How Much Does Panel Beating Cost?
What actually drives the cost of panel beating and body repair — damage size, repair vs replace, paint and parts — and how to get an accurate estimate.
By Lionized Autocare ·
It’s the first question almost everyone asks — and the honest answer is that it depends on the damage. Two dents that look similar in a photo can take very different amounts of work. Rather than quote a figure that might not apply to your car, here’s what actually determines the cost, so you can understand an estimate when you get one.
1. Size, depth and location of the damage
A shallow dent in the middle of a door is usually simpler than a crease running along a body line or a dent near the edge of a panel, where the metal is stiffer and harder to reshape. Damage that crosses two panels affects both.
2. Repair or replace?
Many panels can be repaired. Panels that are torn, heavily stretched or badly corroded may be better replaced. Replacement adds the cost of the part — which varies a lot by make and model — but can save labour. A good estimate explains which approach is recommended and why.
3. Hidden damage
Behind a bumper or door there may be brackets, reinforcement bars, sensors, wiring or cooling components. These are only visible once the car is inspected properly, which is why a photo-only quote can change after the vehicle is examined.
4. Painting and blending
Almost every panel repair needs paint. Cost depends on how many panels are painted, the colour and finish, and whether the new paint needs to be blended into neighbouring panels so the repair doesn’t stand out. Read more about car painting.
5. Parts, trims and sensors
Clips, mouldings, lights, badges and parking sensors that are damaged — or that break when removed — add to the total.
6. Time
Bodywork is labour-intensive: straightening, preparation, priming, painting and curing all take time. Estimates reflect the hours involved.
How to get an accurate estimate
- Send clear photos on WhatsApp for initial advice — the whole car, the damaged area close up, and from an angle.
- Bring the car in for inspection for a written, itemised estimate.
- Ask what’s included: parts, paint, blending, refitting and any sensor calibration.
At Lionized Autocare, every estimate is itemised and sent to your phone. Nothing starts until you approve it, and you can follow progress through your private status link.
Ready to find out? Request a panel beating estimate, or see our dent repair and accident repair services.
