Can’t Find the Right Part? Why Metal Fabrication May Be the Best Fix for Your Car

If you’ve been told, “That part’s no longer available” you’re not alone. Whether you drive a classic car, an older model, or a rare import, it’s not always possible to find direct replacement parts—OEM or aftermarket. In these situations, the only real solution may be custom metal fabrication.

This isn’t just a workaround. When done right, metal fabrication can restore structure, safety, and appearance—even when factory parts don’t exist anymore.

What Is Metal Fabrication in Auto Body Repair?

Metal fabrication means building or reshaping parts from raw materials—usually steel or aluminum—to match or replace damaged sections of a vehicle. It’s most often used when:

  • Replacement parts are no longer manufactured
  • Structural damage goes beyond what a standard part can fix
  • Rust has eaten through frame rails, rocker panels, or supports
  • Custom dimensions or strength are required

The process includes cutting, shaping, welding, and reinforcing metal—done by a skilled technician, not mass-produced in a factory.

Who Needs Metal Fabrication (And Why It’s Worth It)

1. Classic Car Owners and Restorers

Many classic vehicles from don’t have OEM parts available anymore. Even reproduction panels can be hard to find—or simply don’t fit right. For these drivers, fabrication is essential:

  • Rebuilding rusted-out panels
  • Replacing missing structural supports
  • Preserving the original shape and strength of the vehicle

A fabricated part done right helps maintain the car’s value and drivability without compromising on authenticity.


2. Drivers of Older or Rare Vehicles

If your car is 15+ years old, there’s a good chance that OEM support has faded. And for limited-production models or imports, even aftermarket parts can be tough to find. Fabrication solves problems like:

  • Frame damage not covered by standard parts
  • Rusted mounting points or crossmembers
  • Damaged areas that can’t be restored with patchwork


Michigan’s road salt doesn’t help—many cars in the state need rebuilding, not just replacing.


3. Self-Paying Customers Who Want It Done Right


If you're not going through insurance, you have full control over the repair process. That means you can choose what’s best—not what’s fastest or cheapest.

Metal fabrication is ideal when:

  • A structural area needs to be rebuilt for safety
  • You want long-term reliability—not temporary patch jobs
  • You value quality over quick fixes



Paying out of pocket often means you want the job done right the first time. Fabrication ensures that’s possible, even when parts aren’t available.

Michigan Conditions Often Require More Than Replacement Parts

Michigan winters, salt, and potholes take a serious toll on vehicles—especially older ones. Rusted-out panels and frames are common, and many of these parts can’t be replaced—they need to be rebuilt.

When parts aren’t available or structure is compromised, metal fabrication is the most reliable solution. .


At Custom Concept Collision, we specialize in custom metal fabrication for:



  • Classic cars
  • Older vehicles with rust or structural issues
  • Out-of-pocket repairs that require custom work


If your car needs more than a bolt-on fix, we’ll fabricate what others can’t find.

A bmw with a damaged front end is parked on the side of the road.

Independent vs. Insurance-Preferred Body Shops: What Michigan Drivers Need to Know

May 29, 2025
After a car accident or when dealing with body damage or rust, most drivers call their insurance company. In many cases, the insurer will recommend a few repair shops on their “preferred” list—these are known as Direct Repair Program (DRP) shops . Here’s what most Michigan drivers don’t realize: You are not required to use an insurance-preferred shop. Under Michigan law, you have the right to choose where your vehicle gets repaired. Understanding the differences between insurance-preferred and independent shops can help you make a more informed—and often better—decision. What Is an Insurance-Preferred Body Shop? Insurance-preferred shops are part of an agreement with insurance companies to perform repairs based on certain guidelines. These shops typically offer: Faster processing and approvals Lower repair costs for insurers Streamlined paperwork between the shop and the insurance company While this might sound convenient, the process often prioritizes speed and cost efficiency over personalized service or long-term quality. The Problem With Insurance-Preferred Shops Insurance-preferred shops often: Use aftermarket or refurbished parts instead of original parts from the manufacturer (OEM) Follow insurer-approved repair methods that focus on saving money, not necessarily on restoring the vehicle to its pre-accident condition Work under time constraints to move vehicles through quickly, which can lead to shortcuts For drivers who care about long-term durability, safety, and getting the job done right not just fast these factors can be important. Why Many Drivers Prefer Independent Body Shops At Custom Concept Collision , we don’t work for insurance companies—we work for you. That means: We take the time to do the job right We use quality parts built to last—not just whatever’s cheapest We explain your options clearly and help you prioritize what matters We offer fair, honest pricing without cutting corners We deal with the insurance company on your behalf, always putting your best interests first—not theirs Whether it’s collision repair, rust removal, or frame work, we treat your car like we’d treat our own—because that’s what real craftsmanship is all about. Michigan Law Protects Your Right to Choose You are legally entitled to choose any licensed repair shop—regardless of what your insurance company suggests. According to Michigan law (MCL 500.2110b) and the Department of Insurance and Financial Services , insurers must clearly state that you have the right to choose your repair facility. They cannot force, coerce, or steer you into their network shops. 📞 Ready for a Estimate You Can Trust? Whether you’re using insurance or paying out of pocket, Custom Concept Collision puts you first—not your provider which is how we earned over 150+ 5 star reviews from our customers. Call us at 248-965-1123 for a free no pressure estimate you can trust.

5 Things You Should Know Before Getting Collision Repairs

April 28, 2025
Getting into an accident is stressful enough — the repair process shouldn’t make it worse. Understanding a few key facts can help Michigan drivers make smarter choices, avoid unnecessary headaches, and protect their vehicles' value and safety. Here are five important things to know before bringing a car to any repair shop:

Why Your Car Rusts So Fast in Michigan — and How to Protect It

April 28, 2025
If you've lived through even one Michigan winter, you already know — the snow, ice, and salt can do a number on your car. Working in body shops over the years, I've seen firsthand just how much hidden damage a Michigan winter can cause. One of the biggest culprits? Road salt. It keeps the roads safer, sure,but it’s a slow killer for your vehicle if you’re not careful.  Here’s what I always tell people when they bring their cars into the shop, and what you can do to protect yours.