Basics. Auto body repair technicians received a mean $19.99 per hour or $41,570 per year as of May 2011, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% of auto body repair techs earn more than $31.27 per hour or $65,030 per year, while the worst-paid 10% make just $10.83 per hour or $22,530 per year. To make this money, technicians examine damage, prepare cost estimates and plan the work.