A & J Lawrence | Accidental and Mechanical Vehicle Repairs Covering Portsmouth and Surrounding Areas

Our bodyshop team is made up of fully qualified estimators, painters, strip fitters, panel beaters, drivers and valetors, all backed up by a administration and management support team.

Estimating

The initial job for our estimator to discuss the circumstances of the accident with the driver. With this information, he can start to prepare a scheme of repair detailing what work needs to be done and which parts will need to be replaced in order to return the vehicle to a safe pre accident condition. Photographs of the vehicle and the estimate are sent electronically to the insurance company.

Strip

The rear bumper, rear light and door fittings are all removed as these could hinder the repair and painting process.

Repair

The surface paint is removed from the area to be repaired. The panel beater carefully works the metal back to the original shape. A fine layer of body filler is applied in order to achieve a smooth finish equal to the original metal surface.

Priming

The painter begins by cleaning the panels that require painting. After removing any dirt and grease the metal is abraded to remove imperfections and provide a key for the primer, areas that do not require painting are masked out to prevent contamination. The first coat is an etch primer which matches the anti-corrosion coating applied by the vehicle manufacturer. The is then followed by a painted by a prime filler which acts as a base for the colour coats. The primer is baked at 60′c for 30mins.

Preparation

After baking the primer is sanded to achieve a blemish free surface. The painter checks the manufacturers colour code on the vehicle and he will select a shade of that colour that best matches the vehicle. The painter will mix a small volume of his chosen colour and spray a test card as a final confirmation of his choice.

Refit

After baking the primer is sanded to achieve a blemish free surface. The painter checks the manufacturers colour code on the vehicle and he will select a shade of that colour that best matches the vehicle. The painter will mix a small volume of his chosen colour and spray a test card as a final confirmation of his choice.

Clean

The vehicle is then cleaned inside and out.

Check

Our quality controller will complete his last inspection of the vehicle prior to advising the customer that the car is ready for collection.

Hand Over

When the quality controller is satisfied with the repair the vehicle can be returned to the owner.