Aftercare for SMART Insurance Customers
Date: Tue 10th October 2023 | Author: Natalie Ridgwell

Are your customers making the most of their recent SMART repair? The steps taken post-repair can make a significant difference in both the appearance and durability of a recently repaired vehicle. Just as customers put trust in our professional expertise to repair the damage, it's equally important that they follow recommended aftercare measures. These steps ensure that the repair sets well, retains its aesthetics, and serves you in the long run without complications.
At AutoProtect Group, we don't just focus on providing a first-class repair; we're also committed to guiding customers through the subsequent care process. Let's take a closer look at how your customers can best look after their newly repaired car.
Drive with Confidence
Firstly, the good news: as soon as the repair is complete and the customer has signed for the work, the vehicle can be driven immediately. Our minor damage repairs are designed to withstand all environmental conditions typical to the UK, so there's no need to treat the vehicle any differently once we leave the repair location.
The First 7 Days: Key Recommendations
While our repairs are sturdy and durable, the manufacturer approved clear coat requires about seven days to fully cure. During this time, we recommend the following precautions:
- Avoid Mechanical Car Washes: For the initial 48 hours post-repair, it’s best to steer clear of mechanical car washes. The powerful jets and rotating brushes may interrupt the newly applied clear coat.
- Be Wary of Harsh Chemicals: Whilst drive-in car washes are convenient, they often use aggressive cleaning agents that can be detrimental to fresh repairs. Again, it's best to avoid these for the first 48 hours.
- Hand Wash if Necessary: If the car desperately needs a wash within the first 48 hours, this should be done by hand. We recommend using a gentle wash and wax solution, ensuring at least 12 hours have passed before doing so.
Beyond the First Week
After the initial week, the repaired area is fully cured, resilient, and ready to be treated like the rest of the car. From this point on, the repaired area can be polished however is preferred. In fact, to keep the vehicle looking its absolute best, we recommend that the entire car be polished every three months. Regular polishing helps maintain the shine and luster, making sure your vehicle is always looking it’s best.
Our Guarantee
Every repair we do isn't just about fixing the present damage; it's about ensuring longevity. That's why all repairs carried out by our repairers, Shine!, come with a unique lifetime guarantee. We want customers to drive away not just satisfied, but with total peace of mind.
We hope these aftercare tips are informative and will help your customers enjoy their vehicle in its pristine condition for a long time to come.