Repair options and their potential uses in the smart domain
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, there are two main approaches to consider: smart repairs and professional detailing. While both methods have their place, understanding the differences between them can help you make informed decisions about how to care for your car.
For minor cosmetic damages, smart repairs may be the way to go. This technique is suitable for small to medium-sized, non-critical damages such as minor scratches or small dents, typically without disassembling parts, and not for structural or safety-related repairs. Smart Repair can address scratches or scuffs up to 1mm deep on wheels, but only if they are no more than 50mm from the rim edge. It can also be used for blemishes on interior and exterior plastic parts, including cracks in the dashboard.
However, there are limitations to smart repairs. Dents on beads or edges are difficult to remove with this method, and damages to wheels or the bumper should be repaired by professionals due to safety concerns. What's more, certain color shades or paint types may not be suitable for smart repair, including some blue, bronze, or silver tones, as well as metallic and matte paints, and flip-flop finishes.
If you're planning to sell your car, professional detailing is worth considering. A well-detailed car can increase its resale value and make a positive impression on potential buyers. Professional detailing involves a thorough cleaning and polishing of the vehicle's interior and exterior, as well as addressing any issues that may be too severe for smart repairs.
For example, those planning to sell their car should consider professional detailing for the exterior plastic parts, such as the bumper, due to safety concerns. Smart Repair cannot be performed on components that are too severely damaged, such as the bumper, or with rust, fractures, or bent or dented rims.
When it comes to repairs, caution is advised for damages to wheels or the bumper, as they should be repaired by professionals. Numerous tools and kits allow for minor touch-ups, but company vehicles or leased vehicles should opt for professional repairs to ensure compliance with regulations.
It's also important to note that vehicle parts located at safety-relevant points or damages that are too large cannot be repaired using smart repair methods. This includes paint damage that is larger than 3.5cm in diameter and chips that are larger than 5mm. Professionals can repair burn holes up to a diameter of 1.5cm in seat covers, but for larger damages or damages to safety-relevant parts, professional repairs are necessary.
DIY repair kits are available for seat cover repairs and for aluminum wheel preparation, but only TÜV-certified systems like WheelDoctor can be used for the latter to ensure wheel safety.
In summary, smart repairs are a quick and cost-effective solution for minor cosmetic damages, while professional detailing is ideal for a thorough cleaning and polishing of the vehicle's interior and exterior. For repairs, it's important to prioritise safety and seek professional help when necessary.
