Tom Kadlec Auto Body Repair Process

A clear path from damage to a repair done right.

We make collision repair easier to understand with a clear plan, careful repairs, consistent communication, and final verification.

The Repair Journey

What happens after your vehicle arrives.

Every repair is different, but most collision repairs move through the stages below. Our team will walk you through what your specific repair requires.

Assess & Plan

Pre-scan & Assessment

We begin with a visual assessment of the damage and use advanced scanning tools to check the vehicle’s on-board computer systems for faults or malfunctions that may need attention.

Assess & Plan

Disassembly & Blueprint

After the initial assessment, the vehicle moves into the shop for disassembly. Blueprinting helps our technicians uncover hidden or internal damage and build a more complete repair plan.

Assess & Plan

Insurance Coordination

Once assessment is complete, we provide a written estimate to you or your insurance company and order needed parts. If additional damage is found, we can coordinate a supplemental claim for the newly discovered repair needs.

Repair & Refinish

Frame & Unibody Repair

When structural repair is required, the vehicle moves to frame equipment that uses controlled hydraulic pressure to correct bends or twists and help return the structure to manufacturer specifications.

Repair & Refinish

Panel Repair

Damaged exterior panels are repaired or replaced as needed. This is where dents, scratches, and other panel damage are addressed before refinishing begins.

Repair & Refinish

Refinish & Paint

We identify the vehicle’s paint color using the manufacturer paint code, carefully prepare the surface, and apply primer, paint, and clear coat. Unaffected areas are masked to protect them from overspray.

Repair & Refinish

Buff & Polish

After painted panels are ready, the finish is buffed and polished to refine the surface and bring back the clean, high-quality shine expected from the completed repair.

Repair & Refinish

Reassembly

Once internal and external repairs are complete, the vehicle is put back together. Panels and components are reinstalled with attention to the specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Verify & Complete

Mechanical Repairs & System Calibration

If the repair requires work such as an alignment or calibration of cameras and other safety-related systems, that work is completed through our dedicated service center.

Verify & Complete

Post-scan & Final Inspection

We perform a final scan of the vehicle’s on-board computer system to check that repair-related fault codes have been addressed, then complete a final visual inspection against our quality standards.

Hidden Damage & Supplements

Hidden damage is why blueprinting matters.

Some collision damage only becomes visible after the vehicle is disassembled. When that happens, the repair may require additional parts or a supplemental insurance claim. Our team documents newly discovered damage and coordinates with the insurance company as needed so the repair plan can reflect what the vehicle actually requires.

Need towing or rental help?

Start With Clarity

Ready to start with a clear repair plan?

Tell us about the damage. Our Rochester team can inspect your vehicle, explain what comes next, and help you take the first step toward repair.

Contact Us

Main 507-280-2221
2953 Wilder Rd NW
Rochester, MN 55901
Tom Kadlec Auto Body 44.035791900681666, -92.50709075488126.