COMPUTER screens and CDs are being used to simplify the perfect repair of crashed vehicles. Motor insurers are putting correct repair methods on to CDs so that bodyshop technicians can flick through instructions on-screen and secure detailed print-outs in any sequence they require, saving time and making vital repair information more accessible.

Produced by Thatcham, the Motor Insurance Repair Research centre, the CDs are designed to create a repairer's information point. Repair information manuals will still be available in conventional paper form, and also on disk for computerised display. Instead of thumbing through pages for various parts requirements and fitment instructions, repairers can obtain a printout of the necessary instructions and guidance on one or two pieces of paper which can be attached to the car under repair.

A demonstration methods manual on CD detailing every type of crash repair ever likely to be required by a Ford Fiesta will be sent to bodyshops. On disk will be all the repair parts required for restoring each type of damage, part numbers, precise replacement fitment instructions and labour times. In February Thatcham will start supplying crash damage repair manuals on CD at an average rate of one a month. They will become available at almost 4,000 bodyshops during 1998.