Tesla Service UK / Guides / Bodywork & Accident Repair
Bodywork & accident repair: what to expect
What's genuinely different, and how to cope with the parts waits that catch a lot of owners out.
Last fact-checked: . General guidance — always check your own model's specifics and current official sources before relying on it for a decision.
Why it's different
Why does Tesla bodywork repair often take longer?
Several factors combine: aluminium body panels require different welding and repair techniques than steel, sensor and camera recalibration is often needed after structural repair work (see our windscreen calibration guide for the same underlying issue), and genuine parts availability for Tesla specifically has historically been less consistent across the UK than for more established manufacturers with a longer-established parts supply chain, though this has generally improved over time.
Coping with delays
How to cope with a longer-than-expected repair
If your insurer is arranging a courtesy car, confirm upfront whether it's guaranteed for the full repair duration or only an initial estimate — parts delays can extend a job well past the original quote. Ask your repairer for realistic, not optimistic, timeline expectations, and get regular updates rather than assuming no news is good news.
Choosing a repairer
What to check when choosing who does the repair
Worth confirming before work starts:
- Whether the repairer is an official Tesla-approved body shop or an independent handling the work — either can be fine, but you should know which and what that means for parts sourcing.
- Whether genuine Tesla parts will be used, or manufacturer-approved equivalents, and get this in writing.
- Whether post-repair camera/sensor calibration is included in the quote.
- Your rights under your insurance policy to choose your own repairer, if that matters to you — see our insurance guide.
See also: Tesla-approved bodyshops by county.