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?
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.
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Solterra Body Repair Manual
Posted on 26 March 2024As 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 asked for clarification on where to find the 2023 and 2024 Subaru Solterra body repair manuals.
Repairer Driven News: Subaru Single-Use Airbag Mounting Clips Available
Posted on 1 August 2023Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article highlighting a Subaru service bulletin for single-use mounting clips.
One-Time-Use Parts And Fasteners: Subaru - UPDATE
Posted on 1 August 2023What 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?"
Reading Subaru Repair Procedures: UPDATE
Posted on 7 July 2023We have received quite a few questions on reading Subaru repair procedures. The first thing you may notice is there is very little text for the procedure. Let's take a look and clear up any confusion.
Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Subaru
Posted on 4 August 2022Park 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 painting to match the vehicle. Vehicle makers often provide information on the painting of new sensors. Some vehicle makers do not recommend refinishing sensors with minor finish damage because excessive paint thickness may adversely affect the operation of the park assist system. However, other vehicle makers allow refinishing and provide guidelines. Let’s see what Subaru has to say.
Locating OEM-Approved HV Tools: Subaru
Posted on 19 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.
Subaru High-Voltage Technician Levels
Posted on 12 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 ADAS Tools: Subaru
Posted on 19 November 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.
SEMA 2021: Subaru Certification
Posted on 5 November 2021I-CAR had numerous presentations at the 2021 SEMA show. One of these presentations focuses on how to become a certified Subaru collision repair facility.
Calibration Research Tips: Subaru EyeSight - UPDATE
Posted on 18 August 2021While 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 look at where to find the Subaru EyeSight calibration information.
Calibration Research Tips: Subaru Document Print Button
Posted on 22 July 2021While 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 look at where to find the print button for documentation.
Body Repair Manual Symbols: Subaru
Posted on 24 June 2021While looking at repair procedures in a body repair manual (BRM) you may notice that symbols are used to indicate specific operations or parts to be used during the repair process. Most BRMs provide a glossary or a chart that explains these symbols.
Steel Spot And Plug Weld Nugget Size: Subaru - UPDATE
Posted on 23 March 2021Did 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 Subaru has to say.
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.
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.
Repairer Driven News: Subaru Inspection After A Collision Presentation
Posted on 9 November 2020Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article on a video lecture focused on Subaru inspection and replacement requirements after a collision.
Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Subaru
Posted on 23 September 2020A 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 Subaru say on the subject?
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Welding Wire And Gas Clarification
Posted on 4 August 2020As 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. Recently we had a technical inquiry that asked for clarification on what welding wire and shielding gas should be used when repairing a Subaru.
Calibration Research Tips: Subaru Steering Responsive Headlight System
Posted on 10 June 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 look at the Subaru Steering Responsive Headlight (SRH) system.
Subaru Position Statement: Pre- and Post- Repair System Scanning - UPDATE
Posted on 10 April 2020Subaru has updated their position statement on pre- and post-repair system scanning. The revised position statement gives a definition for what Subaru considers a collision.
Subaru Bulletin: Recommended Materials
Posted on 17 March 2020Many times, OEMs reference the use of specific products. Often this information is included in the repair procedures. However, when it’s not, this information isn’t always easy to locate. Subaru has a bulletin, Recommend Material, available to assist you. Let’s take a look at where this bulletin can be found.
Subaru: New Car Information Manual
Posted on 5 March 2020Subaru offers many online publications on its paid service site, from owner’s manuals to service manuals. These are essential resources when servicing and/or repairing a vehicle. There is, however, one you may not be aware of, or may not have thought to utilize - the New Car Information manual.
I-CAR 360: 2019 Subaru Legacy Video Now Available
Posted on 17 December 2019The I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) team recently developed a new I-CAR 360 video on the 2019 Subaru Legacy. The video provides a 360° tour around the new Legacy. Let’s take a look.
Sectioning And Partial Part Replacement: 2019 Subaru Ascent
Posted on 2 December 2019One of the top technical inquiries received at Ask I-CAR is, “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 2019 Subaru Ascent.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
Posted on 16 September 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 searching 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 Subaru Crosstrek ADAS.
2020 Subaru Outback Debuts New Front End and ADAS Features
Posted on 28 May 2019Subaru is releasing their 2020 Outback with a lot of noteworthy changes. The first major change is the engine. Not seen for roughly a decade, Subaru is once again offering a turbocharged engine. On the Outback XT, a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine comes standard.
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.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2018 Subaru BRZ
Posted on 18 December 2018One of the top technical inquiries received at Ask I-CAR is, “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 2018 Subaru BRZ.
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Airbag Precautions Clarification
Posted on 29 November 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. Recently we had a technical inquiry that asked for clarification on a caution found in the Airbag System ➤ General Description of the service manual:
Locating ADAS Information: Subaru
Posted on 27 September 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.
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Spot Weld Settings
Posted on 15 August 2018Recently, a repair facility had a question on how to set up a spot welder for a Subaru repair procedure. I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) reached out to Subaru for clarification.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Subaru Legacy
Posted on 29 June 2018One of the top technical inquires 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 Subaru Legacy.
Repairer Driven News: 2019 Subaru Forester
Posted on 16 May 2018The upcoming 2019 Subaru Forrester is part of the new Subaru Global Platform, which looks to improve upon safety and driver comfort. The Forester is a big seller for Subaru, second only to the Outback. This means that technicians will inevitably be seeing the Forester in the future.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
Posted on 28 March 2018One 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 Subaru Crosstrek.
Subaru: Roof Molding Studs
Posted on 12 March 2018When 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. When searching for repair procedures, knowing what to look for can save valuable time. Recently the Ask I-CAR team was asked, is there is a procedure for the roof molding bolts on a Subaru?
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Steering Columns
Posted on 26 February 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. Recently we had a technical inquiry that asked, "Does the steering column require inspection after any type of collision, regardless if the airbag deployed?" We reached out to Subaru for clarification.
Where Do I Find Other Types Of Information In Subaru?
Posted on 16 February 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 Subaru website.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Subaru Outback
Posted on 26 January 2018One 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 Subaru Outback.
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.
Body Construction And Material Repair Guidelines: Subaru
Posted on 30 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.
Tips for Navigating OEM Websites: Subaru
Posted on 14 August 2017Subaru has changed the layout of their repair information website. You will notice that the site has a new look and improved navigation. Convenient new features make finding repair information easier. Let’s take a look at what has changed.
Subaru Collision Position Statements Available
Posted on 27 July 2017Subaru’s position statements can now be access directly from the I-CAR RTS Portal. These position statements are housed in the Subaru OEM Information page. Let’s take a look at what these position statements include.
Additional Calibration Requirements: Subaru
Posted on 30 June 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.
Corrosion Protection Guidelines: Subaru
Posted on 31 May 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 Subaru says.
Structural Sectioning Procedures: Subaru
Posted on 10 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.
Weld-Through Primer Guidelines: Subaru
Posted on 28 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 Subaru recommends and where this information can be found.
Collision Information Website Access: Subaru
Posted on 3 January 2017Why 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.
Subaru Glass Replacement Requirements
Posted on 22 July 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.
OEM Linking Pin: New Subaru Body Repair Manuals
Posted on 11 July 2016While doing research to answer Ask I-CAR inquries and to update the website, we found there were several model years from Subaru that did not have a collision repair manual.
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.
Subaru Restraints Wiring
Posted on 4 April 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 Subaru position on this subject.
Step-By-Step: Accessing Subaru Repair Information
Posted on 23 March 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 Subaru OEM Information page.
What's A Subaru Rear Skirt?
Posted on 4 November 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?
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Collision Repair Manual Availability
Posted on 28 April 2014While doing research to update the OEM Partial Part Replacement Search we found there were several model years from Subaru that did not have a collision repair manual.
Subaru Collision Repair Information Is Available
Posted on 20 March 2014Subaru has been growing in market share over the past few years. With more and more Subarus on the road everyday, what is the collision repair industry going to do about repairing these vehicles that are being seen with more regularity?
OEM Linking Pin: Subaru Clarifies Airbag Replacement
Posted on 18 March 2014As part of the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) initiative's OEM linking pin activity, we are helping to connect the collision repair industry to the vehicle makers. Recently we had a technical inquiry that asked, "Do you have to replace a front passenger airbag on a Subaru even if only the driver's airbag deployed? The repair information seems to indicate that it should."
