Quality Body Shop in Newport, NY

At Backwoods Customs LLC, owner Chris personally handles every repair from start to finish. No assembly lines, no shortcuts—just honest craftsmanship and fair prices for drivers across Central New York.

Owner-Operated
Fair & Honest Pricing

Our Services

Quality automotive care for every need. We service all makes and models with genuine parts and expert technicians.

Auto Collision

Complete collision repair services including dent removal, panel replacement, and structural damage restoration.

24/7 Towing & Recovery

Stuck on the road? We've got you covered around the clock. Towing, off-road recovery, roadside assistance, jumpstarts, and lockouts — day or night.

Refinishing Work

Expert paint matching, full vehicle repaints, clear coat restoration, and scratch repair for a showroom finish.

Total Loss Communications

Is your vehicle a total loss? We handle all insurance communications and guide you through every step of the claims process from start to finish.

Frame Work

Precision frame straightening and alignment using computerized measuring systems to restore structural integrity.

Auto Detailing

Interior and exterior detailing to keep your vehicle looking its best, paint correction for a like-new finish.

Light Mechanical Work

Light mechanical repairs as part of your collision job, including suspension, steering, and drivetrain work needed to get your vehicle back on the road safely.

Custom Paint Jobs

Unique colors, effects, and custom finishes to make your vehicle stand out from the crowd.

Glass Replacement

Windshield and window replacement for crystal-clear visibility and safety on the road.

Get in Touch

Have questions or ready to schedule your service? We'd love to hear from you.

Visit Us

922-A Platform Rd

Newport, NY 13416

USA

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Opening Hours

We're here 8 to 5 and by appointment after 5pm.

Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM and by appoinment after
Saturday & Sunday
By Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our services

What area do you serve?

We're located in Newport, NY and serve drivers throughout Herkimer County and the surrounding region, including Utica, Rome, Herkimer, Little Falls, Ilion, Frankfort, Mohawk, Dolgeville, Poland, Middleville, and Old Forge. If you're in Central New York and need collision work done right, we're worth the drive.

Who pays for the repair?

In most cases, your insurance company covers the cost of the repair. If the damage was caused by another driver, their insurance pays. For incidents where you're at fault, your collision coverage kicks in and you only pay your deductible. If you don't have insurance or prefer not to file a claim, we're happy to work with you directly and can provide a detailed estimate upfront so there are no surprises.

How long will the repair take?

It depends on the extent of the damage. Minor dents and scratches can often be fixed in a few hours to a day. Bumper replacements or panel repairs typically take 2 to 5 days. More extensive collision damage that involves structural work or waiting on parts can take 1 to 3 weeks. Full restorations may take several weeks or longer. We'll give you a clear time estimate after the initial assessment and keep you updated throughout the process.

Do you offer towing services?

Yes. If your vehicle needs to be towed, give us a call and we'll arrange it for you. We work with trusted local tow operators and can have someone to you quickly, day or night. Whether it's a roadside breakdown, an accident scene, or an off-road recovery, we'll make sure your vehicle gets to our shop safely.

What does the repair process look like?

First, you bring your vehicle in for a free assessment. We inspect the damage and put together a detailed repair plan. If you're going through insurance, we send the estimate to your provider for approval before any work begins. For out-of-pocket repairs, we can usually get started right away once you approve the quote. After the repair is complete, we do a final quality check and walk you through everything before you drive off.

Do I have to use a body shop recommended by my insurance?

No. You have the legal right to choose any licensed body shop you want, regardless of what your insurance company suggests. Your insurer may recommend preferred shops, but they cannot require you to use one. Choosing your own shop means you pick a team you trust to do the job right, and your claim will be handled the same way either way.

What are DRPs and should I be cautious about them?

DRP stands for Direct Repair Program. These are agreements between insurance companies and body shops where the shop agrees to follow the insurer's pricing and repair guidelines in exchange for a steady stream of referrals. The concern is that DRP shops may have an incentive to keep costs low for the insurer rather than prioritize the best possible repair for you. As an independent shop, we answer to you, not an insurance company, and we always use the parts and methods that are right for your vehicle.

What's the difference between a body shop and a mechanic shop?

A mechanic shop handles what's under the hood: engine repairs, oil changes, brake work, and other mechanical and maintenance services. A body shop specializes in the exterior and structure of your vehicle: dent repair, paint work, frame straightening, and collision damage. If your car was in an accident and has visible damage to panels, bumpers, or the frame, you need a body shop. If your engine light is on or your brakes are squeaking, that's a job for a mechanic.

Owner-Operated. Customer-First. Since 2016.

About Backwoods Customs

Backwoods Customs is a one-man operation built on trust. Owner Chris has been in the collision industry since 2007, and for the past 10 years he's been the shop that tow companies and drivers across Central New York call when the job is complex and the stakes are high. Unlike shops tied to insurance programs, Chris works for you — fighting for the best repair, not the cheapest one. With a 7,000 sq. ft. facility on the way, Backwoods Customs is growing, but the mission stays the same: do right by the customer, every time.

  • Owner-operated — Chris handles every job personally
  • The go-to shop for complex collision claims
  • Trusted by local tow companies across the region
  • Works for the customer, not insurance companies