South Africa’s collision repair industry is undergoing a significant shift, with fewer routine repairs coming through the shops, but each job requiring greater technical expertise, time and cost to complete.
According to Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers Association (SAMBRA), these changes reflect a broader global trend, now increasingly evident in the local market.
“We are seeing a gradual tightening in repair volumes, particularly at the lower end of the market, while the complexity of repairs continues to accelerate. This is being driven by advances in vehicle technology as well as changing consumerand insurer behaviour,” says Hanekom.
SAMBRA members report a noticeable decline in smaller, quick-turnaround repairs, as motorists weigh up rising excess costs and financial pressures before submitting claims.
“As economic conditions remain constrained, many vehicle owners are opting to defer non-essential repairs or pay out of pocket only when absolutely necessary. This is shifting the mix of work entering workshops,” Hanekom explains.
At the same time, higher repair costs are contributing to an increase in vehicles being written off rather than repaired, particularly where advanced components are involved.
Technology-driven repair complexity
Modern vehicles are now equipped with increasingly sophisticated systems, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), sensors and integrated electronics, all of which must be correctly restored after a collision.
“Today, a repair is no longer just about panel beating and paint. It involves diagnostics, software, and precise calibration to ensure critical safety systems function as intended,” says Hanekom.
He cautions that failure to correctly complete these processes could expose repairers and insurers to significant risk, while also compromising vehicle safety.
Global supply chain pressures also continue to impact the local collision repair sector, with parts availability and pricing remaining inconsistent.
“South Africa’s reliance on imported components means we are vulnerable to international disruptions, currency fluctuations and extended lead times, particularly now during the Middle East crisis. This affects not only repair costs butalso turnaround times and customer satisfaction,” Hanekom notes.
Another factor influencing repairs is the changing vehicle car parc. While electric vehicle adoption locally remains relatively modest, hybrid vehicles are becoming more common, introducing new repair requirements into the market.
“Hybrids bring added complexity, particularly in terms of high-voltage systems and specialised components. This reinforces the need for ongoing investment in training and equipment across the sector,” says Hanekom.
As vehicles become more complex, the demand for skilled technicians continues to grow. However, the pace of technological change presents an ongoing challenge for skills development.
“SAMBRA continues to prioritise training and industry alignment to ensure workshops are equipped for the future. Retaining and upskilling existing talent is just as important as attracting new entrants into the sector,” Hanekom adds.
Hanekom says the convergence of these factors is reshaping the collision repair landscape in South Africa.
“This is not a temporary shift – it is a structural change in how vehicles are repaired and how our industry operates. Businesses that invest in skills, technology and process improvement will be best positioned to navigate what is becominga more complex and competitive environment.”
