Finding the right auto body repair shop becomes a top priority when your car is damaged—whether from an accident, a scratch, or general wear and tear. But with so many options, how do you ensure you’re trusting your vehicle to the right hands?
Choosing the wrong shop can lead to poor results, unexpected costs, or delays. Knowing that’s the right question to ask body shop professionals is key before committing to any work.
Looking for expert car body repairs in Bromley? A.T Launder Coachworks combines over 50 years of experience with cutting-edge techniques to restore your vehicle with precision and care.
Your vehicle deserves more than just a quick fix. Trust A.T. Launder Coachworks for expert body repairs—delivered with precision, backed by integrity.
This guide will walk you through the most critical queries to raise, helping you feel confident and informed when choosing an auto body shop.
Why Asking Questions Matters
Before we discuss the questions, let’s understand why asking questions is essential. A trustworthy repair shop will never shy away from answering. Their responses will reveal a lot about their experience, standards, and how they handle repairs, repair estimates, and even insurance claims.
The right questions help with auto body shop selection, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is in capable and honest hands.
Important Questions To Ask Before Selecting An Auto Body Repair Shop
1. Are You A Certified Repair Shop?
One of the first things to ask is whether the shop is a certified repair shop. Certification means technicians have undergone professional training and follow industry standards when carrying out bodywork. This also often means the shop is authorised to work with specific car brands, which can be a huge plus.
Why it matters: Certified shops are more likely to deliver high-quality, manufacturer-approved repairs.
2. Do You Provide Written Repair Estimates?
Always ask if the shop offers detailed repair estimates in writing. This should include a breakdown of parts, labour, and the time required for the job.
Why it matters: It helps prevent unexpected costs and gives you a clear picture of what you’re paying for. It’s also helpful when checking repair estimates from multiple shops for comparison.
3. Can I See Some Of Your Previous Work?
A reputable shop will proudly show you before-and-after photos or direct you to past customer reviews. Seeing the quality of their previous bodywork can give you confidence in their ability.
Why it matters: It helps find quality bodywork and sets expectations for the result.
4. How Long Will the Repairs Take?
No one wants to be without their car for longer than necessary. Always ask for an estimated timeframe.
Why it matters: Knowing whether the shop offers timely car repairs helps you plan better and shows how well they manage their workload.
5. What Type Of Parts Will You Use?
Three main types of parts are used in car repair: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), aftermarket, and used parts. Ask which type they intend to use and why.
Why it matters: OEM parts generally offer the best fit and performance, while used or aftermarket parts may lower the cost but vary in quality.
6. Do You Work With My Insurance Company?
Check whether the shop handles insurance claims directly if your repair is being paid for through an insurance claim.
Why it matters: A shop that deals with insurers regularly can speed up the process and save you the hassle of back-and-forth communication.
7. Will You Provide A Warranty?
Be sure to ask for body shop warranty information. A reliable repair shop should offer a warranty on both parts and labour.
Why it matters: It protects you if something goes wrong after the repair and shows that the shop stands by its work.
8. Is The Work Done In-House Or Outsourced?
Some repair shops outsource specific services like painting or dent removal. It’s good to know who is handling your car.
Why it matters: In-house work often leads to better control over quality and timelines.
9. What Is Included In The Final Price?
It’s important to ask what the estimate includes and whether additional costs could be down the line.
Why it matters: Being transparent about pricing helps you avoid surprise charges and gives you a proper car repair shop checklist to compare with others.
10. Do You Offer Courtesy Cars Or Pickup Services?
Being without a car while it’s being repaired can be inconvenient. Check if the shop offers courtesy vehicles or local pickup/drop-off services.
Why it matters: It adds convenience and shows the shop is thinking about the customer experience, not just the repair itself.
Contact AT Launder Coachworks
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut
Even after asking all the right questions, how the shop communicates with you also matters. Do they take the time to explain things clearly? Are they upfront about costs and processes?
When choosing a reliable auto repair shop, these subtle cues often make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right auto body repair shop doesn’t have to be stressful—if you ask the right questions.
When selecting an auto body repair shop, A.T Launder Coachworks stands out as a trusted choice in Bromley. With over five decades of experience, our team is committed to delivering high-quality repairs using the original manufacturer’s parts and advanced techniques. We offer free, no-obligation estimates and work with all major insurance companies to ensure a smooth repair process.
At A.T. Launder Coachworks, we prioritise customer satisfaction and aim to make your repair experience seamless. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate and experience the difference of working with a reputable, family-run business dedicated to excellence.
With the proper preparation and some research, you’ll be well on your way to selecting a reliable auto repair shop that delivers the results you expect—contact us today!