The Auto Body Parts Association (ABPA) is recommending that member distributors review the properties and testing standards of all aftermarket structural parts they carry and to drop any parts that may not perform up to OEM standards in collisions. ABPA is also calling for a halt in production of any unproven parts.

ABPA –  which represents more than 150 separate manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of independently produced crash replacement parts and accounts for more than 75 percent of all product sold in the field – is calling into question both domestic and imported bumper reinforcements, steel bumpers, bumper brackets, radiator supports and absorbers.

ABPA’s action is in response to a safety parts demonstration by I-CAR trainer Toby Chess at the Collision Industry Conference held Jan. 13-15 in Palm Springs, Calif. During the demonstration, Chess showed the audience the difference that exists in the material properties of several crash parts, which could impact the performance of structural parts in a vehicle collision.

Based on Chess’ demonstration and the ensuing concerns raised at the CIC meeting, ABPA notified its entire membership base that it should review testing standards and properties of the aftermarket parts it distributes. In cases where sufficient testing isn’t available, ABPA is recommending the parts be removed from estimating system databases, along with the discontinuation of sale and production of these parts.

“ABPA and the aftermarket collision parts industry are committed to working with any and all collision repair shops, insurers and related industry groups to assure the continued production and sales of collision replacement parts that are safe and of the highest quality,” said ABPA Board Chairman Charlie Hogarty.

ABPA National Secretary Dan Morrissey said he was encouraged that Chess’ presentation included positive comments on the aftermarket testing program and products produced by an ABPA member company.

ABPA says the majority of its members have long supported certification and testing programs such as the Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) certification program. ABPA says these testing programs are designed to assure members that the parts sold are of the highest possible quality and provide the safety and protection that body shops and the motoring public expect.

• CAPA Says Testing Only Way to Prove Part Quality

• OEM, Aftermarket Debate Crash Part Patents at CIC

• To contact ABPA Executive Director Stan Rodman, call (800) 323-5832