When it comes to the decision of REPAIRING vs. REPLACING body parts on your vehicle, you will need to know a few things to help you decide:
1) Is your vehicle still under warranty?
If it is, simply patching or repairing the damage might void your warranty. For example, on a commercial box truck or trailer, aluminum skins or panels can be patched. The same is true for aluminum and translucent roofs. While patching is a more economical route in the short term, and maybe the only option in the case of an emergency, in the long run, these patches may cause structural weak-spots especially in the framework (rails, support beams for example). And this will result in REPEATED or ADDITIONAL repairs as the vehicle undergoes vibrations and flexing under the rigors of daily use.
2) Do you just want a temporary fix?
This may be a good option IF you need an emergency repair, do not plan to keep the vehicle, or if the vehicle is very outdated and soon to be replaced.
3) Do you have more than one estimate from different shops?
Be sure to compare apples to apples when choosing between different shop estimates by making sure the job descriptions are similar. If you are not sure, ask the estimator or representative to explain any repairs you may not be clear on. Also, you can get two estimates from the same shop, one for patching and one for replacing. Ask what repair options are available for your vehicle.
4) What to do next?
Finally, if you do choose patching over replacing body parts, ask if there is any warranty on the work being performed. This can help you to decide which option is best for your situation.
Choose well by being an informed consumer and you’ll be glad you did!
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