Page 18 - Australasian Paint & Panel Magazine

IN DEPTH
HOLDEN COLLISION NETWORK
Holden has launched its invitation process to apply to become part of its new network of certified collision repairers.
HEAD UP DISPLAYS, high strength steels, ultra high strength steels, 360 degree cameras, matrix LED headlights – your average Holden isn’t very average today.
The Holden certified repairer network is a program that aims to provide Holden owners with the best service, the highest quality repairs and the confidence and peace of mind that their vehicle will be as safe and sound after an accident as it was before. The program has a rigorous assessment criteria based on the AMBRA shop grading program. You will
also have to demonstrate a training
culture. Working with Holden, I-CAR has
developed a course listing that enables
repair shops to become a Gold Class
repairer. We wouldn’t recommend you put
your hand up if you didn’t attended the
latest Holden Collision Forums. Buying genuine parts is also a criteria to ensure repairing Holdens to pre-accident condition as well as a history of using GM certified repair procedures.
High levels of customer care, a clean, modern well presented workshop and reception facilities will also be a must.
Using Holden Trade Club reports, Holden has identified an initial number of repair shops that are eligible to apply. Future plans will involve reviewing gaps around the country and filling those gaps as required. Those repairers will benefit from Holden’s ‘customer education program’, Accident Care, which will reinforce the importance in terms of safety, quality of repair and protection of their investment to have their car repaired within
18 PAINT&PANEL July / August 2018
the Holden certified network. That process also includes promoting the benefits of using genuine Holden parts in the repair process. In 2019 OnStar will come online for Holden drivers. One of its features is accident management which includes calling emergency services but will also allow Holden greater influence on which repairer the damaged car is towed to.
There will be no signs for certified repairers, although a suite of Holden branded marketing material will be available and they will be promoted on Holden’s website.
Standards must be maintained and certified repairers will be inspected annually and removed if any criteria has been neglected. There is an annual membership fee of $4000 per year
which includes the cost of the
stringent audits.
Holden is the latest vehicle
maufacturer to launch a network demonstrating that as cars become increasingly complex, manufacturers wish to be more involved in the repair process to protect their brand and ensure a
“Standards must be maintained and approved repairers will be inspected annually.”
positive customer experience throughout the ownership period. Toyota, Suzuki and VW have launched collision networks in the last couple of years, with many others such as Subaru and Land Rover reviewing their network to ensure approved repairers have the right equipment and skill
levels, as well as offering a great customer experience. Ford recently announced that it was planning a global certified network.
You can find details about applying to be a certified collision repairer at the Holden Trade Club website.
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