Detroit, Michigan — Ford officially broke ground on Monday with a new certified repair network intended to directly service the automotive glass repair industry in the U.S.
The industry-leading OEM said the Ford Certified Glass Network (FCGN) will offer participating glass repair shops process coaching aimed at ensuring the safe and proper installation of original equipment glass on Ford and Lincoln vehicles.
Shops seeking to be a part of Ford’s new network must certify that they have the ability to carry out advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibrations and undergo recertification every two years.
Enrolment fees paid by shops will earn them access to technical repair procedures at www.motorcraftservice.com. Similar to other banner systems in the collision repair industry, participating shops will be included in a consumer-facing locator service and provided FCGN signage.
“The Ford Certified Glass Network supports glass replacement companies who seek to be differentiated in the market by achieving our certification requirements,” said director of strategy and business at Ford’s customer service division, Jennifer Boyer, in a statement.
“It is an exciting opportunity for us to work closely with the auto glass repair and replacement industry.”
Shops will be required to complete an online profile, including a check of the shop’s tools, equipment training, and facilities, and certification by the Auto Glass Safety Council. Ford will then schedule an on-site visit to verify the profile and review the shop’s glass installation process.
Ford released this checklist outlining the minimum requirements for shops that may be interested in joining the FCGN.
