Why I-CAR Training is the Standard in Collision Repair

When it comes to collision repair, proper training isn’t optional—it’s essential. That’s where I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) comes in. As the leading organization for training in the collision repair industry, I-CAR sets the standard for technician education, certifications, and ongoing skill development.

At Solon Collision in Aurora, OH, we’re proud to invest in I-CAR training so our team is always equipped to repair your vehicle the right way. Whether you’re in Solon, Twinsburg, Streetsboro, or Macedonia, you can trust that our shop follows the industry’s highest standards.

I-Car Sign in the Solon Collision Lobby

What is I-CAR?

I-CAR is a nonprofit organization founded in 1979 with the mission of providing the knowledge and skills needed for safe, complete, and quality collision repairs. I-CAR works directly with automakers, insurers, and repair professionals to develop training programs that keep up with today’s advanced vehicle technology.

Gold Class vs. Platinum: What’s the Difference?

You’ll often hear about Gold Class and Platinum when talking about I-CAR certifications. Here’s the breakdown:

• Gold Class Shop Certification

  • Awarded to repair facilities that meet I-CAR’s training requirements across all roles: estimators, structural technicians, non-structural technicians, and refinishers.

  • Shops must maintain training every year to keep up with new repair procedures and technology.

  • A Gold Class shop, like Solon Collision, demonstrates its commitment to doing repairs right the first time.

• Platinum Individual Certification

  • Platinum is for individual technicians who complete role-specific training and hands-on skill development.

  • It ensures that each technician is qualified to repair vehicles to OEM specifications.

  • Like Gold Class, Platinum requires ongoing education.

Think of it this way: Platinum is about the technician. Gold Class is about the shop. Together, they ensure your car is repaired by qualified people in a certified facility.

Types of I-CAR Training

I-CAR makes training accessible in several formats, so shops can choose what works best for their team:

• Virtual Classes – Live, instructor-led sessions conducted online.

• Online Courses – Self-paced training modules available anytime.

• Hands-On / In-Shop Training – Real-world instruction where technicians practice repair procedures directly on vehicles.

This mix of training formats ensures that shops like ours in Aurora can stay up-to-date without disrupting repair schedules.

Why I-CAR is the Industry Standard

With today’s vehicles packed with advanced safety systems, aluminum parts, high-strength steels, and complex electronics, proper repair isn’t optional. That’s why I-CAR training is the industry’s gold standard.

I-CAR is trusted because:

• Aligned with Automakers – Training reflects OEM repair procedures.

• Constantly Updated – Courses evolve as vehicle technology changes.

• Recognized Nationwide – Insurers, OEMs, and consumers look for Gold Class shops.

• Focused on Safety – Repairs restore vehicles to pre-accident safety and performance.

Why It Matters for Drivers in Northeast Ohio

When you bring your car to Solon Collision in Aurora, OH, you’re choosing a Gold Class certified shop with Platinum-trained technicians. That means every repair is performed to OEM standards with your safety in mind.

Whether you’re from Solon, Hudson, Twinsburg, or Macedonia, you can feel confident knowing your car is in the hands of some of the most highly trained professionals in the industry.