Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for some of the more commonly asked questions, if you need more information please call or email us.

General Questions

Do I have to use my insurance company’s recommended repairer?

No. You have the right to choose your repairer. Colin West Panel Beaters is approved by AMI and Vero and works with all insurers. We manage communication, assessments, and approvals to keep your claim moving.

What happens during an insurance repair?

We inspect your vehicle, prepare a detailed repair estimate, and liaise directly with your insurer. Once approved, we complete the structural and panel repairs and keep you updated until handover.

Can you repair my vehicle if I am not going through insurance?

Yes. We carry out private repairs for minor accidents, dents, panel damage, and general body issues. We provide a clear quote and explain your options before starting work.

How do I know if my vehicle needs structural repair?

Signs include uneven panel gaps, doors that do not close properly, visible rust in structural areas, or impact damage. We can inspect your vehicle and advise on whether structural work is required and what the best next step is.

My vehicle has rust but has not been in an accident. Can you fix it?

Yes. We remove rust properly by cutting out affected metal and welding in solid replacement sections where needed. This prevents the corrosion from spreading and restores strength.

Do you work on classic and older vehicles?

Yes. We repair and restore classic cars, from small rust sections to full structural rebuilds. You can choose how much of the project you want us to manage.

Do you repair horsefloats?

Yes. We repair damaged panels, bent frames, ramps, and drawbars. We also carry out rust and structural floor repairs to maintain safety under load.

What is plastic welding and when is it suitable?

Plastic welding repairs cracked or split plastic components such as bumpers, trims, and ute deck liners. It fuses the material back together, restoring strength without full replacement where appropriate.

Can you repair ute decks and tray liners?

Yes. We repair cracked liners, damaged mounting points, and split tray sections. This protects the underlying steel tray and extends the life of the deck.

Approved Repairers