GM issues a part ordering restriction on front frame rail for BEVs

General Motors has placed a part ordering restriction on a front frame rail section for the repair of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). 

The ordering restriction started Aug. 5, according to a document uploaded on OEM1Stop last week. 

“General Motors is reinforcing its commitment to safe and proper collision repairs on BEVs,” the document states. 

It adds that the part will only be available to Collision Repair Network (CRN) facilities that are GM CRN BEV compliant. 

“As with GM dealerships, this helps GM track and ensure that the repairing facilities have all of the proper training, tools, equipment, and processes unique to BEVs so that the repairs can be performed in a safe and proper manner,” the document states.

The restriction applies to 12-front-frame-rail-section part numbers used on select GM EV models including:

• • “Cadillac LYRIQ, Cadillac VISTIQ, and Cadillac OPTIQ;
  • “Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV;
  • “Chevrolet BrightDrop EV.”

GM notes that the parts are primary structural components that manage crash energy, protect occupants, support vehicle alignment, and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) performance. It also says the parts are closely integrated with high-voltage systems, sensors, and other EV-unique components. 

Improper structural repair to these areas can compromise crash performance and structural integrity; create high-voltage safety risks for technicians, customers, and first responders; and increase corrosion and durability concerns.

The document states additional liability concerns could also be introduced. 

“In many instances, repairing BEVs is not the same as repairing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Safe EV collision repairs require supplemental training, equipment, and procedures,” the document states. 

GM’s CRN is structured to verify that participating facilities meet the same standards as GM dealerships by: 

• • “Completing GM CRN required BEV Specialty training through I -CAR;
  • “Maintaining the BEV required tools, equipment, and safety infrastructure outlined in the GM CRN Tools and Equipment Guide; and
  • “Strict adherence to GM repair procedures.”

BM CRN BEV-compliant facilities are not required to take any action to order the part. The part can be ordered with the front frame rail service section part numbers, according to the document. 

Dealerships ordering restricted parts on behalf of a shop must follow the Restricted Parts Ordering Bulletin (Reference Number #10224) on Global Connect. 

“GM will continue to evaluate repair data, training requirements, and vehicle technology to refine parts ordering procedures and network requirements in support of safe and proper repairs across the collision repair ecosystem,” the document states. 

Visit the GM Collision Repair Network website for additional details. 

Shops wanting to begin enrollment to become a CRN BEV-compliant shop can contact the GM CRN team at 949-272-3830 or email [email protected]

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