Over the many years we have been in the Vehicle Body repair industry we have had many questions asked and worries answered for our customers here at Kirbys Vehicle Refinishing.
Here are some of the more common FAQs to hopefully help you with any concerns you have, and a better understanding of what is expected for what you are looking for.
The cost depends on the size, depth, and location of the damage. A light surface scratch is much cheaper to repair than one that has gone through the paint into the primer or metal. We provide free, no-obligation estimates after inspecting the damage.
Sometimes. Small chips and minor scratches can often be repaired locally, but larger or deeper damage usually requires the entire panel to be painted to achieve a factory-quality finish.
Modern vehicle paint naturally changes slightly over time due to sunlight and weathering. Blending into the adjacent panel allows the new paint to transition seamlessly, making the repair virtually invisible.
Yes. We use professional colour-matching technology and manufacturer paint codes to achieve the closest possible match. Where necessary, we blend the paint into neighbouring panels to ensure an invisible finish.
Repair times vary depending on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs may be completed in a day, while larger repairs involving multiple panels can take several days. We’ll always give you an estimated completion time before starting work.
If the paint hasn’t been damaged, Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) may be an option for certain dents. If the paint is cracked or chipped, conventional body repair and repainting will usually be required.
Not necessarily. Many customers choose to pay privately for smaller repairs, especially if the repair cost is less than their insurance excess or they want to avoid affecting future premiums.
Yes. Small scratches, dents and scuffs can significantly reduce your vehicle’s value. A professional repair often increases resale value and makes the car much easier to sell.
Yes. Rust can often be removed and repaired, but it’s important to deal with it early. Left untreated, rust spreads and can eventually weaken the metal, making repairs more extensive and expensive.
Absolutely. Bumper scuffs are one of the most common repairs we carry out. Most can be repaired without replacing the bumper, saving you money.
Many plastic bumper cracks can be professionally repaired using specialist plastic welding and refinishing techniques. If the damage is too severe, we’ll advise if replacement is the better option.
Yes. We can repair kerb damage, scratches and corrosion on most alloy wheels, restoring their appearance.
We use high-quality automotive paint and professional refinishing products designed to provide long-lasting durability and colour stability.
Even small scratches can expose the metal underneath, leading to rust if left untreated. It’s usually cheaper to repair minor damage before it becomes a bigger problem.
Yes. Stone chips can often be repaired before they develop into rust spots, helping protect your vehicle’s paintwork.
SMART stands for Small to Medium Area Repair Technology. It’s a cost-effective method for repairing minor scratches, scuffs and dents without repainting large sections of the vehicle where appropriate.
For many minor repairs, yes. Larger repairs may require several days depending on the work involved. We’ll let you know exactly how long we’ll need your vehicle.
Yes. We regularly repair vehicles before lease or finance inspections, helping customers avoid expensive end-of-contract charges.
Yes. When repaired correctly using professional methods and materials, the panel will maintain its strength and appearance.
Yes. We stand behind the quality of our workmanship and use professional-grade materials to ensure lasting repairs. Our Repairs come with life time gurantee*
Yes. You can send us clear photos of the damage, and we’ll provide an initial estimate. In some cases, we may need to inspect the vehicle in person before confirming the final price.
To give you the most accurate estimate, please send:
Modern vehicles use complex paint systems, advanced materials and multiple paint layers. Proper repairs involve preparation, colour matching, painting, curing and polishing—not just applying paint to the damaged area.
Almost every scratch can be improved, but the repair method depends on how deep the damage is. We’ll always recommend the most cost-effective option.
Yes. We use manufacturer paint codes along with digital colour matching to ensure the closest possible match to your vehicle’s existing finish.
Only very light surface scratches in the clear coat can usually be polished out. If the scratch has gone through the paint, it will require a proper repair.
Even a small scratch can allow moisture to reach the metal underneath, leading to corrosion over time. Repairing it early helps prevent more costly repairs later.
Yes, we only paint in our high-quality paint spray booth (oven), ensuring paint curing times are met and humidity, paint and dust extraction are controlled precisely to meet industry standards.
Yes, we repair cars of virtually any make and model, from everyday family cars and company vehicles to prestige, performance and electric vehicles. Our technicians are fully trained and have many years’ experience working on a wide range of manufacturers.
We understand it’s sometimes hard and inconvenient to drop your vehicle off, with the worry of how to get back. We are fully insured to collect and deliver your vehicle if that’s more convenient for you.
Mobile body repairs can be an excellent solution for minor cosmetic damage, but they aren’t always the best option for everyday repair. For larger, more complex or higher quality repairs, an in-house body shop offers a more controlled environment where temperature, humidity and cleanliness can be carefully managed. These conditions are essential for achieving a high-quality paint finish, proper curing and long-lasting results.
Mobile SMART repairs can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for minor cosmetic repairs such as small bumper scuffs, small scratches and stone chips. However, they aren’t suitable for every type of repair, and there are some limitations to be aware of. One of the biggest differences is the environment in which the repair is carried out. Professional body shops use heated spray booths that provide a clean, dust-free and temperature-controlled environment, which helps produce a durable, high-quality finish. Mobile repairs are often completed outdoors or on a driveway, where weather, dust, pollen, moisture and changing temperatures can affect the paint process and finish quality. Always consider how much you care about your vehicle and the quality of the finish when deciding.
In most cases, professionally repairing your vehicle helps maintain or even increases its value. Visible scratches, dents and accident damage can reduce your vehicle’s resale price, whereas a high-quality repair restores its appearance and makes it more attractive to potential buyers. When repairs are carried out to a professional standard, they help preserve your vehicle’s value and overall condition.
