Calibration Research Tips: Toyota/Lexus Vehicle Control History Codes
Posted on 12 November 2024While 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 Toyota/Lexus vehicle control history codes.
OEM Linking Pin: Toyota/Lexus Sectioning Clarification
Posted on 24 October 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. 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 Tech-Tip: Telematics Diagnostic Guide And References
Posted on 30 July 2024A week after you delivered a vehicle you receive a phone call from the customer stating their navigation system is no longer working. Let’s see what information Toyota/Lexus provides to assist with telematic system operational issues.
I-CAR Repairers Realm: Vehicle Highlights From The Chicago Auto Show - Now Available
Posted on 3 July 2024I-CAR had a discussion on vehicle highlights from the 2024 Chicago Auto Show.
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 Emergency Response Guides: Toyota/Lexus - UPDATE
Posted on 30 August 2023Are 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 ADAS Information: Toyota/Lexus - UPDATE
Posted on 25 August 2023As 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.
Great Designs in Steel 2023 Presentations: A Closer Look - Toyota TNGA-F Full- Frame Platform
Posted on 23 August 2023Eric Geng and Graeme Ackersviller from Toyota Manufacturing North America presented at Great Designs In Steel 2023. They highlighted the new generation TNGA-F full-frame platform in their Non-Linear Tailor Welded Blanks Application In Chassis Frame presentation.
Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Toyota/Lexus - UPDATE
Posted on 1 June 2023A 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 Toyota/Lexus say on the subject?
Toyota/Lexus: What’s That Wavy Silver Tape?
Posted on 20 April 2023When repairing or replacing some Toyota or Lexus bumpers you may notice tape stripes with wavy silver lines. Do you need to replace this strip and what is its purpose?
Repairer Driven News: Toyota Offers EV Best Practices
Posted on 27 July 2022Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article highlighting Toyota's list of best practices while repairing EVs.
Identifying The Correct Body Repair Manual: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 11 May 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 Toyota/Lexus to see how they group their BRMs.
Non-SRS Wiring Repairs: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 1 February 2022What 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 doesn’t 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. Let’s take a closer look at Toyota/Lexus.
Calibration Research Tips: Toyota/Lexus One-Time-Use Park Assist Sensor Retainers
Posted on 7 January 2022While 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 Toyota/Lexus park assist sensor retainers.
Locating OEM-Approved HV Tools: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 23 December 2021When 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.
Locating OEM-Approved ADAS Tools: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 23 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.
Toyota Collision Pros: Adhesives For Toyota Collision Repair
Posted on 7 October 2021Toyota has released a Collision Pro article about the use of adhesive on Toyota vehicles. This article also includes adhesive guidelines and best practices.
Repairer Driven News: 2022 Toyota Tundra
Posted on 21 September 2021Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article highlighting some of the changes to the Toyota Tundra for 2022.
Toyota Collision Pros: 2021 Issue 2
Posted on 8 July 2021Toyota has released the 2021 Issue 2 of their Collision Pros on their Collision Repair Training website.
Toyota/Lexus Introduces Autonomous Level 2 Driving System
Posted on 15 June 2021Toyota/Lexus released information on the www.pressroom.toyota.com website about the Teammate® advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) technology that debuts on select 2022 Lexus LS 500H models which should be in U.S. dealerships in the fall.
I-CAR Toyota Collision Repair Overview Course
Posted on 6 April 2021I-CAR has developed a course around the collision repair of Toyota vehicles.
Toyota Collision Pros: 2021 Issue 1
Posted on 4 March 2021Toyota has released the 2021 Issue 1 edition of their Collision Pros magazine. This issue highlights the all-new 2021 Toyota Sienna and focuses on the technology aspects of the vehicle.
Toyota/Lexus: Who Requires Or Recommends MIG Brazing?
Posted on 2 March 2021In 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. Let’s see what Toyota/Lexus 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.
Sectioning And Partial Part Replacement: 2020 Toyota Corolla
Posted on 28 December 2020One 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. Here you will find information on if these procedures are available on a specific vehicle. Let's take a closer look at the 2020 Toyota Corolla.
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.
Calibration Research Tips: Toyota/Lexus Intelligent Clearance Sonar System
Posted on 17 November 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 Toyota/Lexus intelligent clearance sonar (ICS) system, and parking support brake system (PKSB).
Toyota Collision Pros: 2020 Issue 2
Posted on 16 October 2020Toyota has released the 2020 Issue 2 edition of their Collision Pros magazine. This edition highlights the 2021 Toyota Venza.
Reading Toyota/Lexus Repair Procedures: It May Take More Than One Procedure
Posted on 10 September 2020One of the many functions of the Repairability Technical Support (RTS) team is to assist the collision repair industry with understanding repair procedures. The team often receives questions such as, "Does this part need to be removed?" or "What is the preferred attachment method?" Let’s take a closer look at reading Toyota/Lexus repair procedures.
Calibration Research Tips: Toyota Safety Sense
Posted on 21 May 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 Toyota Safety Sense.
Repairer Driven News: Toyota Vehicle Cleaning & Disinfecting Guidelines
Posted on 28 April 2020Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article about Toyota’s document, Vehicle Cleaning & Disinfecting. The article highlights many of the guidelines, including key interior and exterior touch point areas.
Steel Spot And Plug Weld Nugget Size: Toyota/Lexus - UPDATE
Posted on 22 April 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 Toyota/Lexus has to say.
Toyota/Lexus: CRIB# 196 - GMAW/MIG Welding Specifications
Posted on 7 April 2020Toyota/Lexus provides their welding requirements in one central location in each vehicle-specific collision repair manual. This includes information on the type of welding wire and shielding gas to be used. These requirements should always be followed. However, in addition, Toyota/Lexus has released collision Repair Information Bulletin (CRIB) #196 that updates the types of welding wire that can be used.
Toyota Collision Pros: 2020 Issue 1
Posted on 23 March 2020Toyota has released the 2020 Issue 1 edition of their Collision Pros magazine.
Sectioning And Partial Part Replacement: 2020 Toyota RAV4
Posted on 3 March 2020One 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 Replacemet 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 2020 Toyota RAV4.
Toyota Collision Pros: 2019 Issue 3
Posted on 18 December 2019Toyota has released the 2019 Issue 3 edition of their Collision Pros magazine. This edition covers a variety of collision repair topics, such as:
Repairer Driven News: Toyota Occupant Classification System Calibration
Posted on 26 November 2019Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article that provides insight on Toyota occupant classification systems (OCS). It covers what the systems do, why it is important to calibrate them, and when calibration is required.
Vehicle Technology And Trends 2020
Posted on 29 October 2019The 2020 model year vehicles are starting to roll off the assembly line and into showrooms. The I-CAR course, Vehicle Technology And Trends 2020, covers the technology, model releases, and trends. Keeping up-to-date on the 2020 models and features is vital to the blueprinting and repair process.
Toyota Collision Pros: 2019 Issue 2
Posted on 12 September 2019Toyota has released the 2019 Issue 2 of their Collision Pros. This edition touches on a variety of collision repair topics, such as the Toyota Supra, training, affixing emblems, calibration, and more.
Repairing Blind Spot Sensor Mounting Locations: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 10 September 2019As part of the research conducted by the I-CAR RTS team for the OEM Calibration Requirements Search, we have found that some OEMs provide measurements for blind spot sensor mounting locations. When this mounting location information is found, we will publish articles highlighting the information and where to locate it for that specific OEM.
When performing repairs, having measurements is a way to ensure the vehicle is repaired correctly. However, measurements are not always given for body panels. This typically isn’t a problem, until there are advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) involved, such as blind spot sensors. When mounting blind spot sensors on body panels, it can be crucial to have the mounting location straightened to the correct measurement. Some OEMs not only give measurements but may also provide alternative measuring methods to identify that the sensor is looking in the right direction. Let's see what Toyota/Lexus has to say.
Repairer Driven News: 2019 Toyota RAV4
Posted on 7 August 2019Repairer Driven News (RDN) published an article on the mixed-material 2019 Toyota RAV4 that outlines some new features that technicians may want to take note of. To help reduce weight, Toyota has used high-strength steal coupled with several light-weight aluminum parts, such as the hood, fenders, and the liftgate.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: 2019 Toyota Camry
Posted on 30 July 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 get 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 Toyota Camry ADAS.
ADAS Features Standard on the 2019 Toyota Highlander
Posted on 15 May 2019The Toyota Highlander has undergone many changes through the years, and the changes continue into 2019 for both hybrid and gas models. The Highlander is still a large SUV that is capable of seating eight people, but there are some new features that collision repair professionals should keep an eye out for.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2019 Toyota Highlander
Posted on 6 May 2019One 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 Replacemet 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 Toyota Highlander.
Toyota Collision Pros: Spring 2019
Posted on 10 April 2019Toyota has launched their Spring 2019 edition of Collision Pros. Some highlights in this issue that you may want to check out are the important details regarding pre- and post-repair checklists, and Toyota Technical Information Systems (TIS).
Backup Batteries and Main Battery Disconnect
Posted on 9 April 2019Backup batteries sometimes referred to as auxiliary or supplemental batteries, serve an important role in maintaining power for certain vehicle systems even while the 12-volt battery power is cut. The backup batteries can aid in emergency situations by maintaining power for features like GM OnStar, Toyota Safety Connect System, and FCA Assist to name a few.
How to Calibrate Toyota Bird’s Eye View Camera
Posted on 8 February 2019As you know, Bird’s Eye View or 360º Cameras are becoming more prevalent in new vehicles. It provides drivers the ability to view the surroundings of the vehicle on the center council screen. This feature is a convenient safety tool for vehicle owners. But, what does this mean for the repair process? Toyota released a document with information on how this Bird’s Eye View camera works and how to operate it. The document also contains important steps for calibrating this system.
How to Find Toyota/Lexus CRIBs
Posted on 22 January 2019Toyota/Lexus/Scion has Collision Repair Information Bulletins (CRIBs) that contain a lot of information the collision repair industry needs to know.
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.
Repairer Driven News: Toyota Warns Against Painting Flanges Before Attaching Auto Glass
Posted on 27 December 2018Auto glass has long been considered an important part of a vehicle’s structure. In a publication released by Repairer Driven News (RDN), Toyota discusses how their pinch weld flanges are prepared in a way that “provides the best paint adhesion and corrosion protection and creates the perfect bonding surface for glass.”
2020 Toyota Corolla Release
Posted on 16 November 2018Toyota - USA Newsroom released the all new 2020 Toyota Corolla. There are many new features to the Corolla. As you would expect, the new Corolla comes standard with many ADAS, and also new structural features.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Toyota RAV4 HV
Posted on 30 October 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 Toyota RAV4 HV.
Toyota Collision Pros: Summer 2018
Posted on 13 September 2018Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is now common on many vehicles. Toyota/Lexus are making certain ADAS standard on their entire lineup. So, what does that mean for collision repairers? An article in the Summer 2018 issue of Toyota Collision Pros magazine covers some of this information.
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Toyota Camry
Posted on 18 July 2018One of the top technical inquires 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 2017 Toyota Camry.
Where Do I Find Other Types Of Information In Toyota/Lexus?
Posted on 2 May 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 Toyota/Lexus website.
Toyota Collision Pros: Winter 2018
Posted on 23 March 2018The Winter 2018 edition of Toyota Collision Pros Publication holds information on blending during refinishing, bird’s eye view (360°) camera system, and more. Let’s check out some highlights in this issue.
Toyota's Collision Damage Repair Precautions
Posted on 15 March 2018When repairing a vehicle, there are several questions that always need to be answered before and during the repair process. Things like what parts can be straightened, can heat be used to straighten, what type of sectioning joint should be used, and precautions for welding are a few of the important questions. To aid in answering these questions Toyota/Lexus has a document that provides answers.
Repairer Driven News: Toyota Battery Disconnect
Posted on 8 March 2018The disconnecting and reconnecting (D&R) a battery is not as simple as it once may have been. An article recently published by Repairer Driven News (RDN) touches on the subject of battery D&R, specifically from Toyota. So, what does a repair technician need to know for battery D&R on Toyota vehicles?
Sectioning and Partial Part Replacement: 2017 Toyota Corolla
Posted on 9 February 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 Toyota Corolla.
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.
Repairer Driven News: Collision Braking by the Numbers
Posted on 22 December 2017Vehicles that are equipped with collision braking will require special attention when getting collision repairs. There are calibrations and additional steps needed before the vehicle can safely be released. Collision braking will be required as a standard feature in the future, but how many vehicles can a repair facility expect to see today?
One-Time-Use Parts And Fasteners: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 18 October 2017What 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?"
Body Construction And Material Repair Guidelines: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 17 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.
Corrosion Protection Guidelines: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 7 July 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 Toyota/Lexus says.
Repairer Driven News: Toyota Rear Bumper Repair Precautions
Posted on 21 June 2017Repairer Driven News (RDN) published an article talking about bumper repair on Toyota vehicles equipped with blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Let’s take a look at this article.
Repairer Driven News: Toyota's Millimeter-Wave Radar
Posted on 16 June 2017Repairer Driven News (RDN) published an article talking about Toyota’s millimeter-wave radar. The article covers special precautions related to the millimeter-wave radar. Let’s take a look at this article.
Structural Sectioning Procedures: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 20 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.
Additional Calibration Requirements: Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 14 April 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. 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.
Toyota/Lexus/Scion Glass Replacement Requirements: UPDATE
Posted on 15 March 2017The 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.
Weld-Through Primer Guidelines: Toyota/Lexus/Scion
Posted on 17 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 Toyota/Lexus/Scion recommends and where this information can be found.
Collision Information Website Access: Toyota/Lexus/Scion
Posted on 15 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.
New Welding Methods for Toyota/Lexus
Posted on 14 September 2016If you have been working on any Toyota/Lexus vehicles recently, you may have noticed a new type of attachment method. This new attachment method is known as laser screw welds. How is a Toyota/Lexus vehicle laser screw welds repaired? Let’s take a look.
Toyota/Lexus/Scion Position Statement: Pre- and Post-Repair System Scanning
Posted on 28 July 2016As the industry continues to ask if pre- and post-repair system scanning is necessary, Toyota/Lexus/Scion provides their answer.
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.
Scion's Renamed Under Toyota In 2017
Posted on 17 March 2016Back in February we let you know that starting in 2017, Toyota announced that the Scion brand will be rebadged under the Toyota brand. Let's take a look at what the former Scion's will be called.
Toyota/Lexus/Scion Restraints Wiring
Posted on 2 March 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 Toyota's position on this subject.
Scion No More In 2017
Posted on 3 February 2016Starting in 2017, Toyota will discontinue the Scion brand. Here's what they are looking at doing.
Sectioning Reinforcements
Posted on 2 February 2016When it comes to sectioning reinforcements, there are a few things to keep in mind. Let's take a look at the considerations around this topic.
The 2016 Toyota Mirai Is More Than Just a Fuel Cell Vehicle
Posted on 8 December 2015There has been a lot of discussion in the media lately on fuel cell vehicles, but what few have discussed is the collision repair of these vehicles. So let's take a look into the not-too-distant future.
Straightening And Heat: Toyota, Lexus, Scion
Posted on 23 October 2015A question often asked of the Repairability Techincal Supports (RTS) team is, does Toyota allow the use heat to straighten? There are several Collision Repair Information Bulletins (CRIBs) from Toyota, Lexus, and Scion that states their position on the use of heat when straightening.
Active Headrest Overview
Posted on 25 September 2015Some vehicles are equipped with an active headrest. These headrests are designed to move forward during a rear collision to reduce the chance of whiplash injury. Let's take a look at some of the key points when working with an active headrest and some of the resources to find information.
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?
Did You Know Toyota Offers Collision Repair Training?
Posted on 4 September 2015There's a new addition to the OEM Information pages for Toyota, Lexus, and Scion. An icon has been added linking you to a page on Toyota's website that allows technicians to take Toyota collision repair training.
Step-By-Step: Accessing Toyota, Lexus, And Scion Repair Information
Posted on 6 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 Toyota OEM Information, Lexus OEM Information, and/or Scion OEM Information page.
Bumper Energy Absorbers, Crush Boxes, and Bumper Reinforcements
Posted on 28 February 2015Let's go back to basics with the ever-popular what to do with bumper energy absorbers, crush boxes, and bumper reinforcements.
Today’s Advanced Vehicles Require Changes in Collision Repair Attachment Methods – Part 1
Posted on 20 December 2014This article originally appeared in the November/December edition of Fixed Ops Magazine.
Collision repair professionals are no different than any other professional – we are resistant to change. It took many years for repairers to make the switch to “MIG welding” for welding early unibody vehicles. (For this article we’ll use the term gas metal arc welding (GMAW) metal inert gas (MIG), or GMA (MIG)). (More on the reason, later.) It was a technology that was unfamiliar to many and there wasn’t a perceived need for change. History would prove otherwise, as there may not be a collision repair business in the country that doesn’t have a GMA (MIG) welder.
Repair or Replace? – Material Tensile Strength Key to Repairability
Posted on 23 September 2014Repair or Replace? – Material Tensile Strength Key to Repairability
Jason Bartanen, I-CAR Director, Industry Technical Relations
The world of steels continues to evolve at a rapid pace and repair professionals need to keep up. In order to perform complete, safe, and quality repairs, it’s imperative to identify the type of material we’re working with, to know what is repairable, and know which options we have for part replacement when straightening is not an option.
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.
It's Not Just About Aluminum
Posted on 30 July 2014Today's Vehicles Require Updated Collision Repair Tools And Training
by Jason Bartanen
Ever since the unveiling of the 2015 Ford F-150 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, the U.S. automotive industry has been buzzing about this game changing, aluminum intensive vehicle.
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?
The I-CAR OEM Technical Information Matrix - What Is It, And How Does It Help The Collision Industry?
Posted on 6 May 2014Do you know what vehicle makers have collision repair information available? Do you know where you can go to find that out?
What's A Toyota Rear Floor Side Member?
Posted on 1 May 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.
Revised I-CAR Training and Certification: Steel GMA Welding Course
Posted on 22 August 2012The challenges for vehicle makers to make vehicles safe and strong as well as lightweight have resulted in material variations. Many of today's steel-structured vehicles use steel in the range of 0.70 mm thickness for the outer panels, and a thicker, and in many cases higher strength, steel for the structure. This has resulted in I-CAR revising its Training and Certification: Steel GMA Welding to more accurately reflect the thicknesses of steels being used.
Insulated Rubber Gloves And High-Voltage Batteries
Posted on 4 February 2010Ever since the requirement of wearing insulated rubber gloves, or lineman's gloves, when working on hybrid electric vehicles was introduced in vehicle service information, there have been questions. Are these really the same gloves worn by those who work with high-voltage power lines? Are these gloves necessary or are they overkill? Are these gloves only used for disabling and enabling the high-voltage? What does the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) say about the use of these gloves?
This article is designed to answer these questions.
