Parts costs are heading in opposite directions—OEM prices climbing while aftermarket holds steady—and the industry is finally getting serious about ADAS standardization with two new initiatives launching this week.
OEM new parts saw the largest price increase in Q1 2026, while recycled and aftermarket parts stayed flat, according to PartsTrader's latest data. This widens the cost gap between OEM and alternative parts—meaning shops choosing OEM components will see pressure on labor ratios and supplements. Watch your estimate mix closely.
The Collision Industry Conference and SCRS have both announced new ADAS-focused programs designed to standardize risk assessment, training, and best practices across the repair ecosystem. Both initiatives echo SCRS's collision repairer community model—expect certification tracks and educational frameworks for shops ramping up ADAS capabilities.
Source: SCRS / Auto Body News →
Alternative parts usage across the repair industry reached 40% in Q1 2026—a new high that signals insurers and shops are leaning harder into cost containment. For shops still chasing OEM-only workflows, this is a market signal: insurers are rewarding shops that can work efficiently with aftermarket and recycled parts.
Source: Repairer Driven News →
CCC reported 12% revenue growth in Q1 as insurers accelerate AI adoption in estimate writing and claims handling. But here's the catch: 42% of insurers still aren't measuring AI outcomes, meaning estimates may be unreliable and supplementing is about to get messier. Shops need better data pushback tools now.
I-CAR is accepting applications for four 2026 Board of Directors seats through June 2, signaling a governance refresh as the training body adjusts to ADAS, EV, and calibration demand. If your shop wants a voice in industry standards, nominations are open.
Source: SCRS →
The two new ADAS industry initiatives are reshaping training and standards—but your shop needs a diagnostic edge right now. ADAS IQ gives you real-time calibration specs and failure logic before the customer walks in.
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