DeLorean Collision Repair & Bodywork
Stainless steel, distinctive doors and a repair approach built around the vehicle’s unusual construction.
A DeLorean deserves more than a conventional body-shop estimate. We help owners assess accident damage, identify affected components and understand which repairs require specialized evaluation. We work with all insurance companies.
The Exterior Does Not Tell the Whole Story
The classic DMC-12 combines brushed stainless-steel exterior panels, a fiberglass underbody and a separate chassis. An impact can affect these areas differently, so a clean-looking surface does not establish the condition underneath it.
Exterior Panel Damage
Dents, creases and distorted attachment areas are documented before a repair method is selected. Panel access and the desired surface appearance influence the options.
Underbody & Mounting Areas
Fiberglass damage and displaced mounting points require separate assessment. Cosmetic work on an outer panel does not resolve damage to the supporting structure.
Chassis Condition
The chassis must be evaluated where relevant to the impact. Existing corrosion, coating damage or previous repairs may affect the proposed scope.
Confirm specialty work before scheduling. Stainless-panel correction, fiberglass structural work, chassis repairs and door mechanisms are reviewed individually. Manufacturer or specialist involvement may be needed.
Support During Qualifying Repairs
Qualifying customers may receive up to $1,000 toward their insurance deductible. Eligibility and complete terms are confirmed before work begins.
Some restrictions apply.
A loaner may be available during qualifying repairs. Let us know your transportation needs when booking. Availability and applicable requirements must be confirmed.
Some restrictions apply.
Stainless-Steel Damage Needs a Different Finish Plan
On an unpainted DMC-12, the metal itself is the visible finish. Grain direction, texture and light reflection affect how a repaired area looks. Conventional filler-and-paint techniques do not reproduce exposed brushed stainless steel.
Dents & Creases
Depth, stretching, access and panel shape determine whether correction is appropriate. Severe distortion may require replacement or specialist evaluation.
Scratches & Grain
Surface scratches are assessed in relation to the existing brushed texture. Uncontrolled abrasion or polishing can change the appearance and complicate later correction.
Panel Replacement
Availability, condition and fit are reviewed for replacement stainless panels. A used panel can carry dents or altered grain that needs assessment before installation.
Avoid experimenting on the damaged area. Bring the vehicle for assessment before sanding, buffing or applying a coating intended to hide the damage.
Gullwing Doors Are More Than a Styling Feature
Door damage can involve alignment, latches, seals, hinges and supporting components. A door that opens differently after an impact deserves investigation rather than a cosmetic adjustment alone.
Closure & Fit
Door gaps, latch engagement and adjoining panels are assessed when affected by the accident. Changes in fit can indicate damage beyond the outer skin.
Lift Assistance
Struts and torsion-bar-related concerns require appropriate expertise. Available mechanism services and specialist needs are confirmed before authorization.
Glass & Weather Seals
Glass condition, seals and surrounding trim influence weather protection. Report leaks or wind noise that appeared after the impact.
Not Every Exterior Surface Is Bare Stainless
Front and rear fascia areas, trim and some customized vehicles require a paint-based approach. Existing coating condition and component material are reviewed before refinishing.
Fascia Damage
Cracks, distortion and damaged attachments are assessed for repairability. Surface preparation and suitable refinishing materials depend on the component.
Painted DeLoreans
If your car has been painted, tell us about the coating and previous work. Removing paint to return to stainless is a separate project and is not assumed in a collision estimate.
Louvers, Badges & Moldings
Rare trim can affect the repair schedule. Damaged mounting points and replacement availability are reviewed before parts are removed or ordered.
Qualifying collision workmanship and painted finishes are covered under our lifetime limited warranty. Ask for the written terms and confirm how coverage applies to stainless work, specialty operations and replacement parts.
Handling, Cooling, Lighting & Mechanical Concerns
Steering & Suspension
Wheel impacts may affect tires, rims, hubs and suspension. New pulling, vibration or unusual noises help direct the inspection before alignment is considered.
Cooling & Fluid Leaks
Report leaks or temperature changes after the accident. Cooling-system components and lines are assessed where the impact may have affected them.
Lights & Electrical Wiring
Damaged housings, connectors and wiring can accompany body damage. Added equipment and modified wiring should be identified at intake.
Glass Replacement
Fitment, seals and availability are reviewed for damaged windshields and other glass. Surrounding body condition can affect installation.
Modified Vehicles
Engine swaps, suspension changes and replica accessories may require separate support. Provide build details before the repair scope is finalized.
Service Beyond the Claim
Unrelated mechanical concerns can be discussed during intake. Available services and additional authorization are reviewed separately.
Parts Availability & Vehicle Transport
Original & Replacement Components
Correct application, condition and availability matter for a limited-production vehicle. Proposed parts are discussed before installation.
Owner-Supplied Parts
Discuss components you have sourced before bringing them in. Acceptance, suitability and warranty arrangements need to be agreed before use.
Loading & Handling
Tell us about ground clearance, steering or rolling problems when arranging delivery. Appropriate loading equipment and attachment points should be confirmed with the transporter.
Keep the Repair Record as Clear as the Estimate
Claim Information
Bring your claim number, adjuster contact and any existing estimate. Pre-accident photographs and configuration records can help describe the vehicle.
Collector Policy Details
Tell us about specialty or agreed-value coverage. We document repair findings; your insurer determines coverage and settlement under the policy.
Additional Findings
Disassembly may uncover concealed impact damage or existing deterioration. The findings are explained and any added work requires approval.
Paying out of pocket? You can request an estimate without filing a claim. Accident repairs and other requested work can be considered as separate scopes.
Classic DMC-12 & Individual Configurations
The Classic DeLorean
- DeLorean DMC-12 — 1981 examples
- DeLorean DMC-12 — 1982 examples
- DeLorean DMC-12 — 1983 examples
- Manual and automatic configurations
- Early and later production details
- Painted, modified and specialty conversions
Production differences and modifications require identification before parts are selected.
Concepts & Other Projects
Alpha5 and other DeLorean concept or development projects should not be treated as ordinary DMC-12 variants. Any newer, prototype or specialty vehicle requires an individual discussion of available services.
Contact us with identification details and photographs rather than assuming parts or procedures are shared with the classic car.
Reference resources: Classic DeLorean Support and DeLorean Concept Vehicles .
A Considered Route Through the Repair
- Discuss the Vehicle
Identification, modifications and preservation goals are recorded.
- Assess the Damage
Exterior, supporting components and relevant existing condition are reviewed.
- Confirm Scope & Parts
Suitable repairs, available components and specialist needs inform the estimate.
- Authorize the Work
Approved operations proceed, with additional findings reviewed before added work.
- Inspect & Prepare
Applicable fit and function checks are completed and the vehicle is cleaned.
- Review & Collect
Completed work, warranty information and care guidance are explained.
DeLorean Repair Questions
Can a stainless-steel dent be repaired without paint?
It depends on the panel and damage. Access, stretching and surface texture influence the options. Specialist assessment may be needed before confirming repairability.
Can stainless panels be repaired like ordinary painted panels?
Exposed stainless requires a different appearance standard. Conventional filler and paint do not recreate the brushed-metal finish.
Is the entire car stainless steel?
No. The classic car also has a fiberglass underbody, a separate chassis and other materials. Each damaged area needs the appropriate assessment.
What if a gullwing door no longer opens or closes normally?
Report the change before attempting adjustments. Alignment, latches and supporting mechanisms may need inspection, with specialist services confirmed as necessary.
Can you assess a painted or modified DeLorean?
Contact us with photographs and configuration details. Coating condition, modifications and available repair services are reviewed individually.
Will you return a painted car to bare stainless?
Paint removal and stainless restoration are separate projects. They are not assumed in an accident estimate and require confirmation of scope.
How are repair cost and timing determined?
Damage, parts supply and specialty operations influence the estimate and schedule. Additional concealed damage may require approval.
Will the repair improve collector value?
A value outcome is not guaranteed. Discuss valuation with an appropriate appraiser or insurer and retain documentation of completed work.
Can I provide a replacement panel I already own?
Discuss it first. Condition, fitment, acceptance and applicable warranty arrangements need review before installation.
What should I bring for assessment?
Bring the VIN, claim information if applicable, damage photographs and relevant service or build records. Note any new noises, leaks or changes in door operation.
When should I arrange transport instead of driving?
Avoid driving with steering problems, damaged tires, significant leaks or compromised door closure. Contact us to discuss intake and transport coordination.
How should I care for the repaired areas?
Follow the instructions provided for each surface. Bare stainless and painted components require different care; do not apply one treatment across both without guidance.
Tell Us About Your DeLorean
Share the damage details and what you want to preserve. Our team will help establish the repair options and the appropriate next step.
The Collision Repair Shop836 E 9 Mile Rd
Ferndale, MI 48220
Specialty repairs require confirmation of scope. Deductible assistance and loaners are subject to eligibility, availability and restrictions. Contact us for complete offer and written warranty terms.