My immaculate car was damaged during a recent visit to my authorised service centre. The damage had been covered up by what transpires to be a hasty repair – one not drawn to my attention when I collected the vehicle. To make matters worse, the car was only in the garage to put right a costly mistake (for the garage) made when fitting new suspension to my car.

After eventually getting the vehicle back (they had asked for an extra day, claiming that they needed a new part — but I now know better), I noticed that the rear offside door was slightly dull/mat — not to the high polish of the rest of the car. My brother-in law, who used to be in the car trade, drew my attention to overpainting and marks left by masking tape.

The garage, which since has been contrite, has promised "that every effort will be made to put your vehicle back to factory standard" at its expense. What am I entitled to ask for? MP, London

You are entitled to be put back in the same position you were in before you handed over the car. It sounds as though the garage is taking the matter seriously. If it fixes the car to your satisfaction, that should be the end of the matter — you could also claim any reasonable expenses incurred.

If that fails to happen and the garage refuses, get three quotes to have the problems rectified, and tell them in writing that you will get the work done elsewhere. If they still refuse to rectify the damage, get it done and then sue the garage through the small claims court for the cost. Take photos and keep all receipts to back up you claim – although it sounds like this won't be necessary.

We welcome letters but cannot answer individually. Email us at consumer.champions@theguardian.com or write to Bachelor & Brignall, Money, the Guardian, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Please include a daytime phone number.