By the Book Repairs. No Shortcuts. No Exceptions.

Thompson Garage is Ainsworth's owner-operated auto body shop built on 15 years of industry experience and one simple rule: every repair meets manufacturer standards. From collision work to 24/7 towing, Cody Thompson has you covered.

15+
Years Experience
24/7
At your Service

Our Services

Quality automotive care for every need. We service all makes and models with genuine parts and expert technicians.

24/7 Towing & Recovery

Stuck on the road? We've got you covered around the clock. Towing, off-road recovery, roadside assistance, jumpstarts, and lockouts — day or night.

Auto Collision Repair

Complete collision repair from fender benders to major damage. Every repair follows manufacturer guidelines so your vehicle comes back as close to original as possible.

Refinishing & Custom Paint

Expert paint matching, full repaints, and clear coat restoration. Plus custom paint jobs for motorcycles and specialty vehicles.

Body Work

Dent repair, panel beating, fender restoration, and bumper repair to restore your vehicle's appearance to like-new condition.

Powder Coating

Durable, professional-grade powder coating for wheels, frames, motorcycle parts, and more. A long-lasting finish that holds up to the elements.

Detailing

Interior and exterior detailing to keep your vehicle looking its best. From basic wash and wax to full paint correction and restoration.

Light Mechanical

Basic mechanical services including brake jobs, fluid changes, belt replacements, and other routine maintenance to keep you on the road.

Automotive Accessories

Upgrades and add-ons installed right. From lighting and audio to bed liners and running boards — we'll get your vehicle set up the way you want it.

Motorcycle Services

Full-service motorcycle collision repair, custom paint, and restoration. Same manufacturer-standard approach, two fewer wheels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our services

Which areas do you serve?

We're located in Ainsworth, Iowa and proudly serve the counties of Washington, Iowa, Johnson, Keokuk, Jefferson, Henry, Louisa, Muscatine, and Linn County. With our 24-hour towing service, we can pick up your vehicle from anywhere in the surrounding area across south-east Iowa.

I need a tow — do you offer 24/7 service?

We offer 24/7 towing and recovery services including off-road recovery, roadside assistance, jumpstarts, and lockouts. Whether it's a fender bender, a deer hit, or snowy road conditions, give us a call any time day or night and we'll come get you.

Who pays for the repair?

In most cases, your insurance company covers the cost of the repair. If the damage was caused by another driver, their insurance pays. For incidents where you're at fault, your collision coverage kicks in and you only pay your deductible. If you don't have insurance or prefer not to file a claim, we're happy to work with you directly and can provide a detailed estimate upfront so there are no surprises.

How long will the repair take?

It depends on the extent of the damage. Minor dents and scratches can often be fixed in a few hours to a day. Bumper replacements or panel repairs typically take 2 to 5 days. More extensive collision damage that involves structural work or waiting on parts can take 1 to 3 weeks. Full restorations may take several weeks or longer. We'll give you a clear time estimate after the initial assessment and keep you updated throughout the process.

Can I get a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?

Yes, we can help arrange a loaner or rental car for you while your vehicle is in the shop. In many cases, your insurance policy includes rental car coverage, so the cost is partially or fully covered. If your policy doesn't include it or you're paying out of pocket, we work with local rental providers to get you a fair rate. Just let us know when you drop off your vehicle and we'll take care of the rest.

What does the repair process look like?

First, you bring your vehicle in for a free assessment. We inspect the damage and put together a detailed repair plan. If you're going through insurance, we send the estimate to your provider for approval before any work begins. For out-of-pocket repairs, we can usually get started right away once you approve the quote. After the repair is complete, we do a final quality check and walk you through everything before you drive off.

Do I have to use a body shop recommended by my insurance?

No. You have the legal right to choose any licensed body shop you want, regardless of what your insurance company suggests. Your insurer may recommend preferred shops, but they cannot require you to use one. Choosing your own shop means you pick a team you trust to do the job right, and your claim will be handled the same way either way.

What are DRPs and should I be cautious about them?

DRP stands for Direct Repair Program. These are agreements between insurance companies and body shops where the shop agrees to follow the insurer's pricing and repair guidelines in exchange for a steady stream of referrals. The concern is that DRP shops may have an incentive to keep costs low for the insurer rather than prioritize the best possible repair for you. As an independent shop, we answer to you, not an insurance company, and we always use the parts and methods that are right for your vehicle.

What's the difference between a body shop and a car garage?

A car garage, or mechanic shop, handles what's under the hood: engine repairs, oil changes, brake work, and other mechanical and maintenance services. A body shop specializes in the exterior and structure of your vehicle: dent repair, paint work, frame straightening, and collision damage. If your car was in an accident and has visible damage to panels, bumpers, or the frame, you need a body shop. If your engine light is on or your brakes are squeaking, that's a job for a mechanic.

Get in Touch

Have questions or ready to schedule your service? We'd love to hear from you.

Visit Us

349 5th Street

Ainsworth, IA 52201

USA

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Opening Hours

Need a tow? Have a question about a repair? Give us a call any time — we're available 24/7

Monday – Sunday
By Appointment

One Shop. One Standard. No Exceptions.

Why Thompson Garage

At Thompson Garage, we follow manufacturer guidelines, procedures, and standards on every single repair — no shortcuts, no cutting corners. Owner Cody Thompson brings 15 years of hands-on industry experience to every job that comes through the door. We work with all insurance companies but we work for you, the customer. From collision repair to 24/7 towing, we're here to walk you through the process and take care of you from start to finish.