D.E.G. ESTIMATING TIPS

ESTIMATING TIPS

Audatex: Door Seam Sealer May Not Be Included –

Audatex users may find contradicting information regarding labor operations stated in DBRM Section 4-3 Replacement & Recycled Operations: Door Shell Replacement.

Page 86 of Audatex DBRM states “Seam sealing (when required)” is an included operation.

In DEG Inquiry 18075 on a 2019 Toyota Tacoma, the response from Audatex states, “Seam sealer application time is included in any piece that the OEM service requires, per the OEM service information we have not added this time for the DOOR SHELL, FRONT (GN 0207/0208) as it is not mentioned. No change warranted at this time.”

This suggests that it may be necessary to confirm whether Audatex has included the seam sealer. Inquiries related to the inclusion of seam sealer on door shell replacements can be submitted through the DEG at degweb.org.

Final note: Material costs, additional labor to duplicate the factory appearance and application of corrosion protection (i.e. epoxy primer) prior to seam sealer work are all NOT included in the labor time.

CCC: Aim Headlights – In DEG Inquiry 18138, MOTOR provides a breakdown of “Add if Required” operations for “Aim Headlamps.”

“Includes use of all necessary tools and equipment in-order to aim headlamps within specifications.

The estimated work time for ‘Headlamp Aim’ includes the following: • Vehicle staging (parked on level ground) • Adjust to specifications

The estimated work time for ‘Headlamp Aim’ does not include the following: • Component part replacement • Inspect vehicle for damage • Verify oil level • Verify coolant level • Verify tire pressure • Verify trunk and vehicle cargo removal • Load “150 LBS” in front seat • Special equipment set-up.”

Before finalizing a damage assessment, always reference OEM repair information for required steps to perform proper headlight aiming. Some OEM headlight aiming procedures may be complex, requiring non-traditional tools such as an OEM scan tool and/or specific measuring equipment.

CCC: Seat Belts & Related Components “Mechanical”

Classification – In DEG Inquiry 18181 MOTOR had made updates to seat belt retractors and buckles to show an “M” (Mechanical) classification.

CCC users should be aware that some SRS components with a SRS squib connector may not show an “M” classification. Users should submit an inquiry through the DEG (degweb.org), for SRS components with squib connectors that do not show an “M” classification for the component.

MOTOR Definition of component classification:

“(M) Mechanical: Components that transform one form of motion or energy into another. Mechanical components would likely be serviced at a mechanical service facility rather than a body repair facility if that component failed during normal operation.”

Mitchell: Dynamic Systems Verification Road Test – Mitchell MCE and Ultramate users have the ability to add “Dynamic Systems Verification Road Test” on the estimate as a NOT included operation. Users can find this database selection in the “Reference Sheet >> Calibrations>> Dynamic Systems Verification Road Test” or using quick code 933039. Note, this procedure will require an on-the-spot evaluation due to many variables by the different OEM driving patterns and conditions that must be met.

This may be a required operation by the OEM. Always reference the latest OEM repair procedures and verify the process to perform a Dynamic Systems Verification Road Test.

Audatex: Second Color and Clear Set Up – Audatex DBRM Page 152, Section 4-4 Refinish Guidelines show that second color and clear coat set up is NOT INCLUDED in published refinish times.

“Second Color Setup: Second Color Setup .4 (not two-tone) may be necessary for underhood colors, mouldings and trim where a second color is used. This is a manual entry that may be used when required.”

In addition to second color, repairers may need to perform a “second clear setup.”

“Second Clear Setup: Second Clear Setup .4 may be necessary in certain circumstances to match the OEM finish (e.g. underhood, aprons, and rails needing “matte” clears). This is a manual entry that may be used when required.”

Note: The estimating databases are all intended to be used as a GUIDE ONLY - it is important to remember that the auto body professional performing the repair is in a position to thoroughly inspect, diagnose and identify the methodology and their unique cost of the vehicle damage repair. You can view these tips and others on the DEG website, DEGWEB.ORG. AASP-MN News