Another Full Mazda Bongo Restoration at Mazda Bongo Auto Centre LTD – A Van Saved from Retirement.
At Mazda Bongo Auto Centre LTD, we believe that every van has a story—and this one was almost at the end of its journey. When this Bongo Friendee came to us, it was facing serious structural issues, corrosion throughout, and mechanical faults that would’ve left most people thinking it was beyond saving.
But that’s where we step in.
Our client contacted us for an honest inspection and restoration, wanting to bring their beloved Bongo back to life without cutting corners. The result? A fully rejuvenated Bongo camper that now looks and drives like new. This was one of our most comprehensive projects of the year—and we’re proud to show you exactly what went into making it happen.
Full Vehicle Assessment – Uncovering the Extent of the Damage
As with all major projects, we began with a detailed Pre-MOT inspection to evaluate the vehicle’s structural integrity and mechanical health. What we found included:
- Severe corrosion across the inner and outer sills
- Crumbling rear wheel arches
- Damaged cross member corners and chassis tubs
- A failing exhaust system
- Multiple issues with suspension, tyres, and underbody protection
The van had clearly been used and loved, but time, moisture, and old patch repairs had taken their toll.
️ Structural Welding Repairs – Rebuilding the Backbone
To make the Bongo structurally sound again, we carried out extensive welding repairs:
- ✅ Full replacement of offside and nearside inner and outer sills
- ✅ New rear wheel arches on both sides using genuine Mazda panels
- ✅ Fabrication of cross member corners and replacement of corroded chassis tub sections
- ✅ Chassis outriggers and lower suspension mounts repaired or replaced
These are not simple patch jobs. Everything was cut out back to clean metal, treated for rust prevention, and reassembled using professional welding techniques. Each repair meets (and often exceeds) MOT standard.
Complete Body Respray – Back to Original Glory
Once the bodywork repairs were complete, it was time to give this Bongo a fresh lease of life with a full respray in its original colours, including:
- ➕ Roof, bumpers, spoiler, and mirrors resprayed to match
- ➕ Front wing mirrors colour coded
- ➕ New Mazda decals fitted to complete the refreshed look
- ➕ Full underseal of the underbody with suspension components painted matte black
This respray wasn’t just cosmetic—it helps protect the new metalwork and gives the van a showroom-fresh appearance. The transformation was nothing short of stunning.
⚙️ Mechanical Work & Servicing – Reliable for the Road Ahead
No restoration is complete without ensuring the van drives as well as it looks. This Bongo received:
- Full engine service, including oil and filter change, fuel filter, coolant check
- Gearbox and differential top-ups
- Replacement of rocker cover gasket (including removal of LPG system to access)
- New cam belt and water pump
- New thermostat, temperature switches, and coolant auto-bleed kit
- Refurbishment of exhaust system, including new middle and rear sections
All components were carefully selected and fitted to ensure long-lasting reliability. The customer was also provided with detailed documentation for every part replaced.
Suspension, Brakes & Tyres – Built for Safety and Comfort
A van that looks great needs to stop great too. That’s why we upgraded the entire brake and suspension system:
- ✅ Brand new front brake discs and pads
- ✅ Replaced rear shock absorbers
- ✅ Fitted two M&S rear tyres
- ✅ Installed new lower ball joints, track rod ends, and steering rack gaiters
This overhaul ensures safety, smoother handling, and peace of mind—especially when adventuring with loved ones.
Electrical & Camper Upgrades – Built for Off-Grid Adventures
This Bongo is now ready for adventure, with electrical upgrades to support modern van life:
- New 100A leisure battery fitted
- 8KW diesel night heater installed for all-season camping
- 240V hook-up system with sockets front and rear + integrated battery charger
- Headlamp loom upgraded with HID Ultra Bright Bulbs for improved visibility
Even the interior received attention—front carpets refurbished, Complimentary new floor mats, and tailgate trim replaced to give the cabin a fresh, clean finish.
The Final Touch – MOT & Finishing
We completed the job with:
- ✅ A fresh 12-month MOT with no advisories
- ✅ Detailed wash and polish
The result? A beautifully restored Bongo that now looks, drives, and feels better than ever.
Mazda Bongo Restoration Services You Can Trust
At Mazda Bongo Auto Centre LTD, we take pride in bringing even the most tired Bongos back to life. Our team of specialists work tirelessly to restore these iconic vans with passion, precision, and transparency. Whether it’s welding, mechanical repairs, electrical upgrades, or full campervan conversions—we do it all under one roof.
Want your Bongo inspected? Contact us today for a free Pre-MOT inspection and personalised restoration plan.
Based in Chester | River Lane, Saltney | CH4 8RH
Call 01244 445 212
www.mazdabongocentre.co.uk
