2016 RTS Enhancements

Details Posted on 24 February 2017 | Share:

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The collision repair industry is ever-changing. In an average year, there are over a hundred new models, face-lifts, and redesigns. With all of these changes, it can be difficult to keep up with all the makes, models, and new technologies. Luckily, I-CAR’s RTS team is dedicated to keeping track of these changes and locating where to find this new information. In 2016 we have added several features and improvements to the RTS portal to make this this ever-changing information easier to find. Let’s take a look.

The OEM Partial Part Replacement Search received a major enhancement this year. We’ve added more information and a whole new look to the search for 2015 and 2016 model years. After selecting a vehicle, you will notice a completely new look to the page. This page has links near the top to easily navigate to OEM repair information sites and other information related to the vehicle you have selected. You will also notice the easy-to-read color coded information for sectioning and partial replacement at factory seams. We have also added several areas to let you know if sectioning or partial replacement is an option.

Over the course of the last few months of 2016, we have composed a series of articles on what each major OEM requires when it comes to replacing fixed-glass. In these articles, you will find if the OEM specifies a specific brand of adhesive products, if special tools are required, and other cautions, such as if a forward-facing camera needs to be calibrated. All of these articles are conveniently placed on the left-side menu under: OEM Glass Replacement.

The OEM Calibration Requirements Search has been designed with new technologies in mind. This search gives you information on when calibrations are required after repairs are completed on vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). You are also, able to find what ADAS the vehicle you are repairing may be equipped with and the general location of any sensors or cameras associated with that system. The systems are color-coded for quick identification. There is also information on when special tools and/or a scan tool are needed to calibrate ADAS. Also, noted, is if the system can turn on a MIL or set DTCs. Currently 2016 is the only model year included in this search, with more model years coming soon.

Finally, we’ve added a Quick Search by Vehicle function. With this feature, you can quickly find the information available for that particular vehicle on the RTS Portal. To use the search, you will need to select a year, make, and model, the results from several of our databases will be displayed to simplify the information research process.

As always, the RTS Portal offers many other features. Collision Repair News can keep you up to date on any collision related news. OEM Information pages provides you easy access to position statements, how-to-videos to find OEM information, links to the OEM websites, and other helpful information for each OEM. Also, there is the Ask I-CAR section of the portal. Here you can see thousands of technical inquires we have received with answers posted. Along with, our top asked questions. If you can’t find what you are looking for, you can always submit a question through Ask I-CAR and we will be happy to assist you.

With all of the changes taking place in our industry, we will be here to help keep you on the fast track to making complete, safe, and quality repairs.