Last month, General Motors launched the GM Collision Repair Network in an effort to ensure its vehicles receive quality attention. Not only does the program push for OEM parts usage, but the automaker also believes it will help streamline operations.
Automotive News (subscription required) reported Saturday the network will launch in 2019 with a focus on customer safety and the streamlined process should have shops spending less time diagnosing and performing repairs. Dealership body shops and independent shops interested in joining the GM Collision Repair Network will have to submit an audit of their shops, equipment and training.
Furthermore, the shops must have been in business for at least five years, hold adequate credit levels, insurance coverage, service history and customer satisfaction.
But, one of the main benefits of the program is the use of OEM parts for a proper fit.
“Every shop would prefer to use OEM collision parts due to their superior quality and fit,” said Peter Lanzavecchia, president of Burns Buick-GMC in Marlton, New Jersey.
“The insurance industry has a rather strong domination of the collision repair industry,” Lanzavecchia added. “The OEM certification program gives shops a little muscle to push back.”
Automotive insurance companies often turn to aftermarket replacement parts due to their cost and insist they do not affect a vehicle’s safety. However, GM asserts the repair network is committed to proper repair processes Rachel Rodriguez, a wholesale collision channel specialist for GM, said when something goes wrong after a repair, customers often blame the vehicle if something hasn’t been completed properly.
“We want to make sure that the shop has access to the latest repair procedures, and that the procedures are followed,” she said, and added the program could shave two to three hours off of a collision job.
Shops within the network will receive counsel and instructions to use factory parts and components for repairs rather than aftermarket of salvage parts.
No Comments yet