Repairing a written-off vehicle

Before you buy a write-off, read buying a written-off vehicle so that you understand the risks involved.

Keep in mind that a repairable write-off is a vehicle that’s suffered so much damage that repair costs are more than the vehicle’s worth. This means that repairs can be expensive and complex.

Before you start repairs

Manufacturer’s repair instructions

Vehicles must be repaired in accordance with the manufacturer’s repair instructions. 

Get in touch with the vehicle manufacturer, or an authorised dealer, and ask for repair instructions. In some cases, they might charge you for this. 

Sometimes, a vehicle manufacturer will refer you to an authorised repairer. In these cases, the vehicle should be repaired by the authorised repairer because specialised equipment or knowledge is required. 

Not complying with manufacturer guidelines 

If you repair a vehicle without the manufacturer’s instructions, it’s likely that the vehicle’s structural integrity and overall safety will be seriously compromised. 

Not only will it be impossible to get a VIV certificate with an improperly repaired vehicle, you greatly increase the risk of killing or seriously injuring yourself or others if the vehicle is involved in an accident.

There’s also the risk that you compromise the vehicle’s safety so much that it’s deemed a statutory write-off, and the vehicle will never be able to be registered in Australia. 

Repairing a damaged vehicle

Keeping a crash repair diary

Before and during repairs, keep a diary that details every step. Keeping detailed records means that you’ll be less likely to run into trouble at your VIV inspection. 

Each step of the repairs should be recorded and cross-referenced with the manufacturer’s instructions. 

It’s really important to keep detailed records of: 

• what repairs were needed 
• what repair techniques were needed, and how they were used 
• progress photos 
• any other material or notes about the nature, extent and activities of the vehicle’s repair such as taking photos of adhesives used.

Take multiple photos of every part of the repair process. Take photos when dismantling a vehicle, and when components are being fitted or repaired and re-fitted. 

Sometimes, if you’re taking a close photo, it’s hard to tell what area of the vehicle it is. In these cases, take a medium shot as well as a close up. 

Make sure the diary also includes an overview, with descriptions and photos of: 

• before the repairs 
• during jigging 
• removed panels and pieces 
• replacement panels and pieces 
• the method used to attach replacement panels and pieces.