ABF Systems Auto Body Estimating Software

Low-cost text-based auto body estimating software for small repair shops

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  • Overview
  • Features
  • Pricing
  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Reviews

ABF Systems Auto Body Estimating Software Overview

  • Updated January 28, 2026

ABF Systems Auto Body Estimating Software is a legacy, text-based estimating solution designed for small auto body, restoration, and custom shops. Running smoothly on modern Windows systems, it focuses on speed, keyboard-driven workflows, and affordability.

It provides reliable labor times, VIN decoding, paint calculations, and professional estimates without the high costs of enterprise collision repair platforms.

Key Features

  • Text-Based Estimating System: Fast, keyboard-driven interface with a classic 1990s design optimized for efficiency.
  • Comprehensive Estimating Database: Organized parts and labor groups for quick selection and accurate line items.
  • VIN Decoding: Automatically populates vehicle details for cars, trucks, and SUVs dating back to 1981.
  • PDR Price Matrix: Industry-standard paintless dent repair pricing with adjustable modifiers.
  • Professional Estimate Output: Print or export clear estimates, supplements, parts lists, and invoices.
  • Multiple Shop Rate Profiles: Configure different labor, tax, and material rates for insurance, fleet, or retail jobs.

Price

Plan Price Featured
Monthly Plan $35/mo (Billed Monthly) Text-based estimating system, VIN decoding access, Professional estimate printing
Annual Prepaid Plan $33/mo (Billed Annually) — $395/year Discounted annual rate, Full estimating database, PDR price matrix included

 

Pros

Competitor

Pros
CCC ONE Compared to CCC ONE, ABF Systems is significantly more affordable and easier for small shops to adopt. It avoids long contracts, reduces training time with its simple workflow, and focuses purely on estimating rather than enterprise-level shop management that many small operators do not need.
Mitchell Estimating ABF offers a far lower monthly cost and a lightweight installation compared to Mitchell. Shops that value speed, offline-friendly workflows, and minimal system requirements often find ABF easier to run on older or less powerful Windows computers.
Audatex Unlike Audatex, ABF does not require complex insurer integrations or high subscription fees. It gives independent repairers full control over estimates, labor entries, and custom charges without insurer-driven constraints.
Shop-Ware ABF focuses strictly on estimating, making it simpler and faster than Shop-Ware for users who do not need full shop management tools. This streamlined approach reduces setup time and ongoing administrative overhead.
ProDemand Compared to ProDemand, ABF emphasizes hands-on estimating efficiency rather than OEM repair research. For shops that already know repair procedures, ABF delivers quicker estimate creation at a much lower cost.

Cons

Competitor

Cons
CCC ONE Compared to CCC ONE, ABF lacks advanced insurer integrations, cloud-based collaboration, and large-scale analytics. Multi-location MSOs may find ABF insufficient for standardized reporting and insurer-driven workflows.
Mitchell Estimating Mitchell provides deeper OEM procedure data and modern UI design. ABF’s legacy interface may feel outdated and less visually intuitive for users accustomed to modern, cloud-based estimating platforms.
Audatex ABF does not match Audatex’s real-time insurer connectivity or automated claims handling. Shops heavily dependent on insurance carrier integrations may need supplemental tools alongside ABF.
Shop-Ware Unlike Shop-Ware, ABF does not include full repair order tracking, customer communication tools, or digital inspections, limiting its usefulness as an all-in-one shop management system.
ProDemand ABF offers limited built-in OEM repair documentation compared to ProDemand. Technicians seeking step-by-step repair procedures and TSB integration may find ABF less comprehensive.

Verified Customer Reviews

  • G2 Review (Rating: 3/5): Users highlight responsive customer support but note the software feels dated.
  • Capterra Review (Rating: 5/5): Reviewers praise its low price, ease of use, and professional-looking estimates.
  • Slashdot Review (Rating: 4/5): Users appreciate the built-in repair price matrix and flexibility for adding custom charges.
  • SourceForge Review (Rating: 4/5): Reviewers cite affordability and reliability as key strengths for small body shops.
  • Softonic Review (Rating: 4/5): Described as a smart, budget-friendly alternative to expensive estimating programs.