There is something about an old car that a newer one just cannot copy, and it is worth looking after. If yours has gone tired round the edges, picked up some rust, or never quite recovered from a past repair, we can help. Bring it to our workshop in Fairford and we will take an honest look at what it needs, then talk you through the options without pushing you toward the biggest bill.
Saving the metal, not hiding it
Older bodywork asks for patience. We would rather repair sound original metal than swap a panel for the sake of it, and we cut back to good steel before any filler or paint goes near it. Where corrosion has taken hold, we let in fresh sections and shape them to sit right with the lines of the car. The aim is a car that looks as it should, with repairs you struggle to spot.
Common jobs we take on include:
- Rust and corrosion in sills, arches, floors and valances
- Tired or accident-damaged panels straightened or refabricated
- Dents, dings and old repairs that have started to show
- Full and partial resprays in the correct type of finish
How we approach a restoration
- A proper look. We go over the car with you, pick out the trouble spots, and agree how far you want to take it.
- A clear plan. You get a realistic outline of the work, the order we will tackle it in, and a sensible idea of cost and time.
- The bodywork. Rust is cut out, metal is repaired or let in, and panels are brought back into line.
- Paint. We prep carefully and lay the colour, matching the original where you want it kept faithful. There is more on our paintwork and respray work if you are weighing up a full colour change.
- Check and hand back. We go over the finish, sort any final details, and walk you round the car before you take it home.
Keeping it faithful, or making it yours
Plenty of owners want the car kept just as the factory intended, and we are happy to work that way. Others fancy something a bit different, and our custom paintwork side can help there. Either way you get the same careful prep underneath. If your classic has had a knock rather than just age catching up with it, our accident and collision repair work covers that too, and you are always free to choose your own repairer.
Owners across the Cotswolds and beyond
People bring their classics to us from all over, including Cirencester, Burford, Tetbury and Lechlade-on-Thames, as well as the lanes and villages around Fairford. Give us a ring on 01285 238 153 and tell us about the car.