Accident Damage Repairs in Tyne and Wear

After a collision the obvious damage is only part of the picture. Force travels through a car, and a bumper that took the hit can leave brackets, sensors, wiring or even the structure behind it affected. A proper repair begins with understanding the full extent of the damage.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we carry out accident repairs for drivers across Tyne and Wear. This page explains how the work is approached and what you should ask, whatever route the repair is paid for through.

Signs the damage goes deeper

It is worth looking beyond the dent. Some of the signs that a car needs more than cosmetic attention are easy to spot once you know what to look for.

• Uneven gaps between panels or doors that no longer close cleanly
• The car pulling to one side or the steering off-centre
• Warning lights after the impact
• Fluid leaks or a hanging undertray
• Noises from the wheels or suspension
• Misaligned lights or bonnet

How the repair is assessed and carried out

Assessment comes first. The damaged areas are inspected, parts that can be repaired are separated from those that must be replaced, and a plan is drawn up. Some work may only show itself when panels are removed, so the plan can change as the car is stripped.

The repair then follows a sensible order: any structural or panel work, then preparation, paint and refinishing, then refitting and checks. Where damage affects safety systems, steering, suspension or brakes, those are checked before the car goes back to you.

What affects the outcome and the cost

Several things decide how involved a repair becomes. The size and position of the damage matter, as does the age and construction of the car, the availability of parts and whether paint needs blending into neighbouring panels to look right.

We explain the estimate before work starts and tell you if further damage turns up. Ask what is included, so there are no surprises later.

Safety, driving and next steps

If the car has been in a collision and shows any of the signs above, or you have doubts about the brakes, steering, tyres or structure, do not keep driving it. Have it checked, and arrange recovery if it is not safe to move under its own power.

Our other pages cover specific parts of this work in more detail, including insurance repairs, bumpers, panels and structural work. Your insurer's requirements are a matter for you to check with them.