With constant innovation in the automotive industry, certifications are more important than ever for an auto body shop. They show customers how up-to-date and well-trained a shop’s technicians are, and by extension, what quality of repair work the customer can expect.
There are 5 major certifications customers should look for in an auto body repair shop.
Technician Certifications
ASE Certification:
- Prior to a technician being able to apply for the Automotive Service Excellence certification test, they must already have been well-educated in the classroom and have direct hands-on experience — ASE testing requires both a two-year degree in automotive repair and two years of previous on-the-job training.
- ASE certification is trusted and highly respected given its challenging exam is written by veteran automotive professionals. Nearly a third of technicians who take the test fail initially.
I-Car Certification:
- I-Car, or Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repairs, Certification keeps technicians versed on what’s new and needs to be learned in the repair field. Maintaining this certification requires annual training courses on the most recent information and repair methods.
Shop Certifications
AAA Certification:
To be considered an Approved Auto Repair Facility through AAA, a body shop must undergo annual inspections. This annual inspection helps ensure the repair shop’s ongoing quality, which translates to higher standards of excellence in the repairs they complete for their customers.
AAA-approved repair shops guarantee:
- Technicians that are either ASE-certified or have a manufacturer training certification
- Good standing with the BBB
- Proper licensing and insurance
- Mandatory warranties for repairs completed
- Up-to-date technology and tools for completing repairs on the newest vehicles
A+ Rating with the BBB:
- A number of factors go into a Better Business Bureau rating, such as the number of customer complaints to the BBB and how the business responds to these complaints. Businesses only receive an A+ rating when they’ve scored an impressive 97 or higher out of 100 possible rating points across the full range of factors.
OEM Certification:
- Cars are more advanced nowadays than ever before, and automobile innovation doesn’t appear to be slowing down. Repairing these ever more complex vehicles requires more specialized knowledge and training.
- OEM Certified repair shops use repair parts made by the original manufacturer rather than aftermarket parts. This ensures both high quality as well as factory-perfect fit and functionality.
Here at Zimbrick Body Shop, we pride ourselves on our extensive certifications and long history of quality work. Whether you’re in need of collision repair, dent removal, car painting, or glass repair, our staff of experienced professionals will get you and your car safely back on the road. If you have any questions, please contact us online or call one of our three locations for more information.
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