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
- I-CAR Just In Time: Operating An Electronic Headlamp Alignment System
I-CAR · May 20, 2025
This I-CAR Just In Time video resource demonstrates how to properly position, align, and operate an electronic headlamp alignment system. It guides technicians through the machine's setup steps and operational modes to ensure accurate headlamp aiming.
- I-CAR SRS Repairability Summit - SRS Inspection Feedback Form: UPDATE
I-CAR · May 14, 2025
This article details the outcomes of the I-CAR SRS Repairability Summit, which established an industry-wide initiative to collect data on supplemental restraint system (SRS) inspections. Collision repairers are encouraged to submit their SRS inspection findings to a centralized database to help…
- I-CAR Just In Time: DOT 4 Brake Fluid
I-CAR · May 12, 2025
This I-CAR Just In Time video highlights the critical differences between DOT 4 brake fluids, specifically Class 6 and Class 7. It emphasizes that these fluids are not interchangeable and that technicians must consult vehicle-specific OEM service information to ensure the correct fluid is used…
- Calibration Research Tips: Mazda Simultaneous Front Radar Calibration
I-CAR · May 9, 2025
This article highlights a unique Mazda ADAS calibration procedure where the front radar sensor and front side radar sensors can be calibrated simultaneously during a single test drive. This combined procedure is documented in vehicle-specific service manuals, such as the 2025 Mazda CX-30…
- Back-To-Basics: Troubleshooting Rivet Installation
I-CAR · May 8, 2025
This article highlights the importance of proper rivet installation and troubleshooting common issues such as non-fitting heads, loose sets, and mandrel pull-thru. It emphasizes that technicians must use the correct rivet type, grip range, and OEM-specified tools to ensure a safe and proper…
- I-CAR Just In Time: Power Window Motors
I-CAR · May 7, 2025
This I-CAR Just In Time article and video highlight the evolution of modern power window motors. It provides guidance on identifying these changes and handling the components correctly during collision repairs to prevent vehicle damage.
- Weld-Through Primer Guidelines: General Motors - UPDATE
I-CAR · May 2, 2025
This article outlines General Motors' guidelines for using weld-through primers during collision repairs, emphasizing that they must be applied to mating surfaces but removed from the direct weld zone prior to GMA welding. It directs technicians to vehicle-specific Body Repair Manuals (BRMs) to…
- I-CAR Repairers Realm: Part Installation At Factory Seams - Now Available
I-CAR · April 30, 2025
This I-CAR Repairers Realm episode and associated resources address the complexities of part installation at factory seams, focusing on panel preparation, attachment methods, corrosion protection, and required tooling. It highlights the critical differences between OEM requirements and product…
- Ford On Target 2025: Volume 1
I-CAR · April 29, 2025
The Ford On Target 2025: Volume 1 publication provides official repair guidelines including Lincoln Aviator rear rail sectioning, Ford Bronco Raptor front bumper installation, and plastic repair considerations. It also features Spanesi 3D measuring tips that emphasize having a second technician…
- Color Match: Blending And Tinting
I-CAR · April 25, 2025
This article outlines the complexities of automotive color matching, highlighting the factors that cause color variances and the tools available to address them. It emphasizes that blending and tinting are distinct, non-interchangeable processes, and that technicians must tint to achieve a…
- OEM Linking Pin: Ford/Lincoln Passenger Compartment Reinforcement Sectioning
I-CAR · April 24, 2025
This article clarifies Ford/Lincoln's official position on passenger compartment reinforcement sectioning, stating that it is strictly prohibited unless a vehicle-specific procedure is explicitly detailed in the Workshop Manual (WSM).
- Acura Released The 2022 MDX Model Series Body Repair News Bulletin: UPDATE
I-CAR · April 22, 2025
Acura has updated its 2022-present MDX Model Series Body Repair News bulletin to include new information regarding advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), paint precautions, and approved calibration equipment specifically for the 2025 MDX Type-S with the Advance Package. The bulletin serves…
- Polestar ADAS Position Statement Available
I-CAR · April 16, 2025
Polestar has released an official ADAS position statement covering bumper cover paint repairs, windshield replacements, and the mandatory use of OEM parts. The document is accessible via the I-CAR RTS Portal and outlines specific repair recommendations and restrictions for these systems.
- GM Repair Insights: Spring 2025
I-CAR · April 15, 2025
The Spring 2025 GM Repair Insights magazine highlights the refreshed 2025 GMC Terrain Elevation and its standard ADAS features, introduces an updated exterior door handle repair strategy for the Cadillac LYRIQ featuring individual replacement components, and provides windshield wiper inspection…
- Locating OEM-Approved HV Tools: Polestar
I-CAR · April 11, 2025
This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to locate and purchase OEM-approved high-voltage (HV) tools for Polestar vehicles using the Polestar Tech Hub website. It emphasizes the importance of using vehicle-specific service manuals to identify the correct tools, such as an HV DVOM,…
- Rivian Steering System Overview And Servicing Guideline
I-CAR · April 10, 2025
This Rivian guideline outlines the inspection and replacement requirements for steering system components following an accident. It mandates the replacement of the steering column, clockspring, and steering wheel if the steering wheel airbag deploys, and requires new fasteners for all steering,…
- Aluminum Heat Shrinking
I-CAR · April 9, 2025
This article outlines the process and precautions for heat-shrinking stretched aluminum panels, highlighting that aluminum is highly susceptible to stretching and dissipates heat rapidly. It emphasizes using an induction heater to quickly heat localized areas and strictly monitoring temperatures…
- Restraints System Mounting Location Repairability: Tesla
I-CAR · April 4, 2025
Tesla prohibits the repair of any body or structural components located in the vicinity of safety-related components such as airbags, seatbelts, impact sensors, and intrusion beams. Any such damaged components must be replaced rather than repaired to ensure the restraint system functions as…
- Body Construction And Material Guidelines: Rivian
I-CAR · April 3, 2025
This article outlines how to locate and utilize Rivian's vehicle-specific Material Matrix documents within their Service Manual. These color-coded documents identify body construction materials and define specific repair guidelines, including heat limitations, cold straightening rules,…
- OEM Linking Pin: Genesis Defines Surrounding Parts
I-CAR · April 2, 2025
This article clarifies the Genesis definition of 'surrounding parts' in relation to required Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) radar calibration. Genesis specifies that 'surrounding parts' include the grille, front license plate bracket, front bumper, and front bumper beam, and…
- Honda/Acura SRS Occupant Detection System Troubleshooting And Repair Information
I-CAR · March 28, 2025
This article highlights Honda and Acura Job Aids for SRS Occupant Detection Systems (ODS) covering 2000 and newer vehicles. These documents provide detailed procedures for troubleshooting, initializing, and calibrating the occupant position detection system (OPDS), occupant detection system…
- I-CAR Repairers Realm: Part Removal at Factory Seams Considerations - Now Available
I-CAR · March 26, 2025
This article introduces an I-CAR Repairers Realm episode focusing on the technical and safety considerations of removing vehicle parts at factory seams. It highlights the importance of dimensional accuracy before structural part removal, proper tool selection, and safety precautions when…
- I-CAR Just In Time: Steering Knuckle Damage Inspection And Inner Tie Rod Damage
I-CAR · March 25, 2025
This I-CAR Just In Time resource provides video guidance on inspecting steering and suspension components for collision damage. It demonstrates how to use a common carpenter's square to inspect a steering knuckle and highlights the importance of checking the hidden inner tie rod behind its dust…
- Repairer Driven News: Rivian Updates Door Handle Procedure
I-CAR · March 21, 2025
Rivian has updated its repair procedure for the R1S and R1T models to simplify the refinishing of the outer door handle trim. The updated procedure eliminates the previous requirement for extensive masking by allowing the removal and replacement of the exterior handgrip cover.
- High-Voltage Handling And Storage Considerations: General Motors - UPDATE
I-CAR · March 20, 2025
This article outlines General Motors' requirements and guidelines for handling, storing, and shipping high-voltage (HV) batteries and components during collision repairs. It directs technicians to specific service manual sections and the GM STC Hybrid Collision Awareness Guide for safety…
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