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General Auto Body Repair

What is the difference between auto body repair and collision repair?

Auto body repair includes fixing dents, scratches, paint, or glass damage, while collision repair involves structural or frame restoration after an accident. In short, all collision repair is auto body repair, but not all auto body repair requires collision work. At Malecha’s, we specialize in both.

Even if damage looks small, modern vehicles often hide problems under the surface. A cracked bumper may affect sensors, and a small dent could indicate alignment issues. A free inspection is the best way to make sure nothing important is overlooked.
Yes. Many newer vehicles use aluminum panels, which require specialized training and tools. Malecha’s Auto Body has the certifications and equipment to safely repair aluminum, something not every shop can offer.
Absolutely. Our OEM certifications cover Ford, GM, Chrysler, Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and more. Even if your vehicle isn’t on the list, our I-CAR Gold Class technicians are trained to handle nearly all makes and models.
An OEM-certified shop follows manufacturer-approved repair standards, tools, and parts. This ensures your safety systems are restored properly and your warranty remains intact. Malecha’s Auto Body holds certifications from many major automakers, setting us apart in southern Minnesota.

Yes. We offer Paintless Dent Repair (PDR), which removes hail dents without repainting. This process is faster, more affordable, and preserves your original paint finish.

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Collision Repair Process

How long does collision repair usually take?

Repair times vary depending on the extent of damage, insurance approvals, and parts availability. Small repairs may take a few days, while major structural work can take over a week. We provide updates so you always know what to expect.

We start with a free estimate and detailed repair plan. Once insurance approves, we order parts, perform repairs, paint refinishing, calibrations, and a full inspection. The process ends with a complete cleaning, so your vehicle looks and drives like new.
Appointments aren’t required, but they guarantee faster service. Both our locations welcome walk-ins, and all estimates are free.

Yes. With factory paint-matching tools and OEM repair standards, our goal is to return your vehicle to pre-accident condition. Most customers can’t tell where the damage was once we finish.

Yes. Our shops are equipped with professional frame racks and computerized measuring systems. These tools allow us to restore your vehicle’s frame to exact factory specifications.
Yes. Every repair goes through a final multi-step inspection by both a technician and a manager. We verify that all systems work properly and the repair meets OEM standards.
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Insurance & Estimates

Do I have to use the shop my insurance company recommends?
No. Minnesota law allows you to choose your repair shop. Insurers may try to steer you toward their preferred shops, but you always have the right to choose Malecha’s Auto Body.
Yes. We handle all communication, paperwork, and approvals with your insurer. Our job is to advocate for the correct repairs and parts so you don’t have to stress over the process.
Yes. We provide free estimates at both of our locations. Using digital imaging and estimating software, we give you an accurate picture of repair costs before any work begins.
This is common. Insurance estimates often only cover visible damage. Once we disassemble your vehicle, we submit documentation for hidden damage so your insurer covers the full repair.
You can choose to pay for repairs out-of-pocket. We’ll explain your options, provide a clear estimate, and help you decide whether filing a claim makes sense.
Yes. We work with all major providers, including American Family, Progressive, State Farm, and Farm Bureau.
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Paint & Parts

Do you use OEM parts for repairs?
Yes. We always prioritize OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts because they’re built for your exact vehicle. They ensure proper fit, safety, and long-term reliability.
If an insurer suggests aftermarket parts, we’ll explain your rights under Minnesota law. Ultimately, the choice is yours. We recommend OEM parts whenever possible for safety and durability.
We use a digital spectrometer to scan your car’s color and mix paint for an exact match. Combined with our PPG Envirobase paint system, this ensures a seamless finish.
Yes. All paint work is backed by our Lifetime Warranty. If you ever notice fading or defects, we’ll fix it free of charge.
Yes. We offer full refinishing services in addition to collision work. Some customers choose this to refresh an older vehicle or improve resale value.
Yes. PPG Envirobase waterborne paint reduces emissions compared to solvent paints. It also produces a high-quality finish approved by vehicle manufacturers.
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ADAS & Technology

What is ADAS calibration?
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which includes safety features like lane-keeping cameras and adaptive cruise control. After a collision or glass replacement, these systems must be recalibrated to function correctly.
No. Many shops outsource calibrations to dealerships, which adds time and cost. Malecha’s performs calibrations in-house using OEM-level tools, saving customers that extra step.
If calibration is skipped, safety systems like blind spot monitoring and collision alerts may not work properly. That can put you and your family at risk. This is why we make it a required step in our repair process.
Yes. We perform pre- and post-repair scans with OEM and advanced aftermarket tools. This ensures all systems are reset and no error codes are left unresolved.
Yes. Our technicians are trained to follow OEM procedures for hybrids and EVs, including high-voltage safety protocols. We can safely repair structural, body, and paint damage on these vehicles.
Yes. When we replace a windshield, we also recalibrate any cameras and sensors mounted to it. This ensures your ADAS systems work properly after glass replacement.
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Warranty & Customer Experience

Do you guarantee your repairs?
Yes. Every repair is backed by our Lifetime Warranty on workmanship and paint. As long as you own the vehicle, we stand behind the repair.
Yes. We provide free loaner cars for customers without rental coverage. This makes the process much less stressful while your vehicle is in our shop.
Yes. We partner with Enterprise and other providers to set up rentals. We can bill insurance directly if your policy includes rental coverage.
Yes. We can coordinate towing to bring your vehicle to one of our shops. In many cases, towing can be included as part of your insurance claim.
Yes. Every vehicle is fully detailed inside and out before delivery. Many customers say their car looks better than it did before the accident.
Bring your vehicle back right away. Our warranty covers paint and workmanship, and we’ll make corrections at no cost. Customer satisfaction is our priority.
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Local-Specific Questions

Do you provide auto body repair in Faribault?
Yes. Our Faribault shop is a modern, 11,000 sq. ft. facility equipped with advanced tools and OEM-certified technicians. It serves drivers throughout Rice County and surrounding areas.
Yes. Our Waseca location, formerly Dave’s Auto Body, has served the community for decades. Now part of Malecha’s, it offers the same OEM-certified repairs and Lifetime Warranty as our Faribault shop.
Yes. Many Owatonna residents choose Malecha’s because of our certifications and in-house calibrations. We’re one of the closest shops in the area offering this level of service.

Yes. We often see customers from Northfield, Kenyon, and surrounding towns who make the short drive for certified auto body repair. Our reputation for quality and warranty protection makes the trip worthwhile.

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Still Have Questions?

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