Auto Body Technician how-to
How to Look Up and Follow OEM Repair Procedures
Modern vehicles must be repaired the way the manufacturer specifies to keep them safe.
Quick answer
Modern vehicles must be repaired the way the manufacturer specifies to keep them safe. In short: identify; open; find, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Identify the vehicle year, make, model and VIN.
Open the manufacturer’s repair information or an approved database.
Find the procedures for each damaged part, including sectioning locations.
Note required welding, bonding and corrosion protection methods.
Check for ADAS calibrations required after the repair.
Document procedures used on the repair order.
Safety reminders for auto body technicians
- Wear a supplied-air or approved respirator when spraying paints with isocyanates
- Use eye, ear and hand protection when grinding and welding
- Support vehicles properly on lifts and stands
- Disable airbags and disconnect batteries before working nearby
Key terms
Unibody · Frame machine · Datum · High-strength steel · Sectioning · Spot weld: see the full auto body technician glossary.