As South Africa’s automotive landscape evolves, the discontinuation of vehicle models is becoming increasingly common. While new models hit showroom floors, owners of older or phased-out vehicles may soon face an unexpected challenge: sourcing parts for repairs. The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a proud arm of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is urging motorists to understand the implications before holiday travel or urgent repairs become necessary.
“Vehicle discontinuation doesn’t just mean a model is no longer on showroom floors. It can also mean that parts become harder to source over time,” explains Juan Hanekom, National Director of SAMBRA. “We are increasingly seeing cases where body shops and repairers face extended delays in obtaining critical components for discontinued models, leaving vehicles undrivable or taking months to repair.”
The issue is not confined to a single brand or manufacturer. With production cycles shortening and global supply chains under pressure, even essential parts such as body panels, sensors, trim, and electronics are often in short supply. Workshops, sometimes with insurer approval, are now turning to certified alternative parts (CAP) or quality second-hand components to complete repairs when original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are unavailable.
While these alternatives can offer practical solutions, transparency and informed decision-making remain essential. “Motorists should understand what’s being fitted to their vehicles and why,” Hanekom advises. “If genuine parts are unavailable, reputable repairers will only use approved equivalent or certified parts that meet safety and quality standards. It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about finding responsible ways to get vehicles back on the road safely when OEM supply falls short.”
Practical Advice for Owners of Discontinued Vehicles
SAMBRA offers clear guidance for motorists who own or are considering purchasing vehicles that may be discontinued:
- Stay informed: Verify whether your vehicle model has been discontinued or replaced, and discuss long-term parts availability with your dealer or insurer.
- Discuss repair options upfront: When filing a claim, clarify with your insurer and repairer what alternatives exist for sourcing parts and the expected lead times.
- Use accredited repairers: Always opt for RMI- or SAMBRA-accredited workshops to ensure that any alternative or second-hand parts are properly vetted and safely installed.
- Be patient but proactive: Some delays are unavoidable, but early communication with your insurer and repairer can reduce frustration and prevent unexpected downtime.
Hanekom emphasises that the current parts shortage underscores the importance of collaboration across the industry. “Our goal is to ensure motorists are treated fairly and that vehicles are repaired to the highest safety standards, even in the face of global supply pressures,” he concludes.
As South Africa heads into the holiday season, vehicle owners are encouraged to take these proactive steps seriously. Staying informed, choosing reputable workshops, and understanding repair options are key to avoiding unnecessary delays and ensuring that both safety and convenience remain uncompromised.
