Find Body Shops, Towing & Auto Services
Searchable directory of NC body shops, towing companies, rental car locations, and salvage yards. Find auto services you need after a car accident.
The Bottom Line
After a car accident in North Carolina, you need reliable auto services -- a body shop to repair your car, a tow truck if it cannot be driven, a rental car while yours is in the shop, or a salvage yard if it is totaled. These directories help you find reputable providers near you.
Choosing the Right Auto Service Provider
Body Shops
Not all body shops are equal. Look for:
- I-CAR Gold Class certification -- The highest industry training standard
- ASE-certified technicians -- Individual technician certification
- Direct repair program (DRP) status -- Some shops have preferred relationships with insurers, which speeds up the process but may limit your options
- OEM parts availability -- Some shops use cheaper aftermarket parts unless you request original equipment
Towing Companies
If your car needs to be towed, know that:
- Storage fees add up fast -- $25-$75 per day is common
- Police rotation tows may take your car somewhere you did not choose
- You can move your car to a different storage facility or body shop at any time
Rental Cars
If the accident was not your fault, the at-fault driver's insurance should pay for your rental car. Key things to know:
- Enterprise, Hertz, and National all have insurance replacement programs
- Direct billing means the insurance company pays the rental company directly
- Coverage limits typically apply (check your policy)
Browse by Service Type
- Body Shops -- Collision repair centers across NC
- Towing Companies -- Tow services and vehicle storage
- Rental Car Locations -- Rental car offices with insurance replacement programs
- Salvage Yards -- Salvage yards that buy damaged vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my insurance company force me to use a specific body shop in NC?
No. Under North Carolina law, you have the right to choose your own body shop for collision repairs. Your insurer may recommend a shop in their direct repair program (DRP) network, and using a DRP shop can sometimes speed up the approval process, but you are never required to use one.
How long does a body shop have to complete repairs in NC?
There is no specific NC law setting a maximum repair timeline. However, most repairs take 1 to 3 weeks depending on the extent of the damage and parts availability. If your rental car coverage has a daily or total limit, delays in repairs could leave you without transportation, so confirm the estimated completion date in writing.
What should I look for when choosing a body shop after an accident?
Look for I-CAR Gold Class certification, which is the highest industry training standard, and ASE-certified technicians. Ask whether the shop uses OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or aftermarket parts, and request OEM parts if quality matters to you. Check online reviews and ask whether the shop provides a written warranty on repairs.
What are typical vehicle storage fees after an accident in NC?
Vehicle storage fees in North Carolina typically range from $25 to $75 per day, depending on the towing company and facility. These fees begin accumulating immediately after your car is towed. Move your vehicle to a body shop or your preferred storage facility as soon as possible to minimize costs, since the at-fault driver's insurer may dispute excessive storage charges.