Nova Body Shop has handled collision repair in Austin since 1980, at the same address on North Lamar. Front-end hits, rear-end damage, side impacts, fenders, doors, quarter panels: we repair the structure first, then the body, then the paint, and we check the car before you drive it away.
What does collision repair at Nova include?
- Structural and frame straightening on our frame bench, so the car sits and drives the way it should.
- Body work: panels repaired where they can be, replaced where they should be.
- Paint and color matching in our paint booth, blended into the panels around the repair.
- Diagnostic scans to find fault codes and help diagnose what the collision affected.
- ADAS calibration for cameras and sensors, arranged through a specialist calibration partner when the repair requires it.
- Reassembly and a final check of fit, gaps, lights and finish before pickup.
Why ADAS calibration matters for your safety
Your car's safety systems depend on cameras, radar and sensors that sit right where collisions happen: behind the bumper and grille, in the mirrors and at the top of the windshield. They control automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, blind-spot warnings and adaptive cruise control. After a collision, or even after a bumper is removed and reinstalled, a sensor can end up pointing a few degrees off. The car may look perfect and still brake late or miss a warning.
That is why we scan the car to find fault codes and help diagnose what the collision affected, and why, when the repair requires it, we arrange calibration through a specialist calibration partner before the car goes home. According to CCC Intelligent Solutions' Crash Course 2026 report, 28.3% of repairable collision estimates in 2025 included an ADAS calibration. We would rather tell you it is needed than hand back a car that looks fixed but does not see the road correctly.
How the repair works, step by step
First comes the estimate. We look at the car with you and write down what we see. Once the damaged parts come off, hidden damage often shows up behind them, and that is normal in collision work. If it changes the job, we call you, and your insurer if there is a claim, before doing anything extra.
Then parts are ordered, the structure is straightened, and the body and paint work begins. Paint needs time to cure before reassembly. At the end, the car is put back together, scanned again when needed, and checked. For a realistic view of timing, read how long collision repair takes.
Paying yourself or going through insurance
We repair cars for drivers who pay directly and for drivers with a claim. Nova works with all major insurance companies and will talk with your adjuster for you. In Texas, you choose where your car is repaired, even when the insurer suggests a shop (Texas Insurance Code section 1952.301). Our insurance claims page explains the process and your rights.
If the damage is close to what the car is worth, the insurer may declare it a total loss. Our guide on how total loss works in Texas explains what happens next.
Getting a collision repair estimate
The most accurate estimate is in person: walk in during open hours, no appointment, and it takes 5 to 15 minutes. If you cannot come by, text your VIN and several photos from different angles to 512-837-8174, or email them to novabodyshop@yahoo.com. Photos help us give a starting point, and the in-person look confirms it.
Frequently asked questions
How much does collision repair cost in Austin?
It depends on the parts, the labor and the paint the damage needs, so an honest price starts with seeing the car. At Nova Body Shop on North Lamar, a free in-person collision repair estimate takes 5 to 15 minutes. For a quote by text, send your VIN and photos from several angles to 512-837-8174.
How long will my car be in the shop after an accident?
It depends on the damage, parts availability and, with a claim, insurance approval. Hidden damage found after teardown can add time. We give you a timeline with the estimate and update you if it changes.
Do you calibrate cameras and sensors after a repair?
Nova performs diagnostic scans to help diagnose the car. When a repair requires ADAS calibration of cameras or sensors, Nova arranges it through a specialist calibration partner.
Can I choose Nova even if my insurer recommends another shop?
Yes. Texas Insurance Code section 1952.301 gives you the right to choose your repair shop. The insurer only has to pay a reasonable amount for the repair and parts, so we will walk you through how that applies to your estimate.
Is my car safe to drive after a collision?
If lights, steering, suspension or airbags were affected, or fluids are leaking, do not drive it. When in doubt, have it towed and bring it in for an estimate.