What is the first step taken when preparing a vehicle for repair?

The first step taken when preparing a vehicle for repair is to assess the damage. Assessing the damage involves thoroughly inspecting the vehicle to identify all areas that require repair and any underlying issues that may not be immediately visible. This step is critical as it informs the technician of the scope of work needed and helps in formulating a repair plan.

By documenting the damage, including photographs, during the assessment process, a detailed record is created that can be beneficial for insurance claims and tracking repair progress. Removing trim and panels occurs after the initial assessment, as technicians need to understand the extent of the damage before proceeding with any further disassembly. Applying protective tape is generally done later in the repair process to safeguard areas from potential overspray or damage while repairs are being made.

In summary, assessing the damage first is essential to ensure that all repair needs are identified before initiating the repair process.