DEG or the Database Enhancement Gateway, is a service that connects insurers and repairers with the estimating services. Users can inquire about a specific subject or search for a previously answered questions that deal with Audatex, Mitchell, and CCC estimating programs. An article by Repairer Driven News highlights some adjustments made by DEG in the month of June 2019.

Usage of adhesives, foams, and seam sealers has skyrocketed in recent years. Consumers demand their vehicles to be quieter, stronger, and last longer than ever before. With so much use of these materials, it can get confusing to figure out what material goes where, especially when looking at a diagram or a list of the required steps.

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 Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) 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 their publication, Ford On Target 2019: Volume 2. 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-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.

General Motor’s website www.gmrepairinsights.com, that houses their publication GM Repair Insights, is currently experiencing problems and GM Repair Insights cannot be accessed. General Motors is aware of the problem and is working to get the site back up and running. The RTS team is monitoring the website and will let you know as soon as it is again operational.

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 2018 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? Well, in case you didn’t know, Honda/Acura provides a convenient link within their ServiceExpress pay website.