I-CAR OEM Technical Information Matrix: What Is It, And How Does It Help? - UPDATE
Posted on 5 December 2024Do you know which vehicle makers have collision repair information available? Do you know where you can go to find that out?
Mazda Fender Grounding: UPDATE
Posted on 18 July 2024A major issue that faces many collision repair technicians is comebacks. With modern vehicles, many of those comebacks are due to electrical problems, bad grounds being a huge contender. Mazda has identified this as a common problem and originally issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) on the subject but now includes the information in vehicle-specific procedures.
High-Voltage Vehicle Paint Booth Quick Reference
Posted on 9 April 2024When 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.
Calibration Research Tips: Mazda Blind Spot Sensors In Pairs
Posted on 24 January 2023While 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 year and model, even within a particular make. As the RTS team has been researching these systems, we have been identifying these atypical circumstances. In order to help you better understand them, we are putting together a series of articles that help with the repair and calibration of ADAS. Let’s take a look at Mazda blind spot sensors.
One-Time-Use Parts And Fasteners: Mazda
Posted on 11 November 2022What is a one-time-use part, and how do you determine if a fastener, clip, or part can be reused? These are questions that we are confronted with in the collision industry quite a lot. The other big question is "Where do I find this information"?
Mazda High-Voltage Technician Levels
Posted on 20 May 2022As electric-only, hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles are increasing in sales, they are becoming more commonplace in repair facilities. Along with the unique powertrains that come with these vehicles, also comes unique safety concerns. Regardless of vehicle maker, high-voltage (HV) systems pose a threat of injury or death if not handled properly. Only personnel with the proper training, PPE, tools, equipment, and service information should perform work on the HV systems.
Locating OEM-Approved HV Tools: Mazda
Posted on 6 May 2022When researching procedures for disabling a high-voltage (HV) vehicle, you may notice that many of the procedures require the use of specific tools. Some of them are OEM-specific tools or scan tools. Often identifying and locating where to purchase these specific tools can be difficult.
The RTS team is researching how to find these tools to make it easier for technicians performing these tasks. As we research the location of these special tools, we are compiling the information in a series of OEM-specific articles.
Identifying The Correct Body Repair Manual: Mazda
Posted on 16 February 2022Vehicle makers may group their body repair manuals (BRM) in several different ways. Sometimes the BRMs are grouped by a year range, some are listed as VIN specific, and others are arranged by a body code. Let’s take a look at Mazda to see how they group their BRMs.
OEM Emergency Response Guides: Mazda
Posted on 3 February 2022Are you looking for OEM emergency response guides (ERGs)? The Repairability Technical Support (RTS) team has located these guides and either houses them on the RTS website, provides links to webpages that house them, or provides articles with instructions on how to locate them.
Locating OEM-Approved ADAS Tools: Mazda
Posted on 15 December 2021When researching calibration procedures for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), you may notice that many of the procedures require the use of specific tools. Some tools may be everyday items like string, tape, levels, paper, etc. However, many of them are OEM-specific tools or scan tools. Often identifying and locating where to purchase these specific tools can be difficult.
Non-SRS Wiring Repairs: Mazda
Posted on 3 August 2021What is a non-SRS wiring repair? It is the repairing of an electrical component that is not part of the supplemental restraints system circuit (usually identified by yellow wire looms). As technology increases on vehicles, so does the number of components that utilize electricity. Many of the sensors and modules are becoming smarter and more sensitive. If the wire is too long, the wrong gauge, or spliced in the wrong location, it can cause malfunctions in the components that it’s powering. Many OEMs have different restrictions and guidelines for repairing wiring that does not control SRS components. On the other hand, there are OEMs that don’t allow wiring repairs at all, so full harness replacement is the only option.
OEM Emergency Response Guides
Posted on 25 February 2021Are you looking for OEM emergency response guides (ERGs)? The Repairability Technical Support (RTS) team has located these guides and either houses them on the RTS website, provides links to webpages that house them, or provides articles with instructions on how to locate them.
Calibration Research Tips: Mazda Park Assist System
Posted on 8 December 2020While 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 year and model, even within a particular make. As the RTS team has been researching these systems, we have been identifying these atypical circumstances. In order to help you better understand them, we are putting together a series of articles that help with the repair and calibration of ADAS. Let’s take a look at the Mazda park assist system.
Who Requires Or Recommends MIG Brazing? UPDATE
Posted on 25 November 2020In Europe, MIG brazing has been required or recommended on a widespread basis for several years. In the U.S., MIG brazing is not as common but is becoming more prevalent. As the RTS team is researching MIG brazing information, we are putting together a series of articles that identify OEM-specific MIG brazing recommendations and requirements for vehicles in the U.S.
Steel Spot And Plug Weld Nugget Size: Mazda - UPDATE
Posted on 6 October 2020Did you know that some OEMs specify nugget size for spot and plug welds? This information is typically found within vehicle-specific repair procedures or can be found under general welding guidelines. Let’s see what Mazda has to say.
Calibration Research Tips: Mazda i-ACTIVSENSE Outline
Posted on 26 March 2020While 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 year and model, even within a particular make. As the RTS team has been researching these systems, we have been identifying these atypical circumstances. In order to help you better understand them, we are putting together a series of articles that help with the repair and calibration of ADAS. Let’s take a closer look at Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE outline document for ADAS.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: 2019 MAZDA6
Posted on 11 December 2019While 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 gets questions in regard to calibration of ADAS. Many of these questions can be answered simply by using 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 MAZDA6.
Repairer Driven News: Mazda MX-30 Electric Vehicle
Posted on 28 October 2019Mazda recently unveiled the MX-30 electric vehicle. It is important to note that this is a European-specific vehicle. However, with OEMs often using global platforms, it is likely that many of the features highlighted may end up on the USA models.
Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Mazda
Posted on 16 July 2019A 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) utilize sensors behind the bumper covers. The ability for these sensors to be able to see clearly, normally requires special caution when considering a bumper repair. Many OEMs have different levels of warnings when it comes to repairing bumper covers with ADAS. So, what does Mazda say on the subject?
2019 Mazda MAZDA3 Uses Industry First Steel
Posted on 31 January 2019The 2019 MAZDA3 has been fully redesigned. Along with the redesign comes some new construction highlights for Mazda and for the entire industry. The 2019 model features more steel over 980MPa than the previous generation.
ADAS, Calibration, And Scanning Article Hotspot
Posted on 14 January 2019Since 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 these subjects. I-CAR’s Repairability Technical Support (RTS) team continues to be on the leading edge of research and education. Our goal is to help communicate information to the industry, and a great way to do this is through Collision Repair News articles.
2019 Mazda3 Release
Posted on 28 November 2018The 2019 Mazda3 was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show this year with the goal of increasing driver comfort. This includes a redesigned body and engine. In addition, more advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) will be available.
Locating ADAS Information: Mazda
Posted on 5 October 2018As a collision repair technician, there is one part of a service manual that houses all of the information you would ever need…right? This is not the case with modern vehicles. You may be required to look in numerous manuals to find the information required to safely repair the vehicle.
Where Do I Find Other Types Of Information In Mazda?
Posted on 31 July 2018Navigating OEM websites can be challenging when searching for collision repair procedures, especially as no two OEM websites are alike. What happens when you need to find other types of repair information, such as, "What needs to be inspected after a supplemental restraints system (SRS) deployment?", or "Does the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) require a scan tool or specialty tool?" Let's take a closer look at the Mazda website.
OEM Linking Pin: Finding Mazda Missing BRMs
Posted on 26 March 2018As 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 recently noticed that some of the Mazda body repair manuals (BRM) were missing for certain model years. We reached out to Mazda for clarification.
Mazda Position Statement: Pre- and Post-Repair System Scanning
Posted on 8 March 2018Mazda, as with many other OEMs, has issued a pre- and post-repair scanning position statement. Let’s take a look at this position statement.
When ADAS Can't See: Front/Rear Cross Traffic Systems
Posted on 8 January 2018Collision repairs on vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) can have more restrictions than vehicles without ADAS. Items that historically would be a simple repair, may now need to be replaced. The ADAS needs to be able to see/sense in some way, whether it be by radar, camera-view, ultrasonic, etc. Repairers need to keep sensor/camera field of vision clear to avoid system malfunctions. For example, repair material that would normally be used to repair a gouge in a bumper cover is now a problem because it can block the sensor’s field of vision and may not allow the sensor to function properly.
When ADAS Can't See: Blind Spot Monitoring System
Posted on 22 December 2017Collision repairs on vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) can have more restrictions than vehicles without ADAS. Items that historically would be a simple repair may now need to be replaced. The ADAS needs to be able to see/sense in some way, whether it be by radar, camera-view, ultrasonic, etc. Repairers need to keep sensor/camera field of vision clear to avoid system malfunctions. For example, repair material that would normally be used to repair a gouge in a bumper cover is now a problem because it can block the sensor’s field of vision and may not allow the sensor to function properly.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Mazda CX-9
Posted on 8 December 2017One of the top technical inquiries received at Ask I-CAR, “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 2017 Mazda CX-9.
Mazda Website Navigation Video: UPDATE
Posted on 20 November 2017Mazda has updated their www.mazdaserviceinfo.com service and repair information website. This update to the website changes how to find the collision repair information you need.
Now Available On RTS: Mazda Position Statement
Posted on 15 November 2017Mazda’s position statement can now be accessed directly from the I-CAR RTS Portal. These position statement are housed on the Mazda OEM Information page. Let’s take a look at what the position statement includes.
Repairer Driven News: Refinishing Mazda Machine Gray (46G)
Posted on 26 October 2017Most refinish technicians have had a color they just can’t get to match to the vehicle. The chip looks good, but the sprayout doesn’t come close enough for a blendable match. However, there are situations where you may have the wrong spray technique. Some of the new colors on everyday vehicles require a unique and complex spray technique. A recent article by Repairer Driven News (RDN) shows and explains PPG’s process for refinishing Mazda’s Machine Gray. Let’s take a look at some highlights from this article.
Corrosion Protection Guidelines: Mazda
Posted on 1 September 2017A 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 Mazda says.
Body Construction And Material Repair Guidelines: Mazda
Posted on 22 August 2017What is the MPa of the front lower rail? What is the outer uniside made of: steel, aluminum, or composite? Can heat be used to straighten or is it cold straightening only? What are the repair limitations? These are just some of the questions that the RTS team fields on a daily basis.
Mazda's New Repair Site
Posted on 18 August 2017Mazda has redesigned their repair information website. Let’s take a look at the new setup of Mazda’s website.
Additional Calibration Requirements: Mazda
Posted on 7 July 2017The addition of the OEM Calibration Requirements Search to the RTS portal was a big step for the collision industry. While this new feature has been well received, there has been some confusion about what is included in the search tool. The OEM Calibration Requirements Search is designed to provide information on the calibration requirements that are needed for vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This includes systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and collision braking.
Structural Sectioning Procedures: Mazda
Posted on 27 April 2017Ask I-CAR receives many technical inquiries referring to sectioning. The collision repair industry wants to know where can you section, does the OEM have a sectioning procedure, and where can I find the sectioning procedure? Most OEMs allow sectioning to outer body panels and the front and rear rails. Sectioning reinforcements is not as common, as most reinforcements are replaced at factory seams.
Parts are made from various materials including HSS, UHSS, aluminum, and carbon fiber. These parts also have complex designs to collapse or transfer collision forces in a specific manner. Introducing a sectioning joint to many of these parts will alter how the part reacts to those collision forces. For this reason, sectioning a part is only allowed if supported by vehicle maker repair information. Let’s see what Mazda says about structural sectioning.
Weld-Through Primer Guidelines: Mazda
Posted on 22 February 2017Weld-through primers are generally a zinc-based product that are applied to the mating surfaces prior to welding. Corroding zinc forms zinc oxide which protects the steel. This is called sacrificial corrosion. For a quality weld to be made it’s required that the weld-through primer be removed from the direct weld zone before welding the joint when GMA welding. Many OEMs have a position on when and how to use weld-through primer or when it shouldn’t be utilized. Let’s see what Mazda recommends and where this information can be found.
Battery Disconnect Considerations
Posted on 21 February 2017When a damaged vehicle enters a collision repair facility, many times the repairs require the battery to be disconnected. Operations such as welding, SRS repairs, engine work, and body panels being open for extended periods of time, can all require that the battery be disconnected. At one time the radio presets would be written down before the battery was disconnected and programmed after the battery was reconnected. However, today many OEMs have special precautions or steps that need to be taken when disconnecting the battery. Let’s take a look at what some OEMs require when disconnecting the battery.
Collision Information Website Access: Mazda
Posted on 19 December 2016Why do I need a subscription to an OEM website if I have full subscription access to the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) portal? This is a question received on a regular basis through Ask I-CAR. Let’s take a look at why and how to purchase an OEM subscription.
Mazda Glass Replacement Requirements
Posted on 18 August 2016The role of the windshield is a lot more complex than simply allowing a view of the road ahead. It is considered a structural part of the vehicle as it contributes to the strength of the roof and A-pillars. The windshield helps to manage collision energy and has become an integral part of several advanced safety systems.
It is commonly asked, "What is required when replacing a windshield?" With this question in mind, we will be presenting a series of articles that highlight some of the requirements from the various OEMs. As always, it is important to read through each vehicle-specific procedure to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.
Always Follow Vehicle Maker Procedures
Posted on 7 July 2016We often receive Ask I-CAR inquiries asking: “what does I-CAR recommend?” Many times these questions are in regards to sectioning, straightening, or part replacement/attachment methods. Our first response is always:
Restraints Wiring Repairs
Posted on 23 May 2016Over 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.
Mazda Restraints Wiring
Posted on 28 January 2016The question is often asked, "Can supplemental restraints system wiring be repaired?" The answer is: it depends on the vehicle maker. Let's take a look at Mazda's position on this subject.
Making Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) A Standard Feature
Posted on 24 September 2015A group of vehicle makers got together recently and discussed the future of automatic emergency braking (AEB) technology in their vehicles. This feature is designed to reduce the severity and frequency of collisions; but no matter how good it is, it will never prevent all accidents from happening. So what do you need to know in order to repair vehicles with AEB, and how do you know the system is functioning properly?
Step-By-Step: Accessing Mazda Repair Information
Posted on 22 April 2015Per your requests, we are adding step-by-step instructions on how to access the vehicle maker repair information to complement our how-to-videos on the OEM Information pages. Easily reference this article by clicking the link under the video on the Mazda OEM Information page.
OEM Linking Pin: Mazda Has Updated Their Collision Repair Information Website
Posted on 21 November 2014During routine research, we noticed that the Mazda website was missing body repair manuals on their website. After contacting Mazda, they quickly updated their collision repair information website so all the manuals are back online. The updated site includes easier navigation to access the body repair manuals.
What's A Mazda Rear End Panel?
Posted on 2 October 2014When it comes to repair information, vehicle makers use a wide variety of terminology for replacement parts. All of the different names can be confusing, especially when repairing a variety of vehicle makes and models.
Weld-Through Primer Requirements On The OEM Technical Information Matrix
Posted on 28 August 2014Let's continue our breakdown of the columns in the OEM Technical Information Matrix. The eighth column calls out if the vehicle maker requires the use of weld-through primer on flanges in preparation for welding.
Collision Repair Attachment Methods, Description, And Equipment Requirements Information On The OEM Technical Information Matrix
Posted on 13 August 2014Let's continue our breakdown of the columns in the OEM Technical Information Matrix. The seventh column calls out if the vehicle maker has information in regard to the recommended attachment method and the equipment required for complete, quality, and safe repairs.
Is There a Procedure for Disassembling a Service Assembly?
Posted on 19 June 2014The fourth column in the OEM Technical Information Matrix: Partial Service Part/Assembly Replacement Procedures at Factory Seams, can get a little tricky without further clarification. For the most part, this is a column that I-CAR is still researching published OEM information to get the answers to. The question is: Does the vehicle maker have procedures for replacing a partial service part or assembly at factory seams?
Mazda I-ELOOP Overview
Posted on 27 January 2014Beginning model year 2014, Mazda has introduced a regenerative engine braking system called i-ELOOP, short for "Intelligent Energy Loop." In this system, a capacitor is used to store electrical energy generated during deceleration. In a conventional system when the vehicle slows or stops, energy is wasted. The i-ELOOP system uses a unique variable voltage alternator that can produce up to 25 volts during deceleration. The electricity that is generated during deceleration is not sent directly to the vehicle's battery, because the battery cannot store more than 12 volts. Instead, the capacitor stores the electricity, up to the 25 volts produced by the alternator. The capacitor then readily discharges it through a voltage reduction circuit to power vehicle accessories.
