How can technicians determine if a panel is repairable?

Determining if a panel is repairable primarily involves evaluating the extent of damage and the structural integrity of the panel. This assessment is crucial because it allows technicians to understand whether any underlying structural issues exist that would compromise the safety and functionality of the vehicle. Structural integrity is essential, especially in areas that affect the vehicle's safety during operation. Significant damage may render a panel irreplaceable, while minor dents or scrapes might be easy to repair.

In contrast, comparing a panel to a factory standard can provide useful information, but it does not give insight into the actual damage or how it has impacted the panel’s structural strength. Checking the paint condition and inspecting only for cosmetic flaws also focus on aesthetics, which is not sufficient for determining the panel’s overall repairability. A thorough evaluation must consider both the visible and hidden aspects of the damage to make an informed decision about repair options.