Automotive Metal Fabrication Nottingham

Custom Car Parts, Classic Car Restoration, Chassis Fabrication & Vehicle Modifications

0115 647 6611

Automotive Custom Parts

Nottingham Metalworks provides bespoke automotive metal fabrication for classic car restoration, custom vehicle builds, and performance modifications across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. From replacement panels and chassis repairs to custom brackets and exhaust components, we fabricate quality automotive metalwork using precision cutting and professional welding techniques.

Professional TIG welding of custom automotive component for classic car in Nottingham workshop

TIG welding a custom automotive component

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CNC plasma cutting machine fabricating custom automotive bracket for classic car restoration in Nottingham

Fabricating a custom automotive bracket

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Custom fabricated chassis brackets and panels installed on restored classic car in Nottingham

Custom fabricated chassis brackets and panel

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Specialist Automotive Metalwork for Classic & Custom Vehicles

Classic car restoration and custom vehicle builds demand specialist metalwork skills. Original panels corrode beyond repair, manufacturers discontinue parts, and custom modifications require bespoke fabrication. Whether preserving automotive heritage or creating unique custom vehicles, quality metal fabrication is essential. At Nottingham Metalworks, we bring precision sheet metal fabrication expertise to automotive applications. Our CNC plasma cutting technology creates accurate panels, brackets, and components, whilst our TIG and MIG welding skills ensure structural integrity and professional finish quality essential for automotive work. Classic car enthusiasts across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire know that sourcing obsolete parts proves increasingly difficult. Reproduction panels rarely fit properly, and original parts command premium prices when available. Our custom fabrication approach means we manufacture exactly what your vehicle needs—whether replicating original components or creating improved modern equivalents. We're not a general body shop offering basic welding—we're metalwork specialists who understand the precision and finish quality automotive applications demand. Thin sheet metal requires skilled TIG welding to avoid warping and burn-through. Chassis components need structural integrity and accurate fitment. Exhaust fabrication demands understanding of thermal expansion and vibration. Our experience across diverse fabrication projects translates effectively to automotive metalwork challenges. We serve classic car restorers bringing cherished vehicles back to roadworthy condition, custom builders creating unique modified vehicles, kit car constructors requiring bespoke components, motorsport enthusiasts needing fabricated parts, and vehicle owners seeking quality repairs rather than replacement panels.

AUTOMOTIVE METALWORK SERVICES

Custom Fabrication for Vehicles


Classic Car Restoration Panels

Restoring classic vehicles often requires replacing corroded body panels. We fabricate floor panels and footwells, boot floors and spare wheel wells, inner and outer sills, door skins and repair sections, bonnet and boot lid repair panels, and wing repair sections. Working from your original panels or technical specifications, we create replacement sections that fit accurately and integrate with remaining original metalwork. For rare vehicles where reproduction panels are unavailable, custom fabrication is often the only solution to save cherished classics.


Chassis Repairs & Modifications

Vehicle chassis suffer from corrosion, accident damage, or require modification for performance upgrades. We fabricate chassis repair sections and outriggers, crossmember replacements, mounting points for suspension upgrades, engine bay modifications for conversions, and roll cage mounting brackets. Chassis work demands accuracy—mounting points must align precisely for suspension geometry and driveline fitting. Our precision cutting ensures fabricated sections integrate correctly with existing chassis structure.


Custom Mounting Brackets

Vehicle modifications and repairs constantly require bespoke brackets. We fabricate engine mount brackets for conversions, gearbox and transmission mounts, exhaust hanger brackets, battery tray mounts, fuel tank mounting brackets, auxiliary equipment brackets (air compressors, winches), and suspension component mounts. CNC cutting ensures mounting hole positions are accurate, critical for proper component alignment and avoiding installation frustration.


Exhaust Components & Fabrication

Custom exhaust systems require fabricated sections and mounting solutions. We create exhaust hanger brackets with vibration isolation, heat shields for underbody protection, collector plates for custom manifolds, and exhaust tip mounting brackets. Stainless steel fabrication provides longevity in the demanding exhaust environment. Custom exhaust work often combines our fabrication with specialist exhaust shops' tube bending and muffler expertise—we handle the fabricated components whilst they manage the pipe work.


Performance & Modification Parts

Custom vehicle builds and performance modifications demand unique components. We fabricate intercooler mounting brackets, turbo heat shields and blankets, transmission tunnel modifications, pedal box mounting plates, radiator mounts for non-standard installations, and custom fuel tank mounting solutions. Performance modifications often involve fitting components never intended for your vehicle, requiring creative fabrication solutions that we develop collaboratively with vehicle owners and builders.


Interior & Trim Components

Vehicle interiors benefit from custom metal elements. We create floor pan reinforcement plates, seat mounting brackets and runners, transmission tunnel covers, dashboard mounting brackets, and door card mounting panels. Custom interiors in kit cars or heavily modified vehicles particularly benefit from bespoke fabrication, creating professional installations impossible with off-the-shelf components.

MATERIALS & WELDING EXPERTISE

Automotive-Grade Metals & Professional Welding


Mild Steel for Structural Components

Most automotive structural work uses mild steel matching original vehicle specifications. We work with various gauges from thin body panels (typically 0.8-1.2mm) through to thicker structural sections for chassis work (3-6mm). Mild steel welds easily, forms readily, and accepts paint finishes excellently. For restoration work, matching original metal thickness ensures authentic results and proper structural characteristics.


Stainless Steel for Exhaust & Trim

Exhaust components and decorative elements benefit from stainless steel's corrosion resistance. Grade 304 suits most exhaust applications, whilst 316 provides superior corrosion resistance for vehicles in harsh environments. Stainless steel maintains appearance and structural integrity despite extreme temperature cycling and exposure to road salt, making it ideal for exhaust work and exterior trim components that must remain presentable indefinitely.


Aluminium for Weight Reduction

Performance applications benefit from aluminium's light weight. Custom bonnet panels, racing car body sections, and weight-conscious modifications use aluminium to reduce mass. Aluminium fabrication requires TIG welding and understanding of the material's different working characteristics compared to steel. Our aluminium welding experience extends automotive metalwork to applications where weight reduction provides performance advantages.


TIG Welding for Thin Sheet Metal

Automotive body panels and thin components demand TIG welding. This precise welding process provides controlled heat input, preventing warping and burn-through on thin materials. TIG welding produces clean, professional welds requiring minimal finishing—essential for visible bodywork and quality restoration. Our TIG welding capability handles mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium automotive applications.


MIG Welding for Structural Work

Chassis repairs, brackets, and structural components utilise MIG welding for strong, efficient joints. MIG welding provides excellent penetration and strength for thicker materials whilst maintaining reasonable working speeds. Structural automotive welding requires understanding load paths and stress points to ensure repairs maintain vehicle integrity and safety.

WHY CHOOSE NOTTINGHAM METALWORKS FOR AUTOMOTIVE FABRICATION

Precision Metalwork for Vehicle Applications

Automotive fabrication demands higher standards than general metalwork. Panels must fit accurately without gaps or misalignment. Chassis components require precise dimensions for proper suspension geometry. Thin body panels need skilled welding to avoid distortion. Our experience across diverse fabrication applications—from precision parts to decorative metalwork - translates to the varied demands of automotive projects. Classic car restoration requires respect for original engineering alongside modern fabrication techniques. We understand the importance of maintaining authenticity whilst potentially improving upon original designs where corrosion resistance or structural integrity benefits from modern approaches. This balanced perspective serves classic car enthusiasts who value both originality and longevity. Based in Nottingham, we provide convenient local service for vehicle owners across Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands. No need to transport vehicles or components across the country—bring parts to our workshop or we'll visit to assess vehicles and take measurements. Local fabrication means quick communication, easy progress reviews, and the flexibility to address unexpected issues that arise during restoration or modification projects.

WORKING WITH CLASSIC & CUSTOM VEHICLE OWNERS

Collaborative Automotive Fabrication

Classic car restoration and custom builds rarely follow simple paths. Unexpected corrosion appears during dismantling. Original specifications prove inadequate for modern conditions. Creative solutions emerge during fabrication. We approach automotive projects collaboratively - working with vehicle owners, restoration specialists, and mechanical engineers to develop practical fabrication solutions. If you're uncertain whether specific fabrication is achievable, contact us to discuss your vehicle project. We're happy to assess feasibility, suggest alternative approaches, and provide realistic cost expectations. Many automotive fabrication projects are more practical than vehicle owners assume, whilst others prove more complex than anticipated - honest assessment saves time and prevents disappointment.

GETTING STARTED WITH AUTOMOTIVE FABRICATION

Commission Your Automotive Metalwork

Starting your automotive fabrication project begins with discussing your vehicle and requirements. Contact us with details of your classic car model and year, the components or repairs needed, photographs of areas requiring work, and any technical drawings or original parts for reference. We'll advise on fabrication approach, material specifications, realistic timeframes, and provide detailed quotations. For complex projects, we can work in stages - assessing as restoration progresses and manufacturing components as required rather than committing to complete scope upfront. Typical automotive fabrication timeframes range from 2-3 weeks depending on component complexity. We understand vehicle projects often have uncertain timelines - we'll work flexibly around your restoration or build schedule.


Automotive Metal Fabrication in Nottingham

Ready to discuss your classic car or custom vehicle fabrication needs?

Request Your Free Quote

Call: 0115 647 6611

Serving classic car enthusiasts and custom vehicle builders across Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, and the East Midlands. Explore precision metal parts and our sheet metal fabrication services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Automotive Metal Fabrication

  • Can you fabricate replacement panels for rare classic cars?

    Yes, custom fabrication proves particularly valuable for rare vehicles where reproduction panels are unavailable or prohibitively expensive. We work from your original panels (even heavily corroded ones provide templates), technical drawings, measurements from the vehicle, or sometimes from photographs and dimensions. For complex curved panels, we may create several test pieces to perfect the shape before fabricating the final component. Whilst we can't replicate intricate compound curves requiring specialist panel beating, we fabricate flat and moderately curved sections that comprise most floor panels, boot floors, and repair sections that classic car restorers commonly need.

  • Do you offer mobile welding for vehicle repairs?

    Yes, we provide mobile welding services across Nottingham for vehicle repairs. This proves particularly useful for MOT welding repairs on chassis and structural components where removing sections would be impractical, welding exhaust systems on vehicles, and temporary repairs to get vehicles mobile for transport to workshops. However, for quality restoration work requiring thin sheet metal TIG welding or complex fabrication, workshop-based work delivers superior results with proper equipment, positioning, and controlled environment. We'll advise on the most appropriate approach for your specific vehicle repair.

  • What's the difference between your fabrication and body shop repairs?

    Body shops typically focus on accident repair using replacement panels and filler for cosmetic restoration. We're metalwork fabricators specialising in creating custom components when replacements don't exist or don't fit properly. Classic car restoration often requires fabricated sections because original panels are unavailable. Custom vehicle builds need bespoke brackets and components. Performance modifications require unique fabricated parts. Whilst we can prepare fabricated panels for paint, we're not a paint shop—we provide bare metal fabrication that you or your body shop then finish. Our expertise is manufacturing metalwork, not cosmetic finishing.

  • Can you work with stainless steel for exhaust fabrication?

    Yes, we fabricate stainless steel exhaust components including hanger brackets, heat shields, collector plates, and mounting systems. For complete exhaust systems, we typically collaborate with specialist exhaust fabricators—we manufacture the brackets, shields, and mounting components whilst they handle the tube bending and muffler work, then we integrate everything during installation. This collaborative approach combines our precision fabrication capability with exhaust specialists' specific expertise, delivering complete solutions for custom exhaust projects.

  • How much does automotive metal fabrication cost?

    Automotive fabrication costs vary enormously based on component complexity, material specifications, fabrication difficulty, and finishing requirements. Simple mounting brackets might cost from £50, whilst complex floor panel sections could be several hundred pounds. Chassis repair sections requiring precise fitment and structural welding represent significant fabrication time. We provide detailed quotes after understanding your specific requirements. For restoration projects with uncertain scope, we can work on hourly rates, keeping you informed as work progresses and unexpected requirements emerge - common in classic car restoration where hidden corrosion often appears.

  • Do you fabricate components for kit cars?

    Absolutely. Kit cars and custom builds frequently require bespoke fabrication solutions. Standard components rarely fit unique chassis designs, meaning brackets, mounting plates, and structural elements must be custom fabricated. We work from kit manufacturers' specifications, collaborate with kit car builders to develop mounting solutions, and fabricate components that integrate kit bodies with donor vehicle mechanicals. Our flexible approach suits the problem-solving nature of kit car construction, where creative fabrication often determines project success.

  • Can you replicate components from photographs?

    Photographs provide useful reference but aren't sufficient alone for accurate fabrication. We need precise dimensions, material specifications, and ideally physical access to the vehicle or similar components. If you have photographs of the required component, visit us with your vehicle or bring the adjacent components that interface with the fabricated part. We can then take accurate measurements and create components that fit properly. For very rare vehicles where no reference exists locally, detailed photographs combined with careful dimensional information you provide can enable fabrication, though test-fitting may require iterations.

  • Do you provide classic car restoration services beyond metalwork?

    We specialise in metal fabrication, welding, and chassis work—we're not a complete restoration shop offering mechanical, electrical, or paint services. However, we work collaboratively with classic car restoration specialists, mechanics, and paint shops across Nottingham. If you're coordinating a full restoration, we focus on the metalwork elements whilst you or your chosen specialists handle other aspects. This specialisation ensures expert fabrication rather than attempting services outside our core expertise.


  • How long does automotive fabrication take?

    Timeframes vary significantly based on component complexity and our current workload. Simple brackets might be completed within a week. Complex floor panel sections requiring test fitting and adjustment could take several weeks. Chassis repairs requiring vehicle access and structural welding work around your schedule and workshop availability. For restoration projects, we often work in stages—fabricating components as you progress through dismantling and preparation. Discuss your timeline requirements and we'll provide realistic expectations. We understand that vehicle projects often span months or years, and we'll work flexibly within your restoration schedule.

  • Can you repair rather than replace corroded sections?

    Often yes, particularly for chassis and structural components. Sectional repairs replacing only corroded areas prove more economical than complete panel replacement whilst maintaining more original metal. We assess corrosion extent and advise whether repair or replacement is most practical. Sometimes small repair sections prove more time-consuming than replacing entire panels, whilst other situations suit sectional repairs perfectly. For chassis work, replacing only corroded sections often provides stronger results than attempting to weld extensively corroded metal. We'll recommend the most appropriate approach balancing cost, structural integrity, and authenticity preservation for your specific vehicle and corrosion situation.