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Your job requires that you keep on top of the latest in vehicle, tool, and equipment technology – I-CAR is committed to helping you do so in one convenient place. We regularly publish new articles highlighting the latest and greatest collision repair information.
So check back often and follow us on X @Ask_ICAR to ensure you’re equipped with the most up-to-date collision repair technical information available in the industry.
One of the top technical inquiries received at Ask I-CAR, "Is there a sectioning or partial replacement procedure available?" To help answer this question, RTS has an OEM Partial Part Replacement Search available. Here you will find information on if these procedures are available on a specific vehicle. Let's take a closer look at the 2019 Kia Optima.
In case you missed it, RTS published several different articles featuring aluminum welding quick tips. As it is often stated, welding aluminum is not necessarily harder than welding steel, it is just simply different.
MIG brazing is becoming more popular than ever before. Different steel properties make them sensitive to the high temperatures that welding creates. MIG brazing solves the heat problem that welding creates by using a lower temperature to attach materials. MIG brazing comes with it’s own set of rules for use. Panel prep, technique, and machine setup all play major roles when it comes to using MIG brazing.
Stringent crash test ratings and fuel economy standards are making OEMs get creative with strengthening vehicles while maintaining or even lessening overall weight. Different materials are being used along with adding additional reinforcements. If you have repaired recent model year FCA/Stellantis vehicles, you may have noticed the usage of composite reinforcements.
One of the top technical inquiries received at Ask I-CAR is “Is there a sectioning or partial replacement procedure available?” To help answer this question, RTS has an OEM Partial Part Replacement Search available. Here you will find information on if these procedures are available on a specific vehicle. Lets take a closer look at the 2019 BMW 7 Series iPerformance.
As part of the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) OEM linking pin activity, we are helping to connect the collision repair industry to the vehicle makers. Recently, we had a technical inquiry that asked for clarification on sectioning the outer quarter panel through the rolled hem flange on a 2019 Acura TLX.
Ford has released the second installment of their On Target publication for 2019. Features of this issue include 2019 Ford Ranger A-pillar outer panel removal guidelines, and 2019 legislative updates on State bills regarding OEM procedures. You will also find additional information about I-CAR and Ford collaborations, which highlights collision repair workshops and a schedule for the workshops.
Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When it comes to welding body panels to the vehicle, there are a few things to keep in mind that can have a huge effect on the quality and the outcome of the repair.
As part of the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) OEM linking pin activity, we are helping to connect the collision repair industry to the vehicle makers. Recently we had a technical inquiry that asked for clarification on the front lower rail sectioning procedure on a 2017-2023 Chrysler Pacifica.
When it comes to bonding replacement panels, sometimes common mistakes can be made that will affect the quality and durability of the repair. One common mistake is not replacing adhesive or other repair material, like foam, that may be on the backside of the panel.
The Honda/Acura high-strength-steel welding wire has seen several changes in the past few years. The biggest change was going from Bosch DS980J to Bohler Union X96 welding wire. To answer the increased demand for the welding wire, Honda/Acura has expanded their list of welding wire types and suppliers.
Have you been looking for a quick and easy way to search for parts on the Honda or Acura vehicle in your shop?
For the 2019 model year, Ram has made updates to their heavy-duty line of trucks. As with most redesigns, there have been many notable changes, not only to the vehicles style and function, but also to the way it should be repaired. Let’s take a look at the things to look for on the upper rail.
Greg Askew
Technical Services Specialist
AkzoNobel Automotive and Specialty Coatings
Vehicle Refinishes – North America
In today’s competitive marketplace, collision repair facilities are looking for any advantage which can make their process more efficient. Many are using cutting-edge coatings to markedly reduce the time needed to perform the steps of the paint repair. One technology gaining momentum — ultraviolet (UV) curing primer surfacers.
Many people have probably thought of surrounding the outside of vehicles in a pillow to prevent injury and damage during collisions. Though it may seem like a crazy thought, one German Company has come close to making it a reality, but instead of pillows airbags are used.
As the industry continues to ask if pre- and post-repair system scanning is necessary, Toyota/Lexus/Scion provides their answer.
Are you wondering if a particular OEM or organization has a published statement on pre-repair and post-repair scanning? We have compiled a list of most of the statements on the subject, so you can...
Since advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), scanning, and calibration first started becoming relevant, members of the collision repair industry have required as much knowledge as possible on...
BMW has released a position statement related to pre- and post-repair system scanning. The statement applies to All vehicles equipped with on board diagnostics II (OBD II).
Honda /Acura has updated their position statement on pre- and post-repair scanning to give more clarification on what is expected for scanning.
The I-CAR best practice article, Recycled Outer Quarter Panels w/Rolled Hem Flanges has gotten a lot of interest from the collision repair industry. It’s important to know which vehicles are...
As the industry continues to ask, are pre- and post-repair scans necessary, General Motors provides their answer.
Over the past few months, we've been sharing OEM position statements on restraints wiring repairs. Now we're bringing them all together in one place for easy reference.
FCA/Stellantis has released a position statement related to pre- and post-repair system scanning.
Technicians should be aware of what’s required to keep advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) running safely after a collision. Whether that be aiming a camera, which can cause a system to not...
The Joy Of Repair newsletter by Honda is made with repairers in mind and can be easily found on the Repairability Technical Support (RTS) website.
Honda has released the first volume of The Joy Of Repairs newsletter.
Honda has released the second volume of The Joy Of Repairs newsletter.
Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. Squeeze-type resistance spot welder (STRSW) maintenance is essential to ensure it functions...
Ford has released the first installment of their On Target publication for 2026.
I-CAR is having a discussion on advancements in plastic repair.
I-CAR has developed courses that provide an overview of collision repair and electromechanical repair for current Volvo vehicles.
Did you notice the A/C refrigerant that is in the 2016 Honda Civic? It's R-1234yf and it’s no typo that Honda is requiring POE compressor oil for this system and not PAG (like other OEMs).
While looking at repair procedures in a body repair manual (BRM) you may notice that symbols are used to indicate specific operations or parts to be used during the repair process. Most BRMs provide a...
When an accident happens, how will you call for help? Maybe the telematics system, equipped with a backup battery, could automatically do this, even if the main power is cut off. What are the repair...