From industry conferences to everyday conversations with repairers, misconceptions about OEM certification are being told every day. These myths discourage collision shops from pursuing certifications that can transform their business and undervalue the true benefits that come with certification programs. The reality is that certification is one of the most impactful steps a shop can take to position itself for long-term success. Let’s look at the five most common certification myths and the facts that set the record straight.
Myth 1: Certification requires shops to purchase duplicate equipment
Reality: Simply put, shops aren’t asked to duplicate major purchases. Certification through OEC’s Collision Performance Network helps cut down on duplicate requirements by aligning the core tooling, training, and process standards across multiple OEM brands in the program. The reality is quite the opposite with the program consolidating requirements to make compliance as efficient and cost-effective as possible.
Myth 2: It’s hard to figure out which OEM programs are right for my shop
Reality: A simple analysis of your repair mix should make this decision clearer than you might think. Just review the last two years of your repair orders. Which brands do you see most often? Those are the OEM certification programs that will resonate most with your current customers. And for brands you don’t yet repair? That’s where building relationships with local dealers can create opportunities for new work through certification.
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Myth 3: Certification doesn’t deliver a real return on investment
Reality: Certification isn’t a passive revenue stream. Shops that actively promote their certified status are the ones who see the strongest returns. For shops willing to put in that effort, the combination of higher-value work, reduced liability, and access to OEM-aligned referral channels makes certification one of the smartest investments a collision shop can make today.
Myth 4: Certification should operate like a DRP program and automatically bring cars to my shop
Reality: Certification only performs as well as the effort you put behind it. The shops seeing the strongest ROI from certification are treating it as a marketing platform rather than a passive referral program. OEMs are also increasingly routing accident-involved vehicles through telematics, call centers, and roadside assistance programs, positioning certified shops to receive those referrals. Even with those referrals, relationships and visibility matter. Shops that treat certification as just a credential to hang on the wall will be disappointed. The shops that treat it as a business development platform will find certification to be one of the more powerful tools available to them.
Myth 5: Certifications are hard to manage
Reality: The Collision Performance Network program includes ShopOps software, an easy-to-use platform where shops manage all certification requirements across six brands in one place. By keeping training records and equipment updates current throughout the year, shops can complete the annual recertification audit quickly and efficiently.
See how one shop turned OEM certification into real business growth.
Why certification matters now
OEM certification has shifted from a differentiator to a baseline requirement for shops serious about long-term competitiveness. Modern vehicles are growing more complex by the model year with ADAS, high-strength materials, and sophisticated electronics demanding precision that only properly trained and equipped shops can deliver. At the same time, consumers are more aware of certified repair options than ever before. Plus, insurers are integrating certification into their referral programs and OEMs are directly influencing where cars are repaired through telematics, call centers, and roadside assistance towing programs.
Shops looking to grow shouldn’t see certification as a burden, but as a business advantage. OEM certification validates your commitment to delivering quality repairs, connects you with powerful brands, and builds trust with insurers and customers. Plus, with today’s tools and resources, achieving and maintaining certification is more accessible than ever.
