.

Body repairers may specialize in one type of repair, including:

• Door repair
• Glass replacement
• Painting
• Frame alignment
• Repairing fiberglass car bodies

Auto body repairers who work in small shops may inspect damaged vehicles. They write up estimates of repair costs for customers and insurance companies. Repairers in large shops discuss the repair jobs with supervisors.

Auto body repairers read technical manuals and attend classes to keep up to date on repair methods.

Many auto body repairers are also business owners. They:

• Keep track of income and expenses
• Pay bills and purchase supplies
• Manage employees
• Work with insurance companies

Related careers

This career is part of the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Auto Glass Installers
• Automobile Mechanics
• Electric Motor Repairers
• Glaziers
• Mechanic and Repairer Helpers
• Metal and Plastic Processing Workers
• Painting and Coating Machine Operators
• Precision Assemblers
• Sheet Metal Workers
• Vehicle Painters
• Welders and Solderers

Military careers

• Welders and Metal Workers

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to auto body repairers.

• Inspect damage and discuss repairs to be made with vehicle owner or shop supervisor.
• Fill dents with body filler. File, grind, and sand repaired surfaces.
• Make sure that repaired vehicles function properly and that previous signs of damage are fixed.
• Remove damaged fenders and panels, using wrenches or cutting tools.
• Remove upholstery, accessories, and trim to gain access to vehicle body and fenders.
• Straighten bent vehicle frames and sections by chaining or clamping them to a hydraulic straightening machine.
• Smooth body panels by holding small anvil against one side of dent and hammering on the other side.
• Straighten and smooth plastic body parts using hot-air welding gun or hot water.
• Paint and sand repaired surface, using paint spray gun, power sander, or sand blaster.
• Measure damaged body sections to determine how far sections are out of alignment.
• Install replacement parts.
• Adjust or align headlights, wheels, and brake system.
• Take apart and reassemble mechanical systems, such as suspension, steering, electrical, brakes, air conditioning, engine cooling, and drive train.
• Fit and fasten windows and trim pieces to vehicle body, using sealants, adhesives, or fasteners.
• Read technical manuals and attend classes to update skills and knowledge.

Common work activities

Auto body repairers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Get information needed to do the job
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Evaluate information against standards
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Process information
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Think creatively
• Handle and move objects
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Schedule work and activities
• Develop goals and strategies
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Teach others
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Control machines and processes
• Analyze data or information
• Coach others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, auto body repairers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Communicate face-to-face daily with customers and coworkers. Occasionally communicate over the phone.
• Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of others. The materials and equipment they use must be handled correctly to keep the work place safe for everyone.
• Work as part of a team on complex repairs. As a result, are somewhat responsible for the work done by others.
• May occasionally work with unpleasant, angry or rude customers.

Physical work conditions

• Work indoors in a shop that usually has no heating or air conditioning. Are sometimes exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures.
• Wear protective clothing and equipment daily. This includes coveralls, safety glasses or goggles, and gloves.
• Are exposed daily to contaminants, such as fumes from paint and solvents. The use of protective masks and adequate ventilation may reduce exposure risk.
• Are always exposed to hazardous tools, equipment, and situations. There is some possibility of slight injury. However, injuries are reduced when safety equipment and procedures are used.
• Are always exposed to noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable. Wearing ear protection can reduce discomfort.
• Must often work in cramped places that require getting into awkward positions, like working on the inside of a car.

Work performance

• Must be very exact in their work. Errors could cause serious injury to customers.
• Perform all details of the job to make sure the vehicle is reliable and safe to operate.
• Meet strict deadlines everyday and work in a moderately competitive environment.
• Repeat the same physical activities daily.
• Rarely consult a supervisor before making a decision. They can set most of their own tasks and priorities.

Hours/travel

• Usually have a regular schedule and work 40 hours or more each week.

Physical demands

Auto body repairers frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Bend or twist their body.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Kneel, stoop, crouch, or crawl.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.

It is important for auto body repairers to be able to:

• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for auto body repairers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Use muscles to jump, sprint, or throw objects.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• See objects in very low light.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.

Skills and abilities

Auto body repairers need to:

Communicate

• Understand spoken information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand written information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Manage the time of self and others.
• Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with things

• Repair machines or systems.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Apprenticeship Programs
• Auto Body Repair

Other programs of study to consider

• Automotive Engineering Technology
• Machine Shop Technology
• Precision Crafting and Repair
• Sheet Metal Technology
• Welding Technology

Training

To work as an auto body repairer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete long-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Some auto body repairers receive formal training. They complete training programs at professional-technical schools, two-year colleges, and some high schools. In these programs, you learn about equipment, tools, and the new materials used in cars.

On-the-job training

Most auto body repairers train on the job. They begin by working as a helper. Training includes:

• removing damaged auto parts;
• sanding parts; and
• straightening auto body parts.

On-the-job training usually lasts at least one year.

Repairers also receive short-term training provided by vehicle, parts, and equipment manufacturers.

Military training

The military trains people to become automotive and heavy equipment mechanics. Part of this training involves learning auto body repair. Training lasts from eight to 29 weeks, depending on the specialty. Further training occurs on the job.

Washington apprenticeships

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements . You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Auto Collision Technology
• Auto Detailing and Reconditioning
• Auto Repair Technology
• Industrial Arts
• Introduction to Mechanics
• Metalworking
• Welding

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most employers prefer graduates of community college or vocational school programs. Some employers prefer to hire paint or body specialists. Others prefer repairers who can do all phases of the work. For helper or trainee positions, reliability and a desire to learn the trade are important. High school graduation generally is an advantage for trainees or helpers.

Employers look for people with strong communication and analytical skills.

Many employers look for certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (ICAR). To become certified, workers must have work experience or a combination of education and experience, and pass a series of tests. Workers who know all phases of repair work are more likely to advance. Training in bookkeeping may be helpful. When hiring experienced workers, employers consider the reputation of the shops for which a job seeker has worked.

Tips

Beginning repairers should try to find work in quality repair shops. A job cleaning cars or sweeping shops may lead to chances to learn additional jobs such as sanding or masking cars. Talk with and seek advice from workers in established shops. Attending a co-op program that allows you to work in a repair shop while going to school can be helpful. People who have completed an auto body rebuilding program at a community or technical college can progress through an apprenticeship program more rapidly than those without this preparation. A welding course, including arc and metallic inert gas welding, can be helpful. Workers must also be willing to continue learning from the many available outside sources, such as clinics and seminars.

Costs to workers

New workers must buy their own hand tools. Some workers may join a union and pay an initiation fee and dues. Those who choose to become certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair must pay registration and testing fees or course certification fees.

#Section reviewed 2/6/18 cj.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Automotive Body and Related Repairers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

The minimum wage for Washington State as of January 1, 2020 is $13.50 per hour. Some areas of the state may have a higher minimum wage.

Many auto body repairers' wages are based on an incentive system. Under this system, the employer guarantees auto body repairers a minimum weekly wage. The rest of their wage depends on the amount and type of work, and how fast they complete the work. The more difficult the work and the more work completed, the more the repairers earn.

Helpers and trainees usually are paid 30 to 60 percent of the earnings of skilled auto body repairers.

Auto body repairers who work full time usually receive benefits. Common benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. 

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Auto body shops
• Motor vehicle dealerships

National outlook

Steady growth for this occupation will occur and several factors will contribute to this growth. There are more vehicles on the road leading to more accidents and more vehicles that need repair.

Other factors may slow the growth of this occupation. Cars have better sensor and safety equipment so there may be fewer accidents. Cars have more complex parts and equipment that are expensive to repair or replace. Thus, insurance companies sometimes choose not to fix heavily-damaged vehicles.

Job prospects will be very good for people with formal training and certifications.

Other resources

AutoCare Association 
7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300
Bethesda, MD 20814
301.654.6664

AutoCare Careers 

Automotive Service Association Northwest 
7403 Lakewood Drive West, Suite 7
Lakewood, WA 98499
877.257.2100
253.473.6970

National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) 
1503 Edwards Ferry Rd., NE, Suite 401
Leesburg, VA 20176
703.669.6600

SAE International 
400 Commonwealth Drive
Warrendale, PA 15096

US Small Business Administration 
Seattle District Office
2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450
Seattle, WA 98121
206.553.7310

Welding.com 

References

Career cluster

• Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Automotive Body and Related Repairers (49-3021.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.

DOT occupations

• Auto-body Repairer, Fiberglass (807.381-030) 
• Automobile-body Customizer (807.361-010) 
• Automobile-body Repairer (807.381-010) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Conventional/Enterprising
• Realistic/Enterprising/Conventional

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled