Business Details
31 Years
experience
Trusted Car Accident Repair & Vehicle Restoration
Established in 1995, Southdown Body Shop has built a reputation as the leading car accident repair specialist and vehicle restoration expert in Sussex. Our dedicated team of highly skilled technicians delivers bodywork repairs and re-painting services ranging from minor cosmetic fixes to comprehensive structural repairs requiring new panels and full re-sprays. We utilise the latest ICI paint mixing technology, low bake paint ovens, and manufacturer-approved repair methods to ensure every vehicle meets exacting standards.With state-of-the-art facilities and access to genuine parts, we serve insurance companies, trade clients, and private individuals while maintaining manufacturer specifications. Our commitment to quality control guarantees perfect colour-matching and meticulous preparation before vehicle handover. As a trusted local bodyshop, we prioritise customer satisfaction through transparent communication and repairs that preserve vehicle integrity and value.
Services
Insurance and collision repairs
Major structural repairs
Alloy wheel refurbishment
MOT welding
Paintless Dent Removal
Lease vehicle repairs
Bumper and panel repairs
Vehicle detailing
Smart repairs
Headlight refurbishment
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Our experienced technicians use manufacturer-approved repair methods for all vehicles.
- We maintain manufacturer specifications to preserve your vehicle's warranty and value.
- State-of-the-art facilities include the latest ICI paint mixing technology and low bake ovens.
- Comprehensive quality control ensures perfect colour-matching and meticulous preparation.
- We serve insurance, trade, and private clients with transparent communication throughout repairs.
Services
Accident Repair & Vehicle Restoration
We specialise in comprehensive accident repair and vehicle restoration for insurance, trade, and private clients. Our technicians use manufacturer-approved methods and genuine parts to repair structural damage, repaint vehicles, and restore integrity. With state-of-the-art equipment, we ensure precision repairs that maintain safety standards and preserve vehicle value for all makes and models.
Alloy Wheel Refurbishment
Our alloy wheel refurbishment service restores kerbed, corroded, or damaged wheels to factory finish standards. Using advanced powder coating and paint techniques, we repair cracks, buckling, and surface imperfections. We cater to standard vehicles and high-performance cars, offering bespoke finishes while ensuring durability and aesthetic quality for all wheel types.
MOT Welding
Southdown Body Shop provides MOT-compliant welding services to repair structural components and ensure vehicle safety. Our certified technicians use precision techniques to address chassis damage, panel seams, and load-bearing areas. This service guarantees compliance with regulatory standards while maintaining the structural integrity required for MOT certification and roadworthiness.
Paintless Dent Removal
We offer paintless dent removal for minor bodywork imperfections without compromising existing paintwork. This technique preserves vehicle finishes while eliminating dents from hail, car park incidents, or minor collisions. Our skilled technicians use specialised tools to restore panels to their original condition efficiently and cost-effectively for most modern vehicles.
Lease Vehicle Repairs
Our lease vehicle repair service ensures cars returned under finance agreements meet contractual condition requirements. We inspect and repair damage to avoid penalty charges, addressing scratches, dents, and wear to restore vehicles to 'as collected' standards. This service provides cost-effective solutions for lessees seeking to avoid return fees while maintaining manufacturer-approved repair quality.
People
Gary Cragg
Co-Owner
With decades of automotive repair expertise, Gary Cragg co-owns Southdown Body Shop, overseeing technical operations and quality standards. His leadership ensures adherence to manufacturer specifications while maintaining the business's reputation for excellence in Sussex since 1995.
J J Sutcliffe
Co-Owner
J J Sutcliffe brings extensive industry experience to Southdown Body Shop as co-owner, focusing on client relations and operational efficiency. His commitment to customer satisfaction and investment in advanced repair technologies has solidified the business's position as a trusted local bodyshop.
Questions
Can I choose Southdown Bodyshop for my insurance claim repairs?
Yes, you have the legal right to choose your repairer. We manage insurance claims from start to finish, using manufacturer-approved methods while preserving your warranty.
Do you repair electric and hybrid vehicles?
Yes, our technicians are trained to handle electric and hybrid vehicle repairs, following specific manufacturer guidelines to ensure safety and maintain warranty compliance.
What areas do you serve?
We operate across Sussex, including Brighton, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, and Hassocks, with easy access via the M23 for clients in the South East UK.
Can you help with lease vehicle return inspections?
Yes, we inspect and repair lease vehicles to meet return condition requirements, helping you avoid penalty charges while maintaining manufacturer-approved repair standards.
Do you offer courtesy cars?
We provide loan cars when booked in advance, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine during the repair process.