GM Announces Collision Certification Program Coming In 2018

General Motors has announced it will take the next step to ensure all collision repairs meet a higher set of standards. During the NACE automechanika Chicago, the automaker revealed its plans to launch a comprehensive collision certification program in 2018.

The program will build upon GM’s current standards, but adds new standards to pre- and post-repair scanning, calibration and the overall repair.

“Today’s certification programs have to evolve to keep up with the rapid-fire pace of technological innovation in the auto industry, especially in areas like safety systems,” said John Eck, collision manager, GM Customer Care and Aftersales. “Our new program is being designed to measure critical behaviors and procedures that will help ensure every collision repair is done to the highest standards, whether the work is done at a dealership, an independent body shop or by a multi-shop operator.”

The news follows GM’s initiative that stated all vehicles being assessed for collision damage repairs must be tested for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) during the repair estimation. GM vehicles must all be verified and tested post repair to ensure new faults haven’t been created in the repair process.

Additionally, GM wants to experiment with OnStar to provide drivers with information on qualified repair and collision shops.

“Depending on the vehicle’s repair needs and driver’s well-being, OnStar has the ability to help streamline the repair process while making the experience more convenient for our customers.”

Additional details surrounding the timeline have not been revealed at this time, though GM is working closely with Mitchell International and Enterprise Holdings on the program.