D & S Body Shop, Inc. Comparative Summary

Auto body repair companies are always looking for ways to discern themselves from their competition, and those that have earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award are already several steps ahead. In addition to its Diamond Certified status, D & S Body Shop, Inc. differentiates itself by offering its customers the dedicated, focused service only a small business can provide. “Being a small shop definitely contributes to our quality,” says owner Ken Souza. “We have better supervision and control over our work, and we can really concentrate on giving our customers personalized service.”

Mr. Souza established D & S Body Shop in 1989 and has been building its reputation for quality work and customer service ever since. “Our uncompromis¬ing standards and commitment to excellence have been the keys to our continued growth and success,” he says. “To that end, we only use top-quality materials, like 3M and PPG paints.” The San Ramon-based company is also part of the AAA Direct Repair Network, which means it’s been carefully screened to meet AAA’s high standards for customer service, reliability and quality of repairs.

Unlike larger auto body repair shops that eschew teamwork in favor of an “assembly line” process, D & S Body Shop takes a collaborative approach to repairing its customers’ cars. “Our body and paint departments check each other,” explains Mr. Souza. “When a car enters the paint shop, the painters ensure the body work has been done properly before painting begins. When the car exits the paint shop, the body crew inspects the paint job before reassembly. We’re our own harshest critics.”

Another distinguishing feature of D & S Body Shop is its use of state-of-the-art repair equipment, including computerized frame straightening and paint matching systems that are designed to return vehicles to their pre-accident conditions. Additionally, the company’s technicians are all trained and certified by I-CAR, the industry’s leading auto body certification agency. “We also have in-house training, and we get periodic training from suppliers on how to properly use their products,” says Mr. Souza. “We strive to remain up-to-date on the latest products and technology.”