A collision is stressful enough. Understanding what happens during the repair process takes some of that anxiety away. At Boxy’s Paint & Body in Sioux Falls, we’ve been walking customers through this process since 1989. Here’s exactly what happens when your vehicle comes to us.

Step 1: Initial Assessment and Free Estimate

Every repair at Boxy’s begins with a thorough inspection. Our ASE-certified technicians assess all visible damage and identify any hidden structural issues using our Chief laser measuring system — the industry’s gold standard for precise frame and structural measurement. You receive a detailed written estimate before any work begins. All estimates at Boxy’s are free, no obligation.

If your vehicle is drivable, you can bring it in during our hours (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5:30 PM). If it’s not drivable, Boxy’s offers a free pick-up and drop-off service throughout the Sioux Falls area, Harrisburg, Brandon, Tea, and surrounding communities.

Step 2: Insurance Coordination

If you’re filing an insurance claim, our team coordinates directly with your insurance company. We work with all insurance carriers and handle supplement claims for hidden damage discovered during repair. You do not have to use your insurance company’s preferred shop — you have the legal right to choose your own repair facility. See our complete Auto Insurance for Collision Repair guide.

Step 3: Disassembly and Damage Documentation

Once your vehicle is in our shop and repair is authorized, we disassemble the damaged areas completely. This is where hidden damage often becomes visible — bumper brackets, radiator supports, and structural components that looked fine from the outside may show damage once disassembled. We document everything with photos and update your estimate accordingly.

Step 4: Structural and Frame Repair

For vehicles with frame or structural damage, we use our Chief laser measuring system to restore your vehicle’s structural integrity to factory specifications within 1–2mm accuracy. Structural integrity is not cosmetic — it directly affects how your vehicle performs in a subsequent collision and how airbags deploy. We do not cut corners on structural repair.

Unibody vs. Body-on-Frame

• Unibody vehicles (most modern cars and crossovers): The body and frame are integrated. Unibody repair requires pulling and straightening with precision measurement to restore factory geometry.
• Body-on-frame vehicles (trucks, traditional SUVs): A separate frame underlies the body. Frame straightening on these vehicles is typically more straightforward but requires the same precision measurement.

Step 5: Panel Repair or Replacement

Damaged body panels are either repaired or replaced depending on damage extent:

• Repair: For dents and minor damage, we use metal working techniques to restore panel shape before paint. Paintless dent repair (PDR) can address many dents without any paint work at all.
• Replacement: Severely damaged panels are replaced with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or quality aftermarket parts. We discuss options and costs with you before proceeding.

Step 6: Surface Preparation

Proper surface prep is where lasting paint quality begins. Our process includes:

• Sanding to remove old finish from repair areas
• Application of high-build primer to fill minor surface imperfections
• Block sanding to achieve a smooth, uniform surface
• Sealer application for adhesion and color uniformity

Step 7: Paint Matching and Application

This is Boxy’s specialty. We use advanced spectrophotometer technology to analyze your vehicle’s existing paint color and formula the exact match — accounting for color shift from weathering and UV exposure over time. Our painters are skilled in blending techniques that make repairs invisible. We use high-quality automotive refinishing products applied in our climate-controlled spray booth for a flawless finish.

Step 8: Reassembly and Quality Control

After paint is cured, your vehicle is fully reassembled. We check panel gaps and alignment, test all mechanical functions, verify electronic systems (windows, lights, sensors), and inspect the quality of every repair surface.

Step 9: ADAS Calibration (2026 Requirement)

Modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — cameras and radar sensors that power lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. After any collision repair involving front-end components, windshields, or bumpers, these sensors must be recalibrated to manufacturer specifications. Failure to calibrate ADAS can make safety systems inoperable or inaccurate — a serious safety risk. Boxy’s handles ADAS calibration as part of our complete collision repair process.

Step 10: Final Inspection and Delivery

Before returning your vehicle, we conduct a final quality inspection, wash and clean the vehicle, and walk you through the completed work. All collision repairs at Boxy’s come with a Lifetime Warranty — if there’s ever an issue with our workmanship, we fix it at no charge.

Free Loaner Car Throughout Your Repair

We know you need transportation while your vehicle is being repaired. Boxy’s provides a free loaner car for the duration of your repair — no rental car cost, no daily fees. This is one of the reasons drivers throughout Sioux Falls, Harrisburg, Brandon, and Tea have trusted Boxy’s since 1989.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does collision repair take at Boxy’s?

Timeline depends on damage severity. Minor repairs (dents, small sections) take 1–3 days. Moderate collision damage typically takes 5–10 business days. Major structural repairs can take 2–4 weeks. We provide you with a free loaner car throughout your repair at Boxy’s.

Does Boxy’s work with insurance companies for collision repair?

Yes. Boxy’s Paint & Body works with all insurance companies. Our estimating staff guides you through the complete claims process, coordinates directly with adjusters, and ensures your vehicle is repaired to OEM specifications covered by your policy.

What is ADAS calibration and why is it needed after collision repair?

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) includes lane keeping, automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, and parking sensors. After any collision or front-end repair involving cameras, radar sensors, or windshield replacement, these systems must be recalibrated to function correctly. Boxy’s handles ADAS calibration as part of complete collision repair.