Auto Repair vs. Auto Body Shop: What’s the Difference?

A common question we hear at Eli’s Collision Repair is, “What is the difference between an auto repair shop vs. auto body shop?” Many Santa Monica and Beverly Hills drivers are wondering the same thing, as the two terms are often used interchangeably. However, there are several ways they are different. If you are also wondering about the difference between a service center vs. collision repair center, the guide below should clear up your questions! 

What is an Auto Repair Shop?

An auto repair shop generally performs regular maintenance and repairs moving parts of the vehicle. Mechanics do not specialize in restoring cosmetic aspects of a vehicle. When your vehicle is in need of a tune-up or there is a component that needs to be replaced, you will want to visit a service center in downtown LA rather than an auto body shop.

Below, you will find some of the most common services performed by a mechanic at a service center: 

• Brake replacement
• Oil changes
• Repair of engine components that wear out or become damaged during use
• Repair moving components of the vehicle
• Wheel alignment
• Tire rotations

What is an Auto Body Shop?

An auto body shop, on the other hand, repairs damage to the exterior and non-moving parts of the vehicle. Body shops specialize in more cosmetic repairs rather than work on brakes, perform electrical repairs, or replace damaged engine components. Collision repair centers also work on structural issues of a vehicle. 

Here is just a sampling of the services performed at an auto body shop like Eli’s Collision Repair: 

• Repair dents in sheet metal
• Car paint restoration
• Replace damaged bumpers or body panels
• Repair or replace glass
• Fix scratches

Visit the Experts at Eli’s Collision Repair

Now that you know the difference between an auto repair shop vs. auto body shop, you may now be able to set up an appointment with the experts at Eli’s Collision Repair. Our team has the knowledge and experience to get your vehicle looking as it did the day it left the showroom. If you still have questions about whether you need to bring your vehicle to a service center vs. collision repair center near Inglewood, we would be happy to discuss your repair needs. Contact us today for more information.