Collision Repair News

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 Twitter @Ask_ICAR to ensure you’re equipped with the most up-to-date collision repair technical information available in the industry.





Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Ford/Lincoln - UPDATE

A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) utilize sensors behind the bumper covers. The ability for these sensors to be able to see clearly, normally requires special caution when considering a bumper repair. Many OEMs have different levels of warnings when it comes to repairing bumper covers with ADAS. So, what does Ford/Lincoln say on the subject?

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Understanding Hybrid And Electric Vehicle Names

As more hybrid and electric vehicles appear on OEM sales and service information sites, it can be difficult to determine what type of vehicle it is. This is partly because there are so many names and terms used for the different powertrains out there. Despite all the different names, most people refer to all of these vehicles simply as an electric vehicle (EV). The RTS Team created this article to help you better understand the difference between the terms.

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Airbag Timing

Supplemental restraints systems (SRS) are complex, sophisticated safety systems in today’s vehicles. Properly repairing SRS after a collision is crucial to the safety of the vehicle occupants.

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Audi High-Voltage Technician Levels

As electric-only, hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles are increasing in sales, they are becoming more commonplace in repair facilities. Along with the unique powertrains that come with these vehicles, also comes unique safety concerns. Regardless of vehicle maker, high-voltage (HV) systems pose a threat of injury or death if not handled properly. Only personnel with the proper training, PPE, tools, equipment, and service information should perform work on the HV systems.

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Volkswagen High-Voltage Technician Levels

As electric-only, hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles are increasing in sales, they are becoming more commonplace in repair facilities. Along with the unique powertrains that come with these vehicles, also comes unique safety concerns. Regardless of vehicle maker, high-voltage (HV) systems pose a threat of injury or death if not handled properly. Only personnel with the proper training, PPE, tools, equipment, and service information should perform work on the HV systems.

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Beyond The Damage Report

by Lyle Van Voorst, I-CAR Instructor

When a potential customer enters a repair facility, they are usually focused on what comes next with having their vehicle repaired. Just like when you go to a doctor’s office, you’re there for a medical concern and not for a social visit. Similarly, a visit to a repair facility can have an emotional effect on the customer. From the receptionist to the estimator, how one approaches the customer is essential. This makes the first impression and level of professionalism so important. The customer’s number one concern is getting their vehicle repaired. The estimator’s number one priority is taking care of the customer.

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Ford/Lincoln Service Information Site VIN-Based Information Filtering

Service information sites are the standard on accessing repair and other vehicle information. Often these websites make minor upgrades or changes to navigating or otherwise using the site, but typically nothing that changes the information available on a particular vehicle.

However, on occasion, a service information website adds a feature that makes a difference in information available for the late-model vehicle being researched. Let’s take a look at the filtering features on the Ford/Lincoln website.

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  • Film Thickness Gauge For Plastic Parts - Is It Worth The Investment? Friday, 26 April 2024

    Film thickness gauges continue to be a valuable tool in the collision industry. Most shops have gauges that work with both ferrous and non-ferrous substrates. So, should shops invest in a film...

  • Body Shop Business: EV Intake Process Wednesday, 24 April 2024

    Body Shop Business has released an article highlighting the importance of the electric vehicle (EV) intake process.

  • Repairer Driven News: Matte Clearcoat Challenges Monday, 22 April 2024

    Repairer Driven News (RDN) has released an article highlighting the challenges of matte and semi-gloss clearcoat.

  • I-CAR Just In Time: EV Repair Tips Wednesday, 17 April 2024

    Sometimes seeing is understanding, that’s why I-CAR's technical team created the Just in Time video series to guide you through a variety of collision repair topics from ADAS and EVs to repair tips...

  • I-CAR RTS App Monday, 15 April 2024

    Looking for another tool for your toolbox? An informational guide at your fingertips? Well, the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) app is what you are looking for!

  • Repairer Driven News: ADAS Radar Optimized Paint Color Resources Friday, 12 April 2024

    Changes in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) radar technology are introducing new refinishing considerations. Paint film thickness not only may affect the performance of ADAS radars, color...

  • Back-To-Basics: Window Tab Retractor Thursday, 11 April 2024

    Sometimes going back-to-basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. Window regulators have evolved over the years, most now using a clip type retaining method. With...

  • High-Voltage Vehicle Paint Booth Quick Reference Tuesday, 9 April 2024

    When refinishing high-voltage (HV) vehicles, it is important to check for OEM paint booth temperature recommendations so that HV components do not get damaged in the heat.

  • Ford On Target 2024: Volume 1 Friday, 5 April 2024

    Ford has released the first installment of their On Target publication for 2024.

  • 3M Offers SOP And Process Hands-On Training and Skill Development Thursday, 4 April 2024

    The 3M Skills Development Center is a 15,000 sq ft facility where technicians can take a Body Repair Course or Paint Prep and Refinish Course. Both courses are majority hands-on of standard...