Auto Body & Collision Repair in Newport, NY

At Backwoods Customs LLC, owner Chris personally handles every collision 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
Auto Body & Collision Repair in Newport, NY

Our Services

Quality auto body and collision repair for every need at our Newport, NY shop. We service all makes and models with genuine parts and expert technicians.

Auto Collision

Full-service collision repair at our Newport, NY auto body shop, serving drivers across Herkimer County and Central New York from Utica and Rome to Little Falls and Ilion. From minor fender benders to major structural damage, we handle dent removal, panel replacement, and complete auto body repair, and we work with all insurance companies to fight for the repair your vehicle deserves.

24/7 Towing & Recovery

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

Refinishing Work

Expert paint matching and factory color match refinishing, full vehicle repaints, clear coat restoration, and scratch repair for a showroom finish on any make or model.

Total Loss Communications

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

Frame Work

Precision frame work and frame alignment for cars and trucks, using computerized measuring systems to restore your vehicle's structural integrity after a collision. If you're searching for a truck frame shop near you in Central New York, we have the equipment and experience to bring it back to factory spec.

Auto Detailing

Interior and exterior auto detailing in Newport to keep your vehicle looking its best, plus 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

Custom paint jobs with unique colors, effects, and one-off finishes to make your car or truck stand out from the crowd.

Glass Replacement

Windshield and auto glass 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

Follow Us

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 alignment, 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.

What should I do after a car accident?

First, make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move your vehicle out of traffic if you can. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, and take photos of all the damage and the scene. File a police report, then contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Once that's handled, give us a call at (315) 717-8894 or stop by for a free damage assessment — we'll walk you through everything from there and can handle the insurance paperwork for you.

Do you handle collision repair for all vehicle types?

Yes. We work on all makes and models — cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Whether it's a minor fender bender, a full bumper replacement, or major structural collision damage, we have the tools and experience to get your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. Every repair is handled personally by owner Chris, so you get the same level of care regardless of the vehicle.

How do I get a repair estimate?

Just bring your vehicle by our shop at 922-A Platform Rd in Newport, or give us a call at (315) 717-8894 to schedule a time. The assessment is completely free. We'll inspect the damage, explain what needs to be done, and provide a detailed written estimate. If your vehicle isn't drivable, we can arrange towing to bring it in. There's no obligation — you're welcome to get an estimate and take your time deciding.

Owner-Operated. Customer-First. Since 2016.

About Backwoods Customs

Backwoods Customs is a one-man operation built on trust, located in Newport, NY in the heart of Herkimer County. 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 — from Utica and Rome to Little Falls and Ilion — 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