Collision Repair - Refinishing Training Programs

Every day thousands of vehicles are damaged in traffic accidents. People trained in collision repair and refinishing use their skills to make vehicles look and perform like new again. On-the-job training supported by formal collision repair and refinishing programs offer the best grounding for a career in this rewarding field of automotive repair.

What will I learn?

Collision repair programs introduce you to alignment machines which can restore distorted metal body sections and frames. You will also learn about using a range of equipment to repair damage to individual metal sections. Collision repair and refinishing can involve using a hammer and anvil to smooth out a small dent, right through to a pneumatic metal-cutting gun and welding equipment to remove and replace damaged sections.

Collision repair programs increasingly equip students with the skills needed to repair damage to bodies made from a combination of materials including steel, aluminum, metal alloys and plastics.

What can I do with collision repair & refinishing training?

Formal collision repair and refinishing programs are just the start and will be followed by on the job training lasting 3 to 4 years to ensure all every aspect of collision repair and refinishing have been covered. The best employment prospects should be enjoyed by those who supplement their on-the-job training with collision repair and refinishing programs.

Although voluntary, certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a recognized standard. Collision repairers take between one and four ASE Master Collision and Refurnish Exams. ASE certification requires passing at least one exam with 2 years' worth of hands-on experience. A postsecondary program in automotive body repair may be substituted for 1 year's work experience. ASE Master Collision Repair and Refinish Technicians have passed all four exams. You must retake exams at least every five years to remain certified at collision repair.