Slashing Collision Repair Estimating Times is Driving Profits for Shops

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The Old Way: Slow and Manual

Collision shops and insurers have long struggled with a clunky vehicle intake process. Customers scheduled appointments, took time off work, and waited days just to get a repair estimate. Estimators spent hours recreating notes after inspecting the car, which left room for errors, slowed production, and delayed repairs. This inefficiency frustrated customers and drained shop resources.

How Innovation Changes Everything

AI adoption in business is accelerating. According to the Statista Global AI Market Size Forecast, the Global AI market size is projected to reach $244 billion in 2025 and over $800 billion by 2030. Collision repair and insurance are among the sectors seeing the fastest transformation. Shops that invest in AI are leading the way in efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability.

Real Results from the Front Lines

CARSTAR Torcam Group is a great example of what happens when technology meets efficiency. Owner and General Manager Sebastian Torres introduced Qapter AI to his shops and saw dramatic improvements:

  • Vehicle intake time dropped to 20 minutes
  • Repair cycle times improved by 25%
  • Backlogs were reduced by up to 70%
  • Monthly sales increased by 17%

Sebastian Torres
Owner and General Manager of CARSTAR Torcam Group

Sebastian explains why investing in technology matters: “It is better to be ahead of the curve than to have to catch up. Doing so has already proven its value, driving a 17 percent increase in monthly sales, and will continue to ensure growth opportunities and the ability to run a business operation far more efficient and profitable than the competition.”

This perspective reflects a growing consensus across the industry. Bill Brower, Senior Vice President of Global Industry Relations and Claims Solutions at Solera, emphasizes that the benefits go beyond speed: “AI-driven estimating is not just about speed. It is about accuracy, consistency, and creating a better experience for customers and shops alike. This technology is redefining what efficiency looks like in claims.”

Modern platforms like Solera’s Qapter Estimating powered by AI, Visual Intelligence and Repair Science™, are rewriting the rules. Instead of waiting five to seven days for an estimate, body shops can now provide one in under 20 minutes. A customer greeter captures damage photos and takes notes during inspection; AI generates a detailed pre-estimate in under 3 minutes, and the estimator simply reviews and finalizes it. Repairs can be scheduled on the spot, before the customer even leaves the shop, ensuring more business and a great customer experience.

Bill Brower
SVP, Global Industry Relations and NA Claims Solutions at Solera

Why Collision Shops and Insurers Should Care

AI-powered estimating delivers benefits across the board:

  • Higher Close Rates: Expediting estimates means fewer lost opportunities
  • Estimator Efficiency: AI handles routine damage so expert talent can focus on complex repairs
  • Customer Satisfaction: Same-day information and scheduling eliminate frustration and ensures quality customer service
  • Compliance and Accuracy: AI ensures consistency for OEM and insurer standards
  • Environmental Impact: Repair-first decisions reduce waste and carbon footprint

The Future Is Here. Are You Ready to Revolutionize Your Claims Workflow?

Schedule a demo today to see how your shop can deliver fast, accurate estimates that bring more customers through the door. Fill out the form below to get in touch.