The Collision Repair Industry is Growing, Are You Growing with It?
The collision repair industry is experiencing notable growth. Vehicles are becoming increasingly complex, and so is the repair work required to keep them on the road. This evolution presents both challenges and opportunities for collision repair businesses. Is your shop equipped to keep up with these changes? If not, it might be time to rethink your approach to staying ahead.
Here’s a closer look at our collision repair industry outlook, and what it means for your shop.
The Need for Specialized Equipment
The collision repair industry has a growing need for specialized tools and technology. Ensuring your shop has the right equipment isn’t optional anymore—it’s a requirement .
Take UV coatings, for example. UV technology in primers and clear coats is becoming more common, offering faster curing times and better performance. But to use these advanced products, you’ll need specific UV curing lights, which have evolved significantly over the years. Meanwhile, automation, infrared technology, and advanced paint booths are becoming mainstays in the modern repair shop.
However, for simpler tasks, shops will need their own advanced diagnostic systems. Failing to invest in such tools will make it difficult to meet the repair standards customers expect, and manufacturers demand.
Adapting to Changing Materials
Another important trend in the industry is the shift toward working with new materials. Many vehicles now incorporate innovative metals, plastics, and composites that require different repair approaches than traditional steel bodies. For instance, aluminum and carbon fiber—favored for their lightweight and durable properties—cannot be treated with the same tools or processes as older materials.
Even something as routine as repainting a car becomes complex. Some models house radar sensors that can malfunction if painted improperly. Automakers like Nissan have even released position statements advising against repainting certain bumpers altogether because it can disrupt sensor performance. Shops need to stay informed about these changes and adjust their processes accordingly.
Challenges and Opportunities
The collision repair industry outlook shows both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. On one hand, advancements in technology are making vehicles safer and more reliable. On the other, they’re adding layers of complexity to the repair processes. Whether it’s mastering new UV coatings or investing in equipment for modern materials, repair shops must be proactive.
That means continually educating your team, investing in cutting-edge tools, and staying aware of the latest industry trends. The businesses that do will thrive. Those that don’t risk falling behind in an industry that isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Growing with Accudraft Paint Booths
The growth of the collision repair industry should be an incentive to grow your shop, too. Modern cars aren’t the same as those from 20 years ago, and your repair processes shouldn’t be, either. By staying adaptable and committing to using the latest technologies and techniques, you’ll ensure your business is ready for the future.
Accudraft’s paint booths provide the cutting-edge technology you need to handle today’s advanced vehicle materials and coatings efficiently. Stay competitive, deliver top-quality results, and partner with Accudraft to drive your shop forward. Contact us today to for a quote!