Counterman

new national survey by Atomik Research reveals 91% of American motorists say they’ve experienced a dead battery, but nearly two-thirds (65%) of motorists admit they don’t think about having their car battery checked until it’s too late. To raise awareness of the importance of having a reliable car battery, Advance Auto Parts is giving away free DieHard batteries on National Battery Day, which is Sunday, Feb. 18. Advance said it will surprise randomly selected customers with a free DieHard battery, including those getting their current battery tested, at participating stores nationwide. As part of National Battery Day, Advance is partnering with Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield to encourage motorists to get their car batteries tested. “Checking the performance of your car battery can prevent unfortunate and even unsafe events caused by dead batteries,” said Junior Word, Advance’s executive vice president, U.S. stores. Additional data from the national Atomik survey commissioned by Advance in January underscores the need to remind motorists to get their car batteries checked: Sixty-five percent of motorists say they’ve missed or been late to something due to a dead car battery; nearly 10% say they missed or were late to an important life event – such as a wedding, funeral or birth of a child. Only 2% of motorists indicate they’ve had their car battery checked before a cross-country road trip. Only 5% of motorists report having ever checked their car battery when there is a drop in temperature. The post Advance Giving Away Free Batteries to Randomly Selected Customers on National Battery Day appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The fuel system, as a whole, is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine, then metering it into the combustion chamber. It consists of the tank, the lines, the pump and the metering device. If only it was as simple as it sounds. The challenge lies in the continual changes over the last century, and how the frequency of changes has increased over recent decades. The heart and identity of any fuel system is the metering device or system that controls the flow of fuel into an engine. As a counter professional, you’re going to hear it all, and you’ll have to answer it all, so here’s a rundown on the major changes and differences over the years. Carburetion Systems A carburetor is a basic mechanical device, and the primary metering device used on the earliest automobiles. Carburetors held their ground until the late 1980s, when the last examples were eventually replaced by fuel injection. The job of a carburetor is to not only meter the fuel but also to properly mix it with the air flowing into the engine through the process of atomization. As the automotive industry began to migrate to fuel injection, a knee-jerk reaction opposing fuel injection ensued. We were familiar with carburetors, and liked the fact that they were mechanical devices that could be repaired and rebuilt using basic hand tools, and there were no electronics involved. Regardless of who made the carburetor or what style it was, an experienced technician could diagnose and repair a problem without the need for service information, scan tools or electronics. Though considered “simple,” carburetors are more complicated than they seem, with multiple different circuits to manage all aspects of engine operation. “Tuning” a carburetor – the art of balancing performance, efficiency and drivability – takes a considerable knowledge of engine operating principles, and the patience and precision to get it right. The majority of carbureted vehicles utilize mechanical fuel pumps, driven off the engine. This too adds to the attraction of these vehicles, as again there were no electronics involved. The drawback to carburetors came in their lack of ability for precise fuel control. They simply couldn’t keep up with the tightening noose of emission and fuel-economy standards that was in full force by the 1970s. As the end of their use in production automobiles came near, some electronics were incorporated into them, but ultimately proved ineffective. Today, any professional will admit – regardless of complexity – that fuel injection is simply superior and necessary. However, carburetion is still popular on old vehicles, partly because of its relative simplicity, but also due to the popularity of restoring old cars to their original state. While far from commonplace, carburetor rebuild kits aren’t going away anytime soon. Fuel-Injection Systems The advantage of fuel injection is the ability to precisely control fuel delivery under all operating conditions. Not only is this a necessity for emissions and fuel economy, but it also has a major advantage in drivability – an operational attribute that goes hand in hand with efficiency and performance. Attempts at fuel injection are as old as the internal combustion engine itself, but in the early days, too many bugs made it undependable. By the 1950s, substantial engineering efforts were applied to develop fuel injection, both in the United States and Europe. One of the more well-known systems was the original Rochester fuel injection developed by Chevrolet for the 1957 Chevrolet and Corvette. The idea behind developing this fuel injection wasn’t in the interest of horsepower or emission control. It was drivability, with the goal to eliminate the undesirable and unavoidable attributes of a carburetor, including fuel slosh in the fuel bowl and the transition between primary and secondary circuits. As you may expect, racers played a substantial part in all this, and the best part is they were very successful, and it unlocked horsepower as well! The Rochester fuel-injection system was available from 1957 through 1965, but it ultimately failed for only one reason: cost. It was an expensive option, and with the muscle-car wars in full force and much higher-horsepower carbureted engines available for a fraction of the cost, nobody was buying. By the late 1970s, fuel injection was better-developed, and this time emissions and fuel economy played a strong part. It began its rise to the top, and thanks to the advancements in electronic and computer technology, it got there quick. By the early 1990s, carburetion was all but gone from production automobiles. Fuel-injection systems can be separated into multiple categories and types, and since you’ll hear multiple terms, here’s how to tell them apart. Mechanical Fuel Injection Early gasoline fuel-injection systems were mechanical. The pumps were mechanical, and fuel was delivered directly to nozzles located in the intake manifold. The pressure of the fuel caused the fuel injectors to open. A type of air meter was necessary, but early systems relied primarily on vacuum signals or mechanical linkage between the air meter and fuel-distribution meter to determine the proper amount of fuel. Very minimal if any electronics were involved in these systems. Early diesel fuel-injection systems were purely mechanical as well, but the difference was the required fuel pressure. It doesn’t require much pressure to inject fuel into an intake manifold, but it requires extremely high pressure to inject fuel directly into a cylinder (such as is necessary for a diesel). Diesel-injection pumps housed a mechanical high-pressure pump to feed the fuel to the injectors. One of the most common gasoline fuel-injection systems to become popular beginning in the late 1970s was the Bosch Continuous Injection System (CIS). This, too, was overall a mechanical system, but an electric pump supplied the fuel, and minor electronics played a part in cold-start functions as well as fuel-mixture control. Electronic Fuel Injection Electronic fuel injection was a terminology that became well-known in the 1980s and was often indicated by the letters “EFI” on the back of a car. It seemed revolutionary at the time, and it indicated that the systems were now completely electronically controlled. It was this point in time when fuel pumps found their way into the gas tank; injectors were basically solenoids that opened the injector upon command from a computer; and the computer – along with a myriad of sensors – controlled everything surrounding the operation of the system. Even though EFI was an early term that would now be as redundant as saying you have antilock brakes on a new car, it’s technically still an accurate term. It’s just not used often because it’s assumed – and correctly – that everything on a new car is tied to electronics. EFI is a term that can include many different types of fuel injection. Throttle-Body Injection Throttle-body injection (TBI) refers to the fuel injector(s) being located in a throttle body that looks almost like a carburetor at a glance. This was done by design, as it was the most efficient and quickest way for auto manufacturers to make the change to fuel injection, while utilizing many of the same components they already had such as the same intake manifolds and air cleaners. TBI was most common in the 1980s and early 1990s. We’ve always loved fancy names. Have you ever heard of cross-fire injection? It was two throttle bodies at opposite corners of the intake manifold. Port Fuel Injection TBI was at a disadvantage because airflow was interrupted by the injector, and port injection was the next advancement in line. Port, or multi-point injection injects fuel into the intake runner just before the intake valve for each cylinder. The advantage is the ability to precisely control the fuel delivery and balance the airflow into each cylinder, leading to increased power output and improved fuel economy. Early mechanical fuel-injection systems were port-injection systems, sans electronic control. Seem confusing? Many fuel-injection terms cross over from new to old technology. There are just so many manufacturer-specific names that it can be confusing! Like EFI, port injection was widely advertised as the latest greatest advancement, with tuned port injection topping the performance charts. Port injection still is the most common type of fuel injection used today, but when was the last time you saw it called out? Nobody really says it anymore because it’s not new. But there’s another technology that we’re not done talking about, and that’s direct injection. Direct Injection Direct means the fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber. Direct injection has been around for years in the diesel world, but it’s still relatively new for gasoline engines. The challenge with this type of injection is injecting the fuel into the high compression of the combustion chamber. Just like a diesel, it requires extremely high fuel pressure, and gasoline direct injection utilizes a typical electric pump to supply fuel to the rail, plus a mechanically driven high-pressure fuel pump to supply the necessary pressure for injection. The primary advantage of direct injection is that there’s less time for the air/fuel mixture to heat up since the fuel isn’t injected in the cylinder until immediately before combustion. This reduces the chance of detonation, or the fuel igniting from the heat and pressure in the cylinder. This allows a direct-injected engine to have higher compression, which itself lends to higher performance. There are additional advantages of reduced emissions and better fuel economy, but there also are some now-familiar drawbacks, including carbon buildup on the backs of the intake valves, low speed pre-ignition and limited high-rpm performance. For this reason, many manufacturers are combining both direct- and port-injection systems. The post The Evolution of Automotive Fuel Systems appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NPW announced the addition of Automotive Installers Warehouse (AIW) to its network. AIW, a customer of NPW since 2013, has joined forces with NPW as part of its ongoing growth efforts. Under the leadership of owner Omar Mesa, “AIW has consistently delivered exceptional service and expertise to its customers,” NPW said in a news release. Mesa has transitioned to NPW with the move, “bringing his wealth of experience and industry knowledge to the team.” “NPW has been a great partner to AIW over the years, and I am excited to continue serving our customers as part of the NPW family,” Mesa said. As part of the integration process, AIW’s location was consolidated into NPW’s Miami location, further optimizing operations and enhancing service efficiency, according to NPW. “We are thrilled to welcome AIW to NPW and are confident that their expertise and customer-centric approach will enhance our capabilities in serving this market,” NPW CEO Chris Pacey said. “This expansion aligns with our strategic goal of strengthening our presence in South Florida, and we look forward to leveraging AIW’s resources to better serve our customers in this region.” The post NPW Adds Automotive Installers Warehouse to its Network appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto-Wares Group of Companies recently recognized six companies with its 2023 Supplier Awards. Auto-Wares store, sales and leadership teams voted on the awards, which were presented at the Auto-Wares Group of Companies Tech Expo on Feb. 9 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Auto-Wares Group of Companies announced DRiV as its Supplier of the Year for 2023. In attendance to accept the award from DRiV were Jeff Koviak, Steve Hedberg, Molly Ketchum, Vicotria Marshalek, Chuck Hawkins, Mike Hinderer and James Bannister. “The first line of our core values is that we want to be the most trusted channel partner in this industry,” Jeff Koviak, VP at DRiV, said during his acceptance speech. “We’re trying to earn it each and every day. Thank you for the award. The team is phenomenal. We feel like family here and to all the customer base that is in the crowd, we want to keep servicing you better as we go forward as well. Thank you!” “DRiV has been a tremendous partner with Auto-Wares Group of Companies,” said Todd Leimenstoll, president of Auto-Wares Group of Companies. “They have engaged leadership and a strong desire to help our company grow with implementing new ideas and continually improving on the basics.” A full list of the 2023 award winners is below: Supplier of the Year – DRiV Rising Star Supplier of the Year – NRS Brakes Sales & Marketing Supplier of the Year – Bosch Data & Technology Supplier of the Year – Dorman Outstanding Shipping Suppliers of the Year – BBB Industries Rep of the Year – Bob Alderton, Gates The post Auto-Wares Recognizes Six Companies with Supplier Awards appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FCS Automotive announced the release of 18 new part numbers. The release includes four shock absorbers covering nearly 3.6 million vehicles in operation, and 14 suspension struts covering 5.4 million vehicles in operation. All of the units are in stock and ready to ship, FCS noted. The new numbers cover some of the most popular applications on the road today, including the Audi A3, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Bronco, Jeep Compass, Mazda 3, Mercedes Benz E350, Nissan Sentra and more, according to the company. “FCS remains committed to be first to market with new numbers, while providing the most comprehensive market coverage in North America – well-beyond our nearest competitor,” FCS said in a news release. As a global supplier in more than 40 countries, FCS products are produced to meet strict OE quality processes backed by extensive in-house testing and IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 certifications, according to the company. For more information, call 866-708-4554 or visit the FCS website. The post FCS Introduces 18 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

O’Reilly Auto Parts honored DMA with two awards at its 2024 Leadership Conference. DMA took home the Content and Omnichannel Award and the Marketing and Advertising Award, marking the fourth consecutive year that DMA has been recognized at the event. More than 10,000 vendors were in attendance and 22 awards were up for grabs at the 2024 O’Reilly Auto Parts Leadership Conference in Dallas. The Content and Omnichannel Award “recognizes DMA’s outstanding efforts in providing robust and accurate product information across multiple channels. For the second consecutive year, DMA has demonstrated its commitment to excellence by delivering timely updates to product information, informative digital content and technical tips,” DMA said. The Marketing and Advertising Award celebrates DMA’s successful retail and professional promotions, which have driven significant participation and year-over-year point-of-sale growth, according to the company. Through engaging videos, compelling flyers and promotional content, DMA has effectively leveraged marketing strategies to boost sales and enhance brand visibility, the company noted. “We are incredibly honored to receive these two awards at the O’Reilly Auto Parts Leadership Conference,” said Fred Snow, COO at DMA. “These achievements are a testament to the hard work, dedication and innovation of every single individual at DMA. It is truly a team effort, and we are immensely proud of what we have accomplished together.” The post O’Reilly Honors DMA with 2 Awards at Leadership Conference appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Supplier Advisory Council recently held its semi-annual meeting to discuss current and expected market conditions and opportunities, as well as other key topics for the independent aftermarket and the company’s distributor network. “The Supplier Advisory Council serves an essential role in ensuring the many industry-leading programs and services we provide our VIPAR Heavy Duty stockholders are in sync with the current and future goals of our organization and our supplier partners,” said Larry Griffin, VIPAR Heavy Duty vice president of program management. “It’s a valuable resource for keeping a close pulse on the aftermarket’s economic performance, trends in end-user demand, and emerging technologies and regulations.” Griffin said the council is expecting a stable aftermarket in 2024 with moderate, single-digit growth, a reliable supply chain and continued expansion of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ network. “Last year was historic in terms of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ growth and innovation, and we’re committed to continue the momentum in 2024 and beyond,” Griffin said. “The council was very pleased with our performance last year and expressed strong support of our strategy to continue increasing our North American footprint this year and into the future.” In 2023, the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ distributor network reached a milestone 930-plus VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty locations, including nearly 600 that provide service and repair. Additionally, Power Heavy Duty added a record 18 new members for a total of 224 locations. The post VIPAR Heavy Duty Supplier Advisory Council Reviews Performance, Strategy appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Photo caption: Devonte Wilson, a Congressional aide for U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson, visits MANN+HUMMEL’s manufacturing plant in Gastonia, North Carolina. MANN+HUMMEL’s North American aftermarket brands – WIX Filters, Purolator Filters and MANN-FILTER – announced support for the Right-to-Repair campaign. Spearheaded by the Auto Care Association, the initiative is focused on the passage of H.R. 906, the “Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act.” This bipartisan legislation provides the right for independent repair shops and aftermarket businesses to access critical information, tools and equipment needed to maintain and repair vehicles at a fair and reasonable cost. Ultimately, the bill helps ensure the preservation of consumer choice, a fair marketplace and the continued safe operation of the nation’s 292 million registered passenger and commercial motor vehicles, 70% of which are maintained by independent repair facilities. To support the campaign, representatives from MANN+HUMMEL’s North American leadership recently met with the legislative staff for U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson of North Carolina’s 14th Congressional District to encourage passage of the legislation, which currently has 49 sponsors. “Consumer choice is the pounding heartbeat of the aftermarket industry, and competition in the marketplace drives improved service and affordability,” said Daryl Benton, VP of sales & marketing – Aftermarket North America for MANN+HUMMEL. “The Right to Repair maintains a level playing field for independent repair shops and do-it-yourselfers as vehicle systems become increasingly complex and the cost of regular service and maintenance escalates.” The Right-to-Repair movement has gained momentum in recent years. In November 2020, Massachusetts voters approved a ballot measure supporting a Right-to-Repair initiative with 75% of the vote, and Maine voters approved a similar ballot measure in November 2023 with over 80% of the vote. In May 2021, the Federal Trade Commission published its “Nixing the Fix” report, which supported reinvigorated regulatory options and consumer education to provide consumers and independent repair shops with appropriate access to replacement parts, instructions, and diagnostic software. Additionally, President Joe Biden issued an executive order on “Promoting Competition in the American Economy” in July 2021 to encourage the FTC to use its statutory authority in addressing anti-competitive repair restrictions. To learn more about the Right-to-Repair campaign and access tools to engage with elected officials, visit repairact.com. The post MANN+HUMMEL’s NA Aftermarket Brands Support Right to Repair appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Super Bowl Sunday is as much about the commercials as the game itself – and Valvoline was part of it. Valvoline Global featured its new Restore & Protect full-synthetic motor oil in a 30-second commercial that aired during the pre-game coverage of the big game. Valvoline Global recently announced the global launch of the premium full-synthetic motor oil. The “first-of-its-kind innovation” removes up to 100% of engine-killing deposits with continuous use, restoring engines to run like factory clean while protecting against future damage, according to the company. “This latest addition to the Valvoline product portfolio is a paradigm shift in motor oil performance and challenges traditional thinking about the category,” the company said. “With a history steeped in trust and innovation, Valvoline has consistently been at the forefront of the automotive lubricant category.” You can watch the Super Bowl Sunday commercial below: The post Valvoline Restore & Protect Ad Runs on Super Bowl Sunday appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

BBB Industries on Feb. 12 announced two strategic leadership changes. BBB has appointed John Boyer as president of BBB’s undercar division. Boyer has been with BBB since 2015 and has served in various roles, most recently as president of TERREPOWER, BBB’s solar-system and EV-battery lifecycle-management division. “Boyer’s product/market insights and hands-on approach are ideally suited to lead BBB’s undercar team,” the company said in a news release. Boyer has more than 30 years of experience leading automotive parts manufacturing, distribution and retail businesses to higher levels of performance and growth, including more than 10 years with AutoZone, BBB noted. Maria Caballero has been appointed president of TERREPOWER, a division of BBB Industries. Caballero brings more than 30 years of experience and a record of outstanding leadership and achievements to this position, the company said. Prior to joining BBB, Caballero led the Visteon Electronics OE service group. She also worked for Ford’s automotive component division where she held various roles in manufacturing, business planning and program management. “Her unique blend of technical expertise, detailed executional excellence and dedication to the company’s core values make her the right executive to lead TERREPOWER through the next stage in its evolution,” the company said. “BBB is deeply committed to exceeding the expectations of our customers, colleagues and investors,” added Duncan Gillis, CEO of BBB Industries. “These key changes within our senior leadership team reflect our relentless pursuit of innovation, growth and competitive excellence.” The post BBB Industries Announces Leadership Changes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dayco has become a partner brand for the industry’s eXtra loyalty program. eXtra is a multi-brand loyalty offering geared toward automotive repair shop owners that allows them to buy, earn and redeem points without cutting box tops or tracking sales. It currently has 17,000 participating shop owners in the United States and Canada, and is growing rapidly. Shops that are registered in the eXtra program now have access to eligible Dayco products and can earn points for purchases that can be redeemed for more than a million items, including everything from high-end merchandise, apparel and electronics from major retailers to travel vouchers, gift certificates and business solutions. In addition, there are giveaways and incentives for shops as well as daily promotions and regular communication on new products, training information and educational content from the program’s brand partners. Dayco products offered through the eXtra program include serpentine-belt kits, timing-belt water-pump kits, timing-chain kits and water pumps. “This program has been well-received in the industry and is growing quickly,” said Tom Tecklenburg, VP of Dayco N.A. sales & marketing. “It’s extremely easy for shops to participate and we love that it offers Dayco a way to reward those repair shops who purchase from us. Plus it gives us an opportunity to educate eXtra shop members on the quality and effectiveness of all of our kits and system solutions and what sets the Dayco brand apart from competitive products.” U.S. repair shops interested in the eXtra program can visit extra-awards.com/, and Canadian shops can visit www.extra-awards.ca. For more information about Dayco’s aftermarket products or access to the company’s full library of technical information and repair videos, visit the Dayco Tech Hub. The post Dayco Teams Up With eXtra Loyalty Program appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products (SMP) announced the introduction of 208 new part numbers in its January new-number announcement. This most recent release provides new coverage in 72 distinct product categories and 115 part numbers for 2022, 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles. Standard’s emission-control program sees expansion with the introduction of vapor canister purge pumps for popular General Motors SUVs such as the 2023-2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and multiple EGR tubes covering 6.2 million vehicles. The Standard gas fuel-injection program also has grown with the release of new fuel injectors for GDI and MFI applications, as well as fuel-pressure regulators, fuel-pressure sensors, fuel-pump camshaft followers, high-pressure fuel pumps and more. Pentastar 3.6-liter engine oil filter housings may all look similar, but they feature distinct differences from year to year. Standard now offers coverage for the latest generation with coverage through 2024. Standard’s oil filter housing kits come completely assembled from the factory and include multiple design improvements over the original to address OE weak points. For powertrain-neutral categories, Standard has added 13 new ABS sensors, several parking brake actuators and Brake Pad Wear Sensors for vehicles like the 2023-21 Cadillac CT4 and heavy-duty General Motors trucks through the 2024 model-year. All-new QWIK-SENSOR TPMS multipacks of 25 are now available with rubber or metal valve stems. The kits include 25 individually packaged and protected QWIK-SENSOR multi-frequency TPMS sensors. Standard’s ADAS program continues to grow with the addition of 17 new park-assist cameras and 16 new park-assist sensors. Standard’s hybrid- and electric-vehicle program continues to expand with this release. Park-assist sensors are new for the 2023-2022 Mazda MX-30 EV, and ABS sensors are now available for the 2022-2019 Kia Niro EV, 2022-2019 Toyota Prius Prime and 2023-2019 Hyundai Nexo. Park-assist cameras are now available for the all-electric 2022 Ford E-Transit. Additionally, oil-pressure light switches are new for the hybrid 2023-2019 Lexus UX250h. “We’re starting the year strong, with 208 new numbers added to our best-in-industry product lines,” said Jack Ramsey, senior vice president of sales and marketing, SMP. “Standard and Four Seasons are committed to carrying this momentum throughout the new year, expanding our coverage for gas, diesel, hybrid and electric import and domestic vehicles.” All new applications are listed in the catalogs found at StandardBrand.com and 4S.com, and in electronic-catalog providers. The post SMP Introduces 208 New Part Numbers in January appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

A “road earring” is a term that can be used to describe a single coil found on the side of the road. These bits of broken spring have become more common in recent years. A spring on a vehicle is an energy-storage and energy-transfer device. As the wheel and tire follow the road, the spring reacts to undulations in the road and movements of the body and chassis. Spring Rate Spring rate refers to the amount of weight that’s needed to compress a spring 1 inch. Some spring rates are linear, and their rate increases as the spring is compressed. For example, if you have a 100-pound-per-inch spring, the first inch of compression requires 100 pounds. For 2 inches of compression, it will require 200 pounds. For progressive spring rates, the first inch of compression might require only 100 pounds. But, as the springs compress, the spring rate increases progressively. The next inch of compression might require 300 pounds. To make a progressive spring, the windings on the spring change in diameter and pitch in specific areas of the spring. The softer spring rates that might handle small bumps in the road are placed at the ends of the spring. The coils in the center of the spring will have a stiffer spring rate to counteract larger movements of the suspension and body. But, this can induce fatigue in the areas designed to give a softer spring rate because it always yields to the forces in the suspension. Spring Steel Springs are made of steel called spring steel. This steel is medium- or low-carbon steel. It is engineered and forged, so it has no large inclusions or scale. As a result, the steel has a high yield point and can return to its original shape quickly when it does yield. Once the spring steel has been delivered to the spring factory, the steel can be drawn, bent and heated into springs. The engineers can change the spacing and pitch of the coils to generate different spring rates. They also can change the geometry of the spring by making it a barrel shape that affects how side loads are absorbed. How the spring is formed and treated can influence the spring rate as well. Unfortunately, progressive spring designs have one disadvantage: They can fatigue in specific areas. When this happens, the spring can break. A spring’s design is tuned to many factors. Engineers will use terms like frequency and amplitude to describe spring construction. For the layman, these terms translate to how fast and how far the spring has to travel. Frequency and amplitude are tuned for ride quality, the vehicle’s center of gravity and the sprung and unsprung weight. One area of the spring might be great for controlling body lean, but it could be too hard to provide a comfortable ride. To increase the versatility of the spring, engineers can tune the coils so they are progressive and change the spring rate when compressed or put under certain forces. Why Do Springs Fail? Spring steel at an atomic or molecular level is not a consistent structure. Depending on how the metal is cast, forged and bent, the molecular structure of the steel can have grain and microstructures that can change the properties and performance of the spring. These tiny structures can change and even weaken the spring as it is cycled. These movements of the suspension cause the grain and microstructures to shear and eventually develop microscopic cracks. If the cracks grow larger during the following cycles, it can lead to structural failure of the spring. Why Are Some Vehicles More Prone to Broken Springs? Automakers want a suspension that delivers a plush ride over rough roads, and a sporty responsive feel when the driver takes a corner. The only way to achieve this is with progressive springs. But, some automakers might take it too far and compromise the longevity of the spring. The other factor is how the suspension is cycled, which can be driver- and geography-dependent. For example, if a driver lives in an area with rough roads, the springs are more likely to fail when compared to the same vehicle that may drive only on smooth roads. The same also is true for the distance they drive. The other factor is the condition of the shocks or struts. If a shock or strut cannot control the movement of the suspension, the spring will cycle more and with a greater range of movement. This can increase the rate of fatigue. What Happens When a Spring Breaks? If a spring breaks, it can cause multiple problems. The first symptom is poor ride and handling. This is caused by unequal spring rates and changes in ride height. This will typically be accompanied by noise and the suspension bottoming out. On strut applications, missing coils can cause the steering to bind. Finally, in some cases, the broken spring can damage a tire and cause a sudden blowout. Setting aside all of the science and engineering, you can see that springs are a wear component that need to be inspected. And you also must realize that even though a spring has no actual internal moving parts, it’s just as complex as a fuel injector or electronic module. The post When Springs Break appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Auto Care Association last week testified before the Idaho State Senate Commerce and Human Resources Committee in opposition to Senate Bill 1233, which would add language to an existing law that requires insurers to notify consumers in writing if they specific aftermarket parts for a collision repair. Currently, Section 41-1328B of the Idaho Code states, “It shall be an unfair claim settlement practice for an insurer to specify the use of nonoriginal equipment manufacturer aftermarket crash parts in the repair of an insured person’s motor vehicle, or for a repair facility or installer to use non-OEM aftermarket crash parts to repair a vehicle, if the consumer has not been advised in writing.” SB 1233 proposes to: Add headlamps, fenders, hoods, tail lamps and bumper components to the definition of aftermarket crash parts Add language to written disclosure statements telling consumers that non-OEM crash parts may affect safety and performance of a vehicle Recommend that consumers consult with a qualified industry expert or repair shop before making any decisions regarding the use of non-OEM crash parts Although SB 1233 was introduced in late January, it was swiftly advancing in the Idaho State Senate. Alongside Auto Care Association members, the association quickly took action to prevent the bill from becoming law, sending letters of opposition to the committee members highlighting its impact on aftermarket businesses in Idaho. “In Idaho specifically, our industry provides over 12,492 jobs, generates $1.6 billion in economic activity and provides $679 million in wages,” said Tod Moore, manager, grassroots and advocacy, Auto Care Association. “SB 1233 would have immediate, detrimental effects on this otherwise vibrant aftermarket ecosystem, not to mention the negative effect it will have on consumers.” During the hearing, the committee heard testimony from individuals both supporting and opposing the bill before ultimately voting to hold the bill in committee and thus preventing it from moving forward. Similar legislation also was recently defeated in Washington state. For more information about the Auto Care Association’s latest government affairs activities, visit the association’s Advocacy in Action blog. The post Auto Care Testifies Against Idaho Bill Targeting Non-OEM Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation is accepting applications for hundreds of scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year. Scholarships are available to students training to become automotive, heavy-duty or collision repair technicians or those studying engineering, business, IT/cybersecurity or other courses in preparation for a career in the motor-vehicle aftermarket. Graduating high school seniors, full-time post-secondary students and former recipients are welcome to apply. Each completed application is considered for all scholarships where the student meets the qualifications, the foundation noted. The application deadline is March 31. To apply, visit the Automotive Aftermarket Scholarships Central website. The post UofA Foundation Accepting Applications for Automotive Scholarships appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

KYB recently unveiled the KYB Parts Catalog app. While most mobile catalog apps only ask for the year, make and model when searching for part numbers, KYB said its app dives much deeper, requesting information such as engine size, trim package and drivetrain type when applicable. The additional levels of detail provide “an accurate and much narrower list of recommended shock-and-strut applications and part numbers,” according to the company. With the app, service writers and technicians can quickly search for the part they need without accessing a computer. The app also provides recommended part numbers for performance-upgrade shocks and struts, strut mounts, boots and bumpers if available. The app can recommend the closest retailer or wholesaler from which to order the part, KYB noted. “The new KYB Parts Catalog app quickly provides repair shops with the right part number, helping to reduce repair time and opening repair bays quicker,” the company said in a news release. Those who were using the KYB Shocks app will be automatically updated to this latest version, KYB said. New users can download the KYB Parts Catalog on The App Store and Google Play. The post KYB Launches New Mobile App appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Alltech Automotive has added premium wheel hubs to its QualityPro brand of automotive products, providing full U.S. coverage for second- and third-generation hubs. QualityPro premium wheel hubs feature a water-based, nontoxic e-coating treatment that enhances corrosion resistance, according to the company. Lab tests prove that e-coating can prevent corrosion for more than 120 hours in salt-spray test environments, according to Alltech Automotive. “Our premium wheel-hub expansion addresses ongoing demand in the marketplace for enhanced corrosion protection,” said Nancy Liu, chief executive officer/president at Alltech Automotive. “All mounting hardware and precise torque specs are included in every box for a complete, successful install.” The post Alltech Automotive, QualityPro Introduce Premium Wheel Hubs appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

March 4 is the deadline to register for four upcoming University of Aftermarket courses through Northwood University. “These courses offer aftermarket-focused business, management and leadership education for motor vehicle aftermarket professionals,” said Dr. Thomas Litzinger, executive director of the University of Aftermarket and aftermarket industry chair at Northwood University. “We are pleased to offer industry-specific professional development to those working in the industry.” Four upcoming courses – Consumer Behavior; Selling & Sales Management; The Culture of Leadership; and Aftermarket Field Sales Management — are scheduled to take place from March 18 through May 12. Aftermarket Field Sales Management The Aftermarket Field Sales Management course examines the field sales manager’s job activities. Subjects include selling skills; expense management; time management; merchandising/advertising plans; sales-report writing/sales-forecast plans; tradeshow management; and human resource skills. The Culture of Leadership The Culture of Leadership course consists of an analysis of organizational factors that influence leadership and management skills. Key aspects include formal and informal groups; norms; sanctions; organizational change; morale; function of committees and teams; role of unilateral decisions; teamwork, empowerment; and ethical philosophy. It also includes a self-appraisal of leadership and management strengths and areas for development. Selling & Sales Management The Selling & Sales Management course will develop students’ competencies in professional selling theory and approaches, presentation skills and sales-management techniques. The course focuses on developing and maintaining relationships with customers and management of the process of finding, converting and keeping customers while achieving the organization’s goals. Communication techniques, career planning, selling strategies and tactics, as well as sales duties and responsibilities are included. Consumer Behavior The Consumer Behavior course will explore the consumer behavior theory, including the introduction of behavioral models to investigate the consumer psychology. This includes application of consumer-behavior principles to customer satisfaction, market planning and merchandise-mix decisions. Ethical, diversity and international issues also are explored. The deadline to register for any of the above four courses is March 4. Registration links, as well as full descriptions of all University of Aftermarket courses, are online here: https://nusites.northwood.edu/apps/uofa/course-calendar.aspx. The post March 4 Registration Deadline for Upcoming UofA Classes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Eric Johnson, president and managing partner of Arnold Motor Supply/The Merrill Company, is visiting Northwood University this week to meet with students enrolled in automotive aftermarket courses. “Efforts to encourage and educate students are so valuable because not only are we helping individuals, we’re also helping to shape the future of our industry,” Johnson said. “Preparing students with the mindset, skills and knowledge they need to be successful contributes to the overall growth and innovation of the aftermarket.” Johnson, a member of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance board of directors, spoke with students enrolled in aftermarket category management, aftermarket management research and aftermarket manufacturing management, among others. “As a University of the Aftermarket graduate and supporter of Northwood University, Eric wanted to invest in the future leaders of the industry by sharing several real-life cases relevant to the aftermarket classes,” said Dr. Thomas Litzinger, executive director of the University of the Aftermarket/Northwood aftermarket industry chair. Students enrolled in aftermarket category management are prepared for the role of product manager through inventory-modeling techniques and data analysis. The aftermarket manufacturing management course explores the role manufacturers play in the aftermarket and what business functions they employ. Aftermarket management research teaches students research techniques to form a hypothesis and sample the data to reject or not reject the hypothesis. “Our students are eager to engage with industry leaders and learn from their expertise,” said James O’Dell, assistant director of aftermarket education. “This real-life industry experience sets Northwood students apart, makes them uniquely qualified and prepares them for success in their career.” The global market value of the aftermarket exceeds $400 billion. Northwood’s aftermarket management program is the only one of its kind. Students in this program are fueled by their passions for cars, the aftermarket and turning this passion into a career someday. “The program has nearly a 100% employment rate for all graduates in the program,” Northwood said in a news release. “Part of their success is because Northwood helps them engage in real-world experiences and network with industry leaders like Eric Johnson.” The post Arnold Motor Supply’s Eric Johnson Visits Northwood U appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Customers are the core of our business, and communicating with them effectively is critical to our success. While each customer (and transaction) presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges, individual customers often can be classified into one of several broad types. Obviously, “profiling” or “stereotyping” an individual customer when you first meet them shortchanges everyone involved, but understanding the kinds of customers that make up your clientele gives us an idea of how to deal with each customer type once we actually get to know them. Depending on which marketing firm or consulting group you choose to believe, there are between four and 10 basic customer types. No matter how many categories you prefer to use, it’s the psychology behind these differences that holds the key to connecting with as many of them as possible. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so a “new” customer is the one with the greatest potential. Even if a new customer has familiarity with your business, they may not have experienced it directly. Your advertising, reputation or a personal referral (presumably all positive) have encouraged them to visit your location for their needs. Now is the time to show them what they’ve been missing! Consultative selling is a technique that focuses on building a relationship and determining what your products can do for your customer. By concentrating on the customer’s needs, you can further qualify them as one of the many customer types, and then offer the most appropriate solution for their individual situation. The immediate need might be for a battery or brake pads, but discovering the reason behind the intended purchase can open up the conversation in ways that make it easier for you to sell the most appropriate product for your customer. It also can minimize disappointment and build trust, by ensuring that the products and services are truly useful and meet the customer’s expectations. Once the new customer becomes an “active” customer, you haven’t entirely sealed the deal. There’s a huge difference between gaining a customer and keeping a customer. An active customer isn’t necessarily a loyal customer, so using what you’ve already learned about their needs makes it a little easier to meet those needs each time. Neglecting or disappointing your new and active customers leaves the door open for them to become someone else’s new and active customers. Building upon each successful transaction (and learning from any less-than-successful ones) helps you turn these types of customers into the most desirable customer type: the loyal customer. Loyal customers are at the heart of the 80/20 rule, which states that 80% of your business comes from roughly 20% of your customer base. New and active customers may come and go (sometimes through no fault of your own), but that solid core of loyal customers is what really keeps your lights turned on and your employees paid every week. As 80% of your business, these are the customers you really need to know and understand. Delivering best-in-class service and focusing on being an integral part of their success will help ensure that these customers remain loyal and even advocate for your business! With proper care and feeding, we can reap the benefits of that natural progression from “new” to “active” to “loyal,” but along the way we may discover that we have some lapsed or unhappy customers. Timing is critical when addressing these “at-risk” customer types. An unhappy customer (even a loyal one) is likely to become a lapsed customer if we continue to fail them, especially if our competition surpasses us in service, pricing or any other metric. We need to identify and correct the core issues behind their dissatisfaction before that customer has the chance to cozy up to another vendor. The at-risk customer tends to taper off slowly, so if you aren’t paying attention, you may not even realize it until it’s too late! If a valued customer does become lapsed, you should still attempt to salvage that relationship by determining what caused the lapse in the first place. The feedback also may prove to be useful in the future when dealing with other customers, who might have similar needs and objections. No matter if it’s a retail or a commercial account, knowing the most effective ways to connect with each customer type helps create repeat business and build your brand. The post Understanding the Customer Lifecycle appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Autel recently announced its partnership with data provider MOTOR Information Systems to deliver “an improved experience for users and more streamlined access to OEM repair information using MOTOR’s TruSpeed Repair.” MOTOR TruSpeed Repair will be available for integration into Autel’s diagnostics software on all North American Ultra-series tablets, including tools with ADAS capabilities. With the accessibility of MOTOR TruSpeed Repair, Autel Ultra-series tablet users can access the most up-to-date automotive service and repair content within days of being published by the OEM, according to Autel. The TruSpeed Repair information integrated into the Autel tablets’ MaxiSYS diagnostic software will include component locations, diagnostic trouble codes, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, specifications, technical service bulletins and wiring diagrams, Autel noted. The paid subscription service also will provide OEM position statements and ADAS-related repair details. The software update and integration, expected to be released toward the end of first-quarter 2024, will be available on MaxiSYS Ultra, Ultra EV, Ultra ADAS, MS919, MS909 and MS909EV tablets. “As we continue to expand our business and partnerships, it’s important to recognize the significance of our relationships with key customers,” said Jim Stout, MOTOR’s vice president of product management and service delivery. “We are pleased to have Autel as a customer. It is a testament to the strength of our offerings and our commitment to powering the automotive intelligence ecosystem. We look forward to building and strengthening our relationship with Autel.” “We constantly strive to improve the efficiency of our tablets and seek to offer our end-user technicians the most value-rich diagnostic product on the market,” said Chloe Hung, Autel CEO. “That’s why we are excited to bring MOTOR’s exceptional data and repair information service, MOTOR TruSpeed Repair, to our Ultra series tablet users.” For more information about the integration of MOTOR TruSpeed Repair into Autel tools, click here. The post Autel Partners with MOTOR to Provide OEM Data on Ultra Tablets appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Plews & Edelmann recently announced a new factory-direct shipping program for power-steering hose customers in the United States. “This progressive logistics solution provides domestic quality and service that exceeds overseas direct-import options,” the company said in a news release. “ Leveraging the company’s “North American supply chain sophistication,” Plews & Edelmann said the factory-direct shipping program offers benefits such as: U.S.-based order fulfillment, avoiding international customs and duties 30-day lead times, significantly improving upon the 90-day lead times often required 95%+ order fill, eliminating global supply chain complexity and unpredictability Full container load efficiency, producing lower shipping costs “We developed this near-shore shipping program to give customers a domestic and direct import option,” said Tony Edwards, VP of sales. “Due to our North American supply chain capability, we can fulfill orders more efficiently while delivering exceptional quality and service.” The factory-direct program is currently available for Edelmann-brand power-steering hoses. Minimum order quantities apply to qualify. Interested customers can learn more by contacting their sales manager or Plews & Edelmann customer service. The post Plews & Edelmann Adds Factory-Direct Shipping appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA) has announced the schedule for its Part Smart training program. Part Smart provides strategically designed training modules covering vehicle-system design specifications, real-world diagnostic procedures, installation tips and product know-how intended to improve technical knowledge and hands-on skills, according to MPA. Led by ASE-certified Part Smart technicians, the free courses include vehicle starting and charging systems, braking, hubs and turbos. Available online, on the phone or in person, Part Smart provides technical instruction, product information and after-sale support geared to deliver the skills, knowledge and training automotive repair professionals demand. Class Schedule GM Regulated Voltage-Control Charging Systems Feb 15 @ 7 p.m. CST Register here. Brake Training Series Module 8 Final Test Drive & “Bedding in the New Brakes” March 21 @ 12 p.m CST Register here. Ford Smart Charge Systems April 18 @ 7 p.m. CST Register here. Honda Starter Issues May 23 @ 12 p.m. CST Register here. Chrysler PCM-Controlled Charging Systems June 20 @ 7 p.m. CST Register here. Subaru Misfire Codes – Alternator/Drive Belt Issues July 18 @ 12 p.m. CST Register here. Honda Computer-Controlled Charging Systems Aug. 22 @ 7 p.m. CST Register here. GM Charging System Fault Code PO621 Sept. 19 @ 12 p.m. CST Register here. Toyota Charging Systems Oct. 24 @ 7 p.m. CST Register here. GM Charging System Fault Code PO622 Nov. 21 @ 12 p.m. CST Register here. Nissan Charging Systems Dec. 19 @ 7 p.m. CST Register here. The post MPA Announces Schedule for Part Smart Training appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Litens Aftermarket announced its acquisition of Kenakore Solutions, a third-party logistics warehouse and distribution center in Perrysburg, Ohio, near Toledo. Kenakore, with three decades of experience, has been a key partner to Litens for the past seven years. Litens said the acquisition is “a strategic move by Litens to enhance customer experience and streamline distribution processes.” “Through integrating Kenakore’s well-established processes and systems, Litens is set to improve its overall customer experience through enhanced communication capabilities and increased flexibility that enables Litens to further meet diverse customer demands with ease,” the company asserted in a news release. Kenakore’s proximity to major distribution routes via I-75 and I-80 gives Litens “the added benefit of seamless connectivity and efficient distribution across the United States.” With the completion of the acquisition, Kenakore’s distribution center will be rebranded as “Litens Aftermarket Distribution.” Encompassing 123,000 square feet of space, the facility is staffed by 40 employees and includes 30 shipping and receiving bays. The facility plays a pivotal role in kitting and distributing Litens Aftermarket products, serving as the primary distribution hub for Litens Aftermarket in North America. “We work closely with the team at Kenakore and are excited to bring them under the Litens umbrella,” said John Lussier, president of Litens Aftermarket. “This acquisition is a natural progression as we continue to strengthen our control over the customer experience across the aftermarket and underscores our commitment to elevating the Litens brand.” The acquisition aligns with one of Litens’ strategic-growth pillars, focusing on complete customer-experience management and fostering a seamless end-to-end journey, Litens added. The move follows Litens’ 2023 acquisition of Dolz, a Spain-based manufacturer of water pumps, “and is another step in Litens’ aftermarket growth initiative.” The post Litens Aftermarket Acquires Kenakore Solutions in Ohio appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

It’s been estimated that fraudulent warranty claims cost auto parts stores $600 million every year. Those costs stem from a number of expenses that are set in motion by a return, including manually processing credits; reverse logistics and transportation; repackaging products; and additional quality-control testing to rule out major defects in materials. The “Check the Part” campaign estimates that more than 50% of warranty returns are either brand-new or not the manufacturer’s product – which suggests that many parts professionals aren’t even looking at the item that’s being returned. Endorsed by MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and the Auto Care Association, the campaign encourages parts professionals to follow a simple three-step process when processing warranty returns: Open the box. Inspect the part. Verify the return. Recently, Dorman Products published a return guide for fluid reservoirs. If a customer wants to return a fluid reservoir, Dorman recommends these four steps to determine if it’s a valid warranty claim: Verify that it’s the right part type. Some customers return unrelated products and heavy objects as a scam to get money back. If it’s the correct part type, verify the part marking. Dorman reservoirs have the part number molded into the part, so you can be sure it’s the right part in the box. Verify that the cap is present in the box. Each Dorman reservoir comes with a cap, and if the cap is missing, the reservoir might not be covered under warranty policy. Verify whether the part has been used. A mounted or used reservoir will have marks from mounting fasteners, residue from being filled and/or yellowing from heat. If it doesn’t appear to be used, it may be new and unmounted, and therefore can be sold again. When the customer describes the reason for returning the part, write it on the side of the box. This can greatly help in identifying and fixing these issues. You can download a PDF of the return guide below: Return-Guide-for-Fluid-ReservoirsDownload The post Check the Part: Return Guide for Fluid Reservoirs appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article