Collision
Repair Position Papers: General Motors 
The
following represents a collection of GM position statements relating
to collision repair.
Warranties:
General Motors'
vehicle factory warranties transfer when repairs are complemented
with new genuine GM parts. The use of used salvage and/or imitation/counterfeit
parts is not covered by the GM factory transferable limited warranty
on that part and all adjoining parts and systems which are caused
to fail by these parts.
Used Salvage:
GM is an
environmentally-conscious corporate citizen. We understand the merits
of recycling and have initiatives underway within the Corporation
that promote it. Additionally, we are concerned about our customers
and maintaining GM vehicle image, value, functional and safety systems,
and transferable factory warranties. Since GM does not warrant used
salvage parts, we want to make sure consumers are aware of the consequences
of having used salvage parts installed on their vehicles. At this
time, we believe there are no systems or process in place to regulate
the quality of used salvage parts in the market. Therefore, we are
concerned about improper use of used salvage parts, i.e., wrong application
as well as use of damaged materials.
Direct Repair
Program (DRP) / Preferred Provider Option or Organization (PPO):
GM supports
policies and programs which ensure GM vehicle owners' rights to have
their vehicle repaired to pre-accident condition at the location
of their choice. We support focus on issues of consumer protection
which lead to customer retention for all those involved in the repair
process. Acceptable DRP's and PPO's allow consumers to choose where
to have their vehicle repaired, are open to any body shop that can
perform proper, timely and cost-efficient repair; allow use of new
OEM parts and materials to maintain vehicle factory warranties; disclose
in writing to the consumer when non-new OEM parts are to be used;
and secure the consumer's consent for use of non-new OEM warranted
parts.
Imitation Parts::
GM does not
support or recommend the use of any imitation part. Many independent
OEM studies have documented the lesser quality of imitation repair
parts. Use of imitation parts diminishes the value of the vehicle
at resale. Also, studies have proven that the OEM replacement parts
are designed to meet defined quality, safety and appearance specifications
that are not replicated on imitation parts. Imitation parts are not
covered by the GM factory transferable limited warranty on that part
and all adjoining parts and systems which are caused to fail by these
parts.
Legislation:
We support
legislation that requires the use of new genuine parts during the
OEM factory warranty period, as well as written disclosure and consent
of the consumer if imitation, aftermarket or used salvage parts are
used. (Note: West Virginia passed such a law in 1995.)
Supplemental
Inflatable Restraint Sysytems (SIR):
Due to the
critical nature of the design of Supplemental Inflatable Restraint
Systems (SIR), GM does not support the use of any used salvage or
imitation parts for repair. Only new genuine GM warranted parts should
be used in repair.
GMs' Position
on the Installation of Stolen or Used Salvage Air Bag Sysytems and
Components:
Due to the
critical nature of the design of Supplemental Inflatable Restraint
Systems (SIR), aka: air bag systems, GM does not support the use of
any stolen, used salvage, or imitation parts for repair. Only new
genuine GM warranted parts should be used in repair.
Proper operation
of the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint Systems (SIR) system requires
that any repairs to the vehicle return it to the original production
configuration and performance. Never use SIR parts from another vehicle.
The reasons for this policy and practice within GM include the following:
In summary
New GM parts
remain General Motors' recommendation on collision repair involving
air bag systems and components. These new parts are consistent with
the vehicle factory warranty and extended warranty programs which
the customer has paid for either in the price of the vehicle or as
a separate service contract. The air bag system can best be returned
to designed and tested production standards when new original equipment
parts are used.
GM stands
behind its warranties and requests written indemnity to be on file
when shops install used salvage air bag systems or components. Such
disclosures, as well as written warranties on used salvage parts ensures
the proper accountability for current and future vehicle owners.
© General
Motors Corporation
Approved: December 2, 1997
100 Renaissance Center
P.O. Box 431301
Detroit, Michigan 48243-7301
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