As vehicle manufacturers continue to introduce lighter, stronger and more sophisticated materials into modern vehicle construction, the way collision damage is repaired is evolving just as rapidly.
According to Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), repairing today’s vehicles requires far more than simply pulling out a dent. It demands specialised equipment, ongoing technician training and strict adherence to manufacturer-approved repair procedures.
“Modern vehicles are engineered using a combination of advanced high-strength steels, ultra-high-strength steels, aluminium and mixed-material body structures designed to improve occupant safety while reducing weight,” says Hanekom. “These materials behave very differently during a repair, which means technicians can no longer rely on traditional repair methods that were suitable for older vehicles.”
Why traditional dent repair methods are changing
The biggest change in recent years has been the industry’s move towards more controlled repair techniques that minimise heat, preserve factory corrosion protection and maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle.
“When a vehicle has been involved in a collision, the objective is not simply to restore its appearance. The repair must also preserve the vehicle’s engineered safety performance,” he says.
How Glue Pull Repair protects modern panels
One of the fastest-growing technologies being adopted by professional repairers is Glue Pull Repair (GPR). Unlike conventional dent-pulling methods that require welding directly onto the damaged panel, glue pulling uses specialised adhesives and reusable pulling tabs to gently restore damaged panels without introducing unnecessary heat.
“The advantages are significant,” says Hanekom. “Because there is no welding involved, the original corrosion protection remains intact, there is less risk of stretching the metal and, in many cases, less body filler is required to achieve a high-quality finish.”
Greater precision through intelligent repair equipment
Another major advancement has been the introduction of intelligent electronic dent-pulling systems. Modern inverter-controlled spot welders allow technicians to precisely control welding current and heat input, with settings designed specifically for different materials and panel thicknesses.
“This level of precision helps technicians carry out repairs more consistently while reducing the risk of damaging modern vehicle materials,” explains Hanekom.
Repair workshops are also increasingly investing in multi-function repair systems that allow technicians to select the most appropriate repair method for each individual repair rather than relying on a single technique.
“No two repairs are exactly the same,” says Hanekom. “The correct repair method depends on the type of material, the location of the damage, whether the panel forms part of the vehicle’s structural integrity and, most importantly, what the vehicle manufacturer specifies.”
Different materials require different repair methods
Aluminium-bodied vehicles require an additional level of expertise, as conventional steel repair equipment cannot be used. Dedicated aluminium repair tools and contamination-free work practices are essential to ensure repairs meet manufacturer standards.
Why heat management matters
One of the most important considerations during any modern repair is heat management.
“Many advanced high-strength steels achieve their strength through carefully controlled manufacturing processes,” says Hanekom. “Applying excessive heat during a repair can alter the properties of these materials and potentially affect how the vehicle performs in a future collision.”
For this reason, vehicle manufacturers increasingly specify when glue pulling may be used, where controlled spot welding is permitted and, in some cases, when a damaged panel should be replaced rather than repaired.
There is no one-size-fits-all repair
Hanekom cautions motorists against assuming that all repair methods are suitable for every vehicle.
“There is no universal dent repair solution,” he says. “Professional repairers should always consult the manufacturer’s repair procedures before deciding whether a panel can be repaired, partially replaced or requires complete replacement.”
Technology still depends on skilled technicians
While investing in modern equipment is important, Hanekom says technology alone does not guarantee a quality repair.
“The equipment is only as good as the technician using it. Continuous training remains essential to ensure technicians understand modern vehicle materials, correct repair techniques, corrosion protection and manufacturer requirements.”
He says this is why consumers should always choose an accredited repairer following a collision.
“Modern vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and repairs are becoming more specialised. Accredited repairers invest not only in the latest equipment but also in the ongoing training needed to restore vehicles safely and correctly. Ultimately, motorists should have confidence that their vehicle has been repaired to the standards intended by the manufacturer.”
As vehicle technology continues to evolve, Hanekom believes the future of collision repair will be defined not by a single repair technique but by smarter, more controlled repair methods that protect the integrity, safety and long-term value of today’s vehicles.
