Auto Recycling Group Introduces New Standards

The Automotive Recyclers Association has added new, stricter guidelines to its Certification Programs known as the Certified Automotive Recycler and Gold Seal programs.

The CAR and Gold Seal programs include a set of standards for general business practices as well as environmental and safety issues along with providing guidance for member facilities in adhering to these standards.

Upon applying to the CAR Program, each automotive recycling facility must submit more than 30 photographs and photocopies of licensing documentation, along with a signed agreement that the facility will adhere to the Certification’s code of conduct. The facility’s application is then reviewed by an ARA committee, appointed by ARA to monitor, review and regulate the Certification Guidelines. Each facility must then be audited by an environmental professional, in addition to completing self-audit documentation to maintain CAR Certification.

New this year, the CAR Program added to its guidelines a requirement that CAR members participate in the National Vehicle Mercury Switch Removal Program. "Customers of CAR certified recyclers can be assured that the company they are dealing with are committed to insuring their vehicles are dismantled according to the industry’s highest environmental and safety standards," according to George Eliades, ARA CEO. "When choosing to purchase from a Certified Automotive Recycling Facility you are ensuring protection to the environment and helping to promote safe and responsible business practices."

Additions to the Gold Seal Program standards include the institution of a minimum composite Customer Service Index score, minimum warranties on mechanical parts, the mandatory use of the ARA Parts Grading system when inventorying all parts, and the disclosure of the Gold Seal Customer Complaint Hotline number on all parts tags.