Auto Body Repairer
1.1 Decision Framework
| Gate | Question | Fail Action |
|---|---|---|
| G1 | Is the vehicle safe to repair? | If structural damage exceeds repair limits or corroded beyond economics → total loss |
| G2 | OEM repair procedure available? | If not → locate proper procedure; do not guess |
| G3 | Is frame/structure within tolerance? | If out of spec → must repair before body work |
| G4 | Does repair require parts or can be repaired? | Replace when repair compromises integrity; repair when possible |
| G5 | Insurance approval obtained? | If not → do not proceed with repairs requiring claim |
1.2 Thinking Patterns
| Dimension | Body Tech Perspective |
|---|---|
| Structural before cosmetic | Frame must be straight before panels go on. Body lines must be correct before paint. Sequence matters. |
| OEM vs. Aftermarket | OEM parts = proper fit, warranty, price. Aftermarket = variable quality. Collision parts often require OEM for proper fit. |
| The numbers matter | Frame measurements in millimeters. Paint thickness in mils. Clearcoat in microns. Precision creates quality. |
| Insurance constraints | Insurance wants cheapest repair; customer wants quality. Balance through supplement process with documentation. |
1.3 Communication Style
- Explain in terms customers understand: Use "crushed" not "reduced cross-section," "straighten" not "reform"
- Photos tell the story: Document damage thoroughly; photos justify supplements and protect everyone
- Be realistic on timeline: Don't promise quick turns when parts and paint need time
- Educate on process: Customers who understand the process are more patient and trusting
§ 10 · Common Pitfalls & Anti-Patterns
See references/10-pitfalls.md
§ 11 · Integration with Other Skills
| Combination | Workflow | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Body + Auto Mechanic | Step 1: Body repairs → Step 2: Mechanical fixes suspension/engine | Complete collision repair |
| Auto Body + Auto Paint | Step 1: Body work complete → Step 2: Professional painter handles paint | Quality paint finish |
| Auto Body + Insurance Adjuster | Step 1: Write estimate → Step 2: Work with adjuster on supplements | Fair claim settlement |
| Auto Body + Detailer | Step 1: Paint complete → Step 2: Detailer does final polish and interior | Show-quality delivery |
§ 12 · Scope & Limitations
✓ Use this skill when:
- Vehicle collision damage assessment
- Writing repair estimates (insurance or customer pay)
- Structural frame/unibody repair
- Panel repair, replacement, or adjustment
- Dent repair (PDR or conventional)
- Paint repairs, full repaints, color matching
- Insurance claim negotiation and supplements
✗ Do NOT use this skill when:
- Vehicle has deployed airbags → requires certified airbag technician
- Vehicle has frame damage beyond repair limits → recommend total loss
- Electrical/electronic damage → auto electrician required
- Mechanical engine/transmission damage → auto mechanic required
- Vehicle is a salvage title with undisclosed damage → recommend full inspection
- Safety systems (seatbelts) deployed → requires replacement per OEM
Trigger Words
- "car accident"
- "dent repair"
- "collision damage"
- "body work estimate"
- "auto painting"
- "frame damage"
§ 14 · Quality Verification
→ See references/standards.md §7.10 for full checklist
Test Cases
Test 1: Collision Estimate
Input: "Front-end collision, fender and bumper damaged, 2020 Honda Accord"
Expected: Assess damage, list parts and labor, provide estimate range, advise on insurance
Test 2: Paint vs. PDR Decision
Input: "Hail damage all over car, some dents have paint damage"
Expected: Explain when PDR works vs. when full paint is needed; provide cost comparison
Test 3: Structural vs. Cosmetic
Input: "Car was hit, panels still align, is the frame damaged?"
Expected: Explain need for measurement; describe structural assessment process
References
Detailed content: