Front of the Reliable Auto Body facility at 965 Sumner Avenue in Whitehall Pennsylvania
Nearly 100 Years of Excellence

Our Story

Since 1926, Reliable Auto Body has been family-owned and community-rooted — restoring vehicles and building trust across the Lehigh Valley for nearly a century.

Our Heritage

A Legacy Built on Trust

From a small shop on North 10th Street in Allentown to our modern facility in Whitehall, our story is one of dedication, family, and unwavering commitment to quality.

1926

Where It All Began

Lloyd Remington and Louis Schechter founded Reliable Auto Body and Radiator Works at 11 North 10th Street in Allentown, Pennsylvania. From a modest storefront, they built a reputation for honest, dependable collision repair that would endure for generations.

1930

Growing with the Lehigh Valley

The business relocated to 720 Union Street in Allentown, where it would serve the community for over four decades. Through the Great Depression and World War II, Reliable Auto Body remained a steady presence, repairing vehicles and supporting the local economy.

1956

A New Chapter Begins

Ralph Schatz and John B. Ortelli joined the business as members, forming a corporation that would carry the Reliable Auto Body name forward. Their partnership strengthened the shop's commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer trust.

1972

Home on Sumner Avenue

Reliable Auto Body moved to its current home at 965 Sumner Avenue in Whitehall, a purpose-built facility with modern equipment and expanded capacity. John Ortelli's three sons — John Jr., Albert, and Richard — assumed control, continuing the family tradition of excellence.

1999

The Next Generation

Louis J. Ortelli, son of John Jr., took over operations of the shop. Under his leadership, Reliable Auto Body continued investing in the latest repair technologies and training, earning certifications from multiple manufacturers and maintaining I-CAR Gold Class status.

2018

A New Steward of Tradition

George D. Haaf became owner and continues to run the business today with the same dedication to quality, honesty, and community that has defined Reliable Auto Body since its founding. Under George's leadership, the shop has earned seven-time AAA Top Shop recognition.

Reliable Auto Body office staff including George Haaf, Ralph Haaf, and the front-office team
Meet the Team

People Who Care About Your Car

Led by owner George Haaf, our team combines decades of collision repair expertise with genuine care for every customer who walks through our doors. From the front office to the paint booth, every member of the Reliable Auto Body family takes pride in delivering work that meets the highest standards.

George took the reins in 2018, continuing a tradition of hands-on ownership that has defined this shop since its founding. He is joined by a dedicated group of professionals who keep the operation running smoothly every day.

George HaafOwner / Manager
Ralph HaafEstimator
Lou OrtelliConsultant
Pat MittlAccounting
Debbie VivianCustomer Service
Ernie SmithShop Foreman

Plus our skilled collision technicians and painters who bring every repair to perfection.

In the Community

More Than a Body Shop

We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for nearly 100 years. From charitable donations to local events, Reliable Auto Body is proud to be an active neighbor.

Reliable Auto Body team presenting a donated handicapped-accessible van to a military family at the shop
May 2017

Van Donation for a Military Family

Reliable Auto Body partnered with State Farm to donate a fully repaired 2010 Chrysler Town & Country handicapped-accessible van to a local military family in need. The project brought together our technicians and partners to give back to those who have served our country.

Reliable Auto Body team competing in the SteelStacks Grand Prix race event in Bethlehem PA
2017

SteelStacks Grand Prix

Our team entered the SteelStacks Grand Prix in Bethlehem, building and racing a custom vehicle against other local businesses. After a spirited competition, Reliable Auto Body crossed the finish line in second place — proving our passion for cars extends well beyond the repair bay.

Reliable Auto Body staff participating in a charity golf tournament event
Ongoing

Charity Golf Tournaments

We regularly sponsor and participate in charity golf tournaments with partners like Enterprise and Fred Beans, raising funds for causes that strengthen our community. These events reflect our belief that a great business should be a great neighbor.

Industry Recognition

Certified Excellence

Our technicians hold the industry's most respected certifications, ensuring every repair meets factory specifications and the highest safety standards.

I-CAR Gold Class

The highest training recognition in collision repair

ASE Certified

Automotive Service Excellence credentials

AAA Approved

Seven-time Top Shop award winner

Nissan Certified

Factory-trained for Nissan collision repair

Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / Fiat

Certified repair for the Stellantis family

KIA Certified

Authorized KIA collision repair facility

Hyundai Certified

Authorized Hyundai collision repair facility

Experience the Reliable Difference

Whether you need a minor dent repaired or a full collision restoration, our team is ready to help. With nearly 100 years of experience, a lifetime guarantee on every repair, and a genuine commitment to treating you like family, there is no better choice in the Lehigh Valley.