Vehicle Check-In Process

What is the vehicle check-in process and why is it so important? This is the first and one of the most critical steps in the repair process. This is the time to build a relationship and trust with the customer, as well as gather all necessary information about the accident. If this is done incorrectly the whole repair process can be delayed, have added expenses for the shop and you can have an unhappy customer.

Details about the collision should be discussed while walking around the vehicle once it arrives at the repair facility. While walking around the vehicle and talking to the customer, you will gain an understanding of primary and secondary damage, as well as any unrelated damage on the vehicle.

It is important to ask the customer questions about some of the following topics:

  • Speed of impact
  • Brake usage during the collision
  • Unusual noises
  • Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) functionality
  • Steering or suspension issues (drivability)

Discussing these topics with the customer gives all parties a level of understanding regarding repairs that are necessary for the vehicle. It also helps ensure a more thorough estimate for repairs.

These are just a few examples of why the vehicle check-in process is extremely important to the collision repair process.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:


Related I-CAR Courses

  • I-CAR Just In Time: Cybertruck Tuesday, 11 March 2025

    Sometimes seeing is understanding, that’s why I-CAR's technical team created the Just in Time video series to guide you through a variety of collision repair topics from ADAS and EVs to repair tips...

  • GM Repair Insights: Winter 2025 Monday, 10 March 2025

    The winter edition of General Motors (GM) Repair Insights magazine is now available.

  • Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Genesis Friday, 7 March 2025

    Park assist sensors are part of the park assist system, just one of many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) found on vehicles today. Damaged sensors are typically replaced and may require...

  • Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Hyundai Friday, 7 March 2025

    Park assist sensors are part of the park assist system, just one of many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) found on vehicles today. Damaged sensors are typically replaced and may require...

  • Structural Straightening: Rivian Wednesday, 5 March 2025

    What should you do when a damaged Rivian comes into your repair facility? Can you measure it? Can it be straightened? What needs to be replaced?

  • Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Genesis Thursday, 27 February 2025

    A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)...

  • Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Hyundai - UPDATE Thursday, 27 February 2025

    A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)...

  • I-CAR Repairers Realm: SATA New Equipment And Technologies - Now Available Wednesday, 26 February 2025

    I-CAR staff discussed recent developments in SATA equipment and technology.

  • Calibration Research Tips: Ford/Lincoln Park Assist Operation Check - UPDATE Thursday, 20 February 2025

    While searching for information on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on an OEM repair information site, you may come across unique calibration procedures or events. These events can vary by...

  • Honda Has Released The 2026 Passport Body Repair News Wednesday, 19 February 2025

    Honda has released a Body Repair News bulletin for the 2026 Passport. This document contains at-a-glance information for this model.