ALLDATA White Paper Released – Collision Repair Shops Need OE Repair Information

ALLDATA white paper details the importance of manufacturers' information for collision repairs

Elk Grove, CA - February 16, 2010 - ALLDATA^® LLC, the leading provider of vehicle manufacturers' service and repair information for professional repair shops has released a white paper demonstrating the need for collision repair facilities to have vehicle manufacturers' OE repair information.

"The people who build the cars have the final word on how to repair them after a collision," said ALLDATA Senior Program Manager for Collision, Dan Espersen. "The manufacturers have very specific requirements about sectioning, weld types, panel attachment, handling new materials, hybrid safety and a lot more. And every manufacturer has its own requirements."

Given how rapidly vehicle technology is changing, more and more collision shops are realizing that they need up-to-date information for working on alternative steels, magnesium, aluminum, new composites and plastics. In some cases, new adhesives are required to make repairs rather than traditional welding techniques.

According to the white paper, new and ever-evolving technologies, economic pressures, and requirements mandated by insurance company agreements all put enormous pressure on collision shops. With slim profit margins and prices held in place by market forces, increased productivity is becoming essential to survival.

"Not only is OE collision repair information important, says Espersen, OE mechanical repair information can offer collision shops a new source of profitability. Traditionally, collision shops sublet mechanical work, but with OE information, they can do much of that work themselves. Plus, some collision shops have started taking in mechanical work on its own to supplement their revenues."

For more information, or to download the white paper please visit www.alldata.com.