Technical 18 www.aftermarketonline.net MAY 2025 Learning to work with AI as a tech partner Artificial intelligence can be a game-changer, but it’s not infallible and human expertise in the workshop is still vital, says Repairify Innovations director Martin Brown In an industry that is constantly evolving, we have seen that since the introduction of ADAS systems into cars, vehicle safety has been revolutionised. However, the diagnostic and calibration work for these systems can be seen as complex jobs. This means that estimating this type of work and how long it will take can be hard to judge. Yet, there is something that could help. AI could potentially change how jobs for vehicles are estimated and how the necessary diagnostics are run and calibration work is identified and completed. The way this will be achieved is through the constant learning the AI software will be doing, so during the estimation process it will lead to more accurate quotes for jobs including labour time based on historical data. When it comes to calibrations and diagnostic work, this is where AI comes into its own. A vehicle is full of data some which is behind secure gateways and the AI can analyse vast amounts of data in short order and by doing this it can detect which calibrations are required alongside any additional work that might be required. In addition, as the AI becomes accustomed to the jobs being completed in the workshop, it could start to highlight the specific tools required and the average time to complete the work. This will help make the process more efficient and ensure that, no matter the job, the relevant safety standards are met prior to the vehicle being returned to the customer. This, in turn, will help reduce key-to-key times of jobs, which is what all businesses are looking to achieve. The versatility AI brings to the process must not be understated, but what we should remember is that it is continuously learning from all the data in the vehicle and from the work being completed. Through this, the technology will be able to provide indepth analysis or quick overviews at the touch of a button. This capability will enhance efficiency because everything is under one roof and it will ensure that no critical calibrations are overlooked. Like any new technology, it is important to embrace AI. However, it is crucial to maintain human expertise. The reason for this is simple. If a computer system fails in the workshop, the relevant members of the team must have the knowledge and skills to know what specific calibrations are required for a certain job. An example of this is if a front bumper is replaced, the technician needs to be able to identify which sensors and cameras need to be calibrated once the part is replaced before the vehicle can be back out on the road safely. This is where training from the likes of the Institute of the Motor Industry is important because it ensures that the technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the work even when the technology encounters setbacks. As AI continues to advance, the combination of automated intelligence and human expertise will shape the future of the workshop. But it is important to ensure the results coming from AI are checked by an experienced technician because AI is not infallible and could put out information for a job that is incorrect or irrelevant. Important that results are checked by an experienced technician. Photo: Gustavo Fring / Pexels Versatility AI brings to the workshop must not be understated
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