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Autobody Prestige Melbourne
How Much Do Smash Repairs Cost?
When your car is involved in an accident, big or small, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “How much will the smash repairs cost?” The truth is, there isn’t a fixed price. Smash repair quotes can vary significantly depending on the extent of the damage, the type of vehicle, and the repair method required. But understanding what affects the cost helps you plan ahead and avoid surprises.
In this blog, we break down the common factors that influence repair prices. You’ll also learn how panel beaters prepare a car repair quote, and what you should look for before choosing a workshop. Let’s get down to it right away.
What Determines the Cost of Smash Repairs?
The price of smash repairs isn’t random – it’s a calculation based on several technical and practical considerations. Here are some major aspects that impact your smash repair quote:
Type and Extent of Damage
Superficial damage, such as light scratches or minor dents, is far cheaper than structural or safety-related repairs. Here’s how you can categorise damage severity:
Minor Damage
Paint scuffs, bumper scratches and shallow dents.
Moderate Damage
Misaligned panels, damaged headlights and
medium dents.Major Damage
Chassis misalignment, airbags deployed and heavy
structural impact.
Labour Costs
Panel beaters, auto electricians, and spray painters all have different labour rates. Skilled labour is a major component of your smash repair quote because modern cars use advanced materials, sensors, and electronics.
Repairs may include:Dent pulling
Panel replacement
Plastic welding
Paint refinishing
Electronic recalibration
Each step adds time and cost.
Replacement Parts
Your repairer may use:
Genuine (OEM) parts
Aftermarket parts
Reconditioned or second-hand parts
OEM parts usually cost more but are preferred for brand-new or prestige vehicles. Aftermarket parts can reduce costs but must still meet safety and
quality standards. Depending on what parts are used, the final price will reflect this.
Paint Matching and Refinishing
Matching paintwork is one of the most time-consuming parts of smash repairs. Even small damaged areas often require repainting and blending into surrounding panels to ensure a seamless finish.
Factors affecting the final car repair quote include:
Type of paint
Colour matching complexity
Number of panels involved
Clear coat quality
In general, metallic and pearlescent colours cost more to match.
Advanced Vehicle Technology
Modern cars come loaded with sensors, safety systems, and electronic modules. After a collision, these systems often need recalibration. This may include:
ADAS (cameras, radars, lane assist)
Aftermarket parts
Airbags
ECU settings
High-voltage EV components
Resetting these systems requires specialised equipment, which increases repair costs.
Vehicle Make and Model
Luxury brands (BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Lexus) or other imported models often require:
More expensive parts
Specialised tools
Certified technicians
As a result, smash repair quotes for these models are higher than standard vehicles.
Average Smash Repair Costs in Australia
Although the exact pricing varies from one workshop to the next, here is a general guide based on common repair types:
Minor cosmetic repairs
$250-$900
Medium collision damage
$1,000-$5,000
Major accident repairs
$5,000-$20,000+
Your repairer will only provide a precise number after inspecting the vehicle in person. Online estimates are helpful but never fully accurate. We recommend that you get the car inspected in person before committing to a workshop.
How Are Smash Repair Quotes Calculated?
Professional repairers follow a structured process to calculate the final car repair quote. Here’s how the check is done:
Full Vehicle Assessment
A technician inspects visible and hidden damage using diagnostic tools, panel measurement systems and structural checks.
Damage Breakdown
Each part of the repair is itemised as follows:
Panels to repair or replace
Paint refinishing requirements
Electronic recalibration
Mechanical work (if needed)
Replacement parts
Labour Hours
Every task is assigned a time estimate based on industry standards. This is
how it is calculated:
Total labour hours × hourly rate = labour cost.
Parts and Materials
This quote includes the cost of the following:
OEM or aftermarket parts
Paint materials
Consumables
Final Quote
All the costs are then combined into a clear, itemised smash repair quote so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
How to Get an Accurate Smash Repair Quote?
A reputable shop will always be transparent and explain each charge clearly. To avoid unexpected costs and poor-quality repairs, make sure the repairer:
- Provides a detailed written quote
- Uses qualified panel beaters and spray painters
- Offers a lifetime or some sort of warranty on workmanship
- Has modern equipment for structural and electronic repairs
- Uses quality parts that match your vehicle’s requirements
- Can help with insurance claim
Are Smash Repairs Covered by Insurance?
Depending on the insurer and the coverage you got for your ride, smash repairs may be covered by your insurance. Even if it’s included, always compare your car repair quote with the insurance excess to decide the best option. In case accidents are covered by your policy, the repairs are typically paid for by your insurer.
However, consider these points as well:
- You may need to pay an excess
- You can usually choose your repairer (depending on policy)
- Non-insurance repairs may be cheaper if the damage is minor
Book Your Car Smash Repairs Today at Autobody Prestige Melbourne
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