Repair Process
- An estimate of the damage is compiled and digital images are taken. The estimate and images are e-mailed to the Insurance Company for their Engineer to agree costs.
- Once authorised new parts are ordered. Before entering the Bodyshop the vehicle is washed to remove road dirt and any other contamination.
- The repair commences with the removal of 'associated' parts such as lights, bumpers, mouldings, interior trim etc to enable good access to the repair area.
- Next the vehicle (depending on the extent of damage), will be mounted on one of our 'body alignment jigs' and the vehicle frame / chassis will be measured using computerised equipment.
- If the chassis is out of alignment, it is now 'pulled' back to its correct position. It is then re-measured and a print-out produced for future reference.
- Now the vehicle's frame is 'straight' the damaged panels can be cut away using specialist metal saws and drills.
- The next step is to align the new panel in the correct position and clamp ready for welding.
- Welding is carried out using 'spot' and 'mig' welding equipment to manufacturers specifications.
- Any joints are made good using polyester filler and sanded to shape ready for the paint process.
- The vehicle is now transferred to the paint preparation area where all repairs, new panels and adjacent panels are sanded down using orbital sanding machines.
- Next the vehicle is 'masked up' to prevent over spray, and put into one of our spray-booths where primer is applied using a spray gun.
- Once dry the primed area is again sanded smooth ready for the final application of colour and lacquer top coats.
- The vehicle is cleaned thoroughly using 'degreasers' then masked up again before being placed back in the spray-booth for spraying the top coats.
- After application of the colour and lacquer again using spray guns, the paint is low-baked to a temp of 60 degrees for 20mins in order for it to 'cure' and produce a factory finish.
- Once out of the spray-booth /oven, the painted area is polished using an electric mop to achieve a 'gleaming' showroom finish.
- All removed parts are now refitted to the vehicle, using new if required. Anti-corrosion wax is applied to the repaired area.
- If necessary, the vehicle undergoes a four wheel alignment check. Adjustments are then made to the suspension/steering if required. (Print out reports are available on request).
- The vehicle is passed on to the valeting area where it is cleaned thoroughly ready for final inspection.
- Finally our Quality Controller inspects the repair before it is handed back to the customer.
