In many cases, OEM repair procedures provide recommendations for say spot weld locations or recommended attachment methods, as examples. But additional processes are required to complete the repair in accordance with the OEM recommendation that may not be adequately covered by the OEM procedure. As examples: What are the most efficient/effective ways to remove spot welds? When GMA (MIG) welding, which techniques should be used to best control heat and how should welds be dressed following welding? I-CAR can contribute to this body of information and knowledge, by working with OEMs on repair procedure enhancements, and through documentation of collision repair best practices in a manner similar to the I-CAR UPCRs and certain I-CAR Advantage articles, and by incorporating this information into future I-CAR curriculum.
Additionally, across the industry, there exists varying perspectives on repair practices and an expressed need for balance amongst collision repairers, insurers, suppliers and OEMs. Ongoing work to improve collaboration and consensus in these areas must be performed from a perspective of neutrality with an uncompromising priority on complete and safe repairs for the consumer.
I-CAR is well placed and equipped to contribute to the breadth of this work. I-CAR’s inter-industry and neutral charter provides the unbiased perspective required.
Additionally, I-CAR will contribute: 1) Through its broad access to industry “Voice of the Customer” feedback and data; 2) By coordinating topic-specific Inter-Industry advisory councils of Subject Matter Expert’s to assess, define and recommend repair best practices; 3) By increasing the work I-CAR already does as a technical liaison with OEMs, and 4)
By providing increased accessibility to the information the industry requires to perform complete and safe repairs.
All of this work was integral to I-CAR’s final proposed solution, and is work the I-CAR Board believes is valuable to the collision repair Inter-Industry.
We trust this clarifies I-CAR’s position and intentions.
To the extent that this position should be communicated to other interested parties, you are authorized to communicate or publish this position, so long as it is communicated or published in its entirety.
With thanks and respect for all that your organizations do for the industry, and with our personal regards for your efforts, and on behalf of I-CAR and the I-CAR Board of Directors,
William Brower, Chairman & John S. Van Alstyne, CEO & President
I-CAR Board of Directors
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