OEM Linking Pin: Keeping Up With Repair Procedures

Posted on 27 January 2017 Print

Accessing the body repair manual before performing a repair has become increasingly critical. Ask I-CAR has received an inquiry, “I can’t find the sectioning procedure for the front lower rail on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu? We’ve sectioned the front lower rail on Malibu’s in the past?” After researching the repair information, we found the answer. Let’s take a look at what was found.

This particular model-year Malibu was a full body-style change. However, after conducting research we found that the 2008-2012 model year Malibu allowed sectioning, whereas 2013-2015 and the 2016 model year sectioning procedure for the front lower rail was missing. As you may know, 2008-2015 was the same body style with what appeared to be minor cosmetic changes. So, we escalated the question up to our contacts at GM and they told us that changes to the rail construction made the sectioning procedure no longer possible.

Vehicle construction can change without warning, along with the procedures of how to repair that vehicle. This is an example of two vehicles that appear the same but depending on the build date will require completely different repair procedures. Which is why it’s so important to check the repair procedures on every vehicle and document those repair procedures in order to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

  • I-CAR Just In Time: Cybertruck Tuesday, 11 March 2025

    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...

  • GM Repair Insights: Winter 2025 Monday, 10 March 2025

    The winter edition of General Motors (GM) Repair Insights magazine is now available.

  • Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Genesis Friday, 7 March 2025

    Park assist sensors are part of the park assist system, just one of many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) found on vehicles today. Damaged sensors are typically replaced and may require...

  • Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Hyundai Friday, 7 March 2025

    Park assist sensors are part of the park assist system, just one of many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) found on vehicles today. Damaged sensors are typically replaced and may require...

  • Structural Straightening: Rivian Wednesday, 5 March 2025

    What should you do when a damaged Rivian comes into your repair facility? Can you measure it? Can it be straightened? What needs to be replaced?

  • Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Genesis Thursday, 27 February 2025

    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)...

  • Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Hyundai - UPDATE Thursday, 27 February 2025

    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)...

  • I-CAR Repairers Realm: SATA New Equipment And Technologies - Now Available Wednesday, 26 February 2025

    I-CAR staff discussed recent developments in SATA equipment and technology.

  • Calibration Research Tips: Ford/Lincoln Park Assist Operation Check - UPDATE Thursday, 20 February 2025

    While searching for information on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on an OEM repair information site, you may come across unique calibration procedures or events. These events can vary by...

  • Honda Has Released The 2026 Passport Body Repair News Wednesday, 19 February 2025

    Honda has released a Body Repair News bulletin for the 2026 Passport. This document contains at-a-glance information for this model.