TechnicianVision · Knowledge base
Identifying The Correct Body Repair Manual: General Motors
I-CAR · May 5, 2023 · General Motors, Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick
Summary
This document explains how General Motors (GM) organizes its Body Repair Manuals (BRMs), which are often grouped by shared vehicle platforms rather than model year ranges. It highlights that some GM BRMs are highly specific to certain VIN digits or Regular Production Option (RPO) codes, especially during transition years where previous and new generation models are produced simultaneously.
What to do on the job
Always use the vehicle's VIN and check the 5th digit or specific RPO codes in the GM service website dropdown to select the correct Body Repair Manual before beginning repairs.
How to use it
Use this document to justify the administrative time spent researching and identifying the correct OEM repair procedures. It serves as evidence that simply selecting a vehicle by year and model is insufficient for GM vehicles, and that VIN-specific validation (such as checking the 5th VIN digit or RPO codes) is required to ensure the correct repair procedures and safety precautions are followed.
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