Strengthening trust in auto care: AIA Canada issues statement on national collision repair standards
Ottawa, Ontario, September 18, 2025 – The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) today announced the release of a new Statement of Minimum Canadian Standards in Collision Repair, designed to establish a consistent baseline for safe, high-quality auto body repairs across the country. As vehicle technology continues to evolve with advanced materials, electronics, and driver-assistance systems, ensuring collision repair facilities are equipped and trained to restore vehicles to manufacturer specifications has never been more important.
“Our goal with these minimum standards is to create common ground for the industry, a shared benchmark that ensures Canadians can trust that their vehicles are being repaired safely, completely, and to the highest quality,” said Jean-François Champagne, CAE, president and CEO of AIA Canada.
Setting a baseline for safety and quality
The Statement of Minimum Canadian Standards sets requirements in four areas: business practices, training, facilities and equipment, and repair processes. Technicians must meet provincial apprenticeship and certification requirements, and shops must ensure ongoing I-CAR Canada or equivalent training. Collision centres are also required to have the tools and infrastructure to perform advanced repairs, either in-house or through qualified partners. Finally, all repairs must follow OEM procedures, include pre- and post-repair scans, be documented through quality control processes, and carry a limited lifetime workmanship warranty.
Supporting a safer, cleaner, longer-lasting fleet
Canada’s auto care sector, valued at $43.9 billion, plays a vital role in maintaining the nation’s fleet of almost 26.6 million vehicles. By establishing these standards, AIA Canada is helping ensure that collision repair facilities have the knowledge, equipment, and accountability to keep vehicles safer on the road, reduce environmental impact, and extend vehicle lifespans.
“Consumers deserve confidence that no matter where they go for repairs, their vehicle will be restored to proper safety and performance standards,” added Champagne. “These standards are a first step in strengthening trust, consistency, and professionalism in Canada’s collision repair industry.”
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About the Automotive Industries Association of Canada
We represent, support and lead innovation in Canada’s $43.9 billion auto care sector. With thousands of members from coast to coast, our vision, research, training programs and advocacy supports Canada’s collision and mechanical sectors. Our best practices for the auto care industry help our members keep Canada’s fleet of almost 26.6 million vehicles on the road.
Whether you have been in a collision or require maintenance, our members help vehicles last longer, pollute less and keep drivers safer by offering Canadians any product or service a vehicle may need after it rolls off the dealership’s lot.
For more information, please contact:
AIA Canada Communications
1-800-808-2920, ext. 2285