The Importance of Pre and Post Repair Scans

There is currently a debate in our industry over the necessity of pre-repair and post repair scans, so we feel it is important to let you know where we stand. First off, what are pre-repair and post repair scans? Simply put, it is the scanning of your vehicle’s computer before the repair is started and again following the repair.

Are these scans important? Absolutely. Think about it this way—the computer is your vehicle’s brain. This is our way of seeing if your car’s brain sustained a concussion during the accident.

After an accident there are all sorts of components, sensors and other parts that may be damaged. It is your car’s computer that is responsible for knowing if all of these systems are running correctly. So, not only are we checking to see if the computer is okay–we are also checking to see if the computer can still evaluate whether all of the other systems are also functioning properly as well.

If there is an issue, the scan will show a Diagnostic Trouble Code, or DTC. These DTCs will show us which systems may need repair or calibration. This process is critical for us to determine what the naked eye often cannot. Because these DTCs can render systems such as airbags, blind spot sensors and other safety features inoperable, it is important that we identify and correct any issues before your vehicle is returned to you.

Currently, there are some in the insurance industry who do not feel pre-repair and post repair scans should be required on all accident repairs. We get it. Any additional step in the repair process has the potential of increasing the cost of the repair.

On the flip side, nearly every auto manufacturer recommends these scans to help guarantee vehicle safety post-repair. If the engineers who design the safety features on today’s vehicles support this technology, then we feel we should be too. This is why every vehicle that enters our shop for collision repair receives these scans.

Here at the shop, safety is always going to be our number one goal. If you have a question about any of  the methods or technology used to repair your vehicle, please ask us!