OEM Linking Pin: Toyota/Lexus Sectioning Clarification

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. A common question when it comes to Toyota/Lexus sectioning, can alternate cut locations be used? We reached out to Toyota for clarification.

Toyota/Lexus has two Collision Repair Information Bulletins (CRIBs), CRIB 176 and CRIB 194, that provide approved sectioning methods for welded steel panel replacement.

Per our contact at Toyota/Lexus:

  • "CRIB 176 is a structural CRIB and CRIB 194 is a non-structural CRIB."
  • "If the component is a non-structural mild steel outer panel, it is acceptable to replace only what is needed depending on the damage."
  • "If the component is structural, inner, and/or not mild steel, then full replacement is required unless a sectioning joint is specifically stated in the vehicle-specific body repair manual."

Toyota/Lexus provides a construction breakdown on various vehicle components. This information is typically found in vehicle-specific body repair manuals under: Introduction ➤ About This Vehicle ➤ Structural Outline. It's within this section that you see an illustration that shows the various highlighted components with a table providing the MPa and steel type.

Always refer to Toyota/Lexus service information for the most up-to-date, vehicle-specific repair information.

For additional Toyota/Lexus information, check out the following pages:
Toyota OEM Information
Lexus OEM Information

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