Panel Repairs and Replacement in Tyne and Wear

Body panels are the outer skin of a car: doors, wings, bonnet, tailgate, roof and rear quarters. They can be dented, creased, torn or corroded, and each of those failures calls for a different approach. Some panels are bolted on and simple to swap. Others are welded to the structure, which changes things considerably.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we handle panel repairs and replacement as part of our accident and body repair work for drivers across Tyne and Wear. Here is how the decision is made and what to ask.

Repair versus replace

A panel can usually be repaired when the metal is stretched or dented but not torn, creased sharply or heavily corroded. The panel is worked back to shape, filled lightly where needed, then primed and painted.

Replacement is more likely when the metal is torn, when a crease runs across a strengthening edge, when damage is too widespread or when previous repairs have left too little sound metal to work with. Aluminium panels behave differently to steel and are not always repairable in the same way, so ask us if your car uses them.

Bolted and welded panels

Doors, bonnets, boot lids and many front wings are bolted on. Replacing one is largely a matter of fitting, alignment and paint. Other panels, such as rear quarters and sills, are welded in and form part of the body structure. Replacing these involves cutting and welding in the right places, and the safety of the car afterwards depends on it being done correctly.

If the job involves structural areas, we explain that at the estimate, because it affects both the work and the time involved.

What affects the outcome and the cost

Several things shape the job. The type of panel, its size and whether it is repaired or replaced matter, as does the availability and source of replacement panels. New, used and aftermarket panels differ in availability and in how well they fit, so ask which is being proposed.

Paint is the other major factor. A new panel needs full painting, and colour matching to the adjoining panels is what makes a repair look invisible. Fittings such as mirrors, handles, trim, sensors and wiring all need removing and refitting.

• Panel material and whether it is bolted or welded
• Extent of damage and hidden damage behind
• Source and fit of replacement panel
• Paint colour and blending requirements
• Fittings and electrics to refit

What to expect and what to ask

Expect an inspection first, and be aware that damage behind a panel can change the plan once it is off. Ask whether the panel is to be repaired or replaced, why, and what the paint process involves.

Ask us to point out any structural work. If the car has been in a heavier impact, say so, because alignment of doors and panel gaps should be checked afterwards. We cannot promise a particular outcome until we have inspected the car.