Use this calculator to get an estimated cost for common auto body repairs. Please note that this is an estimate, and actual costs may vary based on inspection, specific vehicle model, and shop rates.
Dent Repair
Scratch Repair
Minor Collision (e.g., bumper cover, small panel)
Major Collision (e.g., fender, door, structural)
Bumper
Fender
Door
Hood
Trunk
Quarter Panel
Roof
Minor (light)
Moderate (noticeable)
Severe (deep, extensive)
e.g., cost of a new bumper cover, headlight, or door skin.
Typical rates range from $80-$120 per hour.
Small (e.g., bumper corner)
Medium (e.g., fender, door)
Large (e.g., hood, roof, quarter panel)
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function calculateRepairEstimate() {
var damageType = document.getElementById("damageType").value;
var damageLocation = document.getElementById("damageLocation").value;
var damageSeverity = document.getElementById("damageSeverity").value;
var partsCost = parseFloat(document.getElementById("partsCost").value);
var hourlyLaborRate = parseFloat(document.getElementById("hourlyLaborRate").value);
var paintArea = document.getElementById("paintArea").value;
var frameDamage = document.getElementById("frameDamage").checked;
var diagnosticScan = document.getElementById("diagnosticScan").checked;
// Input validation
if (isNaN(partsCost) || partsCost < 0) {
document.getElementById("result").innerHTML = "Please enter a valid Parts Cost.";
return;
}
if (isNaN(hourlyLaborRate) || hourlyLaborRate <= 0) {
document.getElementById("result").innerHTML = "Please enter a valid Hourly Labor Rate.";
return;
}
var totalEstimate = 0;
var estimatedLaborHours = 0;
var paintMaterialCost = 0;
var paintLaborHours = 0;
var frameDamageCost = 0;
var diagnosticScanCost = 0;
// 1. Base Labor Hours based on Damage Type
switch (damageType) {
case "dent":
estimatedLaborHours = 3;
break;
case "scratch":
estimatedLaborHours = 2;
break;
case "minorCollision":
estimatedLaborHours = 10;
break;
case "majorCollision":
estimatedLaborHours = 25;
break;
}
// 2. Adjust Labor Hours based on Damage Location complexity
switch (damageLocation) {
case "bumper":
estimatedLaborHours += 0; // No additional for bumper
break;
case "fender":
estimatedLaborHours += 1;
break;
case "door":
estimatedLaborHours += 2;
break;
case "hood":
estimatedLaborHours += 2;
break;
case "trunk":
estimatedLaborHours += 1;
break;
case "quarterPanel":
estimatedLaborHours += 3; // Often involves more blending
break;
case "roof":
estimatedLaborHours += 4; // Most complex
break;
}
// 3. Apply Severity Multiplier to Labor Hours
var severityMultiplier = 1.0;
switch (damageSeverity) {
case "minor":
severityMultiplier = 1.0;
break;
case "moderate":
severityMultiplier = 1.5;
break;
case "severe":
severityMultiplier = 2.0;
break;
}
estimatedLaborHours *= severityMultiplier;
// 4. Paint Material Cost and Paint Labor Hours
switch (paintArea) {
case "small":
paintMaterialCost = 150;
paintLaborHours = 2;
break;
case "medium":
paintMaterialCost = 300;
paintLaborHours = 4;
break;
case "large":
paintMaterialCost = 500;
paintLaborHours = 6;
break;
}
// 5. Frame Damage Cost and additional Labor
if (frameDamage) {
frameDamageCost = 1000; // Base cost for frame straightening
estimatedLaborHours += 10; // Additional labor for frame work
}
// 6. Diagnostic Scan Cost
if (diagnosticScan) {
diagnosticScanCost = 150;
}
// Calculate total labor cost
var totalLaborCost = (estimatedLaborHours + paintLaborHours) * hourlyLaborRate;
// Sum all components
totalEstimate = partsCost + totalLaborCost + paintMaterialCost + frameDamageCost + diagnosticScanCost;
// Add a contingency/miscellaneous fee (e.g., 10% for unforeseen issues)
var contingencyFee = totalEstimate * 0.10;
totalEstimate += contingencyFee;
document.getElementById("result").innerHTML =
"Estimated Repair Cost: $" + totalEstimate.toFixed(2) + "" +
"(This estimate includes approximately " + (estimatedLaborHours + paintLaborHours).toFixed(1) + " labor hours at $" + hourlyLaborRate.toFixed(2) + "/hr, parts, paint materials, and a 10% contingency fee.)" +
"Please remember this is an estimate. A professional inspection is required for an accurate quote.";
}
Understanding Your Auto Body Repair Estimate
Getting into an accident or finding unexpected damage on your vehicle can be stressful. An auto body repair estimate helps you understand the potential costs involved in restoring your car to its pre-damage condition. This calculator provides a general idea, but several factors contribute to the final price.
Key Factors Influencing Repair Costs:
Type and Severity of Damage: A minor scratch or small dent will naturally cost less than extensive collision damage requiring panel replacement or structural repair. The depth, size, and location of the damage are crucial.
Parts Replacement: If parts like bumpers, fenders, headlights, or internal components need to be replaced, their cost will be a significant portion of the estimate. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are typically more expensive than aftermarket or used parts.
Labor Rate: Auto body shops charge an hourly rate for their technicians' time. This rate can vary significantly based on location, shop reputation, and technician expertise. Our calculator uses a typical rate, but you should confirm your local shop's rate.
Paint and Materials: Painting is a meticulous process that involves preparing the surface, applying primer, color coats, and clear coats. The cost depends on the size of the area to be painted, the type of paint, and the need for color matching and blending into adjacent panels.
Frame Damage: If the vehicle's frame or unibody structure is compromised, specialized equipment and highly skilled technicians are required for straightening, which adds substantial cost and labor hours.
Diagnostic Scans: Modern vehicles are equipped with complex electronic systems. After an accident, even minor ones, diagnostic scans are often necessary to check for hidden sensor damage, clear fault codes, and recalibrate systems (e.g., airbags, ADAS features).
Hidden Damage: Often, the full extent of damage isn't visible until the vehicle is disassembled. This can lead to supplements or adjustments to the initial estimate.
How to Use This Calculator:
Select Damage Type: Choose whether the damage is a simple dent, scratch, or a result of a minor or major collision.
Specify Damage Location: Indicate where on the vehicle the primary damage is located (e.g., bumper, door, fender).
Assess Damage Severity: Categorize the damage as minor, moderate, or severe. Be realistic; severe damage implies significant deformation or breakage.
Estimate Parts Cost: If you know certain parts need replacement (e.g., a broken headlight, a cracked bumper cover), enter their approximate cost. If unsure, leave at zero for a labor-focused estimate.
Enter Hourly Labor Rate: Use a typical rate for your area or the rate provided by a specific shop if you have one in mind.
Choose Paint Area Size: Select the size of the area that will likely need painting.
Check for Frame Damage: If you suspect structural damage, check this box.
Check for Diagnostic Scan: For newer vehicles, a post-repair scan is often recommended or required.
Click "Calculate Estimate": The calculator will provide an estimated total cost.
Important Considerations:
This calculator provides a rough estimate. For an accurate quote, always take your vehicle to a certified auto body shop for a thorough inspection. They can assess all visible and hidden damage, provide a detailed breakdown of parts and labor, and work with your insurance company if applicable.