BMW adds structural steel parts to restricted list
By onAnnouncements | Collision Repair | Repair Operations
BMW has added structural steel parts to its restricted parts list as of Oct. 1, according to a bulletin issued to shops.
“Due to complexity of repair and the requirement of highly specialized tools, training, and repair procedures, BMW of North America restricts the provision of certain structural carbon fiber, aluminum, and newly expanded structural steel parts to those collision centers that successfully complete specific training requirements and who possess the required tooling pertaining to the repair,” the bulletin states. “Structural steel parts restrictions will launch on October 1st, 2024.
“Repairs involving the steel structure and in vehicles with intelligent lightweight construction technology (comprising of high-strength steel, aluminum, carbon, or a material mix) require highly specialized training and tooling. As a result, BMW of North America will be restricting certain structural steel parts to ensure the correct repair process is followed.”
To order the parts, shop technicians must take three body and paint classes and have approved tools.
Using a supplier-provided tool is acceptable as an alternative because there aren’t any mechanical variations compared to the requirement, according to the bulletin. However, the specific numbered BMW tools that are listed are “highly recommended.”
Andrew Batenhorst, Pacific BMW body shop manager, told Repairer Driven News that inner and outer rear body panels, floor extensions, hinge pillars, and center pillars are commonly purchased and replaced incorrectly with improper methods.
“Restricting them will ensure only shops with the proper tooling and training can successfully service these parts to BMW service manual specifications,” he said.
The full restricted parts list can be viewed here. The most up-to-date list can be found on the homepage of the DEKRA iQC Live ordering platform under the “FAQ” section.
BMW launched DEKRA iQC Live in January for all collision repair shops.
Last March, the OEM began restricting more than 100 aluminum structural parts.
Images
Featured image: 2023 BMW M8 Competition Coupe
Training and tooling charts provided in BMW bulletin