The five things that set the price
- Panels involved — every extra panel adds labour and paint, and neighbouring panels often need blending so the colour matches.
- Repair or replace — a repairable bumper or door costs less than a new one; broken mounts, sensors or splits can tip it toward replacement.
- Paint — metallic, pearl and multi-coat colours take more time and materials than solid colours.
- Hidden damage — reinforcement bars, brackets, sensors and lights behind a panel only show up once it’s off.
- Parts and technology — cars with radar, cameras and sensors may need checks or recalibration after a repair.
Rough order of jobs, cheapest to dearest
- Polishing out light clear-coat scratches
- Paintless dent removal on small dings
- Touch-up or localised refinish on a scuffed bumper corner
- Repair and repaint of a single panel
- Multiple panels, or repair plus replacement parts
- Structural or major collision repairs
- Full resprays
We don’t publish a price list because a number without seeing the damage is usually wrong. Send photos and we’ll give you an honest estimate, then a written quote before any work starts.
When you shouldn’t pay anything
If another driver caused the damage and they’re insured, their insurer pays for the repair — and a replacement car while yours is off the road. No excess, no claim on your policy. How not-at-fault claims work.
Insurance or pay privately?
For damage you caused, compare the quote with your excess and the likely effect on your premium and no-claim bonus. For small jobs, paying privately is often cheaper over a few years.
General information only, current as at 13 October 2026. It isn’t legal advice — for advice about your situation, speak to a lawyer or your insurer.