Collision repair knowledge base
Plain-English summaries of OEM position statements, I-CAR procedures and the rulings behind them — each one linked back to the document it came from.
497 documents
- BMW Vehicles On The RTS OEM Calibration Requirements Search
I-CAR · October 3, 2025
BMW vehicles on the RTS OEM Calibration Requirements Search direct users to refer to the OEM scan tool for camera/sensor identification and calibration requirements. Because BMW houses most ADAS calibration procedures and configuration-specific details directly within the scan tool rather than…
- Body Construction And Material Repair Guidelines: Toyota/Lexus - UPDATE
I-CAR · September 30, 2025
This article outlines how to locate body construction materials and repair guidelines for Toyota and Lexus vehicles within their Body Repair Manuals (BRMs). It highlights that material specifications (MPa and steel types) are found under the "Structural Outline" section, and notes that any…
- I-CAR Repairers Realm: Ford Explorer Rear Rail Sectioning - Now Available
I-CAR · September 26, 2025
This article highlights an I-CAR Repairers Realm episode featuring Ford's Gerry Bonanni, which details the approved rear rail sectioning procedures for the 2020-2025 Ford Explorer. It addresses critical repair aspects such as minimizing heat at the sectioning joint, joining methods, and why the…
- Digital Key Considerations: FCA/Stellantis
I-CAR · September 24, 2025
This article outlines FCA/Stellantis requirements for vehicles equipped with Smart Phone As A Key (SPAAK) and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. It highlights that technicians require customer-provided access for digital keys, replacing the Digital Key Control Module (DKCM) requires new…
- App-Based Connected Services Considerations: FCA/Stellantis
I-CAR · September 24, 2025
FCA/Stellantis vehicles utilize app-based connected services that can trigger owner notifications or remote starts during shop repairs. Because there is no specific OEM service mode to disable remote start, technicians must consult section 08-Electrical in the service information to manage these…
- Backup Battery And Low-Voltage Disconnect: Mazda
I-CAR · September 19, 2025
This article outlines Mazda's requirements for vehicles equipped with a backup lead-acid battery (sub), which powers critical modules like the PCM and DMCM. It highlights the necessity of disconnecting both the main and sub-battery terminals during electric welding and explains how the vehicle…
- Body Repair Manual Symbols: Kia
I-CAR · September 17, 2025
This article outlines how to locate and interpret the symbols used in Kia Body Repair Manuals (BRMs) to designate specific repair operations. These symbols, found in the General Information section, detail crucial removal and installation instructions such as cut locations, weld types, and…
- I-CAR Just In Time: Mirror Matching Parts
I-CAR · September 15, 2025
This I-CAR 'Just In Time' educational resource emphasizes the critical role of mirror-matching and inspecting replacement parts against the damaged original parts early in the repair process. By conducting these inspections immediately upon parts receipt, collision repair facilities can catch…
- I-CAR Just In Time: Blend Panel Prep And Toner Replacement
I-CAR · September 10, 2025
This I-CAR article introduces two "Just in Time" instructional videos focusing on refinishing techniques: preparing blend panels with an emphasis on panel edges, and safely replacing toners on a mixing bank. It highlights the importance of preventing contamination and consulting paint-maker…
- GM Repair Insights: Summer 2025
I-CAR · September 8, 2025
The Summer 2025 GM Repair Insights highlights the 2025 Buick Enclave with Super Cruise ADAS and explains GM's Transport Mode. Transport Mode extends 12V battery life during storage by limiting high-voltage battery charging to 30% and disabling active safety features.
- Audi Restraints Wiring: UPDATE
I-CAR · September 5, 2025
This article outlines Audi's specific requirements for repairing supplemental restraint system (SRS) wiring. Audi allows a maximum of two repairs per harness, which must be located within 30 cm of the connector housing and follow strict wire length and twisting specifications.
- Repairers Realm: GMA Welding Machine Technology, Setup, And Maintenance - Now Available
I-CAR · September 2, 2025
This article highlights an I-CAR Repairers Realm episode focusing on GMA welding machine technology, setup, and maintenance. It addresses modern machine evolution, calibration requirements, common mistakes, and the importance of proper training to achieve consistent, high-quality welds.
- Ford And Lincoln Restraints Wiring: UPDATE
I-CAR · August 29, 2025
This article clarifies Ford and Lincoln's policy on supplemental restraint system (SRS) wiring repairs. It states that individual restraint terminals cannot be repaired or replaced with individual pins/terminals, but Ford now allows the use of approved Wiring Pigtail Kits specifically designed…
- High-Voltage Vehicle Research Tips: GM BEV Low-Voltage Battery Disconnection
I-CAR · August 28, 2025
This article outlines critical safety precautions for disconnecting the 12V low-voltage battery on General Motors (GM) battery electric vehicles (BEVs). It highlights GM's Battery Maintenance Mode, which can automatically energize 12V battery cables to charge the low-voltage system even when the…
- High-Voltage Vehicle Research Tips
I-CAR · August 28, 2025
This article emphasizes the critical importance of thoroughly researching and adhering to OEM-specific procedures, warnings, and precautions for high-voltage (HV) vehicles. It notes that safety and repair requirements can vary significantly by specific model and trim package.
- GM Part Replacement Without A Procedure
I-CAR · August 22, 2025
This article outlines GM's guidelines for replacing service parts when a vehicle-specific procedure is not available. In such cases, technicians must use the 'Resistance Spot Welded Full Panel Replacement' or 'MIG Welded Full Panel Replacement' procedures for panels replaced at factory seams.
- Digital Key Considerations: Ford/Lincoln
I-CAR · August 19, 2025
This article outlines Ford and Lincoln's 'Phone As A Key' digital key technology, detailing where to locate system-specific procedures in the Workshop Manual (WSM) under the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) section. It highlights the requirement to perform a Remote Function Actuator (RFA) module…
- App-Based Connected Services Considerations: Ford/Lincoln
I-CAR · August 19, 2025
This article outlines safety precautions and procedures for Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with app-based connected services and Telematics Control Units (TCUs). It warns that these vehicles can remote-start unexpectedly and details how to disable the system during service. Additionally, it…
- Volkswagen Restraints Wiring: UPDATE
I-CAR · August 14, 2025
This article outlines Volkswagen's strict policy regarding Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring repairs. It establishes that technicians must not attempt to repair SRS wiring or related components on any Volkswagen vehicle unless explicitly permitted by official VWoA repair procedures, and…
- Jaguar Land Rover Restraints Wiring: UPDATE
I-CAR · August 14, 2025
This article clarifies Jaguar Land Rover's position on supplemental restraint system (SRS) wiring repairs, confirming they are permitted under strict guidelines. Repairs must be performed using only the manufacturer's recommended pre-terminated leads, overlays, and approved repair kits as…
- Great Designs In Steel 2025 Presentations: A Closer Look At The VW ID.Buzz Body-In-White Construction
I-CAR · August 8, 2025
This article highlights the Great Designs in Steel (GDIS) 2025 presentation on the Volkswagen ID.Buzz Body-In-White (BIW) construction. It provides an overview of the vehicle's body structure, crash performance, stiffness, and construction materials to assist collision repairers.
- Backup Battery And Low-Voltage Disconnect: Kia
I-CAR · August 6, 2025
This article outlines Kia's safety and deactivation procedures for vehicles equipped with a 12V Auxiliary Parking-Lithium Battery Module (P-LBM). Before disconnecting the main 12V battery, technicians must follow specific steps to ensure the P-LBM is deactivated and no residual voltage remains…
- Backup Battery And Low-Voltage Disconnect
I-CAR · August 6, 2025
This article explains the function of backup and auxiliary batteries, which maintain power to critical systems like telematics when the main 12-volt battery is disconnected. It highlights that these batteries are often non-rechargeable, must be replaced if depleted, and require specific OEM…
- OEM-Approved Connector And Pigtail Repair Resources: Jaguar Land Rover
I-CAR · August 1, 2025
This article outlines the resources and procedures for identifying and repairing Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) wiring harnesses, connectors, and pigtails. It directs technicians to the JLR Workshop Manual (Section 418-02) and explains how to use the Interactive Electrical Wiring Diagram (iEWD) on…
- Ford On Target 2025: Volume 2
I-CAR · July 31, 2025
The Ford On Target 2025: Volume 2 publication provides updated repair guidelines, focusing on corrosion protection processes, EV updates for Ford and Lincoln vehicles, repair-versus-replace criteria for the 2025 Ford Expedition, and plastic repair techniques.
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