Becoming Ford F-150 Recognized Aluminum Repairer

FAQ: What tools and equipment do I need to repair the new Ford F-150?

ANSWER: There are a wide variety of options available and you need to asses what will work for your shop.

As a starting point, Ford has provided a list of Ford Certified and Recognized Aluminum Capable Body Shop Tool & Equipment Pricing Forecast. The list does not call out specific brands of equipment, but gives the minimum requirements for that equipment and an estimated price range. (Note: I-CAR is unable to discuss any prices related to tool and equipment or which tools or equipment should be purchased.) As an example, take the aluminum welder, the document states that: "Body Shop is required to have a dedicated aluminum MIG welder. Aluminum MIG welder must be a 220v unit equipped with Pulse MIG Technology." Basically this means that as long as the welder meets these basic requirements, the welder would be acceptable for repairs on the F-150.

Ford also has no part restriction, but to be a Ford certified or recognized aluminum repair facility, you will need to go through a certification process that is administered by the Ford Certified Collision Network.

For more information on Ford training requirements, visit the I-CAR website.

  • 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...

  • OEM Linking Pin: Nissan/INFINITI Outer Uniside Sectioning - Cut Line Clarification Wednesday, 3 April 2024

    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. We‘ve had technical inquiries that...