Panel beating costs explained: What affects repair prices

If you’ve been involved in a minor accident or need car repairs, one of your first questions is usually about cost. Panel beating prices in Melbourne vary widely, from a few hundred dollars for small dents and scratches to several thousand for major smash repairs.

Understanding how panel beater quotes are calculated helps you compare options and avoid cheap fixes that could cost you more in the long run.

How much does panel beating cost in Melbourne?

Scratch and dent repairs cost around $1000, while major works can cost thousands more. Below is an estimated price range:

• Small dents and scratches – from around $300–$1,000
• Moderate smash repairs – $1,500–$3,000 on average
• Extensive accident repairs – $5,000+ depending on parts and labour

Across Melbourne, the average price for panel beating is usually between $2,000 and $3,000. Keep in mind that these figures are only a guide. The final price depends on factors like the extent of the damage, the make and model of your car, and whether specialised paint or parts are required.

At Sheen, we’re upfront about the factors that affect panel beating costs and how we restore your car to its pre-accident condition. Recognised as one of the best panel beating services in Melbourne, we provide expert advice, towing, and professional smash repairs for leading brands like Toyota, Mazda, and Hyundai.

If you’d like a clear idea of repair costs upfront, Sheen can provide a free panel beater quote based on photos of your vehicle. This way, you’ll know what to expect prior to booking your repair.

Before booking your panel beating, make sure you receive a written estimate that clearly lists the work, parts, labour, and time. Once agreed upon, this estimate becomes a binding agreement, an important consumer right in Victoria.

While these figures provide a helpful starting point, every repair job differs. The final price depends on more than just whether you’re fixing a scratch or repairing major smash damage. To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at the key factors that affect the cost of a panel beater quote.

What factors affect the cost of a panel beater quote?

No two smash repairs are the same, so panel beater prices vary so much. A reliable panel beater will always consider many factors before giving you a final price guide. Understanding these can help you compare quotes and avoid cheap fixes that may cost you more in the long run.

Parts and materials required

One of the biggest cost drivers is the type of parts and materials needed for your repair. Genuine parts are designed by the manufacturer to match your car’s exact specifications. While they can increase the final price, they also maintain your vehicle’s safety and resale value. Non-genuine or second-hand parts might look cheaper, but they often don’t perform as well over time.

Extent of the damage

Scratches or dents on the surface may be straightforward to fix, but extensive damage hidden beneath the panels can cost significantly more. Professional panel beaters will assess the extent of the damage carefully, checking for structural issues, suspension problems, and whether panels need repainting or complete replacement. This step ensures your car is restored properly, not just patched up.

Make, model, and age of your vehicle

Different cars require different repair methods. Luxury or imported vehicles often need specialised panel beating work, and older vehicles may have parts that are harder to source. Following the manufacturer’s repair procedure is crucial, and this can affect labour costs and the overall repair price.

Labour costs and repair time

Panel beating is highly skilled work, and labour costs can vary depending on the complexity of the repair. Tasks like paint repair or blending colours across the rest of the vehicle add to the time required. More complex repairs will naturally mean higher labour charges.

Do dents and scratches cost less to repair?

Yes, in most cases. Minor dents and scratches usually cost less to repair than extensive smash damage, but the price still depends on the damage's size, depth, and location.

• Small dents or scratches on flat panels may be repaired for as little as a few hundred dollars.
• Larger dents, paint repair, or damage to more complex areas, such as car doors or bumpers, can cost significantly more.
• If scratches or dents require repainting and colour blending across the rest of the vehicle, the repair cost will increase further.

While these may seem like minor issues, leaving dents and scratches unattended can affect your car’s resale value and lead to rust or more extensive body repairs later on. Getting a professional panel beater to assess the extent of the damage ensures your car is restored to its original condition.

DIY repair kits are sometimes marketed as quick fixes, but rarely achieve the same standard as a qualified panel beating service. A reliable panel beater will provide an accurate quote and explain whether paint repair or panel replacement is the most cost-effective solution for your situation.

Does car insurance change panel beating prices?

Your insurance policy doesn’t change how a panel beater calculates the cost of repairs. Quotes are still based on the extent of the damage, the parts required, and the labour involved. Your car insurance influences how much you end up paying yourself.

• With comprehensive insurance, your insurer usually covers the repair cost, and you only need to pay an excess.
• If you have limited cover or no insurance, you may need to pay the full repair cost directly.
• Some insurers try to direct customers to their preferred repairers, but you always have the right to choose your panel beater.

Because insurance can be complex, many drivers prefer to work with a repairer who understands the claims process. At Sheen, we help customers navigate their car insurance claims from start to finish, ensuring claims are handled smoothly while the repairs are carried out to our standards. All quotes and recommendations we provide are completely independent, with no obligation to proceed. Our team can also negotiate directly with your insurer, ensuring you get fair outcomes without the stress.

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Why choosing the right panel beater matters

Not all panel beaters provide the same quality of service. While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest quote, cut-price repairs often mean non-genuine parts, poor workmanship, or low-grade paint that doesn’t last. This can cost significantly more in the long run and reduce your vehicle’s resale value.

A reliable panel beater will:

• Use genuine parts that match your car’s make and model
• Follow manufacturer-approved repair methods
• Provide a clear and accurate quote before starting work
• Offer accident replacement vehicles to keep you on the road

That’s why many drivers turn to established services like Sheen. As proud members of the VACC and other leading industry associations, Sheen workshops meet strict standards for safety, quality, and customer care.

Our panel beating team restores vehicles to pre-accident condition using proven techniques and genuine parts. And if you’re unsure whether to contact your insurer first or go straight to a repairer, we’ve explained the pros and cons in our article on whether to call a panel beater or insurance for repairs.

Choosing the right repairer gives you peace of mind that your car is restored adequately, not just patched up for now.

Get fair panel beater costs with Sheen

Need panel beating after an accident? Sheen makes it simple. Upload photos of the damage for a free, accurate quote before booking your repair. Our team will explain the repair process clearly, so you know exactly what to expect.

While your car is being repaired, we can arrange an accident replacement vehicle so you’re not left without transport. Learn more about our replacement vehicles and how they keep you moving.

With over 50 years of experience in Melbourne and multiple workshop locations across Victoria, we’ve built a trusted legacy of restoring vehicles for generations of drivers.

Whether you need dents, scratches, or major smash repairs, we focus on restoring your vehicle to its original condition with minimal stress. Start by requesting your free panel beater quote today, and let Sheen handle the rest.

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