Classic Car Damage Repair

Specialist guidance from start to finish

Having a classic car damaged can be a major concern, particularly when it is a rare or exclusive classic with a significant history. Damage can occur during a classic car rally, as the result of an accident, or in an unfortunate crash. Whatever the cause, repairing a classic car requires a different approach from repairing a modern vehicle.

When you want to have a damaged classic car repaired, it is not simply a matter of removing the visible damage. Equally important is preserving the car’s originality, appearance and value. That is why Heritage Cars can guide you through the entire process from start to finish: from the initial contact with the insurance company to finding the right specialists, parts and materials, through to the final completion of the work.

Repairing a classic car requires more than straightening and repainting

With a modern car, accident damage is often relatively straightforward to repair. Damaged parts can be replaced with new components and the vehicle can be restored according to the manufacturer’s standard procedures.

With a classic car, things are different. Many parts are no longer available, or can only be found as used components. In addition, a classic car may have been repaired or restored several times during its lifetime. Once the car is being repaired, it may become apparent that previous work was not carried out to the original standards.

For example, beneath what appears to be a perfect high-gloss finish, there may be thick layers of filler or evidence of previous repairs. What initially appears to be relatively minor damage can therefore develop into a much more extensive restoration project. This is precisely where specialist knowledge of classic cars is essential.

Preserving originality and value

For an exclusive classic car, originality and authenticity are important elements of its value. Simply replacing a damaged body panel or applying a modern repair method is therefore not always the best solution.

Wherever possible, the original component is retained and expertly repaired. If replacement is necessary, we look for a suitable part that is as original as possible. Through Heritage Cars’ network of specialist suppliers, even hard-to-find, marque-original parts can be sourced.

The objective is always the same: to restore the car without unnecessarily compromising its original character and value.

The right bodywork and craftsmanship

Bodywork on a classic car often requires a high level of specialist craftsmanship. Older car bodies are constructed differently from modern vehicles and may have originally been shaped or modified by hand.

Heritage Cars therefore works with carefully selected specialists from its established network. This includes experienced bodywork specialists who understand how to work with the bodywork of an exclusive classic car. Where possible, damaged panels are carefully straightened, reshaped and repaired. If a component cannot be salvaged, we can look for an original replacement or work with a specialist capable of reproducing the part accurately.

It is not just about appearance. Dimensions, panel gaps, connections and the original construction all need to be correct.

The paintwork must suit the car

Repainting a classic car is very different from simply spraying a damaged panel in a modern factory colour. The colour of a car that is several decades old may have changed over time due to sunlight, use and previous paintwork.

The level of gloss and the overall character of the paint are equally important. The aim is not simply to create a shiny new panel, but a finish that complements the car and reflects its original appearance.

For exclusive classic cars, it is therefore often preferable not to repaint only the damaged panel. Depending on the car, the extent of the damage and the condition of the existing paintwork, it may be better to repaint larger sections or even the entire vehicle. This creates a consistent finish that does justice to the quality of the classic car.

Previous repairs may come to light during the restoration

A damage repair project can also reveal hidden defects. A car may look excellent from the outside, while closer inspection reveals previous repairs beneath the paint that do not meet the required standard.

Thick layers of filler, previous welding work or incorrectly repaired body panels are examples of issues that may only become apparent once the car is dismantled and the repair work begins.

At Heritage Cars, we believe these issues should not simply be covered up again. If previous work is found to affect the quality, safety, originality or value of the car, we discuss this with the owner and include it in the repair plan.

Mechanical damage: one point of contact

Following an accident or crash, the damage is not necessarily limited to the bodywork. Components beneath the bonnet or around the chassis and suspension may also have been affected. Heritage Cars can also arrange the necessary mechanical repairs through specialists within its network. This may include work on the engine, drivetrain, suspension or other mechanical components.

The owner therefore does not need to find a bodywork specialist, painter, mechanic and parts supplier separately. Heritage Cars coordinates the process and ensures that the different stages of the repair work are properly aligned.

From insurance company to final delivery: Heritage Cars coordinates the entire process

When an exclusive classic car has been damaged, dealing with the insurance company can also form part of the process. Heritage Cars can assist the owner with this and ensure that the damage and required repairs are properly assessed and documented.

A clear repair plan is then prepared. This sets out the various stages of the work, providing a clear overview of what needs to be done and how the process will proceed.

Depending on the damage, the plan may include:

• inspecting and documenting the damage;
• coordinating the required work with the insurance company;
• dismantling and technically assessing the car;
• repairing the bodywork and panels;
• sourcing marque-original or suitable replacement parts;
• carrying out mechanical repairs;
• preparing and applying the paintwork;
• checking and refitting all components;
• and carrying out a thorough final inspection and handover.

As the work progresses, new findings may naturally require the repair plan to be adjusted. With a classic car, it is often only after dismantling and detailed inspection that it becomes clear exactly what lies beneath the surface. The most important thing is that every step is carried out with care and that the owner has a clear understanding of the process.

Have your damaged classic car repaired while preserving its value

An exclusive classic car deserves an approach to damage repair that goes far beyond simply making the car look presentable again. The way damage is repaired, the parts that are used and the approach taken to bodywork, mechanics and paintwork can all have a significant impact on the car’s eventual value and originality.

Heritage Cars has already guided and coordinated the restoration of numerous exclusive classic cars following significant damage. This experience allows us to look beyond the damage itself and consider the car as a whole: its history, originality, technical condition, specification and value. Has your classic car been damaged during a rally, in an accident or in a crash? Heritage Cars can assist you with the complete damage repair process.

From the insurance company to the right specialist, from original parts to bodywork and paint: Heritage Cars ensures that your classic car is restored with the utmost care and attention to originality, craftsmanship and the preservation of its value. More about this in this article: Classic cars: damage repair while maintaining value

Would you like to know more?

Please contact Geert Kistemaker by phone, email or through the contact form below.

Geert Kistemaker
+31 6 24276296
geert@heritagecars.nl