Ford Aluminum Body Repair

Did you know that aluminum is more expensive than steel, and has typically been used for high-end vehicles like the Acura NSX, BMW i8, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Jaguar XJ, Tesla Model S 60, and other luxury cars? In 2015, Ford began making the Ford F-150 with a primarily aluminum body. As the best-selling car in the United States, this signified a significant shift in automotive trends. We predict many American car brands will follow suit in the near future. How do you know you’re trusting your Ford to a great auto body shop? Are they Ford Aluminum Certified? We are! Here’s a few of the aluminum repair requirements put out by Ford to becoming certified.
SHOPS MUST:
1. Have a work sparation system that isolates aluminum vehicles from vehicles undergoing steel repairs – separation can be a separate room or curtain system
2. Have a designated set of hand/special tools specifically for aluminum vehicles to prevent from cross contamination with steel body vehicles. The inventory must contain all required hand tools per Ford F-150 Collision Repair Program
3. Utilize a 220v Pulse MIG welder specifically for aluminum vehicles
4. Utilize a dent extraction system specifically designed for aluminum that contains an aluminum stud welder, heat gun, pyrometer, aluminum hammers and dent extraction system
5. A specialized aluminum SPR (Self Piercing Rivet) gun approved by the Ford Paint and Body Technical Center – currently only the Chief, Henrob and Pro Spot SPR riveters are approved
6. An Immersion-Type, Wet Mix dust extraction system or pneumatic (air operated) vacuum system dedicated to aluminum dust – The system can be portable or centrally installed system
7. I-CAR® FOR06 – 2015 Ford F-150 Structural Repair Training Course
8. I-CAR® WCA03 – Aluminum GMA (MIG) Welding Certification
9. I-CAR® FO007E01 – 2018 Expedition & Navigator Aluminum Body Repair (2 technicians must complete – web-based)
For more generalized technical repair capability, here’s what Ford lists as their requirements for certification:
SHOPS MUST:
1. Meet I-CAR® Gold Class® or equivalent with proof of ongoing technical training (assessment required)
2. Subscribe to current OEM repair procedures and have the ability to provide documented proof of compliance
3. Utilize a frame rack or dedicated/universal fixture bench, with appropriate vehicle anchoring and pulling capabilities
4. Utilize an electronic three-dimensional vehicle measuring system
5. Maintain a current data subscription for the measuring system being utilized
6. Provide proof of technical training to operate the measuring system being utilized
7. Utilize an R134a refrigerant recovery/recycling system or proof of a qualified sublet provider
8. Have the ability to conduct and verify four-wheel alignment either in-house or through a sublet provider
9. Have the ability to remove, replace and reinstall steering and suspension components, as well as engine and drive train units
10. Have the ability to perform pre- and post-repair vehicle diagnostic scans and proof of calibrations
11. Have a spray booth with forced drying capabilities
12. Utilize an OEM approved refinishing system
13. Provide proof of product training for the refinishing system being utilized
14. Have an above ground lift with a lift capability of at least 7,000 lbs
15. Utilize pressure-feed, anti-corrosion compound and application equipment
16. Have a documented Quality Assurance/Quality Control system
As you can see, there is quite a lot that goes into being a certified Ford Aluminum Repair Shop. Trust the pros at Cline Collision Center for all of your aluminum repair needs. Schedule an appointment today!