Could Your Repair Shop Be Making Things Worse? What to Watch Out For
Could Your Repair Shop Be Making Things Worse? What to Watch Out For
Trusting a repair shop with your vehicle is often a decision made under pressure—after an accident, mechanical failure, or when a warning light suddenly appears. In these moments, many Australians naturally rely on their insurer’s recommended repairer or choose the nearest panel shop, assuming all technicians are equally skilled. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. In fact, a poor-quality repair job can sometimes cause more damage than the original incident.
From misaligned safety systems to subpar structural work, the risks associated with inexperienced or undertrained technicians are significant. Modern vehicles are increasingly complex, with sensor-integrated panels, hybrid and electric powertrains, and computer-controlled safety features. If these are not properly restored or recalibrated during the repair process, your car may be unsafe to drive—even if it looks fine on the outside.
This article explores the real and often hidden dangers of low-quality repairs, especially when handled by technicians without the right training or tools. For everyday drivers, the challenge is knowing what to look for in a trustworthy repairer and how to protect your car, your wallet, and your safety from further harm. If you’re asking yourself, “Could my repair shop be making things worse?”—you’re asking the right question. Knowing what to watch out for could make all the difference.
What Can Go Wrong with a Poor Repair?
When a car is poorly repaired, the consequences can extend far beyond aesthetics. It’s not just about a mismatched paint job or a panel that doesn’t sit quite right. Inexperienced technicians can make critical mistakes that directly affect your vehicle’s safety, performance, and resale value.
One of the most common risks involves structural repairs. If a chassis or frame is not properly realigned, it can compromise the entire integrity of the vehicle. In a future collision, the car may not crumple as it should, putting occupants at greater risk of injury. Equally concerning is the improper refitting of airbags and other safety systems. With so many modern vehicles using sensor-based technology, repairs must go beyond basic mechanical knowledge—technicians need to understand how to recalibrate these systems correctly.
Electrical issues can also arise. Faulty wiring or overlooked damage can cause persistent dashboard warnings, short circuits, or even fire hazards in extreme cases. Sometimes these problems don’t show up until weeks after the repair, making it difficult for drivers to trace them back to the shop.
There’s also a financial cost. A botched repair often leads to follow-up work, sometimes from a second or third repairer. That means more time off the road, more insurance paperwork, and out-of-pocket expenses that could have been avoided by choosing a skilled and qualified team from the start. The quality of your repair matters more than most people realise.
Why Inexperience Is the Real Risk
The automotive repair industry in Australia is currently facing a serious shortage of qualified technicians. According to data from the Motor Trades Association and industry publications like GoAuto, there are over 40,000 vacant automotive roles nationwide. This skills gap means many repair shops are struggling to fill positions, often resorting to hiring underqualified or apprentice-level staff to meet demand. While everyone has to start somewhere, a lack of proper supervision or training can lead to serious errors on the workshop floor.
Modern vehicles require more than just basic mechanical understanding. Today’s cars are equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), crash sensors, radar units, and electric or hybrid drivetrains. Repairing these components safely and accurately is no longer just about replacing damaged parts—it requires precise diagnostics, software calibration, and manufacturer-specific procedures. In the hands of someone without the correct training or certifications, there is a real risk of these systems being incorrectly reinstalled or left non-functional altogether.
In some cases, insurance pressures can compound the issue. Shops operating under tight timeframes or squeezed by low insurer payouts may cut corners or rush jobs to stay profitable. That leaves little room for double-checking repairs or completing thorough safety tests. For the customer, it’s a gamble. Without asking the right questions or verifying a technician’s credentials, you could unknowingly hand your vehicle over to someone who isn’t equipped to repair it to a safe and roadworthy standard.
Signs Your Repair Shop Might Be Making Things Worse
While most drivers trust that their vehicle is in good hands after a repair, there are warning signs that something might not be right. Knowing what to look out for can help you catch problems early and avoid ongoing issues caused by poor workmanship or inexperience.
One red flag is vague or incomplete documentation. A reputable repairer should provide a clear, itemised quote before any work begins, followed by a detailed invoice outlining exactly what was done. If the shop can’t explain the repairs in plain language or becomes defensive when questioned, that’s cause for concern.
Another indicator is a lack of accreditation or industry membership. Quality repairers in Australia often hold certifications from bodies like the Motor Trade Association (MTA) or I-CAR Australia. These organisations ensure that technicians meet ongoing training and compliance standards. Shops that don’t advertise these affiliations—or are hesitant to discuss technician qualifications—may not be keeping up with industry best practices.
Customers should also pay attention to the physical condition of the workshop itself. Is it clean and organised? Are technicians using modern diagnostic tools and equipment? A chaotic or outdated work environment can be a sign of rushed or careless operations.
Finally, trust your instincts. If you pick up your car and something feels “off”—strange noises, uneven handling, warning lights—it’s important to question the repair straight away. Your safety and vehicle performance could be at risk.
When Insurance Repairers Aren’t Always the Best Option
After an accident, many Australians rely on their insurer to guide them through the repair process. Often, the insurer will recommend or assign a “preferred” repairer—someone from their approved network. While this can seem like the easiest option, it’s important to understand that these repairers are typically chosen based on cost agreements, not necessarily on the quality of their work.
Insurance companies negotiate bulk repair rates, which can lead to repairers being paid less per job. In some cases, this creates pressure to complete repairs quickly or use non-genuine parts in order to maintain profit margins. As a result, some insurer-approved repairers may prioritise speed and cost over craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Many policyholders don’t realise they have a legal right to choose their own repairer under Australian Consumer Law and the Insurance Contracts Act. That means you are not obligated to go with your insurer’s recommendation, especially if you have doubts about the shop’s reputation or capabilities.
If a repair through an insurer’s network results in further issues, you have the right to raise a complaint—first with the insurer, and then, if unresolved, with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). Being informed and assertive in this process is essential. Choosing a trusted, independent repairer who is focused on quality, not quotas, could save you time, stress, and long-term costs.
How to Choose a Repair Shop You Can Trust
Finding a reliable repair shop doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require knowing what separates professional operators from the rest. With the right questions and checks, you can avoid many of the common pitfalls that lead to poor repairs.
Start by looking for industry-recognised certifications. Repairers who are accredited by organisations such as the Motor Trade Association (MTA) or I-CAR Australia are committed to ongoing training and maintaining high standards. These credentials aren’t just for show—they indicate that the shop keeps up with modern technology and repair techniques.
Ask the repairer if they use genuine parts and whether they provide a warranty on their work. A reputable shop won’t hesitate to stand behind their repairs, and most will offer written guarantees on both workmanship and parts. This adds peace of mind and shows confidence in the quality of their service.
Also consider how the shop communicates. Are they upfront about pricing? Do they provide detailed quotes and explain what needs to be done in clear, easy-to-understand terms? Transparency is a strong indicator of professionalism.
Finally, take the time to read customer reviews and testimonials. Independent feedback can reveal how a shop treats its clients, whether they honour timelines, and how they handle problems when they arise.
Choosing a qualified, customer-focused repairer is the best way to protect your vehicle and ensure that what should be a solution doesn’t become a bigger problem.
Don’t Let a Bad Repair Become a Bigger Problem
Once your car is returned from the shop, it’s easy to assume the job is done. But not all problems are visible right away. Poor-quality repairs may only show themselves over time, turning what should have been a straightforward fix into a costly and stressful ordeal. That’s why it’s essential to take a few simple but important steps to protect yourself once the work is complete.
Start by inspecting the vehicle thoroughly before accepting it. Look for uneven paint, panel gaps, warning lights, or signs of overspray. If the repair involved suspension, steering, or safety systems, take the car for a slow test drive. Pay attention to how it handles, whether it pulls to one side, or if anything feels different or unstable.
If something doesn’t seem right, don’t ignore it. Reputable repairers will be open to feedback and willing to re-check their work. Keep all paperwork, quotes, and invoices in case you need to follow up or make a formal complaint later. Australian Consumer Law protects your right to a repair done with due care and skill, and you are entitled to a remedy if something goes wrong.
Ultimately, trusting a repair shop is about more than convenience or price. It’s about safety, performance, and ensuring your car is returned to a roadworthy condition. Being proactive could prevent a minor issue from becoming a major fault—or worse, putting your safety at risk.
Choose Experience, Not Convenience
The question “Could your repair shop be making things worse?” is not just hypothetical—it’s one every vehicle owner should seriously consider. In a time when the automotive industry is experiencing a nationwide shortage of skilled technicians, and insurers are often pushing for fast, low-cost solutions, it’s more important than ever to make informed decisions about who repairs your car.
A bad repair can compromise your vehicle’s safety, affect its resale value, and result in repeat visits, unnecessary costs, and ongoing frustration. From misaligned sensors and faulty airbag systems to poorly fitted panels and rushed paintwork, the risks are real—especially when technicians lack the right training or equipment.
But there is a solution: choose a repairer that prioritises quality, safety, and transparency. Look for credentials, ask the right questions, and pay attention to how your concerns are handled. A trustworthy shop will never cut corners, will always stand by its work, and will make your safety their top priority.
If you’re in Adelaide and want peace of mind after an accident, consider working with a team like Dynamic Paint N Panel. With experienced technicians, industry-recognised accreditations, and a strong local reputation, they understand that a proper repair is about more than just getting your car back on the road—it’s about getting it back to the standard you expect and deserve.
