In today’s rapidly evolving auto industry, the pursuit of excellence has become more than a priority—it’s a necessity. Auto manufacturers have significantly raised the bar in terms of quality and safety standards; as a result, auto body repair shops have a greater responsibility to uphold these exacting standards when repairing vehicles.
This is where the pivotal role of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) certification comes into play.
What is OEM Certification?
Automotive technology changed a lot over the past 30 years, from the materials used in manufacturing to increased reliance on automated Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and blind spot protection. While these advancements have made cars safer and more reliable than ever, vehicle technology quickly outpaced the auto body industry’s ability to keep up with the latest repair needs and procedures.
To provide better service for their mutual customers, auto manufacturers introduced OEM certification programs. These programs formally acknowledge collision repair shops that adhere to exacting criteria and repair standards set by automakers and authorize them to conduct repairs on vehicles produced by a specific manufacturer.
Although the definition of OEM certification can vary based on the manufacturer issuing it, it generally means that the certified shop has undergone specialized training provided by the automaker or its representatives. The training covers the intricacies of the manufacturer’s models, repair procedures, approved materials, facility requirements, and designated tools and equipment that should be used during the repair. Depending on the manufacturer, shops may also be required to meet additional customer service and safety standards.
In addition, OEM certification requires that only genuine parts made by the vehicle’s manufacturer or their authorized suppliers are used in repairs. Using OEM parts ensures that the replacement components are of the same quality and specifications as the original parts, which maintains the overall integrity and safety of the vehicle. Certified shops are also subject to regular quality control audits to ensure the repairs offered consistently meet the manufacturer’s high standards.
Why Does OEM Certification Matter?
So why does OEM certification matter? It guarantees your repairs will be performed by technicians who have undergone specialized training on your precise make, using the exact parts and repair methods specified by the manufacturer—which ensures your vehicle’s safety, performance, and value are maintained. For many drivers, choosing an OEM-certified shop also offers peace of mind and confidence in the quality of their repairs.
This is especially important as cars have become more complex to repair. Even a seemingly minor accident can damage sensitive sensors and cameras located throughout the body of a modern vehicle—which can significantly impact how your safety features function.
Despite this and the growing demand from consumers for OEM-certified auto body repair, many shops are still reluctant to pursue certification due to the cost. While participation in OEM programs does come with substantial expenses, it’s well worth the investment for shops that value their reputation and prioritize high-quality repair work and customer satisfaction.
European Collision Center’s Dedication to Excellence
At European Collision Center, the pursuit of excellence is one of our core values. We believe OEM certification is an investment a shop makes not only in itself but also in its employees and the quality of repairs it offers customers.
While we offer repairs for all makes and models, we proudly hold OEM certification for Porsche, Audi, Mercedes, BMW, Rivian, and Tesla. We’re dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in the industry to ensure our customers receive the high-quality repairs they deserve.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact us today at (415) 551-9700.