Estimating Essentials
Is there really a difference in preparing an estimate for a high-end vehicle versus a high-production vehicle? The answer is a resounding no! Both require education and training to ensure that proper and safe repairs are outlined in the estimate.
National Vehicle Extrication Program Comes to Washington State
On Sept. 10, Precision Collision Auto Body, a member of the National Auto Body Council (NABC), will deliver the latest in vehicle emergency occupant extrication training to local first responders. The First Responders Emergency Extrication (FREE) program is a four-hour course that incorporates classroom and hands-on instruction, including airbag deployment demonstrations and vehicle cutting techniques.
SUPER TECHNOLOGY ISSUE: Pedal to the Metal
Carmakers are introducing exotic metals to vehicle
structures at an alarming rate for the sake of fuel efficiency and passenger safety. Understanding their properties is key to quality repairs.
European Technology Trends Predict Future of U.S. Repairs, Mitchell Says
Europe’s experience with advanced vehicle technology predicts future changes in the U.S. collision repair industry, according to Mitchell’s latest Industry Trends Report (ITR), released today. This edition’s Quarterly Feature, "Looking at Europe to Predict the Future of U.S. Collision Repair," says that European manufacturers are tackling increased fuel efficiency and mileage targets and mandated side
Insurance Commissioners Request Review of ‘Outdated’ Aftermarket Parts Regulations
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has asked the Diamond Standard Brand Alternative Safety Part Division of Reflexxion Automotive and Production Bumper Stampings to review the model law governing aftermarket parts model regulations. Diamond Standard says the regulations, which outline for insurers the safeguards necessary for non-OEM parts to be permitted in repairs, are
State Farm Holding Select Service Training in New Jersey
State Farm has announced three training sessions in August in New Jersey for its Select Service shops. The training is meant for shop owners, technical managers, estimators, “A” technicians and unibody frame repairers. Chief Automotive Technologies and Car-O-Liner will be at the events offering training, discounts and other information about their products. State Farm said
Spot-On
Squeeze Type Resistance Spot Welding (STRSW) offers many advantages over MIG welding. But there are pitfalls to watch out for, which I have painfully experienced myself so you don’t have to.
I-CAR to Cover Emerging, Future Industry Trends at Meeting
The 2008 I-CAR International Annual Meeting will be an opportunity for the industry to not only provide feedback to I-CAR, but also receive firsthand information from a number of vehicle manufacturers and other organizations covering emerging technologies and trends within the industry. The meeting’s agenda includes several first-time presenters and technical information exclusive to attendees.
I-CAR Offers New Sectioning Guidelines
I-CAR has released a new set of guidelines for structural sectioning. Recent advancements in vehicle structure – driven by manufacturers looking for lighter, more crash-resistant designs – dictated the change. Advancements include the widespread use of advanced high-strength steels (AHHS) unsuited for sectioning because of their vulnerability to heat and structural design complexities increasingly specific
Service Repair Information: An Important Tool
Accessing manufacturers’ proper repair procedures during the preproduction phase or when creating a repair plan is crucial to being efficient and profitable.
