How does Otto's car damage calculator work?+
Otto's car damage calculator uses AI to analyze a photo of your car and return a free repair estimate in under 30 seconds. Upload a photo, enter your ZIP, and our calculator estimates your repair cost from real shop labor rates, hours and parts. From there, depending on your situation and location, you can get connected with a shop, deductible help where permitted by law, or an attorney if your case qualifies.
What makes Otto different from other car repair estimate tools?+
Otto is an independent AI estimate tool — it isn't owned by a body shop. Most online estimators are run by a single shop trying to win your repair — we're independent, so our estimates aren't biased toward any one outcome. After you get your free estimate, you choose what to do next: get connected with a vetted local body shop, connect with an attorney if someone hit you, or get help with your insurance deductible where permitted by law. One tool, multiple paths forward — based on what you actually need.
How accurate are Otto's AI estimates?+
Otto prices your repair the way a body shop does. The AI reads your photo to identify each damaged panel and what it needs — repair, refinish, or replace — then applies real labor hours to current body, paint and structural labor rates for your area, and adds parts and materials on top. Those hours and rates are grounded in real shop estimates rather than a generic lookup table, and we calibrate the price ranges against what shops actually charged. The one thing a photo cannot show is hidden damage behind a bumper cover or panel, so a shop's final number can move once parts come off.
What happens after I get my estimate?+
Your estimate is just the start. Based on your situation, Otto points you to the right next step — a real cash price from a vetted local shop where Otto has one nearby, a free consultation with an accident attorney if your case qualifies, or help with your insurance deductible where permitted by law. You choose what you need, with no obligation.
Is Otto really free to use?+
Yes! Otto is completely free for vehicle owners. We're compensated by the repair shops in our network when you choose to get your repairs done through them. There are no hidden fees or obligations.
What types of damage can Otto estimate?+
Otto can provide estimates for auto body damage including dents, scratches, collision repair, and paint damage.
How much does a typical car body repair cost?+
Car body repair costs vary widely depending on damage type and severity. Minor scratches and dents typically run $150-$500, bumper repairs range from $300-$2,500, and major collision damage can exceed $5,000. Otto's calculator gives you a specific estimate range based on your damage photo, so you don't have to guess — and our
2026 collision repair costs guide has detailed breakdowns by damage type, vehicle, and region.
Do I have to use one of Otto's recommended shops?+
No, there's no obligation to use any of our partner shops. The estimate we provide is there to help you make a more informed decision. You're free to take it to any shop of your choice or use it for an insurance claim.
How do I know the shops are trustworthy?+
All shops in our network are verified and must maintain valid business licenses and insurance, minimum 4.5-star customer ratings on Google, fair and transparent pricing, and quality guarantees on their work. We continuously monitor shop performance and customer feedback.
What if the damage is too complex for a photo estimate?+
For complex damage involving mechanical issues, frame damage, or multiple panels, a photo estimate is a starting point only. Where Otto has a shop nearby, we'll still connect you, but the shop will need to see your vehicle to confirm the final price.
Is my information secure?+
Yes, we take your privacy seriously. Your photos and personal information are encrypted and securely stored. We will only share your contact details with the shops if you provide written consent. We never sell your data to third parties.
