Whether it’s a scratch, dent, or a more serious repair after an accident, finding the right body shop can be stressful — especially if you’re not sure what to look for. A good repair can make your car look and drive like new, while a poor one can cause long-term problems and lower your vehicle’s value. At Iguana Car Care, we often work with clients post-repair, so we know a thing or two about what sets the best shops apart.
1. Check for Certifications and Insurance Approval
Look for a shop that’s certified by recognised industry bodies or approved by insurance providers. Certifications like BS10125 (British Standard for Vehicle Body Repair) indicate the shop follows professional repair standards. Insurance-approved shops have already passed certain quality checks and may make your claims process easier.
2. Ask About Experience and Specialisations
Not all body shops are the same. Some specialise in luxury vehicles, some focus on paintless dent repair, and others handle frame straightening or full resprays. Ask how often they’ve dealt with the specific issue or model you’re bringing in — especially if you drive a newer, older, or imported vehicle.
3. Request a Written Estimate
A reliable shop will provide a clear, detailed estimate of the work, cost, and turnaround time. Be cautious of vague quotes or significantly lower prices than others — they may cut corners on paint quality or skip important steps in the repair process.
4. Inspect the Facility and Equipment
A professional shop should be clean, organised, and equipped with modern tools and spray booths. If possible, visit in person to get a feel for how they operate. Pay attention to how vehicles in progress are handled — if they’re covered, masked properly, and parked with care, it’s usually a good sign.
5. Check Reviews and Reputation
Take a few minutes to read online reviews from Google, Facebook, or Trustpilot. Look for consistent feedback about quality, communication, and timelines. Ask friends or family in Crawley if they’ve had good local experiences — word of mouth still counts for a lot.
6. Ask About Paint Matching
One of the most noticeable signs of a poor repair is mismatched paint. Make sure the shop uses computerised colour matching and quality paint systems to blend new panels with the original finish. It makes a massive difference in the final result — and in how well your car ages.
7. Inquire About Guarantees or Warranties
A trustworthy shop will stand by their work. Ask if they offer a guarantee on paint and workmanship, and get it in writing. This protects you if the paint starts peeling or if issues show up after the repair.
After the Body Shop: Let Us Finish the Job
Once your car has been professionally repaired, a full detail can really complete the transformation. At Iguana Car Care, we help polish out any post-repair haze, clean overspray, and restore your car’s interior to match the refreshed exterior.
Final Tip
Choosing the right body shop is just as important as getting the repair done. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t settle for anything less than professional, high-quality work. And once the bodywork is done, give us a call — we’ll make sure the finish looks flawless.
