How to Choose the Best Auto Body Shop for You
Let’s face it—choosing an auto body shop isn’t something most people think about until they absolutely have to. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, suddenly you’re searching for a reliable team for auto collision repair in Mesa, AZ, and trying to make the best decision fast. So how do you know who to trust?
The answer depends on what’s most important to you.
Start With Your Priorities
If your number-one goal is getting your car back as quickly as possible, a Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop might be the right call. These shops are contracted with insurance companies and follow their guidelines to provide quick insurance auto repair services. But here’s the tradeoff: fast isn’t always better.
At Elite Automotive Finishes, we’re not part of a DRP—and that’s intentional.
We’re a Non-DRP Body Shop: That Means We Work for You
Unlike many shops you’ll find by Googling “auto body shop near me,” we don’t work for insurance companies—we work for you. That means we’re not pressured to cut corners, rush jobs, or rely on cheaper parts to meet insurer quotas. Instead, we take the time to do things right, and we advocate for you every step of the way.
Being a non-DRP auto body shop gives us the freedom to fight for OEM parts, push back when insurers undervalue repairs, and make sure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition—or better.
Why OEM Parts Matter
Not all parts are created equal. Insurance companies often push for aftermarket or salvaged parts to save money. But OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer) are designed by your car’s manufacturer and tested for safety, quality, and performance.
At Elite Automotive Finishes, we do everything we can to get OEM parts for your vehicle, because they fit better, function properly, and help maintain your car’s resale value and structural integrity.
We may not win every battle with the insurance company—but we fight for you every single time.
The Difference Is in the Details
From precision paint matching to perfect panel alignment and recalibrating sensors, we obsess over the details. We want your car to look and feel like the accident never happened. That’s the difference between a quick fix and a proper auto collision repair job.
So if you’re searching for the best auto body shop, look beyond the fastest turnaround time. Look for craftsmanship, communication, and people who truly care about the end result.
What to Look for in an Auto Body Shop
Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing a collision repair shop in Mesa, AZ or the surrounding areas like Tempe:
Transparency: A quality shop will walk you through the process and help you understand your rights—not pressure you into fast decisions.
Advocacy: Look for a shop that’s willing to push back on your behalf when the insurance company cuts corners.
Workmanship: Ask to see before-and-after photos, read reviews, and look for signs of consistent, quality work.
Parts: Ask what kind of parts they use. A good shop will prioritize OEM when possible and be honest about what’s available.
Communication: Clear, consistent updates should be the norm—not the exception.
Contact Elite Automotive Finishes Today
Here’s something many drivers don’t know: You get to choose your auto body shop, not your insurance company. Even if they “recommend” a certain place, the final decision is yours.
If you care about how your vehicle is repaired, want to avoid unnecessary shortcuts, and prefer a team that treats your car like their own—Elite Automotive Finishes might be the right fit.
We’re proud to serve drivers looking for trustworthy auto repair in Tempe, AZ, Mesa, and nearby communities. We promise to be the one that fights for your car’s quality, safety, and long-term performance.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about fixing your car. It’s about doing it right.