Aluminum is on the rise in the auto industry. Mercedes produced the first aluminum frame and body in 2009 with the release of its SLS AMG and it seems the rest of the auto industry is following suit. Its an excellent alternative to using steel as it is lighter but still provides strength and durability.
Mainstream auto manufactures have used aluminum in the construction of vehicles for a number of years. However, many of the panels on cars and trucks are made from steel. The new Ford F-150 will be made of nearly 95% aluminum and more car manufacturers are beginning to invest in aluminum auto body.
Many auto body shops are not prepared for aluminum body vehicles. According to Dan Risley, president of the Automotive Service Association “not every shop in America will be equipped to repair the new F-150”.
Less that 20 percent of body shops will be equipped to fix aluminum body structures. Certified shops that fix high-end European brands like Porsche and Audi will be the most likely body shops to repair newer vehicles made up of aluminum.
The practices and tools required for aluminum repair are similar to those techniques developed for the repair of more traditional metals (automotive steel). However, as the auto industry continues to incorporate more and more aluminum into vehicles, the need for qualified, capable auto mechanics who can handle aluminum repairs of all sorts continues to rise.
Pro Collision Center has been working with aluminum for years. Our certified technicians are prepared to handle any aluminum auto body repair you may need. Before you waste time and money searching for a body shop, contact Pro Collision Center to get a quote.
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