When you take your car in for repairs, you want to be sure that it is being serviced by a true professional. In Calgary, there is a certification system in place to ensure this. Here's how to make sure a repair shop meets the standards.
Why is this important?
- Safety: Certifications guarantee compliance with technical standards.
- Guarantees: Access to insurance services.
- Legality: Some services (such as inspections) require mandatory licensing.
Main certifications in Calgary
1. AMVIC license
What it is: A mandatory license for all auto repair shops from the Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council. How to check:
- Look for the AMVIC poster in the repair shop.
- Online search on the official AMVIC website.
2. ASA Certification
What it is: Membership in the Automotive Service Association demonstrates adherence to ethical standards. How to find it: Use the ASA locator.
3. I-CAR Gold Class/Platinum
What it is: Certification for repair shops specializing in body repair. Example: Eurocraft Collision Centre in Calgary. Verification: On the I-CAR Canada website.
4. ASE Blue Seal
What it is: 75%+ of technicians are Automotive Service Excellence certified. Where to find it: List of certified technicians at ase.com.
5. Red Seal Certification
What it is: Interprovincial standard of qualification for technicians. Verification: Request documentation or use Red Seal Canada.
Steps to verify
1. Online search
- AMVIC: List of licensed businesses.
- ASA: Shop Locator.
2. Visit the shop
- Posters: AMVIC/ASA logos should be on the sign.
- Questions: “Do you have ASE or Red Seal certifications?”
3. Special cases
- Electric vehicles: Ask for EVITP certification.
- Trucks: CVIP (Commercial Vehicle Inspection Program) license.
If the repair shop is not certified
- Risks: Poor quality repairs, warranty denial.
- Actions: File a complaint with AMVIC or Service Alberta.
Summary
Don't hesitate to ask questions! Certified repair shops are always ready to show their documents. Choose proven services with good reviews — saving on safety can be costly.