After a car accident, you face more than just vehicle damage. You’re dealing with insurance claims, repair costs, and the uncertainty of whether your car will ever be the same. These concerns are universal, whether you’re in London, Surrey, or anywhere across the UK.

At Finesse Accident Repair Centre, we’ve been helping drivers navigate these challenges for more than 25 years. With locations in Bracknell (Berkshire), Redhill, and Dorking (Surrey), we serve drivers across the South East and beyond who want manufacturer-approved repairs they can trust.

This article isn’t about services. It’s about what really happens when a damaged car comes through our doors  and what it means to be a manufacturer-approved body shop in a world of shortcuts, hidden costs, and rushed repairs.

The image shows cars at Finesse ARC, a manufacturer approved accident repair centre

Your right to choose your Accident Repair Centre

Can you choose your own body shop for insurance repairs? Yes, UK drivers have the legal right to choose their preferred accident repair centre, even during insurance claims. Your insurer cannot force you to use their recommended body shop and must accept repairs from manufacturer-approved facilities.

Why choosing a manufacturer-approved body shop matters

  • Genuine parts guarantee – protecting your warranty and resale value
  • Brand-specific repair procedures – ensuring safety systems work correctly
  • Advanced diagnostic equipment – especially crucial for Tesla, BMW, and Audi vehicles
  • Insurance approval – we work directly with all major insurers

Finesse Manufacturer-Approved Repair Process – Your Full Guide

Step 1: Initial Assessment and Insurance Claims

When you contact our accident repair centres:

  • Initial assessment via our online tool, phone, or email – you’ll need to send us photos or evidence of the damage so we can provide an accurate initial assessment

  • Insurance liaison – our claims specialists work directly with your insurer

  • Options consultation – We explain your rights, your options, and our process

  • Vehicle collection arranged from anywhere in Surrey, West Sussex, London, Berkshire and surrounding areas.

  • We offer eligible drivers a courtesy car to keep them mobile

Step 2: Transparent Damage Assessment

Once we receive your vehicle, whether by drop-off or our collection team, we begin with a thorough, methodical assessment:

  • Visual inspection with detailed photography

  • Diagnostic scans for sensors, safety systems, and electronics

  • Strip down panels if needed to expose hidden issues

  • Repair method verification against manufacturer procedures

Step 3: Quality Repairs with Genuine Parts

Every repair follows manufacturer specifications:

  • Genuine OEM parts – never cheap alternatives

  • Brand-specific tools and equipment
  • Factory-approved paint systems

  • Calibration of safety systems

 

We then prepare a full quote and submit it to your insurer (or to you, for private work)

Step 4: Approval & Scheduling Your Repair

Once the estimate is approved:

  • Parts are ordered (genuine OEM parts for approved brands)

  • A repair schedule is set

If we encounter delays with parts or authorisations, we’ll notify you immediately and adjust timelines accordingly. This stage is all about coordination and transparency

Step 5: Repairs Begin – Brand Approved Workmanship

We’re approved by Tesla, Skoda, CUPRA, SEAT, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, MINI, Volvo. That means:

  • We follow brand-certified methods

  • Use genuine parts and approved tools

  • Maintain full warranty compliance

If your vehicle is from a different brand, we still apply the same level of care, expertise, and attention to detail, and we’ll be completely transparent about your repair.

Step 6: Final Inspection, Valet & Delivery

Every vehicle goes through a multi-point inspection, including:

  • Diagnostics

  • Alignments

  • Safety system verification

  • Quality control

Then, we professionally clean the vehicle inside and out. You’ll receive:

  • A full report of what was done

  • Any warranty documentation

  • Your keys, and your confidence – back in hand

Collection or delivery is arranged to suit your schedule.

More than just a repair – A return to confidence

At Finesse ARC, we don’t just restore vehicles. We restore trust, safety, and peace of mind. Whether your car is manufacturer-approved or not, whether your repair is private or through insurance, you’ll receive the same professionalism, transparency, and care at every step.

From your first call to the moment your keys are returned, you’re not just a number. You’re a valued driver, and we treat your car like it’s our own.

So if you’ve just had an accident, don’t settle for shortcuts or generic repairs.

Choose a body shop trusted by major manufacturers, dealerships, and thousands of drivers across the South East.

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We are a proud sponsor of the Tesla Owners Club

Finesse is a proud sponsor of the Tesla Owners Club. A reflection of our commitment to electric vehicle excellence.
As one of the UK’s largest Tesla approved accident repair centres, we provide expert, manufacturer-standard repairs with advanced equipment and certified EV technicians.
We serve Tesla owners across London and the South East with precision repairs you can trust.

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Have a question or need expert advice about your accident repair? Our friendly, experienced team is here to help with fast, professional support, wherever you’re based.