Insurance Smash Repairs in South Melbourne
At South City Motor Body Works, we make insurance smash repairs straightforward, stress-free, and finished to a factory-grade standard. Whether you’re managing a not-at-fault accident claim, moderate accident damage, or minor cosmetic issues, our experienced team helps with every step – from assessment and insurer coordination to expert repairs and final delivery. Conveniently located in South Melbourne, we proudly support drivers across Southbank, Port Melbourne, Albert Park, Middle Park, and nearby suburbs. Ready to get started? Contact us today to begin your insurance repair process.
Over 200 reviews
Over 200 5★ reviews
GENUINE REPLACEMENT PARTS
We work with all insurers
Family owned & operated
Factory finish repairs
Insurance Repairs Made Easy - End-to-End Accident Support
South City Motor Body Works has helped Melbourne drivers navigate their accident repair with confidence and clarity for over three decades. We understand how stressful a crash can be – especially when it comes to lodging insurance claims, dealing with adjusters, and getting your car repaired correctly.
That’s why we offer a complete insurance smash repair service. From initial assessment and quoting to insurer approvals and premium repair work, our team supports you every step of the way – clearly, quickly, and without the runaround.
Whether you’re not at fault, covered under your own policy, or just want a second opinion, we ensure your vehicle is repaired properly – using manufacturer-approved methods, genuine parts, and a finish that meets (or exceeds) factory standards.
Why South Melbourne Drivers Trust Us With Insurance Repairs
For over 35 years, South City Motor Body Works has been Melbourne’s trusted name for insurance smash repairs. From minor damage to moderate collisions, we make the process clear, efficient, and stress-free – with premium results and genuine care. Backed by strong insurer relationships and a reputation for factory-grade finishes, we help you get back on the road with confidence with no shortcuts or surprises.
We Work With Most Major Insurers
We work with most of Australia’s leading insurers and will help handle approvals, documentation, and communication.
Not-At-Fault Claim Support
If you’ve been hit, we’ll walk you through the third-party claim process and explain your rights – including hire car access.
Genuine Parts & Lifetime Guarantee
We use OEM-spec parts, so your car looks exactly as it should.
Transparent Advice & Quotes
We work with Australia’s leading insurers and will help handle approvals, documentation, and communication.
Family-Owned, Locally Trusted
Boutique service with premium outcomes. No upsells. No shortcuts. Just craftsmanship that stands out.
Insurance Repair Specialists
Over 35 years restoring cars for insurance claims – from minor bumps to complex post-collision repairs.
How Our Insurance Smash Repairs Work
No matter your situation – whether you’re insured, not at fault, uninsured, or choosing to pay privately – we’ve streamlined the repair process to make it as simple, stress-free, and efficient as possible.
1 Get A Quote
Visit us for a comprehensive assessment. We’ll gather all necessary details, provide you with an itemised quote, and walk you through your repair or claim options – whether it’s a private repair, an insurance claim, a not-at-fault incident, or a third-party situation.
2 Lodge Or Approve The Repair
If you’re proceeding through insurance, simply lodge your claim, nominate South City Motor Body Works as your preferred repairer, and share your claim reference number. For not-at-fault claims, we can assist you in the process with the at-fault party or their insurer. If you’re opting to pay privately, you approve the quote, and we can get started right away.
3 Confirm Repairs & Organise Parts
Once we receive repair authorisation, we’ll confirm the repair details with you and secure your booking. To avoid any delays, we’ll order all necessary parts in advance. If you’re eligible for a free hire car (available with all not-at-fault claims), we’ll have it ready and waiting at our workshop when you drop off your vehicle – ensuring a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish.
4 Quality Checks & Return
Once repairs are complete, your vehicle undergoes a meticulous quality inspection to ensure all work meets our high standards. It’s then professionally cleaned inside and out, so it’s returned to you in pristine condition. If you’ve been using a hire car, simply return it to us when you pick up your vehicle – making the final step quick and convenient.
We Specialise In Prestigious Car Makes & Models
Trusted for Insurance Smash Repairs by Drivers Across Melbourne
We’re proud to be South Melbourne’s trusted panel shop for insurance-approved vehicle repairs.
“Amazing service. Best guys in the industry. Great advice and frequent follow-up. Could not recommend them highly enough.”
– David Giannetti
“Genuinely the best quality service and work I’ve had so far on any car I’ve owned or rented. Rob and Phil were extremely nice and genuinely went above and beyond with everything.”
– Matt Ortiz
“I had the best experience with South City Motor Body Works. Robert and his team were very professional, knowledgeable, and take great pride in the service they provide.”
– Darrel Zip
Unsure What to Do After an Accident? Let’s Talk
Not sure how to claim or what comes next? Upload a few photos and we’ll help you understand your insurance options. While we don’t provide quotes from photos alone, it helps us prepare for your in-person insurance repair assessment.
Visit Our South Melbourne Insurance Repairs Workshop
Based in Southbank, South City Motor Body Works is trusted by drivers across South Melbourne, Port Melbourne, Middle Park, Albert Park, and surrounding suburbs for high-quality, insurer-approved repairs.
We offer a personal, hands-on alternative to big franchise car body repair shops with more focus on professionalism and results. If your insurer allows choice of repairer, or you’ve been hit and need help making a not-at-fault claim, we’re here to restore your vehicle – and your peace of mind.
Contact us today for a free quote and assistance to get your car back on the road.
📍 Address: 60 Gladstone Street, Southbank VIC 3006
📞 Phone: 0396999329
✉️ Email: [email protected]
Insurance Repair FAQs
Do you work with all major insurance companies?
Yes, we work with all major insurance providers and can assist with most claims.
However, some insurers may restrict your choice of repairer. If that’s the case, the insurer decides where your vehicle is repaired.
If you’re not at fault, you have the right to choose your own repairer when claiming through the at-fault party’s insurance. You’re also entitled to a like for like replacement vehicle for the period your vehicle is off the road – which we can assist with.
For more information, please visit our Insurance Information page.
Can I choose my own repairer for insurance smash repairs?
In many cases, yes. If your policy includes choice of repairer, or you’re not at fault, you can nominate South City Motor Body Works as your preferred panel shop. We’re trusted across South Melbourne and beyond for high-quality insurance smash repairs with no shortcuts. For more details, visit our Not-At-Fault Accidents page.
What should I do after a car accident?
What you do next depends on the situation. If no other vehicle is involved – for example, if you hit a post – it’s best to get a repair quote first, as the cost may be similar to or less than your insurance excess, making a claim unnecessary.
If another vehicle is involved and you’re at fault, the other driver can choose their own repairer and may be entitled to a hire car. In this case, lodging a claim is usually recommended.
If fault is unclear, take photos of the scene and damage, and collect the other driver’s contact and insurance details. Then contact South City Motor Body Works to arrange a booking and we’ll help you from there.
Someone crashed into me - and I’m not at fault. What do I do?
If someone has crashed into your vehicle and they are at fault, it’s considered a third-party claim.
In this situation, the at-fault driver or their insurance provider is responsible for covering the full cost of your repairs – including a hire car if needed while your vehicle is being repaired.
It’s a legal requirement to collect the other driver’s name, address, insurance details, vehicle registration, and contact information for any witnesses.
After the accident, make sure to take clear photos of the driver’s license, damage and the scene.
Once you’ve gathered the relevant details, contact South City Motor Body Works to arrange a booking. We’ll help guide you through the process and ensure your car is repaired to the highest standard using manufacturer-approved methods and parts.
Should I lodge a claim or pay privately?
It depends on the cost of repairs and your insurance excess. For minor damage, it may be cheaper to pay privately. We’ll provide an honest, upfront quote so you can make an informed decision before notifying your insurer.
How long do insurance smash repairs usually take?
Smash repair times depend on the damage, part availability, and how quickly your insurer approves the quote. Once assessed, we’ll give you an estimated timeframe. Our team works efficiently to get your car back on the road without compromising on finish.
Do you help with insurer communication?
We’re not able to assist with insurance paperwork or the initial claims process. However, once we’ve been selected as your chosen repairer, we’re happy to help with any ongoing communication with your insurance company to support the repair process.
Do you use genuine parts for insurance repairs?
Always. We only use OEM or manufacturer-approved parts to protect your vehicle’s warranty, safety, and performance. It’s one reason Melbourne drivers trust us for quality insurance repairs – not patch jobs.
Will the repairs be covered under warranty?
Yes. All insurance smash repairs carried out by South City Motor Body Works are backed by our lifetime workmanship guarantee for as long as you own the car. We stand behind the quality of our work.
What types of damage can you repair under insurance?
We handle everything from minor cosmetic damage to moderate collision repairs – including bumper scrapes, panel damage, and paint refinishing. While we don’t handle major structural repairs, we can refer you to a trusted partner if needed.
Do I need to book an appointment for an insurance quote?
Walk-ins are welcome during business hours, and you can also upload clear images via our contact page for a preliminary review. For a final quote and assessment, a physical inspection is required.