Ford Motor Co. and J.D. Power ChromeData have announced an agreement to use Ford and Lincoln vehicle build data for ChromeData VIN Descriptions.

Ford and Lincoln vehicle build data provides OEM-sourced vehicle information from the time a vehicle was manufactured, allowing for more accurate insurance quotes, which ultimately benefits customers, according to a joint news release from the companies.

“We are committed to help Ford and Lincoln customers get the most accurate insurance quotes for their vehicle,” said Amy Graham, Ford services marketing director. “This is another way we are helping provide value to our customers as part of owning a Ford or Lincoln.”

Auto Claim Specialists Managing Director Robert McDorman, who helps consumers with independent vehicle appraisals, told Repairer Driven News the partnership “will no doubt help with getting the Actual Vehicle Options listed which will equate to a more accurate vehicle value.”

“This is great news for the consumer and industry,” he said. “I hope more OEMs will follow. Complete transparency to the OEM vehicle options via the VIN will go a long way in preventing under-indemnification issues on total loss claims that arise from missed and/or not added equipment and options.”

Ford’s manufacturing data provides a comprehensive view of a vehicle’s feature content and when cross-referenced with the extensive ChromeData Vehicle Catalog, can provide precise VIN descriptions, which are critical for insurance companies, dealers, financers, marketers, and valuation services, the news release states. With this agreement, ChromeData will have access to build data for approximately 80% of the automotive brands sold in the U.S.

“For nearly three decades, ChromeData has set the standard for the most accurate, timely and complete vehicle data and content in the industry,” said Craig Jennings, president of the Autodata Solutions division at J.D. Power. “Not only does Ford’s vehicle build data further expand the benefits of our services, but it also provides dealers and other industry partners with a better understanding of which features come with each Ford and Lincoln vehicle.”

Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG) Administrator Danny Gredinberg told RDN that build data will always help repairers, “especially in identifying the correct options on the car.” However, he said he can’t vouch for this specific program without having seen a report, or knowing what the coverage from them would be across the various OEMs.

Ford didn’t respond to questions from RDN by publication deadline.

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Featured image credit: Ford Motor Co.