Why Chevrolet Says You Should Not Use Salvage or Recycled Parts in Collision Repair and How This Affects You

GM wants your Chevy to have the most reliable replacement parts.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases “Position Statements” that instruct body shops in how to perform repairs on their vehicles to the highest standard.  While all body shops should have access to this vital information, not all shops take the time to read the statements and follow the directions expressed by the manufacturers.  At our shop, we closely examine these statements because we make it our mission to provide the best possible repair to our Chevrolet customers.

In a statement released by GM, they explain in detail why they do not recommend the use of salvage or recycled parts in Chevy repairs:

“General Motors does not support the use of salvage or recycled parts due to the sensitive nature of the safety and performance of General Motors vehicles. Salvage or recycled parts are defined as parts removed from a previously damaged vehicle and then re-installed on a different vehicle.”

 

Image of Chevrolet

 

Salvage and recycled parts come with a lot of risk.

Salvage and recycled parts can often have a questionable history.  They might have been involved in a previous collision or damaged during normal wear and tear.  They might have been in storage for a while or exposed to extreme temperature variations.  Because of these factors and the questionable conditions that the parts might have been exposed to, it’s nearly impossible to predict their durability and structural integrity.  Even the most minute disparities can lead to problems during assembly, as well as issues with the reliability of your repair.

GM specify the following in their Position Statement:

“The use of non-OEM structural components may compromise the overall crashworthiness and occupant safety of General Motors vehicles in a subsequent collision.”

They are saying that, above all, salvage and recycled parts can pose a risk to your safety due to their unpredictable nature.

 

Why new OEM parts are the best:

It’s extremely important to use the best replacement parts for your Chevy when repairs are needed, and the best parts are always new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.

According to GM:

“Genuine GM Parts are designed and constructed using metals with specific properties, thicknesses and stamping features built to perform in a consistent and predictable way during a collision event.  GM recommends the use of Genuine GM Parts in repairs to help ensure the vehicle is returned to pre-collision condition.”

The engineers at GM have rigorously designed, tested, and manufactured the parts for their specific vehicles.  They only trust the parts they have produced to meet the qualifications necessary for your specific make, model, and vehicle year.  You’ll need new OEM parts if you want your vehicle to be as good as new after your collision repair. 

 

Image of Chevrolet

 

We take these guidelines seriously at our shop.

We take all manufacturers’ Position Statements very seriously at our shop, because we care about your safety AND your wallet.  Despite the recommendation to use new OEM parts in repairs, some shops will continue to use salvage and recycled parts, even though this choice can jeopardize your vehicle and your safety.  It might shock you to learn that body shops are not forced to abide by the manufacturers’ guidelines.  

When you take your Chevrolet to us for repairs, we will use only new Chevrolet OEM replacement parts so that you don’t risk future problems with your car that could potentially lead to an accident.  There is no guarantee that every shop will make the smartest and safest choice for your car, but rest assured, we always will.

Why GM Discourages Reconditioned Wheels and Why That’s Crucial for Your Buick

GM doesn’t want you to jeopardize your safety with reconditioned wheels.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases Position Statements explaining what methods of auto body repair they do or do not recommend.  While some shops disregard these statements, we take a fine-tooth comb to the information they provide so that we can provide the best possible repair for every vehicle that comes through our doors.

In the case of wheel reconditioning, GM has issued a Position Statement clearly discouraging this practice in any Buick repairs.  If you are not familiar with wheel reconditioning, it is a process of using various tools and methods to try to repair a damaged wheel, instead of replacing it entirely.  Some methods include welding, reforming, or reshaping the wheel.  

Here’s what they say:

“GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening or re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel’s coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed.  In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer’s responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished.”

The problem with reconditioning methods, such as heating, welding, and reshaping, is that these techniques could compromise the structural integrity of your wheels.  If a wheel is damaged enough to warrant reconditioning, then it should just be replaced outright.       

Being the only parts of the car to actually make contact with the road, your wheels are essential to your safety and are worth investing the proper time and energy into.  It is simply not worth the risk to your life to take chances with the condition of your vehicle’s wheels.

 

Image of Buick

 

Why does GM approve of wheel refinishing?

While wheel reconditioning is not approved of by GM, certain cosmetic repairs are fine.  It’s important that the wheels are carefully inspected first for any cracks, gouges, or bending. 

GM says:

“A refinisher’s responsibility includes inspecting for cracks using the Zyglo system or the equivalent. Any cracked wheels must not be refinished. No welding, hammering or reforming of any kind is allowed. The wheel ID must be recorded and follow the wheel throughout the process in order to assure that the same wheel is returned. Material removal, though, must be kept to a minimum. Re-machining of the wheel is not allowed. Paint and/or clear coat must not be present on the following surfaces: the nut chambers, the wheel mounting surfaces and the wheel pilot hole. The refinisher must permanently ID stamp the wheel and warrant the painted/clear-coated surfaces for a minimum of one year or the remainder of the new vehicle warranty, whichever is longer.”

As you can see, GM provides very clear instructions for the procedures we must follow while inspecting and refinishing your Buick’s wheels.  If the damage is something that can easily be sanded or painted, then refinishing is acceptable.  If the damage is more than superficial, then the wheels must be replaced.  

Superficial cosmetic adjustments are allowed, since they won’t jeopardize the integrity of the wheel structure.  Minor sanding and polishing repairs do not involve the use of heat or reshaping that reconditioning would entail.  

 

 

Image of Buick

Not all shops follow these recommendations, but we do.

It’s disappointing, but some shops throw caution out the window and continue to practice wheel reconditioning, despite GM’s adamant recommendation to avoid this practice at all costs.  They can get away with this because no body shop is actually forced to adhere to a manufacturer’s Position Statement.  

At our shop, we strongly believe that there’s no reason to take a chance with your Buick’s repair by going against the advice of the manufacturer.  Reconditioned wheels can lead to very dangerous problems down the road.  We will always replace your Buick’s wheels entirely if they’ve sustained significant damage or we will follow proper refinishing methods if the damage is cosmetic. 

You won’t have to worry about driving on unstable wheels when you bring your vehicle to us.  We always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in order to deliver the safest possible repair to our customers. 

GM Says It’s Dangerous to Use Salvage Structural Parts on Your Chevrolet—Here’s Why You Should Care

Preserve the structural integrity of your Chevy by using only the best replacement parts.

When you take your Chevy to a body shop for collision repair, of course you’re going to want the job to be done as safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively as possible.  At our shop, one of the ways we can ensure the best possible repair for our customers is by adhering to the recommendations of each vehicle’s manufacturer.  

Just about every manufacturer provides “Position Statements” that explain how to repair their types of vehicles properly.  Some shops toss this advice out the window, but we believe it’s imperative to study the information carefully and follow the recommendations as expressed by the manufacturer.

GM has issued a Position Statement about the reuse of salvage structural parts on their Chevrolets and here’s what they say:

“General Motors does not approve of or support structural repair procedures where Genuine GM Parts are not used for Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles. Any repairs performed not using Genuine GM Parts may expose current or future vehicle owners and occupants to unnecessary risk.”

Essentially, they are explaining that it would be detrimental to your safety if salvage structural parts are used in a repair.

 

Image of Chevrolet

 

How are structural parts different from any other parts?

Structural parts include floor elements, body panels, frame rails, and more that basically hold your vehicle together. 

You might already be aware that GM disapproves of salvage parts in general for your vehicle, but it’s specifically important to preserve the integrity of your structural components, as they are the sections of your car that can help minimize damage in the event of a collision.

According to GM, “Structural parts are critical elements in the design of specific crush zones that allow the energy of a collision to be absorbed in a predictable way and maximize the effectiveness of the restraint system to protect the occupants. The use of parts not specifically designed and tested by General Motors may compromise the integral balance between these safety systems.”

 

Here’s the problem with salvage structural parts.

The biggest problem with salvage parts is that it’s impossible to know the quality of their condition by the time they get to you.  They might be from a car that was already involved in a collision or experienced extreme weather fluctuations or simply survived general wear and tear.  Even upon close inspection, it’s often impossible to see all the microscopic damage a salvage part might have endured. 

Keep in mind that even very minor discrepancies in material or shape can cause a structural part to become less effective and, therefore, less safe to use on your vehicle.

 

The best replacement structural parts for your Chevrolet are Genuine GM Parts.

General Motors explains in their Position Statement that the only parts you should ever use on your Chevy are new OEM parts:

“Only authentic Genuine GM Parts are designed, engineered, manufactured and tested to the General Motors internal and government mandated standards and are the only ones equivalent to the original equipment installed on the vehicle.”  

Unlike salvage parts, new Original Equipment Manufacturer parts have never been used, never been exposed to the elements, never been rendered defective by improper disassembly.  New structural parts are made to function optimally on your vehicle, increasing your car’s performance and your personal safety.

 

Image of Chevrolet

 

While other shops might disregard GM’s recommendations, we respect this information because we care about the quality of your repair.

It might be surprising to you, but collision repair shops are not required to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  There’s no one actually enforcing these Position Statements, so manufacturers are putting their trust in us to do as they recommend.  

At our shop, we genuinely care about every repair we do.  Because of this, we make sure to follow GM’s recommendation of using new replacement structural parts, instead of taking chances with salvage components.  It is our mission to do what’s best for your vehicle’s performance and for your safety.

  

Why Buick Says You Should Not Use Salvage or Recycled Parts in Collision Repair and Why That’s Important

The right replacement parts can make all the difference.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases “Position Statements” that instruct body shops in how to perform repairs on their vehicles to the highest standard.  While all body shops should have access to this vital information, not all shops take the time to read the statements and follow the directions expressed by the manufacturers.  At our shop, we closely examine these statements because we make it our mission to provide the best possible repair to our Buick customers.

In a statement released by GM, they explain in detail why they do not recommend the use of salvage or recycled parts in Buick repairs:

“General Motors does not support the use of salvage or recycled parts due to the sensitive nature of the safety and performance of General Motors vehicles. Salvage or recycled parts are defined as parts removed from a previously damaged vehicle and then re-installed on a different vehicle.”

 

Image of Buick

 

Salvage and recycled parts come with a lot of risk.

Salvage and recycled parts can often have a questionable history.  They might have been involved in a previous collision or damaged during normal wear and tear.  They might have been in storage for a while or exposed to extreme temperature variations.  Because of these factors and the questionable conditions that the parts might have been exposed to, it’s nearly impossible to predict their durability and structural integrity.  Even the most minute disparities can lead to problems during assembly, as well as issues with the reliability of your repair.

GM specify the following in their Position Statement:

“The use of non-OEM structural components may compromise the overall crashworthiness and occupant safety of General Motors vehicles in a subsequent collision.”

They are saying that, above all, salvage and recycled parts can pose a risk to your safety due to their unpredictable nature.

 

Why new OEM parts are the best:

It’s extremely important to use the best replacement parts for your Buick when repairs are needed, and the best parts are always new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.

According to GM:

“Genuine GM Parts are designed and constructed using metals with specific properties, thicknesses and stamping features built to perform in a consistent and predictable way during a collision event.  GM recommends the use of Genuine GM Parts in repairs to help ensure the vehicle is returned to pre-collision condition.”

The engineers at GM have rigorously designed, tested, and manufactured the parts for their specific vehicles.  They only trust the parts they have produced to meet the qualifications necessary for your specific make, model, and vehicle year.  You’ll need new OEM parts if you want your vehicle to be as good as new after your collision repair. 

 

Image of Buick

 

We take these guidelines seriously at our shop.

We take all manufacturers’ Position Statements very seriously at our shop, because we care about your safety AND your wallet.  Despite the recommendation to use new OEM parts in repairs, some shops will continue to use salvage and recycled parts, even though this choice can jeopardize your vehicle and your safety.  It might shock you to learn that body shops are not forced to abide by the manufacturers’ guidelines.  

When you take your Buick to us for repairs, we will use only new Buick OEM replacement parts so that you don’t risk future problems with your car that could potentially lead to an accident.  There is no guarantee that every shop will make the smartest and safest choice for your car, but rest assured, we always will.

Why GM Rejects Reconditioned Wheels and How This Affects Your Chevrolet Repair

Wheel reconditioning is never a good idea in collision repair.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases Position Statements explaining what methods of auto body repair they do or do not recommend.  While some shops disregard these statements, we take a fine-tooth comb to the information they provide so that we can provide the best possible repair for every vehicle that comes through our doors.

In the case of wheel reconditioning, GM has issued a Position Statement clearly discouraging this practice in any Chevrolet repairs.  If you are not familiar with wheel reconditioning, it is a process of using various tools and methods to try to repair a damaged wheel, instead of replacing it entirely.  Some methods include welding, reforming, or reshaping the wheel.  

Here’s what they say:

“GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening or re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel’s coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed.  In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer’s responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished.”

The problem with reconditioning methods, such as heating, welding, and reshaping, is that these techniques could compromise the structural integrity of your wheels.  If a wheel is damaged enough to warrant reconditioning, then it should just be replaced outright.       

Being the only parts of the car to actually make contact with the road, your wheels are essential to your safety and are worth investing the proper time and energy into.  It is simply not worth the risk to your life to take chances with the condition of your vehicle’s wheels.

 

Image of Chevrolet

 

Why does GM approve of wheel refinishing?

While wheel reconditioning is not approved of by GM, certain cosmetic repairs are fine.  It’s important that the wheels are carefully inspected first for any cracks, gouges, or bending. 

GM says:

“A refinisher’s responsibility includes inspecting for cracks using the Zyglo system or the equivalent. Any cracked wheels must not be refinished. No welding, hammering or reforming of any kind is allowed. The wheel ID must be recorded and follow the wheel throughout the process in order to assure that the same wheel is returned. Material removal, though, must be kept to a minimum. Re-machining of the wheel is not allowed. Paint and/or clear coat must not be present on the following surfaces: the nut chambers, the wheel mounting surfaces and the wheel pilot hole. The refinisher must permanently ID stamp the wheel and warrant the painted/clear-coated surfaces for a minimum of one year or the remainder of the new vehicle warranty, whichever is longer.”

As you can see, GM provides very clear instructions for the procedures we must follow while inspecting and refinishing your Chevy’s wheels.  If the damage is something that can easily be sanded or painted, then refinishing is acceptable.  If the damage is more than superficial, then the wheels must be replaced.  

Superficial cosmetic adjustments are allowed, since they won’t jeopardize the integrity of the wheel structure.  Minor sanding and polishing repairs do not involve the use of heat or reshaping that reconditioning would entail.  

 

Image of Chevrolet

 

Not all shops follow these recommendations, but we do.

It’s disappointing, but some shops throw caution out the window and continue to practice wheel reconditioning, despite GM’s adamant recommendation to avoid this practice at all costs.  They can get away with this because no body shop is actually forced to adhere to a manufacturer’s Position Statement.  

At our shop, we strongly believe that there’s no reason to take a chance with your Chevy’s repair by going against the advice of the manufacturer.  Reconditioned wheels can lead to very dangerous problems down the road.  We will always replace your Chevrolet’s wheels entirely if they’ve sustained significant damage or we will follow proper refinishing methods if the damage is cosmetic.  You won’t have to worry about driving on unstable wheels when you bring your vehicle to us.  We always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in order to deliver the safest possible repair to our customers. 

GM Says It’s Dangerous to Use Salvage Structural Parts on Your Buick—Here’s Why They’re Right

GM wants you to use only the best replacement parts on your Buick.

When you take your Buick to a body shop for collision repair, of course you’re going to want the job to be done as safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively as possible.  At our shop, one of the ways we can ensure the best possible repair for our customers is by adhering to the recommendations of each vehicle’s manufacturer.  

Just about every manufacturer provides “Position Statements” that explain how to repair their types of vehicles properly.  Some shops toss this advice out the window, but we believe it’s imperative to study the information carefully and follow the recommendations as expressed by the manufacturer.

GM has issued a Position Statement about the reuse of salvage structural parts on their Buicks and here’s what they say:

“General Motors does not approve of or support structural repair procedures where Genuine GM Parts are not used for Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles. Any repairs performed not using Genuine GM Parts may expose current or future vehicle owners and occupants to unnecessary risk.”

Essentially, they are explaining that it would be detrimental to your safety if salvage structural parts are used in a repair.

 

Image of Buick

 

How are structural parts different from any other parts?

Structural parts include floor elements, body panels, frame rails, and more that basically hold your vehicle together. 

You might already be aware that GM disapproves of salvage parts in general for your vehicle, but it’s specifically important to preserve the integrity of your structural components, as they are the sections of your car that can help minimize damage in the event of a collision.

According to GM, “Structural parts are critical elements in the design of specific crush zones that allow the energy of a collision to be absorbed in a predictable way and maximize the effectiveness of the restraint system to protect the occupants. The use of parts not specifically designed and tested by General Motors may compromise the integral balance between these safety systems.”

 

Here’s the problem with salvage structural parts.

The biggest problem with salvage parts is that it’s impossible to know the quality of their condition by the time they get to you.  They might be from a car that was already involved in a collision or experienced extreme weather fluctuations or simply survived general wear and tear.  Even upon close inspection, it’s often impossible to see all the microscopic damage a salvage part might have endured. 

Keep in mind that even very minor discrepancies in material or shape can cause a structural part to become less effective and, therefore, less safe to use on your vehicle.

 

The best replacement structural parts for your Buick are Genuine GM Parts.

General Motors explains in their Position Statement that the only parts you should ever use on your Buick are new OEM parts:

“Only authentic Genuine GM Parts are designed, engineered, manufactured and tested to the General Motors internal and government mandated standards and are the only ones equivalent to the original equipment installed on the vehicle.”  

Unlike salvage parts, new Original Equipment Manufacturer parts have never been used, never been exposed to the elements, never been rendered defective by improper disassembly.  New structural parts are made to function optimally on your vehicle, increasing your car’s performance and your personal safety.

 

Image of Buick

 

While other shops might disregard GM’s recommendations, we respect this information because we care about the quality of your repair.

It might be surprising to you, but collision repair shops are not required to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  There’s no one actually enforcing these Position Statements, so manufacturers are putting their trust in us to do as they recommend.  

At our shop, we genuinely care about every repair we do.  Because of this, we make sure to follow GM’s recommendation of using new replacement structural parts, instead of taking chances with salvage components.  It is our mission to do what’s best for your vehicle’s performance and for your safety.

Why It’s Essential That GM Recommends Pre- and Post-Repair Scans for Your Buick

GM wants to make sure that your Buick is repaired thoroughly.

If your Buick has been in a collision, there are very specific steps that an auto body shop needs to take in order to optimize your vehicle’s repairs.  One of the smartest things that a shop can do is to review the manufacturer’s Position Statement regarding the type of repair needed.  While every shop has access to this communication from each manufacturer, not every shop abides by the recommendations provided. 

At our shop, however, we take this information very seriously, since we want to give you a safe and reliable repair.

In the case of your Buick, GM has issued a statement explaining why they strongly recommend pre- and post-repair scans in the event of a collision.  If you are not familiar with these procedures and why they are important, keep reading for our explanation of the key points expressed in GM’s Position Statement.

 

Image of Buick

 

Scans can provide shops with crucial diagnostic information.

Prior to conducting any repairs, we take the time to run a scan tool in order to uncover any damage to the vehicle’s internal systems.  The scan tool will provide diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that tell us exactly which systems are having issues.  When armed with this crucial information, we are better equipped to get to the source of any malfunctions.

Of course it makes sense that a shop would need to scan a vehicle to diagnose and repair damage after a collision, but it’s equally important for us to scan a vehicle AGAIN after we have made repairs.  Why?  Here’s what GM says about it:

“Even minor body damage or glass replacement may result in damage to one or more safety-related systems on the vehicle. Any action that results in loss of battery-supplied voltage and disconnection of electrical circuits requires that the vehicle is subsequently tested to ensure proper electrical function.  Many safety and security-related components, sensors and Electronic Control Units (ECUs) require calibration and/or learns when replaced. These systems must be repaired according to the corresponding GM repair procedures in Service Information (GMSi).”

What GM means is that any collision repair can impact the electronic systems within a vehicle—even when those systems are not the specific items needing repairs. 

As cars have become more sophisticated and technologically advanced, they are now equipped with more wires and sensors that can easily be disrupted when certain areas of the car are being addressed by an auto body technician.  Repairing a dashboard or replacing glass could potentially lead to a disruption of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), for instance.  All parts of your Buick are designed to work together.  When one part is impaired, this can affect a slew of functions within your car’s systems.   

Another issue that can happen after a repair is that a system might need to be recalibrated.  Cameras and sensors, for example, require very specific positions in order to function as needed.  After a repair, it’s imperative to ensure that every part is calibrated to the precise measurement.    

One of the best ways for us to ensure that a repair was done properly is to run a scan tool afterwards to ensure no diagnostic codes appear.  This will let us know if all systems are functioning as they should.

 

The best way to scan for DTCs is with a factory scan tool.

Every car manufacturer has its own unique scan tool that can identify codes applicable to its own vehicles.  General Motors is no different and recommends that shops use its scan tool (MDI or a J2534 device) and its own diagnostic software (GDS2 or Tech2/Tech2Win).  Using any other scan tool or software can cause less accuracy in diagnoses.     

 

Image of Buick

 

The utmost safety and quality performance of your Buick are the reasons why our shop goes above and beyond with every repair.

If a shop makes the choice to skip the crucial steps of pre- and post-repair scans, they are risking the safety and overall performance of your Buick.  It might be hard to believe, but some shops try to shave off repair time by avoiding these necessary procedures.  At a minimum, this might lead to minor inconsistencies in your vehicle’s performance.  At worst, however, this could lead to catastrophe.  If your collision detection sensors aren’t calibrated properly or your cruise control is defective due to wiring issues, for instance, you could end up in an accident. 

We don’t think it’s worth the risk to you or to your car to ignore the manufacturer’s recommendations.  At our shop, we make pre- and post-repair scans a priority.

Why GM Discourages Reconditioned Wheels and Why That’s Crucial for Your GMC

Reconditioning compromises the structural integrity of your wheels.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases Position Statements explaining what methods of auto body repair they do or do not recommend.  While some shops disregard these statements, we take a fine-tooth comb to the information they provide so that we can provide the best possible repair for every vehicle that comes through our doors.

In the case of wheel reconditioning, GM has issued a Position Statement clearly discouraging this practice in any GMC repairs.  If you are not familiar with wheel reconditioning, it is a process of using various tools and methods to try to repair a damaged wheel, instead of replacing it entirely.  Some methods include welding, reforming, or reshaping the wheel.  

Here’s what they say:

“GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening or re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel’s coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed.  In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer’s responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished.”

The problem with reconditioning methods, such as heating, welding, and reshaping, is that these techniques could compromise the structural integrity of your wheels.  If a wheel is damaged enough to warrant reconditioning, then it should just be replaced outright.       

Being the only parts of the car to actually make contact with the road, your wheels are essential to your safety and are worth investing the proper time and energy into.  It is simply not worth the risk to your life to take chances with the condition of your vehicle’s wheels.

 

Image of a GMC

 

Why does GM approve of wheel refinishing?

While wheel reconditioning is not approved of by GM, certain cosmetic repairs are fine.  It’s important that the wheels are carefully inspected first for any cracks, gouges, or bending. 

GM says:

“A refinisher’s responsibility includes inspecting for cracks using the Zyglo system or the equivalent. Any cracked wheels must not be refinished. No welding, hammering or reforming of any kind is allowed. The wheel ID must be recorded and follow the wheel throughout the process in order to assure that the same wheel is returned. Material removal, though, must be kept to a minimum. Re-machining of the wheel is not allowed. Paint and/or clear coat must not be present on the following surfaces: the nut chambers, the wheel mounting surfaces and the wheel pilot hole. The refinisher must permanently ID stamp the wheel and warrant the painted/clear-coated surfaces for a minimum of one year or the remainder of the new vehicle warranty, whichever is longer.”

As you can see, GM provides very clear instructions for the procedures we must follow while inspecting and refinishing your GMC’s wheels.  If the damage is something that can easily be sanded or painted, then refinishing is acceptable.  If the damage is more than superficial, then the wheels must be replaced.  

Superficial cosmetic adjustments are allowed, since they won’t jeopardize the integrity of the wheel structure.  Minor sanding and polishing repairs do not involve the use of heat or reshaping that reconditioning would entail.  

 

Image of a GMC

 

Not all shops follow these recommendations, but we do.

It’s disappointing, but some shops throw caution out the window and continue to practice wheel reconditioning, despite GM’s adamant recommendation to avoid this practice at all costs.  They can get away with this because no body shop is actually forced to adhere to a manufacturer’s Position Statement.  

At our shop, we strongly believe that there’s no reason to take a chance with your GMC’s repair by going against the advice of the manufacturer.  Reconditioned wheels can lead to very dangerous problems down the road.  We will always replace your GMC’s wheels entirely if they’ve sustained significant damage or we will follow proper refinishing methods if the damage is cosmetic. 

You won’t have to worry about driving on unstable wheels when you bring your vehicle to us.  We always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in order to deliver the safest possible repair to our customers. 

Why GMC Says You Should Not Use Salvage or Recycled Parts and How This Affects Your Repair

General Motors wants you to have the best replacement parts for your GMC.

Nearly every car manufacturer releases “Position Statements” that instruct body shops in how to perform repairs on their vehicles to the highest standard.  While all body shops should have access to this vital information, not all shops take the time to read the statements and follow the directions expressed by the manufacturers.  At our shop, we closely examine these statements because we make it our mission to provide the best possible repair to our GMC customers.

In a statement released by GM, they explain in detail why they do not recommend the use of salvage or recycled parts in GMC repairs:

“General Motors does not support the use of salvage or recycled parts due to the sensitive nature of the safety and performance of General Motors vehicles. Salvage or recycled parts are defined as parts removed from a previously damaged vehicle and then re-installed on a different vehicle.”

 

Image of GMC

 

Salvage and recycled parts come with a lot of risk.

Salvage and recycled parts can often have a questionable history.  They might have been involved in a previous collision or damaged during normal wear and tear.  They might have been in storage for a while or exposed to extreme temperature variations. 

Because of these factors and the questionable conditions that the parts might have been exposed to, it’s nearly impossible to predict their durability and structural integrity.  Even the most minute disparities can lead to problems during assembly, as well as issues with the reliability of your repair.

GM specify the following in their Position Statement:

“The use of non-OEM structural components may compromise the overall crashworthiness and occupant safety of General Motors vehicles in a subsequent collision.”

They are saying that, above all, salvage and recycled parts can pose a risk to your safety due to their unpredictable nature.

 

Why new OEM parts are the best:

It’s extremely important to use the best replacement parts for your GMC when repairs are needed, and the best parts are always new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.

According to GM:

“Genuine GM Parts are designed and constructed using metals with specific properties, thicknesses and stamping features built to perform in a consistent and predictable way during a collision event.  GM recommends the use of Genuine GM Parts in repairs to help ensure the vehicle is returned to pre-collision condition.”

The engineers at GM have rigorously designed, tested, and manufactured the parts for their specific vehicles.  They only trust the parts they have produced to meet the qualifications necessary for your specific make, model, and vehicle year.  You’ll need new OEM parts if you want your vehicle to be as good as new after your collision repair. 

 

Image of a GMC

 

We take these guidelines seriously at our shop.

We take all manufacturers’ Position Statements very seriously at our shop, because we care about your safety AND your wallet.  Despite the recommendation to use new OEM parts in repairs, some shops will continue to use salvage and recycled parts, even though this choice can jeopardize your vehicle and your safety.  It might shock you to learn that body shops are not forced to abide by the manufacturers’ guidelines.  

When you take your GMC to us for repairs, we will use only new GMC OEM replacement parts so that you don’t risk future problems with your car that could potentially lead to an accident.  There is no guarantee that every shop will make the smartest and safest choice for your car, but rest assured, we always will.

Why It’s Important for You That Lincoln Rejects Wheel Reconditioning in Collision Repair

 

 

 

Lincoln recognizes that wheel reconditioning is a dangerous method of repair.

Lincoln is very clear that the company does not approve of any wheel repair that involves reconditioning.  If you are not familiar with wheel reconditioning, it is a process of using various tools and methods to try to repair a damaged wheel, instead of replacing it entirely.  Some methods include welding, reforming, or reshaping the wheel.  

When it comes to steel and aluminum wheel repair, Lincoln has issued a Position Statement explaining why they do not accept wheel reconditioning in any vehicle repairs.  Here’s what they say:

“Lincoln Motor Company does not approve the remanufacturing/refinishing of steel or aluminum wheels when it involves re-machining, re-plating, welding, bending, straightening, reforming or adding new material other than cosmetic coatings, as this can compromise the structural integrity of the wheel and safety of the vehicle.  A reconditioned wheel, or any wheel not approved by Lincoln Motor Company, may cause unsafe vehicle operation and performance, including loss of control which may result in injuries to the vehicle occupants or other drivers.”

Lincoln is saying, in no uncertain terms, that it’s simply not worth the risk to your life to take chances with the state of your wheels.  In its position statement, the company provides an extensive list of types of wheel damage to inspect for and these include cracks, corrosion, gouges, and other issues that are beyond superficial marks. If the wheels are damaged enough to warrant reconditioning, then they should just be replaced outright. 

Heating, welding, reshaping, and any other methods of reconditioning could compromise the structural integrity of your wheels.   Being the only parts of the car to actually make contact with the road, your wheels are essential to your safety and are worth investing in.  

 

Image of a Lincoln

 

What wheel repairs are approved by Lincoln?

While wheel reconditioning is not approved of by Lincoln, certain wheel repairs are permitted:

“Lincoln Motor Company approves refinishing of steel or aluminum wheels only if all necessary repairs/reconditioning can be completed by cosmetic sanding or polishing that removes no metal and, instead, removes only the finish.”

Basically, only superficial cosmetic adjustments are allowed, since they won’t jeopardize the integrity of the wheel structure.  Minor sanding and polishing repairs do not involve the use of heat or reshaping that reconditioning would entail.  

 

Don’t risk voiding your warranty.

Another major reason to avoiding wheel reconditioning is that it can void your warranty:

“Lincoln Motor Company does not warrant any remanufactured/refinished wheels.”

The practice of wheel reconditioning is so problematic that Lincoln won’t even warrant wheels that have been repaired with this method.  Not only is wheel reconditioning dangerous to your vehicle and yourself—it’s dangerous to your wallet, as well.

 

Image of a Lincoln

 

Not all shops follow these recommendations, but we do.

It’s disappointing, but some shops throw caution out the window and continue to practice wheel reconditioning, despite Lincoln’s clear instructions to avoid it at all costs.  They can get away with this because no body shop is actually forced to adhere to a manufacturer’s Position Statement.  

At our shop, we strongly believe that there’s no reason to take a chance with your Lincoln’s repair by going against the advice of the manufacturer.  Reconditioned wheels can lead to very dangerous problems down the road.  We will always replace your Lincoln’s wheels entirely if they’ve sustained damage. 

You won’t have to worry about voiding your warranty or driving on unstable wheels when you bring your vehicle to us.  We always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation to deliver the best possible repair to our customers.