Cheap Bodyshop

Took my car to Simtek to get some superficial rust looked at and to have several of the panels sprayed. Also took the opportunity to get the alloy wheels refurbished. The price was superb - couldn't argue with that. The paint match was also excellent, but I think the work was let down by less than ideal preparation. In some of the less visible parts there was an orange-peel effect and there was some over-spray on one of the chrome panels. That said, for the money, it was fine. The wheels were sent away to be re-furbed by a partner company. Again the price was superb but it wasn't the best of jobs. The kerbed wheels were re-shaped nicely but the spray job wasn't brilliant and even one of the tyres had some overspray.... Overall though (unless you are as fussy as me) then this place is good value for money. Unfortunately the car also gained a few minor scratches whilst at Simtek. It's a very tight area but I was annoyed to see some fresh scratches on the bumper and roof of the car. I guess that you get what you pay for - these guys are very busy and you need to book well in advance. If I had a £80k car then I wouldn't take it there, but with a sub £5k car I just couldn't justify the high costs that would be incurred by one of the larger outfits. All in all 4 out of 5 when you consider the very reasonable prices.

Andy Wysocki - 10/06/2010 | report this review