Repairs vs Replacement: When to Fix It and When to Bin It
When it comes to vehicle repairs, there’s always that million-rand question: “Do we fix it, or do we replace it?” It’s a bit like deciding whether to patch up your old pair of jeans or finally admit defeat and buy a new pair. Except, in this case, we’re talking about panels, bumpers and headlights – and the stakes (and costs) are a tad higher.
So how do we decide? Well, it depends on a few things: the extent of the damage, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) rules, insurance preferences, and yes, even how “stretched” a panel might be. Let’s hammer it out:
When Replacement is Non-Negotiable
- Torn or Severely Damaged Panels
If a panel is ripped like a soggy piece of cardboard, no amount of panelbeating wizardry is going to save it. At that point, replacement isn’t just the best option – it’s the only option. - Too Stretched to Save
Metal can only take so much shaping before it waves a little white flag. If we’ve pushed, pulled and smoothed it to its limits, it’s time to send that panel to the great scrapyard in the sky. - Vehicle Warranty Rules
Here’s where the OEM steps in. For vehicles still under warranty, they often insist on genuine new parts to keep that warranty intact. Using anything else could void it – and nobody wants to explain to a customer why their “new car” warranty got panel-bashed into nonexistence.
Why Repairs Are the Insurer’s Best Friend
On the other hand, insurance companies love repairs. Why? Simple – it’s cheaper. Fixing a panel instead of buying a new one keeps their costs down, and panel shops (like us) don’t mind either. Repairs often mean more labour hours (and yes, more of that sweet, sweet MBR profit).
Ever heard of R.U.A.N? It’s the insurers’ golden rule for cost control:
- Repair – First prize. If it can be fixed, it will be fixed.
- Used Parts – Second option. Salvaged bits from other vehicles.
- Alternative Parts – Third choice. Non-OEM (but still roadworthy) parts.
- New Parts – The “oh fine, if we must” last resort.
It’s like a frugal parent’s grocery list: use what you’ve got, swap with a neighbour, try the no-name brand, and only splurge if there’s no other choice.
A Quick Peek at Panelbeating Magic
For those wondering, here’s what happens when we do repair:
- Pulling & Straightening: We use hydraulic machines to pull dented panels back into shape. (Think of it like metal yoga.)
- Shrinking & Stretching: Sometimes we heat and cool metal to coax it back into alignment. Science + fire = magic.
- Filling & Smoothing: Minor imperfections are filled, sanded and prepped for paint.
- Spray Booth Finish: Finally, the repaired panel gets a fresh coat of paint and clear coat in our high-tech spray booth, making it look factory-fresh.
In the right hands, it’s less “smash repair” and more “metal origami with a touch of artistry.”
So, Fix or Replace?
The answer depends on damage, OEM requirements, insurer preferences, and good ol’ common sense. At Tekton, we always aim for the safest, smartest and most cost-effective option – while keeping your car looking as sleek as the day it rolled off the showroom floor.
Because whether we’re repairing or replacing, one thing’s for sure: we’ll treat your car like it’s our own. (Except we promise not to leave coffee cups in the cupholders or “test” the sound system on full volume – even though it’s tempting.)