The technology of autonomous driving, safety-systems, and latest car-material creates a need for a different approach to collision repair.

Why? Safe cars matter–Especially to your vehicle’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM).  Vehicle manufacturers undergo extensive tests and mandates to produce safe vehicles for you to drive. Certainly, your vehicle manufacturer wants to ensure your repair shop knows how to protect you, and their brand after an accident. Therefore, make sure your repair shop understands how your vehicle is built and how its systems are designed to protect you.

Presently, Enter OEM certifications and the way they influence the repair process.

Vehicle manufacturers develop specific programs to teach repair shops the proper and specific processes that are necessary to fix your vehicle, and hold them accountable to safest action.

 

What does a certified repair shop look like?

1. First, technicians who complete higher levels of education and training

Classes that a certified technician takes include:

• Structural welding tests
• Paint application tests
• Automotive adhesive and bonding classes
• Aluminum specific welding and Aluminum specific repair classes
• Plastic welding and Plastic Repair classes
• Safety system diagnostic classes
• Steering component and Suspension classes
• Electrical systems and Electrical diagnostic classes

These are just a few from one department in a body shop.

 

2. Secondly, use of modern industry equipment within the repair facility

• Equipment to handle each different type of repair material.
• Paint and processes that ensure long-term application for safety and durability.
• Diagnostic scan instruction to ensure specific systems check out after an accident.
• Protect materials from contamination by keeping them clean throughout the repair
• Train every technican in the manufacturer’s operating processes and hold action accountable.

 

3. Thirdly, regular outside audits and inspections that take place within the collision shop

It is good to be accountable to best actions. Program shops conduct regular audits to ensure that proper processes are implemented, followed, and measured effectively.

 

4. Fourthly, the use of specific manufacturer recommended parts

OEM parts are safety tested, made to fit your vehicle, and hold up in quality over time. These parts undergo safety inspection that is required in vehicle manufacturing. Used and after-market parts do not, but these parts are often dictated by insurance companies and other repair shops for repair. Your program shop will make sure to write estimates that include parts recommended by your vehicle manufacturer that are safe and reliable. Here is an article that further describes this: https://www.mannesbodyshop.com/vehicle-care/how-does-a-body-shop-decide-what-is-the-best-part-to-use-for-fixing-my-vehicle-new-oem-or-used-aftermarket/

 

Shops like Mannes Body Shop stay committed to certified collision repair because we believe in repair integrity. When you are faced with a collision need, know what processes your car will undergo for its repair. Don’t trust your family’s safety to any type of collision shop. Trust a shop committed to the most safe, honest, and effective OEM repair.  We’re here to help keep your life in drive.