Questions to ask a panel beater before authorising repair

Most panel beating jobs go sideways not because the work itself is bad, but because nobody asked the right questions beforehand. You arrive with a dented door or crumpled bumper, the shop gives you a number, you nod, and then the repair takes two weeks longer than promised or the paint doesn't match when you collect the car. The solution isn't blind trust—it's knowing exactly what to ask before you hand over your keys.

The best time to spot an unreliable panel beater is before they touch your car. A few sharp questions will tell you whether you're dealing with someone meticulous or someone who cuts corners. Here's what to ask, why it matters, and what answers should make you nervous.

Does the shop work on my car's make and model, or just any vehicle?

A panel beater who has never touched a Mercedes E-Class shouldn't be your first call if you drive one. Different manufacturers use different materials, paint codes, and repair procedures. Some cars have aluminium body panels, others steel; some have layers of protective coating that need stripping and reapplication in a specific order.

A solid answer sounds like: "Yes, we've repaired plenty of your model. We have the paint codes on file and know exactly how that panel is typically made."

An evasive one: "Yeah, a car's a car—we can handle it." That's the moment to walk out. Even if the quote is lower, you'll likely pay more fixing botched repairs elsewhere.

What's your timeline, and what happens if the job takes longer?

Panel beaters often give optimistic timelines because they're juggling multiple jobs and don't want to lose yours. Before you agree, ask specifically: how many days from drop-off to collection? What if parts are needed—do they order them or do you? What if the underlying damage is worse than it looked?

A trustworthy answer includes realism: "Most dents take 3–5 days. If we find structural damage once we pull the panel, we'll call you before proceeding, and it might add 2–3 days." A red flag is "definitely done by Friday" when you're dropping it on Monday with no margin for discovery.

Also ask what you do for transport while your car is in the shop. Some offer a courtesy vehicle, some don't. Knowing this upfront prevents frustration.

Will I see the damage before you start, and what's your communication like if something unexpected shows up?

This question does two things. First, it establishes whether the shop documents damage properly—taking photos or walking you through the affected area so there's no argument later about pre-existing damage. Second, it reveals whether they'll loop you in if the repair gets complicated.

Good answer: "We always photograph the car when you drop it off and walk through any damage we find. If it's worse than the quote suggests, we contact you by WhatsApp or phone before we go ahead."

Bad answer: "We'll just get started and let you know when it's done." That's how you end up paying an extra few thousand for surprises you didn't authorise.

Can you put the repair guarantee in writing?

Every panel beater should offer a guarantee on their work—typically 12 months on the repair itself, though not on accident-related damage that occurs after collection. Some offer longer. Ask them to write it down in your quote or on a separate guarantee card. What's covered? What isn't? What's your recourse if the paint starts peeling in six months?

If they're reluctant to commit it to paper, that's a warning. A professional outfit welcomes the clarity because they stand behind their work.

Asking these questions takes ten minutes and saves you stress, money and a dodgy repair. Find a panel beater on Strove who can answer each one clearly and without irritation—that straightforwardness is exactly what separates competent shops from the rest.