Collision repair costs vary depending on which parts are damaged, how much labor is required, and whether paint or structural work is needed.
This collision repair estimate calculator helps you get a realistic cost range before heading to a shop or filing an insurance claim. Just select the affected areas, and we’ll do the math.
Collision Repair Estimate Calculator
Select the areas that were damaged to estimate your repair costs. This includes parts, labor, and paint (if applicable).
Not Sure If It’s More Than Cosmetic? Here’s What You Can Check
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Most drivers can spot cracked bumpers or broken lights, but structural or suspension damage isn’t always obvious at first glance. If you’re not sure, look for these signs before filling out the calculator:
Frame or Structural Damage:
- The trunk, tailgate, or doors don’t close flush anymore;
- You see visible distortion or ripples in the door frame or rear quarter panel; or
- The body looks slightly twisted or uneven (especially near the impact site)
Suspension or Axle Issues:
- One or more wheels are visibly tilted inward or outward;
- The wheels don’t point straight ahead even when the steering wheel is centered;
- The car appears to lean to one side or sit unevenly on flat ground
If you see any of these, your repair may involve more than just cosmetic work. You can check the boxes in the calculator to include those costs, or leave them out if you’re unsure and want a base estimate first.
What’s in a Collision Repair Estimate?
When you receive a collision repair estimate, you’re looking at more than just parts and paint. The final number typically reflects a combination of replacement components, labor time, refinishing, and diagnostics.
| Category | What It Covers | Typical Range |
| Replacement Parts | Bumpers, fenders, lights, grilles, quarter panels, sensors | $200 – $2,500+ per part |
| Labor | Disassembly, fitting, reassembly, minor fabrication | $75 – $150/hour (3–10 hours) |
| Paint & Materials | Surface prep, paint matching, blending, clearcoat | $300 – $1,200 per panel |
| Diagnostics | Recalibrating sensors, ADAS features, and fault code resets | $150 – $400+ |
Paint and panel blending is one of the most common cost escalators, especially on newer vehicles with metallic finishes. The labor rate may also vary based on whether your vehicle has aluminum or steel construction in either the frame or the body.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: What’s the Difference?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by your vehicle’s manufacturer and built to precise factory specs. They offer consistent fit and performance but usually cost more.
Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers. They’re typically more affordable, but fit and finish can vary depending on the brand.
What to know:
- Some shops use aftermarket parts to help reduce overall repair costs, especially if you’re paying out of pocket.
- Insurance policies may require OEM parts for newer vehicles or safety-related repairs.
- Lease agreements or warranties may prohibit aftermarket parts altogether.
Always ask what kind of parts your estimate includes and whether your insurer has restrictions. For safety-critical systems, like airbags or crash sensors, OEM is often non-negotiable.
Real-World Scenarios and Their Collision Repair Estimates
Sometimes it’s easiest to see how the different factors work together by taking a look at collision scenarios and the estimate ranges owners might see. Below are four that cover different vehicle types and accident conditions:
2020 Toyota Camry – Rear-End Collision
| Repair Details | Rear bumper replacement, trunk paint blend, sensor alignment |
| Estimated Range | $2,400 – $3,300 |
| Key Cost Drivers | Sensor recalibration, blend across multiple panels |
2018 Ford F-150 – Front Fender Impact
| Repair Details | Fender and headlight replacement, partial frame alignment |
| Estimated Range | $3,200 – $4,800 |
| Key Cost Drivers | Aluminum panel labor, minor structural straightening |
2022 Subaru Outback – Side-Swipe
| Repair Details | Two doors and quarter panel repainted and re-skinned |
| Estimated Range | $3,500 – $5,200 |
| Key Cost Drivers | Panel blending, paint match, multi-panel labor |
2017 Chevy Tahoe – Low-Speed Corner Impact
| Repair Details | Rear bumper and liftgate, minor frame tweak |
| Estimated Range | $2,700 – $3,900 |
| Key Cost Drivers | Frame rack time, liftgate alignment |
How Insurance Affects What You Actually Pay
Even if your repair estimate seems straightforward, insurance can change the final out-of-pocket cost significantly. These are the most common factors that shape what you pay:
| Insurance Factor | What It Means for You |
| Deductible Amount | You’re responsible for the first $250–$1,000, depending on your policy |
| Total Loss Threshold | If repairs approach 70–80% of your car’s value, your insurer may decide it’s not worth fixing |
| OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts | Your policy might limit which parts are used, especially for safety features |
| Adjuster Estimate vs. Shop | Shops may quote higher than the adjuster’s number, creating delays or disputes |
Some repair shops are part of a preferred provider network, which means they can work directly with your insurance company and often skip the adjuster step entirely. That can simplify approval and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.
Understanding these variables ahead of time helps you interpret your estimate and advocate for the repairs your vehicle actually needs.
Wrapping Up: From Estimate to Real Repair
By now, you’ve seen how fast collision repair costs can climb, especially when multiple panels, sensors, or paint blending are involved. But those numbers only tell part of the story.
Shops with the right training can cut labor time, reduce costly guesswork, and help you avoid unnecessary part replacements. If you’re going through insurance, working with a shop that knows the process can also keep your out-of-pocket cost lower.
Pro-Masters Auto Collision Center is I-CAR Gold certified, qualified to repair both steel and aluminum structures, and is a preferred shop for most Colorado insurers. In addition, we offer on-site rental car service so that you’re not stuck finding a ride while your vehicle is repaired.
Have questions about an estimate or need to get your vehicle in for evaluation? Call (719) 543-4393 or request a free estimate online to get started.
