Close
Follow us on 
@Ask_ICAR for daily updates.
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.
Systems that can remind the drivers that they may have a child or pet in the back seat of the vehicle have been around since 2016. Since the original systems have been introduced, more OEMs have been following suit in an effort to eliminate children and pets being left in hot vehicles.
As part of the research conducted by the I-CAR RTS team for the OEM Calibration Requirements Search, we have found that some OEMs provide measurements for blind spot sensor mounting locations. When this mounting location information is found, we will publish articles highlighting the information and where to locate it for that specific OEM.
When performing repairs, having measurements is a way to ensure the vehicle is repaired correctly. However, measurements are not always given for body panels. This typically isn’t a problem, until there are advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) involved, such as blind spot sensors. When mounting blind spot sensors on body panels, it can be crucial to have the mounting location straightened to the correct measurement. Some OEMs not only give measurements but may also provide alternative measuring methods to identify that the sensor is looking in the right direction. Let's see what Honda/Acura has to say.
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. Let’s take a closer look at the 2019 Lincoln Navigator.
Calibration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is a somewhat sensitive procedure. The cameras and sensors used are highly technical and can be mis-calibrated if all requirements are not met before calibration is performed. It’s important to carefully read the calibration procedure to make sure that the vehicle meets all of the requirements before starting.
Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When it comes to preventing wind noise and water leaks during the repair process, there are a few things to keep in mind.
On the 2017 and newer Chevrolet Cruze, if you read through some of the procedures, like the Rear Wheelhouse Panel Replacement procedure, you may find yourself asking, “What is the waterproof rivet B1 referenced in the installation procedure?” Let’s find out.
A key factor in collision repair is making long-lasting repairs. When a vehicle is repaired, many areas of corrosion protection are disturbed. This creates corrosion hot spots that left untreated will lead to corrosion and potentially a repair failure. However, there are certain precautions that can be taken to safely and properly restore the corrosion protection throughout the repair process. OEMs often give specifications on restoring corrosion protection. These specifications generally include seam sealer, adhesives, foam fillers, and cavity waxes. Let’s take a look at what Audi says.
Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. There are a few important points to keep in mind when using and labeling materials during the repair process.
Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article pertaining to repair procedures for three popular FCA/Stellantis vehicles. Technicians may want to take note of these tips for the panoramic sunroof of the 2019 RAM 1500, and stationary window repair on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler and 2020 Jeep Gladiator.
While many have noticed that advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), are showing up on vehicles, there still is confusion on what is required of these systems after a collision occurs. The Ask I-CAR team frequently get questions in regard to calibration of ADAS. Many of these questions can be answered simply by searching the OEM Calibration Requirements Search. However, there are some questions that may need more details than the calibration search provides. Let’s take a look at the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee ADAS.
Repair facilities are constantly looking for ways to become more efficient. One of the ways that may increase efficiency is infrared (IR) lights.
Repair facilities constantly look for ways to become more efficient. One of the ways that may increase efficiency is ultraviolet (UV) cured primer.
Zap! We have all experienced a static electric discharge at one time or another when touching door knob or some other metal surface. This static electricity can also have a negative impact in the refinish process.
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) has hit the automotive industry with full force. Driven by consumer demand and vehicle safety ratings, most vehicles available have the option of being equipped with the full ADAS suite and many have some of these systems as standard. Many of these systems will require calibrations after they are repaired. When it comes to how a collision facility will handle this relatively new and changing technology, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered. Luckily, I-CAR has developed a course that will help businesses make the important decisions regarding ADAS.
The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra vehicles have been redesigned. To help technicians be aware of the design changes and what these changes mean to the collision repair industry, General Motors (GM) has worked with I-CAR to develop a course.
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...