About I-CAR - Current Events/News: e-newsletters: Advantage Online: November 25, 2008

Figure 1 - When considering using recycled parts for collision repair, determine any installation and/or warranty issues that may be associated with the use of the part.

Figure 2 - Use this form to identify the recycled parts and sections needed.

USING RECYCLED PARTS

Collision repair facilities have various options for replacement parts when repairing collision-damaged vehicles. One option for consideration is that recycled, or salvaged, parts may be used to replace damaged parts. Recycled parts may be referred to by various names, which include used, rebuilt, factory rebuilt (mechanical parts), remanufactured, reconditioned, refurbished, relined, restored, repainted, or repackaged.

Depending on the situation, using recycled parts may be a viable option for collision repairs. Recycled parts may be a consideration for an effective use of available parts. Additionally, there is an environmental benefit from using recycled parts. The decision to use recycled parts should be made with all involved parties in agreement, including the vehicle owner, the insurer, and the collision repair facility.

Be aware that some vehicle makers may not recommend the use of recycled parts for collision repair because of concerns about the condition of these parts. For example, some vehicle makers state that multiple factors can influence the quality of recycled parts, which include but are not limited to, exposure to weather, improper removal or transfer of parts, or hidden structural damage (see Figure 1). Some vehicle makers have position statements regarding warranty claims if recycled parts are used.

Other than restraint system parts, I-CAR does not have a position on the use of recycled parts. However, if a recycled part is being installed, there are specific criteria that must be met before installation. For example, do not install a recycled part that has unrepairable damage, corrosion that has caused pitting, improper previous repairs, and/or missing mounting locations.

I-CAR does address recycled part preparation considerations. When installing a recycled sheet metal part, for example, clean the part to remove dirt, wax, grease, undercoatings, corrosion, etc. Make sure it is trimmed properly to fit.

Recycled restraint system parts should not be used. Without knowing the condition of the vehicle, it is difficult to know if an airbag, for example, functioned properly during the last collision.

Depending on the recycled parts supplier, parts may have to be identified by category type when ordering. Category types include body, mechanical/electrical, and miscellaneous. Be sure the parts are appropriate for the vehicle make, model, and year, and any included options. A collision repair facility will likely be required to provide a VIN and option information to ensure the correct parts are ordered.

Some recycled parts may be provided as an assembly. Be aware that certain parts may not be included with an assembly. For example, a door assembly may not include pillar-welded hinges. A fender assembly may not include moldings, emblems, antenna, etc. Verify all parts that will be included with a recycled part assembly.

Recycled parts should be provided in a usable condition, and should be appropriately cleaned before delivery to the collision repair facility. Before installation, verify the usability of the recycled parts and ensure that those parts will not compromise the repair of the vehicle.

To provide assistance when ordering, I-CAR has a recycled parts request form available in PDF format (see Figure 2).

Recycled parts may be graded to indicate the condition of the part. Based on the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), recycled parts are given an “A”, “B”, or “C” designation, depending on the effort required to make the part “like new.” Additional designations “X” and “NIQ” may also be used. Parts given an “X” designation are un-graded, due to a lack of information. Parts given an “NIQ” designation meet the damage unit guidelines to be classified as an “A” or “B” grade, but are downgraded to a “C” grade because of “negative information or quality.” Mechanical parts grading is based on time of use as measured by kilometers (km) or miles (mi) traveled.

Based on the ARA standards, a code to indicate the location, type, and units of damage may also be used. Damage types are identified by a letter designation (see Figure 3). Numbers are given to identify the location and units of damage. The location of damage can be determined by referencing a damage locator diagram. On an ARA damage locator diagram, parts of a vehicle are divided into areas, with each area identified by a number
(see Figure 4).

Using the code 5D2 as an example, the number “5” indicates the location of damage on the part. The letter “D” indicates the type of damage, in this case, a dent. The number “2” indicates the units of damage on the part. For more information on the grading process used by the ARA, go to this site www.a-r-a.org.

Using recycled parts can be a viable option when repairing collision-damaged vehicles. To ensure that recycled parts will not compromise the repair of the vehicle, ensure that the parts are in a usable condition, and have been appropriately cleaned. Additionally, be sure that the parts are appropriate for the vehicle make, model, and year, and with included options. If recycled parts will be used, meeting the considerations and criteria mentioned in this article can help to ensure safe and efficient repairs.

For comments or suggestions on the Advantage Online, please contact I-CAR Senior Instructional Designer Bob Jansen at bob.jansen@i-car.com.

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