CAIA Automotive Repair Techniques & Standards 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When repairing a unibody vehicle, which measurement system is primarily used to verify structural alignment?
- Laser measurement system (Correct answer)
- Tape measure and plumb bob
- Dial indicator gauge
- Feeler gauge set
Correct answer: Laser measurement system
Laser measurement systems provide the precision needed to verify unibody structural alignment to factory specifications.
Question 2: What is the industry-standard term for the process of straightening a damaged vehicle frame using hydraulic equipment?
- Frame pulling (Correct answer)
- Cold straightening
- Hot working
- Stress relieving
Correct answer: Frame pulling
Frame pulling refers to the use of hydraulic equipment and anchoring systems to restore a vehicle frame to factory dimensions.
Question 3: According to I-CAR standards, which type of weld is most commonly used when sectioning a B-pillar?
- MIG plug weld (Correct answer)
- TIG butt weld
- Spot weld
- Flux-core arc weld
Correct answer: MIG plug weld
MIG plug welds are the I-CAR recommended method for most structural panel sectioning, including B-pillars, as they replicate factory spot welds.
Question 4: A vehicle is brought in with a damaged radiator support. What is the FIRST step before beginning any repair?
- Measure all four corners for diamond and twist (Correct answer)
- Remove the hood and front fascia
- Inspect the cooling system for leaks
- Order replacement parts
Correct answer: Measure all four corners for diamond and twist
Measuring for diamond, twist, and other distortions before disassembly establishes the repair baseline and directs the pull sequence.
Question 5: What does 'sectioning' mean in the context of automotive collision repair?
- Replacing only a portion of a structural panel by cutting at approved locations (Correct answer)
- Removing an entire body panel for replacement
- Cutting the vehicle in half for frame rail access
- Installing aftermarket reinforcement sections
Correct answer: Replacing only a portion of a structural panel by cutting at approved locations
Sectioning involves cutting and replacing only a damaged portion of a panel at OEM-designated locations to restore structural integrity.
Question 6: Which factor most directly determines whether a high-strength steel (HSS) part should be replaced rather than repaired?
- OEM repair procedures and the degree of deformation (Correct answer)
- The age of the vehicle
- The availability of aftermarket parts
- The color of the damaged panel
Correct answer: OEM repair procedures and the degree of deformation
OEM repair procedures specify whether HSS components can be straightened or must be replaced, since excessive deformation compromises yield strength.
Question 7: An insurance adjuster notices a shop applied a skim coat of body filler over 1/2 inch deep. What concern should this raise?
- Body filler applied too thick may crack and indicates inadequate metal repair (Correct answer)
- The filler will increase the vehicle's value
- Thick filler is acceptable if sanded smooth
- Filler depth has no bearing on repair quality
Correct answer: Body filler applied too thick may crack and indicates inadequate metal repair
Body filler exceeding approximately 1/4 inch indicates the underlying metal was not properly straightened, and thick filler is prone to cracking.
CAIA Automotive Repair Techniques & Standards 2
When repairing a unibody vehicle, which measurement system is primarily used to verify structural alignment?