New highest-spec grading standard gives professional bodyshops greater consistency, quality and confidence when sourcing recycled panels.
LKQ SYNETIQ has launched A+, a new highest-spec grading standard for recycled OE body panels, developed specifically for professional bodyshops.
The new grade has been introduced to help repairers work more efficiently with recycled panels by giving them clearer, more consistent expectations around condition, quality and preparation. It follows feedback from bodyshops that quality, availability and consistency are among the most important factors when sourcing recycled OE panels.
Available exclusively to professional bodyshops, A+ panels are designed to support faster turnaround, reduced workshop time and smoother repair planning – helping technicians keep jobs moving when every minute counts.
Every A+ recycled OE body panel is corrosion free, with sound substrate condition, and OEM paintwork measured at under 130µ. Panels are supplied fully stripped, with all components and fittings removed, and may include superficial surface scratches consistent with used parts. LKQ SYNETIQ says grading is carried out using a defined, multi-stage inspection process, including checks designed to identify indicators of previous repair, and that consistency is guaranteed to the A+ standard. The company says A+ has been set above current VRA grading guidance, with tighter criteria and fully stripped preparation intended to improve predictability for bodyshops.
The new grade gives bodyshops a more predictable recycled panel option, helping repairers choose a cost-effective repair option in recycled OE parts with greater confidence while maintaining the like-for-like quality expected from OE components.
Justin Elliot, Sales Director at LKQ SYNETIQ, said: “Quality, availability and consistency are bodyshops top priorities when sourcing recycled parts. A+ has been developed to give repairers greater confidence when choosing recycled OE body panels.
“By supplying fully stripped, high-spec recycled panels to a consistent standard, we’re helping bodyshops plan repairs more predictably, reduce unnecessary workshop time and keep vehicles moving through the repair process.
“A+ is about making the specification of recycled OE panels easier for professional repairers – with the quality, consistency and availability they need to work efficiently.”
Annick Jourdenais, Managing Director at LKQ SYNETIQ, said: “Using recycled OE panels has the potential to reduce the overall carbon impact of a repair by avoiding the emissions associated with manufacturing a new part. A+ is designed to make that choice simpler for professional bodyshops by improving consistency and availability.”
To support the launch, LKQ SYNETIQ is offering bodyshops the chance to upgrade to A+ panels with a special launch price at 50% off.
LKQ SYNETIQ is a UK vehicle dismantling, recycling and recycled parts specialist, created through the joint venture between LKQ Europe and SYNETIQ Ltd. The business combines SYNETIQ’s vehicle dismantling, reuse and recycling expertise with LKQ’s scale, distribution reach and aftermarket customer base to improve access to quality-assured recycled parts for repairers.
LKQ SYNETIQ supports more sustainable vehicle repair by helping bodyshops, workshops, insurers and other automotive businesses source recycled OE parts that can reduce cost, improve availability and support circular economy outcomes.
The A+ grade will be exclusively available via LKQ Bodyshop or LKQ Synetiq. Professional bodyshops can speak to their LKQ Bodyshop or LKQ SYNETIQ account team to find out more, or email mgp@synetiq.co.uk.