MICAR

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In 2004, ARM underscored its commitment to helping promote member performance by establishing one of the first state certification programs within the United States.

The Michigan Certified Automotive Recycler (MICAR) program was developed to help members improve regulatory compliance and to motivate facility operators to meet the industry’s highest performance standards.

The MICAR (Michigan Certified Automotive Recycler) program, sponsored by the Automotive Recyclers of Michigan (ARM) is a certification initiative that helps automotive recycling facilities meet and maintain compliance with environmental, safety, business, licensing, and regulatory standards. By providing clear guidance, resources, and structure, MICAR supports recyclers in operating responsibly, reducing liability, and demonstrating environmental stewardship — strengthening their reputation and long-term success.

Accredited by the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), MICAR-certified facilities that are also ARA members are automatically recognized as participants in ARA’s Certified Automotive Recycler (CAR) program and become eligible for the Gold Seal Program, which highlights excellence in customer service, quality recycled parts, and professional business practices. These designations enhance credibility with customers, insurers, regulators, and industry partners while setting participating facilities apart as leaders in the industry.

MICAR members must meet established standards, participate in regular audits, and comply with ARM membership requirements. Through this process, they commit to continuous improvement and operational excellence while minimizing regulatory risk. As a result, MICAR-certified recyclers distinguish themselves as professional, responsible, and high-performing businesses dedicated to environmental protection, worker safety, and delivering quality products within the automotive recycling industry.

NEW!!! With the addition of dedicated compliance staff, ARM and MICAR members now receive complimentary access to expert environmental and safety consulting services — including Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) development and updates, Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan preparation, permit assistance, and a wide range of additional compliance support.

Compliance and Verification Procedures
MICAR Plus Accreditation
MICAR Certified: MICAR Plus members shall remain certified under the MICAR program sponsored by ARM.
Signed Agreement: MICAR Plus members shall sign the MICAR Plus Agreement.
Display Standards: MICAR Plus members shall post, display, or distribute the MICAR Plus standards to licensed repair or recycling facilities.
Audit: MICAR Plus members shall participate in an biannual audit conducted by the MICAR Program Manager to verify compliance with the standards, review documentation, identify deficiencies and concerns, and obtain on-site guidance. Issues that are not resolved by the Program Manager and member will be referred to ARM/ASA and/or the Arbitration Board.
Complaint Investigation: The MICAR Plus program will establish a procedure that allows licensed repair or recycling customers to file a complaint if they believe that a MICAR Plus member is not complying with the agreed-upon standards. The complaints can be initiated on a downloadable (pdf) complaint form through a link on the ASA and ARM websites.  Initial acknowledgement of the complaint, and notification of the MICAR Plus member, shall be made within two business days. Each complaint shall be reviewed by ARM/ASA and/or the MICAR Program Manager, and referred if necessary, to the Arbitration Board. It is the goal of the program that all conflicts be resolved, and communicated in writing to both the MICAR Plus member and the complainant, within 30 days of the complaint being initiated.
Arbitration Board: An Arbitration Board shall be established to resolve conflicts or disagreements. The Board shall consist of two ASA and two ARM members appointed by their respective Board of Directors, and one member from ASA or ARM, who will rotate positions each calendar year. The Board shall review the information provided by the parties and make decisions at its discretion that are fair and in accordance with the MICAR Plus standards and procedures. Participating ASA and ARM members will be required to abide with the decisions reached by the Arbitration Board.

Interested in the program?

MICAR Application
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