Repair when the part is safely repairable, the result can be verified and the total effort supports the finish line. Replace when safety, damage, unavailable skills or poor expected life make repair a false saving.
Garage checklist
- Is the part safety-critical?
- Can the damage be fully inspected?
- Can the repair be tested?
- What tools and materials are missing?
- What is the delivered replacement cost?
- What fitment evidence exists?
- Which option best matches the finish line?
Compare complete costs
Include consumables, tool purchases, specialist processes, rework risk and time. For replacement, include freight, tax, returns and adaptation. Do not compare a bare repair material price with a delivered replacement.
Original is not automatically better
Originality matters on some builds, but not when a damaged safety part cannot be restored and verified. Record why the decision was made so the Build Record remains useful.
Evidence protects the decision
Photograph condition, record measurements and retain part numbers. A decision made from evidence is easier to revisit when a quote changes or a donor part appears.
Limits and safety
Brakes, steering, restraints, structural repairs, fuel systems and high-voltage systems can require qualified inspection or specialist work.
Evidence and sources
- Vehicle manufacturer workshop information
- Applicable Australian Design Rules and local registration guidance