ARA Challenges GM Position on Recycled OEM ADAS Components

The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) has criticized General Motors’ updated collision repair position statement, “Use of Genuine GM Original Equipment Parts,” which prohibits the use of recycled original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, including components used in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). ARA said the policy could limit repair options for vehicle owners as replacement costs continue to rise.

The association, based in Manassas, Virginia, represents professional automotive recyclers that supply used OEM components to the vehicle repair market. ARA said recycled parts can provide lower-cost alternatives to new OEM replacement parts, particularly as the average age of vehicles on U.S. roads approaches 13 years.

The dispute centers on GM’s position regarding recycled ADAS components. ARA argues that the suitability of a recycled OEM component should be determined through inspection, diagnostic testing and calibration rather than excluded based solely on its previous use or source.

“If ADAS components can remain in service after a collision when they pass OEM inspection, diagnostic, and calibration procedures, then an undamaged OEM component from another vehicle should be evaluated under those same standards,” said Vince Edivan, Executive Director of ARA.

Edivan said the association supports repair decisions based on safety testing and objective evidence. He argued that if a component’s previous collision exposure automatically makes it unsafe, replacement would be required after every collision regardless of inspection or calibration results.

ARA said the issue is becoming more significant as vehicle owners face higher repair costs and older vehicles remain on the road for longer periods. The association said recycled OEM components can provide an alternative to new parts and maintain competition in the replacement parts market.

The organization is monitoring whether GM’s updated position will affect the use of recycled components in vehicle repairs. ARA has previously opposed state legislation that would require new OEM parts to be used exclusively in collision repairs.

ADAS components, including sensors and other electronic systems used for vehicle safety and driver assistance, have become an increasingly important part of collision repair. Their inspection and calibration can affect whether a vehicle can be returned to service after an accident.

Founded in 1943, ARA represents professional automotive recyclers involved in vehicle dismantling, parts recovery and material recycling. The industry supplies recycled OEM parts to repairers and vehicle owners while recovering usable components and materials from end-of-life and damaged vehicles.

Source: ARA

SUNSHINE Spotlight: ARA’s dispute with GM highlights an industry debate over whether recycled OEM ADAS components should be assessed through inspection and calibration rather than excluded from collision repairs based on their recycled status.