Express Bodyshops

[KR1S]

Hi all

Does anyone have any views/experience regarding whether an "Express Bodyshop" has any disadvantages over a traditional one for getting a plastic sideskirt sprayed? (It's off the car).

I've asked the question of the place I'm considering using, but thought I'd double check here just in case their answer might be biased.

TIA

Chris

[DaveF-SkinnysAutos]

Hi, Im not sure I understand what you mean by an ‘Express bodyshop’?

Any professional can paint a side skirt for you, especially off the vehicle, whether thats a Smart repairer on your drive, a small independent bodyshop like me, or a large corporate bodyshop. There wouldnt really be any difference in techniques or materials used, its simple little job for any of those services really.

The only thing I would highlight if you came to my shop would be the possible slight difference in shade whenever you paint plastic, even using the same paint as the accompanying panel, and also the difference in shade whenever you paint a whole panel and put it edge to edge next to another panel without having blended into the neighbouring panels, but being a side skirt and low down these should be minimal.

What in particular were your concerns?

[KR1S]

Hi

Thanks for your reply - actually I wasn't sure what it meant either - it's just that the place local to me differentiates itself as such, saying they have faster turn-around than a "traditional" body shop.

My concerns were that the materials/techniques used may be inferior with respect to either finish or longevity.

Your answer concurs with what they told me and has largely put my mind at rest.

Yes, I appreciate what you're saying about different shade with paint on plastic vs metal.

Thanks again.

Chris

[DaveF-SkinnysAutos]

I think with a panel like that you don't need to worry, wherever you go it's going to be the same sort of thing. I assume they are selling themselves on quick in and out repairs, rather than the bigger type jobs.

Materials have come on leaps and bounds and they probably use more quicker drying primers and clear coats, those sort of products are all fine for single panels, but not when you start getting into bigger jobs.

Out of interest, and feel free not to answer, what are they quoting you? I obviously don't get to see many other quotes so I'd be interested to know if you don't mind?