Expert In Auto Body Collision Repair
You Can Trust!
Modesto's top-rated auto body shop for collision repair, frame straightening, auto paint, and aluminum repair. Family-owned since 2006. Every repair backed by a lifetime warranty.
Modesto, CA · I-CAR Certified Body Tech · Dent Fix RIVMAX Riveter
Aluminum and High-Strength Steel Repair in Modesto, CA
Modern vehicles use aluminum and advanced high-strength steel materials that most body shops in Modesto are not equipped to repair correctly. Pabco Precision Auto Body has the Dent Fix DF-SPR70DX RIVMAX self-piercing riveter — the manufacturer-approved tool for joining these materials — and an I-CAR certified body technician trained specifically in aluminum repair.
I-CAR
Certified body tech
Manufacturer
Approved methods
Dent Fix RIVMAX
Self-piercing riveter
Lifetime
Warranty on all repairs
I-CAR
Certified Body Tech
Modesto, CA · Est. 2006
I-CAR Certified Auto Body Technician at Pabco
Our body technician is I-CAR certified and trained specifically in aluminum and high-strength steel repair methods
Trusted Collision Repair in Modesto
Modesto's Specialist for Aluminum and High-Strength Steel Repair
The auto industry has shifted dramatically over the past decade. Manufacturers including Ford, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, and many others now build their vehicles using aluminum body panels and advanced high-strength steel. These materials are lighter and stronger than traditional steel — but they require a completely different set of tools, techniques, and training to repair correctly.
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Most auto body shops in Modesto are still set up primarily for traditional steel repair. Attempting aluminum repair without the right equipment can permanently compromise your vehicle's structural integrity, void manufacturer warranties, and reduce crash protection. At Pabco Precision Auto Body, we invested in the right tools and training specifically because these vehicles are on Modesto roads and their owners deserve a shop that can fix them properly.
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Our I-CAR certified body technician uses the Dent Fix DF-SPR70DX RIVMAX self-piercing riveter — the manufacturer-approved method for joining aluminum and high-strength steel components after collision damage. Every repair is backed by our lifetime warranty.
Vehicles We Repair
Aluminum and High-Strength Steel Vehicles We Repair in Modesto
BMW 5 Series, 7 Series and X Models
Ford F-150 and Super Duty
All-aluminum body since 2015. Every panel from hood to bed requires self-piercing rivets, structural adhesives, and dedicated aluminum tools.
Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra
2019 and newer models use aluminum hoods and high-strength steel throughout. Extremely common on Central Valley roads.
Audi A6, A7, A8 and Q Models
Space frame construction uses extensive aluminum. Requires manufacturer-approved self-piercing rivet and structural adhesive methods.
Mercedes-Benz E, S-Class and GLE
Honda Accord, CR-V and Ridgeline
Aluminum in hood, door, and structural components. Improper repair affects both finish and structural performance.
High-strength steel and aluminum for weight reduction and safety. Manufacturer procedures must be followed to maintain crash ratings.
Aluminum hoods, tailgates, and structural components across popular models. Common Central Valley vehicles we are equipped to repair.
Jaguar and Land Rover
All Other Aluminum Vehicles
All-aluminum body construction on many models. Dedicated tools and techniques required — our certified team is trained to follow their repair specifications.
Unsure if your vehicle uses aluminum? Bring it to Pabco — our certified estimator will identify the materials and confirm we have the right equipment.
Our Equipment
Our Dent Fix DF-SPR70DX RIVMAX Self-Piercing Riveter
The professional-grade self-piercing riveting system used by manufacturers and certified collision repair centers for aluminum and high-strength steel panel joining. This is the specific equipment required by Ford, Audi, BMW, and others for approved aluminum body repair.
What the RIVMAX Does
Joins aluminum panels using self-piercing rivets that clinch without pre-drilling — maintaining material integrity
Applies precisely controlled clamping force to meet manufacturer specifications for joint strength
Works with the specific rivet types required by each vehicle manufacturer
Work area must be completely separate from steel repair
The manufacturer-approved method for Ford F-150, Audi A8, BMW 5 Series, Chevy Silverado, and more
How It Works
Our Aluminum and High-Strength Steel Repair Process
Free Estimate by Our Certified Estimator
01
Walk-ins always welcome. Our I-CAR certified estimator performs a comprehensive damage assessment inspecting visible and hidden damage and provides a detailed, transparent written estimate before any work begins.
I-CAR certified estimator · Free · No appointment needed
02
Dedicated Aluminum Workspace Preparation
Dedicated Aluminum Workspace Preparation
All aluminum repair is performed in a workspace completely separate from our steel area — preventing cross-contamination that causes galvanic corrosion. A manufacturer requirement most Modesto shops do not meet.
Dedicated workspace · Contamination prevention
Panel Repair or Replacement
03
Our I-CAR certified body technician repairs or replaces damaged panels using manufacturer-approved methods. The Dent Fix RIVMAX self-piercing riveter joins new aluminum panels correctly — restoring structural integrity and safety ratings.
I-CAR body tech · Dent Fix RIVMAX · OEM procedures
Panel Repair by Our Certified Body Technicians
04
Our I-CAR certified body technicians repair or replace all damaged panels using OEM or equivalent parts. For aluminum and high-strength steel vehicles, we use our Dent Fix RIVMAX self-piercing riveter — the manufacturer-approved method for modern vehicle construction.
I-CAR body tech · OEM parts · Dent Fix RIVMAX
Structural Adhesive Application
05
Many aluminum repairs require structural adhesives in addition to mechanical fasteners. Our technician applies manufacturer-specified adhesives to restore original joint strength and structural integrity.
Structural adhesives · Manufacturer specified
Paint Finishing with Lesonal Paints
06
Our I-CAR certified painter applies Lesonal premium paints using the correct aluminum primer system for proper adhesion, durability, and factory-accurate color match.
I-CAR painter · Lesonal paints · Aluminum primer system
07
Final Quality Check & Lifetime Warranty
Every repair goes through a final quality inspection before delivery — covering panel gaps, paint finish, structural alignment, and all repaired systems. Your vehicle is returned to pre-accident condition, backed by our lifetime warranty on all workmanship.
Lifetime warranty · Pre-delivery inspection · Quality guaranteed
Why It Is Different
Why Aluminum and High-Strength Steel Requires Specialist Equipment
These materials behave fundamentally differently from traditional mild steel when damaged and repaired. Understanding the difference is what separates a proper repair from one that looks right but is structurally compromised.
Why High-Strength Steel Requires Specialized Techniques
Loses strength properties when heated — standard heat straightening cannot be used
Often designed to be replaced rather than repaired
Improper repair compromises airbag deployment and crumple zone performance
Why Aluminum Requires Specialized Tools
Cannot be welded like steel — heat must be precisely controlled
Requires dedicated tools that have never touched steel to prevent corrosion-causing contamination
Self-piercing rivet technology is the manufacturer-approved joining method
Work area must be completely separate from steel repair
Aluminum and High-Strength Steel Repair FAQ in Modesto, CA
Does my vehicle have aluminum body panels?
Many modern vehicles do. If you drive a Ford F-150 or Super Duty built after 2015, a Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra built after 2019, or a European luxury vehicle from Audi, BMW, Jaguar, or Mercedes-Benz, your vehicle almost certainly uses aluminum or high-strength steel in its body structure. Our certified estimator can identify the materials in your vehicle during your free assessment.
Can aluminum body panels be repaired or do they need to be replaced?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Minor damage to aluminum panels can often be repaired using approved straightening and riveting techniques. More severe damage typically requires panel replacement. Our I-CAR certified estimator will assess the damage and recommend the most appropriate approach based on manufacturer guidelines.
Why can't every body shop repair aluminum?
Aluminum repair requires dedicated tools, a separate workspace, and technicians trained in manufacturer-approved methods. The Dent Fix RIVMAX self-piercing riveter alone is a significant equipment investment. Most shops in Modesto have not made this investment, which means they cannot perform aluminum repairs to manufacturer standards.
What happens if aluminum is repaired incorrectly?
Improper aluminum repair can permanently weaken the body structure, cause galvanic corrosion where steel tools contaminated the aluminum, reduce crash protection, and void manufacturer warranties. It is one of the most serious quality issues in collision repair today.
How long does aluminum repair take in Modesto?
Aluminum repair timelines depend on the damage severity. Minor repairs may take three to five business days. More extensive repairs involving multiple panels or structural components can take one to two weeks. Our certified estimator will give you a realistic timeline during your free estimate.
Will my insurance cover aluminum repair?
Yes. Insurance covers the cost of correct aluminum repair after a collision. We work directly with all insurance companies and will ensure the repair authorization covers the proper manufacturer-approved methods and materials — not just the cheapest option.
Get Your Free Aluminum Repair Estimate
Walk-ins welcome. No appointment needed. Our I-CAR certified estimator will assess your vehicle's damage, identify the materials, and walk you through the correct repair procedure.
At Pabco Precision Auto Body, being your hometown collision center is part of our story. As a family-owned shop rooted in the Modesto community, we take pride in treating every customer like family. It’s why we’re committed to honest service, quality craftsmanship, and personalized care—making sure you and your family get back on the road safely and with confidence.
Address
1400 North 9th Street suite 30
Modesto Ca 95350
Contact
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday- Sunday
Closed
