One of the biggest challenges for collision repair shops across the country is locating OEM repair procedures quickly and cost-effectively. To help technicians find the information they need to fix a car properly, SUN Collision Repair Information software was created in 2019 by SUN®, a brand of Snap-on® Incorporated.
Fast forward to the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the company shared information about the ease in which its software can help repairers locate OEM repair procedures and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) information to help increase efficiency and profits.
“Some vehicles aren’t repaired properly using OEM procedures,” said Chris Bonneau, business manager for SUN. “That could put somebody’s life at risk. We want to make it easier and simpler for shops to fix cars faster, and according to OEM specifications, so they are safe to drive.”
Since the launch of SUN Collision, Bonneau said the company has been working to ensure the product is user-friendly for technicians and shops, so they can spend less time with the software program and more time fixing vehicles.
“When they are in our program, they aren’t making money,” said Bonneau. “We want them to get the information they need from the OEM and translate that into the repairs, so they aren’t having to spend so much time searching for the content and the right procedures.”
While talking with shops, Bonneau learned many think information is difficult to find because each website is configured differently and requires a unique login. “They also feel they can’t afford to pay for multiple OEM subscriptions,” said Bonneau. “SUN Collision is a cost-effective way to access information in one place.”
The web-based, mobile-friendly product provides comprehensive OEM repair information and procedures for body and frame, paint and finish, and materials for all makes and models of vehicles. To help users find information quickly, the 1Search Plus search engine presents information in a graphical layout. The product also provides interactive wiring diagrams and a link to ADAS information.
“As ADAS technology becomes more complex and interconnected, repairing ADAS-equipped vehicles presents a greater challenge for collision repair shops,” explained Bonneau.
He said SUN Collision provides the details needed to make it easy to diagnose, repair and calibrate ADAS components such as sensors, cameras, radar systems and control modules.
The database includes a complete lineup of OEM-licensed procedures for both collision and mechanical repairs for 26 standard makes, and is updated regularly. Collision information covers 2004 through 2022 vehicles, and mechanical information dates back to 1964.
Bonneau also shared information about the Tru-Point™ ADAS calibration system launched in January 2021 by John Bean, part of the Snap-on family. The company recently announced purchasers of the calibration system will receive a complimentary two-month subscription to SUN Collision.
“Together, SUN and Tru-Point products provide an all-in-one solution for OEM collision and repair procedures to help technicians increase productivity,” said Bonneau.
In September, the company announced its partnership with Collision Automotive Repair Services, Inc. (CARS) to offer its collision repair information to members at a discounted price.
Established in 1992, CARS is a stock-based business cooperative that brings collision repair facilities together with vendors and suppliers to gain discounts, rewards and training on products and services used in their shops.
“We’re excited to partner with the CARS Cooperative and offer a substantial discount to members throughout the United States,” said Bonneau. “Not only will members greatly benefit from the auto repair software, but they’ll also receive a customized training program and best-in-class support to help improve productivity and grow their bottom line.”
For more information, visit suncollision.com.
Stacey Phillips Ronak