The national auto body labor rates averages as of  March 31st 2008:

Body: $46.96

Frame: $ 54.07

Mechanical $69.34

Paint Materials $ 26.32

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Some interesting averages show in labor rates of the northern california region with a body rate of $ 78 per hour, $82 per hour frame, $84 for mechanical and $33 per hour paint/materials.

Southern California rates are much less overall with an average body rate of $ 45, frame $ 58, Mechanical $67 and materials rate of $30

Dealerships tended to have higher rates with independent shops trending to the lower ranges.

 Data source:  © 2008, AutoClaims Direct, DirectLink