DRIVEN BRANDS SEEKS TO INFORM INDUSTRY OF ADAS REQUIREMENTS

Story, photos by Allison Rogers

In early October, Driven Brands’ hosted an ADAS calibration and training event at its Canadian headquarters in Hamilton, Ontario, where Bill Davidge, CARSTAR’s director of innovation and technology, and Willy Williams, Uniban’s technical trainer, delivered an in-depth presentation and demonstration.

Attendees included collision repair facility owners, staff, and insurers representing various companies. About 70 industry professionals were in attendance—Driven Brands was actually forced to move the event to a larger venue due to industry interest.

The morning started with presentations from Davidge, Williams and the Repairify team before the crew moved across the street for a demonstration.

Attendees explored various Launch Tech targets while Lorenzo Pellicciotta of CARSTAR Oakville and Dave Marion of Launch Tech showed attendees how to complete two types of ADAS calibrations.

Marion first demonstrated a failed calibration, blocking the path between the vehicle and the target, to show the audience the error message that appeared on his tablet. Pellicciotta had also placed washers behind the sensor to prompt a calibration failure.

When the washers were removed and the path was clear, Marion demonstrated how quickly a proper calibration was completed. Williams then set up a glass calibration, marking targets on the floor and measuring precisely, down to the millimetre, with lasers. There is also the string method—while not as reliably precise as lasers—that some use to verify their work using a taut straight line. Williams also stressed the importance of checking OEM instructions between each step to ensure proper calibration, to OEM standards, is completed.

Documentation was another point stressed. A critical step when performing ADAS calibrations, as it can be used to confirm a proper calibration was completed on the collision centre’s part.

A full report is printed when the calibration is complete; there are also functionalities on several tools that allow collision centres to send reports directly to their records, or confirmation to the customer. There were plenty of questions following the session—primarily on the topic of access to information.

Davidge was the first to admit that the industry is far behind where it should be in terms of ADAS calibrations, and much of that problem comes from a lack of access to information.

All in all, attendees left the session armed with more ADAS information than they arrived with—though plenty of work needs to be done to address the knowledge gaps.

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"Cars in a Professional Collision Repair Workshop with Technicians Expertly Restoring Vehicles to Pre-Collision Glory"

Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

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