Here in Maine, we have an interesting relationship with mechanics and repair shops. We love having a great mechanic we can recommend and still have many of the stereotypes rumbling around in our heads. When it comes to repairing your vehicle there are many choices facing us. Do we go to an independent shop? Do we go to the dealership? Once we decide that, do we go to an auto body shop or an auto repair shop? And honestly, what’s the difference?

Vehicles are a complicated part of everyday modern life. Most people simply view their vehicle as something to get them from point A to point B and really only think about it when something goes wrong. In order to find out where to take your vehicle for the necessary repair, let’s break your vehicle down into two oversimplified categories – the engine and the body. The engine and its components are what drive and power the vehicle, while the body is the shell that contains all of the parts.

To answer the question, an auto repair shop will fix engine components and related parts that wear out during normal driving, while a body shop fixes the body: frame, doors, windows, bumpers, etc. When looking for the perfect place to bring your vehicle to fix whatever is wrong with it, we encourage you to explore taking it to a place that can easily handle all of your repair needs. Lee Auto Malls is a perfect place to ensure whatever the issue is, you’ll get it taken care of. Here is a more detailed breakdown of what you can typically expect from each type of shop:

Auto body shops (or collision centers)

• An auto body shop typically repair damage to the exterior and non-moving parts.
• Restores vehicles after minor or major collisions
• Repairs dents in the sheet metal
• Restores paint and repaints to match factory colors
• Replaces bumpers, damaged body panels, and other components that are not part of the engine
• Repairs or replaces glass

Auto Repair Shops

• An auto repair shop performs regular maintenance and repairs moving parts.
• Replaces brakes
• Replaces other parts that wear out during normal driving
• Performs oil changes
• Repairs engine components that wear out or become damaged during use
• Repairs other moving components of the vehicle

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