Body Shop Question Sheet
A collision can leave you stressed and unsure what to say. This page gives you a free, printable question sheet for auto body shops. It is made to help you ask about the most important repair details in a clear way.
Use it before you sign anything. Ask the same questions at more than one shop if you want to compare. That makes it easier to spot big differences in price, parts, timing, and warranty. If you also want help understanding repair basics, see our guides or get matched with a trusted local shop through CollisionLane. We are a free matching and information service, not a body shop.
How to use it
Start by printing the sheet, or open it on your phone while you talk with the shop. Bring photos of the damage, your claim number if you have one, and any paperwork you already received.
Use the sheet in this simple order:
1. Ask the shop to explain the damage in plain English.
2. Write down whether they will repair or replace each part.
3. Ask when the car can start, how long it may take, and what could slow it down.
4. Ask about parts, warranty, paint match, and any recalibration if your car has cameras or driver-assist systems.
5. Ask for a written estimate before you approve work.
You do not need to know car terms. The sheet helps you ask clear questions and keep the answers in one place. If you are still deciding where to go, our choosing a body shop guide may help.
What it includes
This question sheet covers the main topics drivers usually forget to ask about until later.
It includes questions about:
- Damage findings and whether the estimate could change
- Parts, including OEM, aftermarket, or used parts, where allowed
- Labor, materials, and what is included in the price
- Timeline, delays, and when updates will be sent
- Warranty, what it covers, and how long it lasts
- Paint work, color match, and blending
- Glass repair, sensor checks, and ADAS recalibration if needed
- Final delivery, test drive, and what to inspect before you leave
These questions can help you compare shops more fairly. They can also help you notice gaps in the estimate. For a simple explanation of repair pricing, see our repair estimates guide. For more accident help, our tools page has other free checklists and trackers.
Download the free PDF
The question sheet is available as a free PDF download. You can save it, print it, and bring it to the shop. Keep a copy with your accident papers so you can review it later.
Before you approve any repair, make sure you have the estimate in writing and understand what is included. If something is unclear, ask the shop to explain it before work starts. That is the best way to compare options and avoid surprises.
If you want help getting started, CollisionLane can also connect you with a local repair shop through Get matched.
Common questions
Can I use this question sheet before I choose a shop?
Yes. That is one of the best ways to use it. Ask the same questions at two or three shops, then compare the written answers before you decide.
Does this sheet tell me how much my repair should cost?
No. It helps you ask the right questions, but it does not give a quote. Repair costs vary by damage, parts, labor, and local pricing, so always get a written estimate.
What if the shop uses terms I do not understand?
Ask them to explain in simple words. You can also bring the sheet with you and write down their answers. If you want more background, the guides on CollisionLane can help you learn the basics.