I haven’t designed any auto-body repair shops. But if I ever do, I would emulate what BumperDoc is doing. I’d also urge any retailer to emulate their customer-service process.

It started when I noticed BumperDoc’s freestanding sign and business cards at a car wash. They promised fast ding repair at prices lower than larger collision-repair shops. The sign prominently displayed their phone number, web address (www.bumperdoc.com, of course,) and street address. Since my car has a few dings that I’ve been meaning to get fixed, I grabbed a card from the rack.

Then I visited their website, which gives a full menu of services offered. The site even lets you upload photos of your vehicle’s dings and dents so a service rep can call or email a quote to you. I just sent a description of my car’s blemishes. As promised, I received a phone call within 30 minutes. There was no pressure, no hard sell, just an honest appraisal of what repairs probably would cost. The rep said to drop by at my convenience so he could take a better look and give a more accurate estimate.

When I did stop by, I was impressed. The site isn’t your typical body-repair shop. Instead, it’s a clean, well-lighted place with white floors, white walls and white ceilings throughout. I didn’t see a single grease stain. The paint shop for larger repairs is just a few steps away, but you’d hardly know it’s there. It looked pretty clean, too.

The customer-service room has large windows facing the repair floor, so you can see exactly what they’re doing to your vehicle. If you need to wait, you can settle into a comfy chair and enjoy some free snacks. Or complete a customer satisfaction survey, something I’d never seen in any auto-related business. From service reps to technicians, each employee treated me with courtesy and respect.

The rep took that closer look at my car’s dings, then gave me a written estimate. I told him I’d be back after getting my brakes relined. Again, no pressure from him to lock in a date and time.

BumperDoc only has one location now, but plans to open more. I think they have a winning combination: a waiting area that invites you to linger; clear signage that explains each available service and its cost; a helpful, interactive website; plus relaxed, informative customer-service reps.

So far, they’ve delivered on all their promises, from calling me back to giving a fast on-site estimate. If they can make my dings disappear, they’ll get even more positive word-of-mouth from me.

If you can promise the same level of attention as BumperDoc, I’d say your customers are less likely to ding you where it counts–in loyalty and at the cash register.