Auto Body Shop Services

You can restore your peace of mind after an accident with First Class Collision–Westburi’s trusted auto body shop for comprehensive collision repair and more.

When an unexpected collision puts your life on hold, you deserve more than just basic repairs. You want your car returned to its pre-accident condition—with expert craftsmanship, transparent service, and a team that treats your vehicle like their own. At First Class Collision, we combine advanced repair technology with years of experience serving Nassau and Suffolk County drivers, so you get back on the road quickly and confidently.

Why Choose First Class Collision?

• Family-owned and operated in Westbury, NY since 1999/
• Certified technicians using OEM-approved parts and finishes.
• I-CAR Certified
• PPG Certified Shop
• Lifetime warranty on all collision repairs
• Hassle-free insurance claim center and rental car assistance
• Same-day estimates and fast turnaround for most repairs

Fast Turnaround—Because You’ve Got Places to Be

We know you don’t want to wait around for your car. That’s why our team works hard to complete repairs as quickly as possible—no endless delays, no mysterious timelines. From fender benders to major repairs, we prioritize getting you back on the road fast without cutting corners.

Understanding the Collision Repair Process

When your vehicle is involved in a collision, understanding the journey from initial damage to a fully restored finish can give you peace of mind. Here’s what you can expect during a typical collision repair:

1. Thorough Evaluation and Assessment
The process begins with a meticulous inspection of your vehicle. Skilled technicians assess the extent of the damage and document visible and underlying issues. They’ll then provide recommendations, weighing whether parts should be repaired or replaced based on safety, cost-effectiveness, and your vehicle’s unique needs.

2. Parts Removal and Replacement Options
Depending on the severity of the damage, specific components may need to be removed or replaced. Reputable repair facilities often offer flexibility, sourcing high-quality original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, reliable aftermarket options, or even recycled components that meet industry standards. This approach ensures you have choices that fit your budget and preferences, without compromising safety.

3. Surface Preparation and Spot Repairs
Once structural repairs are addressed, technicians focus on preparing the damaged areas for refinishing. This involves a careful process of cleaning, sanding, and blending to create a flawless surface. Precision is key: each panel is prepared to ensure new paint bonds seamlessly, restoring the car’s appearance and protecting it from future wear.

4. Paint Application and Blending
Utilizing advanced color-matching technology (we’re PPG Certified), specialists apply fresh coats of paint that perfectly match your vehicle’s original finish. Adjacent areas are expertly masked and blended, resulting in a uniform, eye-catching appearance—so you’ll never notice where the repair started or ended.

5. Finishing Touches and Quality Control
After painting, the final steps include meticulous wet sanding, buffing, and polishing. This attention to detail eliminates any minor imperfections and restores the luminous shine to your paintwork and clear coat. Before returning your car, the repair team will perform a comprehensive quality check to ensure all repairs meet stringent standards for both safety and aesthetics.

By selecting an establishment with a solid reputation, you gain access to comprehensive services that often include thorough inspections, precision paint matching, and meticulous frame alignment—all vital components in maintaining your car’s structural integrity.

If you have any special concerns or need your car ready for a particular event, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We’ll do everything we can to meet your timeline—think of us as your pit crew, minus the NASCAR jumpsuits.

The Assessment and Recommendation Process

The journey to restoring your vehicle typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation by seasoned professionals. When you bring your car in, technicians will carefully inspect the damaged areas—scrutinizing everything from surface dings to more complex structural issues. Using their expertise, they determine whether it’s more practical to repair or replace specific parts to balance quality with cost-effectiveness.

When keeping the original equipment is the more intelligent choice, repairs are performed to address dents, scratches, or blemishes on plastic and fiberglass components. The goal is always to maximize both value and longevity for your vehicle, ensuring that only the right solutions are recommended for each unique situation.

Crafting a Personalized Repair Plan

One of the hallmarks of a reputable auto body shop is the care taken to develop a repair plan tailored precisely to your vehicle’s needs. This process begins with a comprehensive assessment—trained technicians meticulously inspect every area impacted by the damage, from the visible exterior panels to the underlying frame and structural components. Using advanced diagnostic tools and their own expertise, they identify not only the obvious issues but also any hidden problems that could affect your vehicle’s safety or drivability.

Once the evaluation is complete, the team creates a step-by-step roadmap for the repair. This detailed plan addresses each area that needs attention, recommends the most appropriate repair methods, and ensures the use of high-quality parts and materials that meet manufacturer specifications. You’ll receive a clear outline of the work to be performed, the timeline, and any coordination required with your insurance provider. The result is a restoration process that’s as transparent as it is thorough—designed to return your vehicle to pre-accident condition, both in appearance and function.

Self-Pay Repair Solutions

Suppose you’re handling the cost of repairs out of pocket rather than through insurance —we understand affordability matters. We offer flexible repair options tailored to your budget while maintaining quality standards for safety and structural integrity. Our experienced team will walk you through alternative solutions—whether that means selecting OEM, aftermarket, or refurbished parts—to help keep costs manageable without cutting corners. We’re always happy to discuss your priorities and suggest ways to stretch your dollar so that you can get back on the road with confidence.

Out-of-Pocket vs. Insurance: Making the Right Choice

When facing collision repairs, the question of whether to pay out of pocket or file an insurance claim often arises. The answer depends on a few key factors:

• Extent of Damage: If the repair costs are relatively minor and comparable to—or only slightly higher than—your insurance deductible, handling payment yourself might be more cost-effective. This helps you avoid potential increases in your insurance premiums.
• Insurance Considerations: For more significant damage, especially when the repair bill far exceeds your deductible, filing a claim can be the smarter route. Most reputable auto body shops, including ours, are accustomed to working directly with all major insurance companies. This ensures a streamlined process, from coordinating inspections to managing paperwork and arranging rental vehicles as needed.
• Timing and Convenience: Consider your timeline and convenience as well. Insurance claims can sometimes take a bit longer due to approval processes, whereas out-of-pocket repairs often move ahead more quickly.
• Long-Term Impacts: Keep in mind that multiple insurance claims within a short period can affect your rates, so weigh your options if you’ve recently filed another claim.

Ultimately, our team is here to help you navigate both pathways. We can review estimates with you, explain the potential impacts, and ensure you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.

First Class Collision offers a wide range of services, which we’ll mention below. You can also click the specific service you want for more detailed information.

 

Services Summary Overview

 

Collision Repair

 

Collision repair is not offered at every Auto body shop, as some do not have the expertise, experience, and equipment needed for repairs beyond the vehicle’s aesthetics.

The goal of collision repair at First Class Collision is to repair what’s broken and return your vehicle to its pre-collision state. This can include auto frame straightening,  paintless dent removal, lighting replacement, auto glass repair, and painting, among other things.  Whether your car has been in a minor fender bender or a significant collision, having professionals assess and correct any frame issues is essential for safety and aesthetics. With precise measurements, Advanced PPG computerized color-matching, in-house paint mixing, and state-of-the-art equipment, our skilled technicians can ensure that every inch of your vehicle is returned to factory specifications.

Is there shattered or cracked glass?

Don’t worry; we’re here to repair your car to its perfect form.
(Glasswork for collision repair is only available via insurance coverage.)

One of the most critical aspects of restoring a vehicle after a collision is repairing or replacing damaged glass. Not only does this impact the vehicle’s appearance, but it also plays a crucial role in ensuring driver and passenger safety. Windshield repairs are often preferred over replacements as they can be more cost-effective and less time-consuming. These repairs are typically done on chips or cracks smaller than a quarter and do not obstruct the driver’s line of sight. Our first step in repairing a windshield is to clean the damaged area thoroughly to remove any debris or dirt. Then, using specialized tools, resin is injected into the chip or crack to fill gaps and restore structural integrity. The resin is then cured with ultraviolet light, solidifying it and preventing further damage from spreading. Excess resin is removed, leaving behind a smooth surface. However, when required, we can provide complete glass replacement. Restoring damaged glass after a collision requires careful attention and specific techniques for each repair or replacement.

Auto Body Shop

 

As an auto body shop, we focus on a vehicle’s aesthetics, including dent removal, scratch buffing, customization, painting, and window tinting.

Many customers ask us if we can repair minor dents, scratches, and nicks without repainting. Yes, we can. Our skilled technicians begin by assessing the extent of the damage and determining the best approach to restoring your vehicle’s appearance without causing further harm.

Using specialized tools and precision, we gently massage out dents from the inside out, preserving your car’s original finish.. At First Class Collision, we do all of that and more. We offer other services, including 24/7 towing, car rental, commercial wholesale contracts (ask us), vehicle restoration, lease car cleanup, auto customization, and rim repair.

The Spot Painting Process

Restoring your vehicle’s appearance after a collision doesn’t always require a full respray—sometimes, targeted spot painting does the trick. If your door, hood, or bumper has minor damage, a reputable auto body shop will walk you through a careful multi-step process designed for seamless results.

First, technicians focus on the affected area, ensuring any surrounding panels are properly prepped. This involves precise cleaning and block-sanding to ensure surfaces are smooth and ready to accept new paint. Next, the team carefully masks the surrounding areas, protecting the rest of your vehicle from overspray and ensuring an exact finish.

High-quality paint is then skillfully applied, blending the new color with the original to ensure a virtually invisible transition. The result? Your car’s exterior is restored to its pre-damage condition, with no glaring reminders of past mishaps.

We are recognized (by all insurance companies) as an insurance claims center.

If you need services not listed here, please don’t hesitate to let us know. If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

How Paint Blending Ensures a Seamless Finish

When it comes to matching new paint to your vehicle’s existing finish, the process is both art and science. Expert technicians begin by meticulously preparing the areas to be refinished—this isn’t just about applying color. Adjacent panels are carefully cleaned and block-sanded to create a smooth, even surface, ensuring the paint adheres properly and looks flawless.

Next comes the blending itself: a multi-step masking process allows us to transition the new coat into the existing paintwork seamlessly. This careful blending technique ensures that transitions between new and old paint are virtually invisible, maintaining a factory-fresh appearance. By layering and feathering the paint, our team achieves a uniform color and finish, so your car looks as good as new—every detail accounted for.

The Finishing Process: Sanding, Buffing, and Polishing

Restoring flawless paint and a deep, lasting shine is both an art and a science. So, what happens after those dents and blemishes have been repaired? The final touches involve a specialized multi-step process designed to eliminate imperfections and breathe new life into your vehicle’s finish.

Here’s how the process unfolds:

• Wet Sanding: The repaired area is first carefully wet sanded to even out surface imperfections. This step gently smooths the clear coat and seamlessly blends any repaired sections into the surrounding paint.
• Buffing: Next comes buffing, where a fine liquid compound is used along with a professional buffer. This stage not only removes sanding marks but also begins to bring back the glossy appearance of your vehicle’s paint.
• Polishing: Finally, polishing with specialized products enhances the clarity and depth of the finish, leaving the surface with a smooth, mirror-like shine.

Each step is handled with precision, ensuring your vehicle not only looks its best but also has a properly restored clear coat for protection against the elements. When performed by skilled technicians, this process helps maintain your car’s value and returns your paint to its pre-accident brilliance.

Addressing Imperfections in the Finishing Process

Even with the most meticulous repairs, tiny imperfections like dust, lint, or dirt can sometimes settle onto a vehicle’s surface during the painting process. Professional auto body shops tackle these blemishes with a thorough multi-step finishing approach designed to deliver a flawless result.

First, technicians perform careful wet-sanding of the affected area. This gentle method gradually smooths out the paint surface by removing fine contaminants and leveling out minor flaws. Once the area is refined, a specialized liquid buffing compound is applied and worked in with precision tools. This step eliminates fine scratches and seamlessly blends the paint, restoring both smoothness and uniformity.

Finally, the treated area is polished to high gloss using professional-grade polishers and compounds. This crucial stage revives the brilliance of your paint and clear coat, making the repaired section indistinguishable from the rest of your vehicle. The result is a finish that not only looks impeccable but also protects your car’s value and appearance for the road ahead.

Auto Customization

 

Auto customization is for those tired of driving a cookie-cutter car that looks just like every other vehicle on the road. Do you have a classic you want to restore? Do you want to stand out and turn heads wherever you go? Then auto customization is for you. It’s time to unleash your creativity and personalize your ride with the art of auto customization. There are endless possibilities for transforming your vehicle into a true reflection of who you are. So buckle up and get ready to discover the exhilarating world of auto customization!

From simple upgrades to more intricate modifications, there’s something for every car enthusiast.

• Lip kits/Bumper kits
• body kits
• custom paint jobs
• aftermarket installs
• window tinting
• vinyl wraps

Paintless Dent Removal (PDR)

Many customers ask us if we can repair minor dents, scratches, and nicks without repainting. Yes, we can. Our skilled technicians begin by assessing the extent of the damage and determining the best approach to restoring your vehicle’s appearance without causing further harm. Using specialized tools and precision, we gently massage out dents from the inside out, preserving your car’s original finish.

Car Restoration

 

Vintage car restoration is more than just fixing up an old vehicle. It’s a meticulous process that involves returning a classic car to its original glory. Car restoration typically includes repairing, refurbishing, and sometimes even rebuilding various vehicle components to ensure they look and perform as close to their original condition as possible.

Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or a vintage vehicle collector, one thing is for sure: car restoration is no small feat. We’re here to help. Call First Class Collision today for your classic or vintage car restoration. Advanced appointments are required for classic and vintage car restoration.

Towing

 

When you’re broken down on the side of the road, call First Class Collision, a 24-hour towing service based in Westbury, NY. If you are in an accident and need towing services, we’ll tow your car free of charge and then get to work repairing it to its pre-accident condition.

But what about leasing a vehicle and returning it? Don’t worry—we will handle everything for you. We can provide vehicle clean-up and return, ensuring a smooth, stress-free process.

Understanding OEM, Aftermarket, and Recycled Parts

When it comes to auto body repairs, you’ll encounter a few key options for replacement parts—each with its own balance of quality and cost.

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts:
  Your vehicle’s original manufacturer produces these components. They’re crafted to meet strict factory specifications, which usually ensures the best fit, finish, and long-term reliability. Because of this precise compatibility, OEM parts tend to be the most expensive option. For drivers who want their car restored to like-new condition, OEM is often the gold standard.

• Aftermarket Parts:
  Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers rather than the original automaker. They can be new but not necessarily designed for your specific brand and model—though many offer excellent performance and durability. These parts are generally less expensive than OEM options, making them an appealing choice for those working within a budget. However, quality can vary by manufacturer, so it’s wise to choose reputable brands.

• Recycled Parts:
  Recycled or salvage parts come from vehicles that are no longer roadworthy but still have components in good condition. This is the most budget-friendly path, offering significant savings while maintaining safety and function. Recycled parts can be an environmentally responsible choice, as they extend the life of existing materials.

Selecting between these options depends on your priorities—whether it’s preserving resale value, reducing costs, or simply getting back on the road quickly.

Visit Us at 99 Hopper Street, Westbury, NY 11590. Would you be ready for a free estimate, or do you need help as soon as possible? Feel free to call us at 516-433-4448 or book an Appointment.

Don’t let an accident disrupt your life—choose the local collision repair team that puts you first.

Have Questions?

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How We Collect and Use Real Customer Reviews

Ever wondered how auto body shop reviews end up on our site? It’s pretty simple—after a repair job, we invite our customers to share their honest feedback directly with us. No friends, no bots, and indeed no sugarcoating—just genuine reviews from folks who have had their vehicles back in their driveway, safe and sound.

We ask about everything from the quality of repairs to timeliness, communication, and overall satisfaction. Think of it as Yelp, but more focused—where your thoughts help steer fellow drivers toward businesses they can actually trust. So, whether you’re weighing the pros and cons of that repair shop down the street or want to brag about your five-star experience, rest assured: every review helps someone else make a confident choice.