All MAP participating facilities agree to subscribe to the MAP Standards of Service. These Standards require that an inspection of the vehicle's (problem) system be made according to industry guidelines. After learning that neither the car manufacturers nor any other source had complete guidelines, the MAP membership, along with other industry participants, successfully developed them for the following systems: Exhaust, Brakes, ABS, Steering and Suspension, Engine Maintenance and Performance, HVAC, Electrical systems and Drive Train and Transmissions. MAP participating accredited shops utilize these Uniform Inspection and Communication Standards as part of the inspection process and for communicating their findings to their customers.
The Uniform Inspection and Communication Standards are intended as a reference to be used once a part is found to exhibit a certain condition as determined by a qualified technician following sound diagnostic procedures. The Uniform Inspection and Communication Standards are not intended to be used as a procedural guide and, therefore, will not aid a technician in determining the condition of a vehicle.