Hyundai Strengthens Position on Diagnostic System Scanning
by Alana Quartuccio
Pre- and post-repair scanning is not optional when it comes to a complete and proper repair.
To solidify that fact and align with evolving vehicle technology and safety systems, Hyundai Motor America recently updated its official position statement on diagnostic system scanning to reflect that pre-repair and post-repair system scanning is a required step in a proper and complete repair.
The updated position clarifies the essential role of diagnostic scans in identifying and validating electronic system performance before and after repairs. These procedures ensure all onboard systems are functioning as intended, especially with the increased presence of ADAS, and stresses that scanning is indeed a required – not a “recommended” – process.
Hyundai’s Wholesale Parts Sales Operations Senior Manager John Brown reports the manufacturer is “enthusiastic about the recent adjustment to the position statement language”.
Brown says it all came about simply because “we listened. We listened to the certified body shops, the MSOs and also the independent shops. We know the significance of that one word change. Not only did we listen, we acted and executed that change.”
Brown shared that once the decision was made, “Hyundai moved quickly! As soon as the company recognized its importance and the value it would bring to our body shop partners, they took action and make it happen right away.”
Quality repairs is number one, hence the importance of getting the message across because “we were not confident that [pre- and post- repair scanning] was happening consistently across the board. That is not just anecdotal; there’s factual data that we get from the industry indicating without the ‘required’ notation in the position statement, pre and post scans are not done on a consistent basis.”
Brown pointed to several reasons why shops may not be scanning consistently; from the cumbersome insurance approval process to limited time and resources, especially a shortage of technicians, which remains a concern across the collision industry.
“So much is missed when scanning is not done,” Brown stresses. “There are hidden damages that go unnoticed, especially in later model vehicles. There are dozens of control modules, so if they are not scanned, there’s no warning. There’s no DTC code that alerts of an issue.”
Failing to scan puts customers at risk as they could be driving vehicles with serious unknown issues. “Hyundai wants to ensure a quality repair is administered every time.”
In addition to keeping Hyundai drivers safe, proper repairs also protect the brand. Brown noted “that data shows accidents often lead to higher defection rates, as owners may connect the brand with the collision experience. That’s why ensuring customers feel safe and confident driving Hyundai vehicles remains a top priority.”
“We are committed to quality repairs as well as the safety and satisfaction of our customers. Our focus is to fix it right and do it right the first time.”
Want more? Check out the September 2025 issue of New Jersey Automotive!