Is there a website that can give general estimates on auto body repair? I have a simple repair (straighten out & paint a quarter panel) that I will need soon.
I don’t know of any website that does this, and I don’t know if it would do much good. There can be so much hidden damage, stuff that doesn’t show from the outside, that only an experienced body repair man will know about. I had body work done on my van about a year ago, and they found things that I never knew were in there. And these were from reputable shops, too. I don’t think any of the 3 of them were trying to mine this for extra money.
If/when you go for estimates, go to at least 3 different shops. Mine varied considerably from one place to the next. If you don’t know which ones to try, ask for the opinion of a guy at a good parts store. They will probably know who’s good, and maybe they’ll tell you who to stay away from.
No respecting bodyshop will give a estimate over the phone, let alone the web. I think your outta luck.
The good news is estimates are generally free. You should be able to stop by any bodyshop for one.
On the 'net, you can only get parts prices. You’ll need an estimate from a paint and body man to know what parts you’ll need. Paint and repair prices vary widely. Some people just charge more and different paints vary wildly in price. Ask your insurance agent who does the best work with the least hassle. Most have ample experience with body shops or can refer you to an adjuster who does.