Why choose the RAC for an accident repair?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

From central Southampton to surrounding areas including Shirley, Portswood, Bassett and Swaythling, RAC Approved Garages offer a convenient way to get accident repairs, with a friendly service and clear updates.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car
A mechanic standing inside a garage

Book an accident repair

From minor scratches to major bodywork and structural repairs, a mechanic can help. They’ll use their expertise to get your vehicle back in tip top shape.

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.
We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free
A mechanic inspecting the underside of a vehicle.

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

And it’s not just accident repairs that we do in Southampton

RAC Approved Garages offer MOTs and services. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

Cadnam Garage Services

5.0/5

Whether needing an MOT, service or repairs, an ECU remap, or just another vehicle, our team of experienced technicians and support staff are happy to advise you in finding a solution to your requirements. Cadnam Garage is a member of the Good Garage Scheme, as well as an approved RAC and AA garage. We adhere to a strict code of conduct, which provides an open and honest approach to everything carried out in our workshops. While your vehicle is in our care, we will keep you informed every step of the way, and we will not undertake any additional work without your prior approval.
Southampton Road, Cadnam, SO40 2NB

HiQ Tyres & Autocare Gosport

4.9/5

HiQ Tyre & Autocare Gosport, We are a local business that started from the ground up. As well as MOT’s and Servicing being our strength we are also able to offer Tyres for any vehicle, any size, any brand. In fact we do pretty much anything your car could ever need so if you’re unsure just give us a call. Reg and John the owners own and operate 3 HiQ’s across Hampshire and are experts in the industry with countless years of experience amongst them and the team. We are pleased to support our Military Personnel in Gosport and offer discount on production of ID. Our car care service offer includes Oil & filter service, interim and full car service schedules alongside Manufacturer Approved Warranty vehicle servicing. We also offer exhausts, brakes, clutches, MOT testing, car repairs, air-conditioning services, wheel alignment services and much more. Our team of mechanics and technicians work to the highest standard possible and are highly qualified to work on a range of various car and van marques. We are also proud to offer our customers excellent garage services at an exceptional price. Our trained technicians are very approachable and are able to provide expert advice in the best interest of your vehicle. We also offer Payment Assist so you can split your bill over several payments, however, this excludes payment for Tyres.
104 Fareham Road, Gosport, PO130BB

Solent MOT Centre ltd

4.2/5

Based in upper shirley (Winchester Road) in southampton, Close to the general hospital, we offer a range of services such as class 4 mot, servicing, mot repairs, suspension, clutches and same day mot and repairs.
Unit 3A North Brook Industrial Estate, Hollybrook Road, Southampton, SO166RB

Eco MOT Auto Centre

3.6/5

Eco MOT and Auto Care Located at 27-32 st marys place, Southampton, SO14 3HY Service offers: General Auto Repairs MOT Class 4 and 7 ( cars and vans) Brake Repair Clutch and transmission Tyre and 3D alignment Vehicle Diagnostic Vehicle Remapping Suspension Air Conditioning
Eco Tyres 30-32 St. Marys Place, Southampton, SO143HY

New Chapel Garage Services - Hedge End

3.0/5

New Chapel Garage is an established local independent garage offering quality repairs and fantastic customer service. We are proud to be members of Autofirst Network – a nationwide network of independent garages operating to the Network’s 6 core values of Capability, Consistency, Care, Clarity, Cost Effectiveness and Customer Focus. All our staff give a friendly, honest and professional service whether it be car servicing, car repair or carrying your vehicles yearly MOT which are carried out on site by our own staff. We are a DVSA/VOSA approved MOT testing station and our mechanics are always happy to offer impartial advice and guidance, and with our cutting-edge digital diagnostic tools we can pinpoint vehicle issues in moments.. For your added peace of mind we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. In short, we are a local garage you can trust offering you the support and service guarantees of a national network, giving you complete peace of mind. Simply drop off your car with us and collect it when it’s ready; or stick around and enjoy a hot or cold drink on us while you wait!
7 Mayflower Park, Botley Road, Southampton, SO302HE

Frequently asked questions on Accident Repair

It’s unlikely. Insurance usually covers repairs from accidents, theft, or vandalism. Regular maintenance and wear-and-tear are generally not included.

It depends on the damage. Small dents and scratches might cost a few hundred pounds. Big repairs, like replacing panels or repainting, can run into thousands.

You can usually choose any shop you like. Just keep in mind that if it’s not on your insurance’s list, you might have to cover any extra costs.

It depends on the damage to your car. If the car is safe, you can drive it until repairs are done. But if the damage is serious and risks your safety, don’t drive!

First, make sure everyone is safe. Call emergency services if needed. Swap insurance details with the other driver. Take photos of the scene. After that, let your insurance company know to start your claim.

Most repair shops offer a warranty on their work. This usually covers parts and labour for a certain time. Be sure to ask about the warranty details before you start.

Good repairs shouldn’t hurt your resale value too much. But if your car’s been in a few accidents or the repairs were shoddy, it might drop in value. Always choose a repair shop you can trust to keep your car’s value up.

If this happens, let the garage know. Most places will fix any problems and make sure you’re happy. If this doesn’t work, have a chat with your insurance company.

This depends on the damage to your car. Small repairs might be done in a few days. Large fixes could take weeks. For a clear idea, ask your garage for an estimate.