Aluminum vs. Steel Body Panels

What’s the Difference When It Comes to Repair?

Not all vehicle body panels are created equal. One of the biggest differences in modern auto body construction is whether the vehicle uses aluminum or steel—and this choice has a direct impact on how collision repairs are performed.

At Victory Auto Body and Paint in Burbank, we repair both aluminum and steel-bodied vehicles with precision. Here’s what every car owner should know about the differences between these two materials and how they affect the repair process.

Why Automakers Use Aluminum
Aluminum has become increasingly popular, especially among luxury brands and trucks like the Ford F-150. Why?

• Weight Reduction: Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, improving fuel efficiency and performance.
• Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum resists rust better than traditional steel.
• Design Flexibility: It allows for more creative shaping and body lines.

How Aluminum Repairs Differ from Steel
The biggest difference lies in how each material responds to damage and repair techniques:

• Steel: Easier to work with, weld, and reshape. Traditional body shops have worked with steel for decades.
• Aluminum: Requires specialized tools, a separate work area to avoid cross-contamination, and a different approach to welding and reshaping.

Because of this, not all body shops are equipped to repair aluminum vehicles properly. At Victory, we have the tools, space, and trained technicians to handle both materials with confidence.

Repair Costs: Aluminum vs. Steel
Generally speaking, aluminum repairs tend to cost more. That’s due to the specialized labor, extra care required, and sometimes longer repair times. However, if your insurance is covering the repair, the difference may not impact you directly.

How to Know What Your Vehicle Has
Most newer vehicles with aluminum body parts will have this called out in the owner's manual. You can also check the inside of the driver-side door frame for material information—or simply bring your vehicle to us, and we’ll tell you.

Final Thoughts
Whether your vehicle has a steel frame, aluminum body panels, or a combination of both, you need a shop that understands the difference. Victory Auto Body and Paint provides expert-level service with the right tools, training, and care to restore your car properly—no matter what it’s made of.

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