Counterman

Second-quarter U.S. sales of new cars and trucks will post a year-over-year increase, according to an Edmunds forecast. The firm is forecasting second-quarter sales of more than 4 million new cars and trucks. That’s up 16.1% compared to second-quarter 2022 and up 13.8% compared to first-quarter 2023, according to Edmunds. “If you look at Q2 in the aggregate, new-vehicle sales appeared to settle into a stable groove, which is a nice departure from the tumult that the industry has witnessed over the last few years,” said Ivan Drury, Edmunds’ director of insights. “More consumers returned to the market with older trade-ins, which indicates that pent-up demand helped buoy sales. But digging a bit deeper into the data, June tells a slightly conflicting story. After five consecutive months of increasing discounts and vehicles sitting on dealer lots for longer periods of time, June shows that those trends are stalling a bit.” Edmunds data reveals that the average age of vehicles traded in toward new-car purchases increased in Q2 2023, climbing to 5.6 years, compared to 5.2 years in Q2 2022 and 6.1 years for Q2 2019. Edmunds analysts note that inventory also has continued to slowly improve but isn’t close to returning to pre-pandemic levels – which is keeping prices elevated. “This road to recovery for the industry has been a winding one,” Drury explained. “With many automakers committing to better aligning production and demand, we might be on the cusp of seeing what a new normal sales pace looks like compared to the pre-pandemic years, when bloated inventories and deep discounts shaped the industry. Automakers and dealers are well-prepared to pivot amid shifting market dynamics, but this isn’t the best news for consumers hoping for more generous deals heading into the Fourth of July weekend. A return of summer sales banners, waving inflatables and tent events are more likely to be an exercise in advertising over the next few months than desperation to move the metal.” Edmunds analysts advise consumers to approach car shopping with a pragmatic mindset even if they encounter sales messaging or promotions this summer, because interest rates are expected to stay elevated and discounts likely will be limited. “If holding off on a car purchase is no longer possible this summer, it’s time to seriously evaluate your list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves,” said Drury. “Are you really planning on using that third row? Do you really need those extra bells and whistles? Because any of those upgrades are likely going to cost you far more than you might expect.” The post Pent-Up Demand Expected to Buoy US New-Vehicle Sales in Q2 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEYLE is expanding its product range to include the two-component brake discs for common BMW and Mercedes models. The new brake discs “offer customers the usual OE qualities such as accurate fit, low offset, reduced weight and the associated fuel savings and decrease in CO2. At the same time, the new brake discs boast high performance, driving comfort and sophisticated design, as is typical of the MEYLE PD line,” the company said. Thanks to its new products, MEYLE is expanding into the aftermarket for brakes with solutions in areas previously reserved for vehicle manufacturers with their original parts. Seven new references for the two-component MEYLE PD brake discs are available for the BMW models 3 to 8 Series X3 to X5 and Z4; and for Mercedes C-Class and E-Class models. The brake discs feature an aluminum or stamped-steel hat riveted to the cast-iron friction ring. Due to the high-quality surface coating, the ECE-R90-certified brake discs do not require degreasing, thus ensuring long-lasting protection against corrosion, according to MEYLE. A higher percentage of carbon makes the two-component brake discs exceptionally resistant to heat distortion even in cases of higher thermal stress – for example, on steep mountain descents – for extended driving comfort without vibrations, according to the company. To ensure efficient installation at the workshop, 99% of the brake discs are equipped with a fixing screw. The post MEYLE Adds 2-Component Brake Discs for BMW, Mercedes Models appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers will hold its annual MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Awards during AAPEX in Las Vegas. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers will present two awards – an Individual Award and a Company Award – to the winners on Nov. 1. The awards were created to recognize the importance of DEI in the automotive and commercial-vehicle aftermarket and to celebrate those individuals and organizations who champion the spirit of DEI in their organizations and communities. Award winners will be selected from submissions made to MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. For Individual Award submissions, nominees should be influential leaders in the aftermarket who support, advance and/or embody the core values of DEI. Company Award nominees will be automotive and commercial-vehicle aftermarket organizations that have made achievements to advance DEI in the industry. Full nominee criteria and submission form can be found here. “MEMA is dedicated to championing and advocating for a respectful, diverse, and collaborative community, and recognizing those within the industry that support that dedication,” said April Buford, executive director of DEI at MEMA. “The MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers DEI Awards will shine the light on one individual and one organization that are paving the way for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the automotive aftermarket.” Applications for this year’s DEI Awards are due by Aug. 31. The post MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers to Present DEI Awards at AAPEX appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

To remind automotive technicians and service facilities that they must keep their TPMS-tool software updated regularly, a group of TPMS tool and sensor manufacturers, along with the Tire Industry Association (TIA), has launched a national public-service campaign called “Update Your TPMS Tools!” The Coalition of TPMS Manufacturers, including ATEQ, Bartec, Continental and Schrader, along with the TIA, has come together to tackle the challenge faced by technicians who have not kept their TPMS-tool software up to date. Having up-to-date software is particularly essential with the introduction of the latest generation of TPMS sensors. By updating their TPMS-tool software, technicians can prevent TPMS service issues and avoid unnecessary delays, ultimately delivering improved customer service. The launch of the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign coincides with National Tire Safety Week, an annual consumer-awareness initiative of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association aimed at educating motorists about tire care, safety and awareness as essential parts of road safety. “TPMS tool manufacturers are routinely releasing software updates throughout the year,” said Shawn Pease, director of automotive tire service at the Tire Industry Association. Many factors can initiate a software change, such as new sensor technologies, vehicle-model introductions or vehicle recalls. Keeping the TPMS-tool software up to date helps ensure faster, more successful TPMS service with fewer comebacks.” According to recent surveys, up to 35% of technicians have not updated their TPMS-tool software in the last year. When working with the newest generation of TPMS sensors, technicians need the latest generation of TPMS-tool software, the coalition says. Without it, they cannot perform TPMS service successfully. In addition to alerting shops and technicians about the need to register their tool and keep its software updated, the campaign is stressing the need to always perform a sensor relearn when rotating tires or performing TPMS service. Failing to perform the relearn is one of the most common reasons for TPMS-service comebacks. Up to 20% of technicians surveyed don’t regularly perform the relearn when doing tire service, according to the coalition. The “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign website offers links to software-update downloads for many of the most popular TPMS tools. Technicians also can check with their tool manufacturer’s website to find links for TPMS-tool software updates. By engaging technicians and service facilities in the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign, TPMS manufacturers and the TIA seek to raise awareness about the crucial role of TPMS-tool software updates in delivering exceptional TPMS service. Technicians are encouraged to prioritize updating their tools regularly, ensuring they can provide efficient, reliable and seamless TPMS service to their valued customers. The post TPMS Manufacturers Urge Technicians to Update Tool Software appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

DealerShop Inc. and Resilience Capital Partners, a Cleveland-based private-equity firm, announced today that it has acquired Jobbers Automotive. Jobbers Automotive is a full-service supplier of automotive paint, janitorial supplies, body shop equipment, bulk oil and WeatherTech products serving automotive dealerships and collision centers in Ohio. The acquisition will expand DealerShop’s national footprint and product offering for franchised new-vehicle dealerships and independent service centers in North America. “Jobbers Automotive has a long-standing reputation for providing exceptional service and high-quality products to the Ohio market for over 70 years,” said Bill Gryzenia, president and CEO of DealerShop. “We are delighted to have the talented and experienced Jobbers Automotive team join the DealerShop family of companies. The acquisition will enable us to provide our customers with a broader range of products and services and leverage the synergies from the consolidated footprint to drive growth and enhance value.” DealerShop is a part of Leader Auto Resources family of companies, the largest sourcing partner for franchised new-vehicle dealerships in North America. “I am thrilled that Jobbers Automotive is joining forces with DealerShop to provide even greater value to our customers and opportunities for our employees,” Jobbers Automotive CEO John Gemperline said. “This acquisition marks a new chapter in our company’s growth, and I am excited to see what we can achieve together as a team.” “We are all very excited about this next chapter of growth for DealerShop,” said Bassem Mansour, CEO of Resilience Capital Partners. “Strategic geographic expansion has been one of our key priorities and we look forward to continuing our robust growth trajectory.” The post DealerShop Acquires Jobbers Automotive appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

GB Remanufacturing announced its 2023 spring new-product release. The release includes gasoline and diesel part numbers and further expands the company’s premium remanufactured fuel-injection program. “We are very excited to announce our 2023 spring new-product release,” said Joe Evert, director of engineering & operations at GB Remanufacturing commented. “The release includes 25 part numbers that have been meticulously researched, developed and tested to the highest quality standards by our dedicated team at GB Reman. “With these part-number additions, we look forward to continuing to provide our customers with industry-leading quality, coverage and value.” GB Remanufacturing’s gasoline release includes both gasoline direct injectors (GDI) and multi-port fuel injectors (MPFI) and adds 24 part numbers to its comprehensive remanufactured gasoline fuel-injection program. All GDI injectors include pre-installed combustion and fuel inlet seals and the necessary hardware to ensure a complete and trouble-free installation, according to the company. GB Reman’s complete line of fuel injectors are remanufactured in the United States, tested to OEM specifications and backed by GB Reman’s 24-month unlimited mileage warranty. GB Reman also offers a comprehensive line of fuel-injection seal kits that include seals and components previously only offered at the dealer. GB Reman seal kits include all the necessary components to reseal the injector and include hard-to-find spacers, O-rings and combustion seals for GDI injectors. Diesel Fuel Injectors Within its diesel fuel-injection program, GB Reman has expanded its coverage for the RAM 6.7-liter Cummins cab and chassis with the release of a new premium remanufactured diesel-fuel injector. The premium fuel injector for the 2013-2018 RAM 6.7-liter cab and chassis features 100% nozzle and solenoid replacement. All control valves are independently tested and replaced as required. GB Reman’s premium diesel fuel injectors are always remanufactured using OE-quality components. Each unit is 100% flow-tested at multiple operating conditions at full-rated pressure to ensure it meets or exceeds OE specifications, according to the company. For more information, download the spring new-product announcement. The post GB Remanufacturing Adds Gasoline, Diesel Fuel Injectors appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

WIX Filters announced the “Win with WIX” promotion, which is designed to incentivize professional installers to switch from their current filter brands to premium WIX-branded filters, while encouraging DIFM consumers to choose premium service options. Installer customers who switch to WIX-brand filters and place a qualifying opening order for $350 or more during the promotional period will automatically be registered in the “Win with WIX” sweepstakes. In addition, all participating customers will receive a point-of-sale kit to display in their service centers that includes a WIX-branded clock, bay banner and other point-of-sale materials designed to help educate customers about the benefits of using premium WIX filters. The sweepstakes features a VIP fan experience weekend for two installer winners, which will be selected by random drawing. Each winner and a guest will have VIP-suite seating at the Bank of America ROVAL 400 NASCAR Series Cup race at Charlotte Motor Speedway this October. Winners also will receive an exclusive tour of the Hendrick Motorsports campus, the Hendrick Museum and the main WIX manufacturing facility in Gastonia. “We are very excited about the ‘Win with WIX’ installer promotion,” said Tina Davis, senior marketing manager – WIX Global and US. “The message conveyed by the point-of-sale materials to DIFM consumers is straightforward and to the point by calling out the important benefits of using superior filtration products. And installers will reap the rewards of expanding premium services in their shops.” The “Win with WIX” promotion runs from June 27 to Aug. 25, 2023. No purchase is necessary to enter. For complete sweepstakes rules and regulations, visit wixfilters.com/Promotions. The post WIX Filters Launches ‘Win with WIX’ Campaign appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

If there ever was an auto part that could sell itself, this could be it. People put up with broken windows, loud exhaust, rusty body panels, oil leaks, broken air conditioning and a plethora of other problems. But, take away the windshield wipers and they’re beating a path to the closest auto parts store. Luckily, there are only a few options, and you can quickly point them in the right direction. But, before we get to that, we’ll address the question of diagnosis. Many people may ask: Do you think it’s the motor or the switch? Honestly, you can’t give them the answer without performing a professional diagnosis, which is not what you’re there for. That takes time and a wiring schematic, but there are a few factors in your favor. There’s a lot you can tell by just looking and listening, even if you can’t see the wiper motor or transmission, which often is hidden in the cowl. When you turn on the wiper switch, do you hear the motor? You also can hear it when it changes speed, so this is an initial way to eliminate the basics of the wiring and switch. If the motor runs but nothing happens, you likely have a linkage that has fallen off due to a worn bushing. In some cases, the bushings are available separately, which becomes a less expensive repair. But, it takes additional time to remove the linkages and install new bushings. This is a common repair and perfectly acceptable, but there also can be a downside to it. In some cases, the linkages or ball studs where the bushings attach can be worn, and while they may seem like they install OK, they can fall off after short use. This usually only ends up with a frustrated customer, so if a complete assembled unit is available with motor, transmission and linkages, it’s a good idea to recommend this option. Let them know the individual bushings are available, but suggest the complete unit. This way, if they go with bushings and they don’t last, you can’t be to blame. Wiper motors are far more advanced than they used to be, with built-in computer circuit boards and electronics. This is another common source of problems, often causing erratic or inoperative wipers, but again, you only can say what you know is common and recommend a professional diagnosis. If a wiper motor gets stuck, it can cause the fuse to blow, and it’s not that uncommon – especially in areas that see a lot of ice and snow. Also keep in mind that some wiper arms can loosen where they connect at the wiper shaft. Everything sounds like it’s working, but nothing happens. In these cases, the wiper arms often need to be replaced because material in the arms has been stripped off by the splines on the wiper shaft. Upselling Opportunities Luckily, problems with wiper motor and linkage usually are obvious, and overall, they’re easy to replace. It’s a job most people are willing to tackle. The opportunity is with the upsells you can offer. Wiper arms are a good one. Even if they’re not the cause of the problem, the spring tension in the wiper arm keeps the blade seated against the windshield. These springs can weaken over time, affecting the performance of the wipers, especially at higher speeds where the wind can lift the blade. Also important to look at is the pivot point of the arms. These are often rusty and worn, and this too will affect the ability of the arm to keep the blade properly seated against the glass. If the wiper motor has failed, it’s seen plenty of use and the wiper arms probably have seen better days. Wiper blades are an easy upsell, and the next thing that comes to mind with wipers are washers. Since they’re focused on the system overall, do they need washer fluid? Are their washers working? Maybe they need a new washer pump or hose. Some washer hoses are located in the cowl area, and when you’re already in there, now’s the time to do it. Another recommendation you can make is glass cleaner. New wiper blades work better and last longer on a clean windshield. It’s also good to mention checking the cowl drains. They’re often plugged up, and while there are no direct sales here, it’s nice to point out. Now that you have someone in wiper mode, what about that rear wiper? At a minimum, I bet it needs a blade and arm too. The post Wiper Motors and Linkages appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Maxxis’s sponsored athletes took ownership of the Big House, continuing the company’s dominance of AMSOIL Championship Off-Road racing. Jimmy Henderson earned a career-first Pro 4 win at Round 3 and then went on to take first place again the next day, and Trey Gibbs took the Pro Lite victory on Sunday. Other Maxxis athletes also turned in great results at AMSOIL Championship Off-Road Rounds 3 and 4, held June 24-25 in Crandon, Wisconsin. Henderson’s determination turned Round 4 into a real barn-burner. After leading for most of the race, he was passed by another athlete, but he stayed close to the front car and was awarded first place after a review by race officials. Henderson rode Maxxis RAZR AT tires to victory. “We have been close in years past with second- and third-place finishes, but now with the Maxxis advantage, we have our first Pro4 win,” he said. “The durability and grip created space for us to place the truck back on the first-place podium in Round 4.” Henderson’s fellow Maxxis athlete Adrian Cenni, who is having an outstanding season so far, took second place at Round 4. Gibbs, now in his first year as a Maxxis athlete, won Sunday’s Pro Lite race after taking second place the day before. Brody Eggleston also made the podium, taking third place in the class at Round 4. Maxxis’ athletes primarily rode the RAZR AT and Bravo AT-771 in Pro Lite at Crandon. Also riding RAZR AT tires was veteran Maxxis athlete Mickey Thomas. Thomas was in the Pro 2 top three at both rounds, taking third place Saturday and second place Sunday. Trey Eggleston was on the Pro Stock SxS podium in third place Saturday. Most Maxxis SxS athletes chose the Maxxis Liberty or the Maxxis Ceros for the weekend’s racing; Maxxis-sponsored athletes have won championships on both tires. Nick Byng powered his way to the Super Stock Truck podium, taking second place at Round 4, and Maxxis driver Dylan Parsons made the Pro Spec top five. AMSOIL Championship Off-Road Rounds 5 and 6 are scheduled for July 14-15 in Elk River, Minnesota. The post Maxxis-Sponsored Athletes Win Big at AMSOIL Championship appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

New Rislone DPF Clean diesel DPF, exhaust & emissions systems cleaner cleans the fuel, exhaust and emissions systems of diesel vehicles to restore power and performance, reduce regeneration cycles, extend diesel-particulate-filter (DPF) life, save fuel and turn off “Check Engine” lights, according to the company. It unclogs blocked DPFs and reduces the need for frequent highway driving to accelerate regeneration, making it an ideal solution for diesel cars, SUVs and trucks that are driven regularly at low speeds for short durations, Rislone adds. Rislone’s unique formula features high-performing detergents and heavy-duty cleaning solvents to scrub away contaminants, soot, carbon buildup and oily residue from the fuel injectors, combustion chambers, turbo, EGR, diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and other components. Plus, its exclusive Diesel Regen Medic+is an active DPF regeneration accelerator and cleaning fuel catalyst that is guaranteed to clear a blocked DPF, according to the company. “Because repairing an obstructed DPF or damaged emissions system costs thousands of dollars, customers have been asking us for an affordable solution,” said Clay Parks, vice president of development for Rislone. “DPF Clean is the most potent diesel product we’ve ever developed. Not only will it clear clogged DPFs, but regular use will also prevent excessive exhaust regeneration and help maintain optimal power, performance, and efficiency.” DPF Clean is easy to install directly into the fuel tank with no special tools required. Cars, SUVs and pickup trucks use one bottle. Larger vehicles may require a higher dosage. The bottle is designed to work in all fuel tanks, including those with misfuelling devices. DPF Clean delivers the same benefits for diesel vehicles as Rislone’s CAT Complete fuel, exhaust and emissions system cleaner does for gasoline-powered vehicles. It will clear OBD II PID codes P242F, P2002, P2459, turn off the “Check Engine” light and/or clean a blocked DPF, enabling the vehicle to pass emissions/smog tests. Rislone offers a money-back guarantee. Visit rislone.com/refunds for details. DPF Clean diesel DPF, exhaust & emissions system cleaner (U.S. P/N 4744) is proven effective in all diesel and biodiesel fuels, including ULSD, according to the company. It can be used in direct-injected, common rail, turbo direct-injected and turbocharged engines. It was specifically designed for vehicles equipped with DOC catalytic converters, DPFs, selective catalytic-reduction (SCR) devices or diesel-exhaust-fluid (DEF) systems and will not void the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. Like all Rislone products, DPF Clean diesel DPF, exhaust & emissions system cleaner is made in the United States. The post Rislone Introduces DPF Clean for Diesel Engines appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MAHLE Aftermarket announced Troy C. of Florida as the winner of the first segment of the “Powered by MAHLE” Engine Giveaway. Troy has been awarded a remanufactured Chevrolet LS3 engine built by Tri Star Engines and Transmissions of Baldwin, Wisconsin, featuring all applicable premium MAHLE components. The next segment of the “Powered by MAHLE” sweepstakes will begin on July 1, for the chance to win a vintage Chevrolet small-block engine (1967 to 2002) built by Baldwin Racing Engines of Friedheim, Missouri. “We’re pleased to see such a great response from customers and fans from around the country, and we’re equally pleased to be able to award one of those participants with a Chevrolet LS engine,” said Jon Douglas, president, MAHLE Aftermarket North America. For the latest “Powered by MAHLE” Engine Giveaway updates, including exclusive details on the remaining three segments of the program and how to enter, visit MAHLE USA Facebook and Instagram social media pages or website. The three remaining engine-giveaway segments in this four-part promotion will take place in the months of July, August and October. Non-winning entries for a segment will roll into the subsequent entry segments, but participants are encouraged to enter the sweepstakes on both Facebook and Instagram with a unique photo for each entry segment. In addition to the engine, winners will be provided a one-night hotel stay and entry to the Performance Racing Industry show in Indianapolis in December, along with the opportunity to have dinner with “Team MAHLE” – the likes of which may include members of Kalitta Motorsports, John Force Racing, Tony Stewart Racing and others. For more information about MAHLE Aftermarket and its brands, visit the MAHLE Aftermarket website, or contact your local sales representative. The post MAHLE Aftermarket Names First Winner of Engine Giveaway appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Here’s the scenario: A customer comes into your store looking for an alternator for their vehicle. You look up the year, make and model and you see an application note on the screen. It tells you to ask the customer whether or not the vehicle is equipped with stop/start technology. As with many of the technological advancements from the past decade or two, stop/start came about thanks to the need to meet ever-tightening emissions and fuel-economy standards. In the late 1990s to early 2000s, hybrid vehicles were on the rise. These vehicles could propel themselves purely on electric drive, then start the engine as needed based on driving conditions and driver input. The problem was that traditional starters weren’t up to the task. They cranked the engine over too slowly, and the process was rather jarring. So, reinforced starter motors and flexplates were designed to combat this issue. Over time, automakers started to include stop/start systems in more and more vehicles. This is largely due to the fact that it was a simple way for OEMs to reduce carbon emissions from their entire lineup, and they receive certain incentives (or avoid costly penalties) for accomplishing this goal. Engines today are far more fuel-efficient than those that came before them, but automakers still need to squeeze everything they can from every drop of fuel. Or, in this case, they’re trying to reduce how much fuel is wasted during everyday driving. In an urban environment, vehicles can end up sitting at idle up to 35% of the time. The energy from burning fuel at idle is wasted since the vehicle isn’t in motion, but the vehicle still is producing harmful emissions. With the ability to stop and start the engine as needed, automakers are able to reduce the carbon footprint of their entire lineup. To you and me, it might not seem like much can be gained by stop/start technology. But, when you think about the number of vehicles on the road today, you can see the benefit a bit more clearly. It’s estimated that stop/start systems can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 10%, and maybe slightly more depending on conditions. The engine stops whenever the vehicle comes to a stop, then restarts immediately as soon as the driver transitions from the brake pedal to the throttle. Most stop/start systems crank the engine over at a higher RPM when compared to the initial cranking speed. This helps to make the process less jarring and less noticeable to drivers and passengers alike. Is a Stop/Start Alternator Different? The short answer is yes, but how so varies from one automaker to the next. Many modern-day alternators will have some sort of integrated control module on board. However, a stop/start alternator may be responsible for starting the engine as well as recharging the battery. This unit is commonly referred to as a starter/alternator. A starter-alternator is used by the PCM to crank the engine via the belt drive. The belt may contain more teeth (the belt may be wider) due to the load and stress applied while cranking. Starter-alternators boast faster engine startup than traditional starters, and they can do it without making as much noise or vibration. The traditional starter will crank the engine for the initial startup, then the starter/alternator will handle all of the restarts until the next driving cycle. How long does a traditional alternator typically last? In most cases, one could expect an alternator to last for 90,000 to 120,000 miles, maybe more. A stop/start alternator should see a similar life expectancy. If the alternator fails within 10,000 to 20,000 miles, there might be another issue that’s causing the premature failure. This could include a bad battery; wiring issues (loose connections, corrosion, intermittent shorting, etc.); overload from non-factory electronics; and/or a faulty voltage regulator (though these days this is usually integrated into the alternator). Tips and Tricks Stop/start might not be very popular among consumers, but this technology has led to multiple innovations and changes across the industry. For example, electric air-conditioning compressors and water pumps have been developed so that they can operate while the engine is off. So, what should you tell your customer if they’re replacing a stop/start alternator? Try to make sure they’re repairing the problem – not just a symptom – and sell them the complete repair. If their vehicle has a starter/alternator, they should be inspecting the condition of the entire belt drive. This includes the pulleys, the belt and especially the tensioner. If the belt isn’t tensioned properly, they could experience a number of symptoms, including noises, improper charging voltage, intermittent cranking issues and more. Don’t forget about the battery and cables! Always replace the battery with one that’s comparable to the OE-specified unit. The main battery typically is either an absorbent glass mat (AGM) or an enhanced flooded battery (EFB). These batteries are more advanced, and better able to support the increased number of charging cycles and additional load placed on the system by the stop/start features. Clean all electrical connections and protect them if necessary to prevent future corrosion. As always, it’s best practice to reference the OEM service information whenever servicing the alternator on a stop/start vehicle. Always respect the OEM’s recommendations when it comes to specific tooling, torque specifications and tightening sequences. Whenever possible, connect a scan tool to the vehicle and look for fault codes. A scan tool that’s capable of bi-directional communication might be required to reset the battery-recognition or battery-life monitor. CM The post Stop/Start Alternators appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

While the future of the expanded Right to Repair law in Massachusetts is uncertain, one thing is clear: People are talking about it. The Berkshire Eagle on June 24 published an op-ed demanding answers from NHTSA and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg after NHTSA told 22 OEMs that complying with the new Massachusetts law – which Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved in November 2020 – would put them at odds with federal vehicle-safety regulations. In a June 13 letter to the automakers, Kerry Kolodziej, NHTSA’s assistant chief counsel for litigation and enforcement, asserts that open remote access to vehicle telematics could make it easier for cybercriminals – here or abroad – to take control of consumers’ cars, trucks and SUVs and cause mayhem. Citing those cybersecurity risks, Kolodziej maintains that the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act preempts the Massachusetts Right to Repair law. “Vehicle manufacturers appear to recognize that vehicles with the open remote access telematics required by the Data Access Law would contain a safety defect,” Kolodziej asserts in the June 13 letter. “Federal law does not allow a manufacturer to sell vehicles that it knows contain a safety defect.” The Berkshire Eagle, which endorsed the data-access ballot initiative in 2020, is skeptical of NHTSA’s cybersecurity concerns. “The letter neither provides any proof that such a cyberattack on a vehicle has ever occurred nor explains why the NHTSA apparently has no actionable safety concerns regarding telematics being distributed to countless dealership garages across the country,” the newspaper says in its editorial. The newspaper also questions NHTSA’s rationale and due diligence supporting its assertions in the letter to the OEMS. “Was there any consideration for other approaches – such as technical guidance to carmakers regarding secure transmission of telematics – instead of simply stonewalling a state law that endured considerable legal review as part of the ballot initiative process?” the Berkshire Eagle asks in the editorial. Regarding suggestions that state legislators could modify the law to assuage NHTSA’s cybersecurity concerns, the newspaper laments that tweaking the Right to Repair law would require “more clarity on why telematics being sent to an independent mechanic constitutes a ‘safety defect’ while sending them to a dealer-affiliated garage doesn’t.” The newspaper concludes: “We hope Transportation Secretary Buttigieg and the NHTSA have some good answers, because the federal government should have a better reason than credulous alignment with big business to undermine Massachusetts’ voters and laws.” The post NHTSA Better Have ‘Good Answers’ for RTR Rebuff appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Effective June 12, select Auto Plus locations became Factory Motor Parts (FMP) stores, FMP announced on its website. The sale comes after Auto Plus won bankruptcy-court approval to sell most of its locations to FMP after the company disqualified a different bid under suspicion of impropriety, Bloomberg Law reports. Earlier this year, Icahn Enterprises announced that Auto Plus was filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. In a news release, Icahn Enterprises (IEP) blamed ”lessened demand, supply chain disruptions, an inflationary environment and the effects of COVID-19” on the parts distributor’s struggles.” “Since acquiring Auto Plus, IEP has invested significantly in transformation and restructuring initiatives and has loaned significant amounts to Auto Plus but has obviously been disappointed in the results of these investments and the continued losses that Auto Plus has experienced,” the company said in January. “As a result, IEP has determined that it would no longer be prudent to continue to loan money to Auto Plus at this juncture unless done in connection with a restructuring process.” FMP’s new locations will have inventories for all makes and all models combined with aftermarket brands as a result of the transaction, according to Factory Motor Parts. Founded in 1945 as Elliott Auto Supply Co., FMP has grown from a small, single location in Minneapolis to more than 300 locations in 19 states. The name was acquired from its participation in the former Chrysler Mopar Distribution network of the 1960s. The post Factory Motor Parts Acquires Auto Plus Stores appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Associates (APA) announced the hiring of Lee Rodgers as product director. Rodgers will assume the position effective June 20. Rodgers previously worked for NAPA Auto Parts and has been in the automotive industry for 10 years. “We are pleased to have Lee join us,” said Steve Tucker, president of Automotive Parts Associates. “We are very impressed with him and think he will make a fine addition to the staff here at APA.” Rodgers can be reached at [email protected]. The post APA Names Lee Rodgers New Product Director appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Schaeffler recently expanded its range of front-end auxiliary-drive (FEAD) components in the U.S. and Canadian markets with the introduction of a new belt tensioner under its INA-brand product line. With the addition of the FT0800 to its product portfolio, Schaeffler now provides belt-tensioner coverage for the latest Honda Accord, Civic and CR-V models. The INA FT0800 provides belt-tensioner coverage for Honda L15BE, L15B7 and L15BY engines, totaling more than 900,000 vehicles in operation in the United States. A complete application listing is available on the REPXPERT website. As a hydraulic damped tensioner, FT0800 contains optimized belt pre-tension due to its rotatable fixing eyes and is suitable for modern Honda engines with cylinder deactivation that targets fuel reduction. In general, hydraulic tensioners such as FT08000 can be used to lower the belt pre-tension to a minimum by still controlling FEAD performance, according to Schaeffler. “We have conducted thorough research on various engines, resulting in the development of replacement components that are specifically designed to meet the requirements of each unique engine,” said Harsha Majji, Schaeffler product manager. In conjunction with its REPXPERT service brand, Schaeffler provides technical tips and service information for the INA product line. “Schaeffler provides intelligent repair solutions in the four key systems: valvetrain, timing drive, front-end auxiliary drive and cooling systems,” added Roger Gillette, Technical Services Group leader. “With the REPXPERT service brand, you are provided with technical information, trainings, product catalogs and repair support for INA products, as well as chassis and transmission products.” The post Schaeffler Adds to Line of FEAD Components appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, announced the launch of the BCA Bearings axle-nut torque-specification lookup application. After a soft launch in March, BCA is rolling out the application for all applicable BCA wheel bearings and hub assemblies. The user-friendly app provides quick and easy access to the torque-spec data needed to professionally install wheel bearings and hub assemblies, NTN noted. The BCA Torque-Spec App features an intuitive user interface that enables users to quickly navigate to a familiar year/make/model search format to find the specs they need. The app also provides users with quick links to BCA tech tips, videos and product information. “We are excited to launch this value-added tool for our customers,” said Matt Gorski, manager of product management. “Following the torque specifications during installation is critical to the life of the wheel bearing, which impacts the reliability and safety of a vehicle. The BCA Torque-Spec App will ensure that our customers always have the data they need for proper and safe installation of wheel bearings at their fingertips.” The app is accessible exclusively via a QR code on a printed insert card included with applicable BCA wheel bearings and hub assemblies. The app provides numerous advantages over the printed booklet it replaces, chief among them being the data provided by the app is updated in real time as new data becomes available, providing accurate torque specs for even the latest vehicle models. The booklet would become outdated between print runs, NTN noted. Going forward, the BCA team will continuously evaluate app usage and user feedback to inform future updates that will help improve the user experience and add additional value for our customers. The post BCA Bearings Launches Torque-Spec Lookup App appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Recently, I was reading about catalytic-converter theft when I came across an article that, if nothing else, put a light spin on the day. It informed me that a catalytic converter is a round canister that connects two pieces of piping in the exhaust. Hmmm. Sounds like a lot of mufflers and resonators I know. It also attempted to describe the symptoms of converter theft. I chuckled as I thought to myself, “You will know.” Exhaust systems have a unique place in the automotive aftermarket. They likely are the most common components of all to be removed and thrown away when they’re in perfect condition. It’s all in the name of performance – or at least perceived performance through sound. But this article isn’t about performance. It’s about all mufflers and converters, and the name of the game here is fit. Say “catalytic converter” years ago, and the comical description above was at least a little closer to accurate. However, converters today are almost synonymous with the term “direct fit.” Most converters are part of the downpipe that bolts directly to the exhaust manifold, or they’re part of the manifold themselves. In addition, most cars now have two converters to keep emissions in check, and what this comes down to – coupled with the fact that underhood real estate is no longer the vast open space it used to be – is that there’s no room for error with the alignment and fit of a converter. They either fit or they don’t. There’s no in-between or close enough. Most oxygen (O2) sensors are located in the converters as well, and usually two. The factory harnesses don’t give much wiggle room, so if O2-sensor bungs aren’t in the correct location, it poses another problem. Why Ask Why? Fit aside, the most important factor is why your customer needs a new catalytic converter, because they’ll look to you for advice. Unfortunately, it could be from theft, in which case they may need more than just a converter, since the exhaust system was also probably damaged in some manner. But from a regular repair standpoint, the most common reason for converter replacement is the “Check Engine” light. P0420 – catalyst efficiency below threshold – is one of the more common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) we see as technicians. It’s one of the more self-explanatory code definitions there is, and the majority of the time, the catalytic converter is the cause of the problem. However, it’s also important to warn your customer that an exhaust leak, bad O2 sensor, misfire or rich or lean running could cause the problem, and unless they’ve had the problem professionally diagnosed, you simply can’t guarantee that it’s a converter. This opens the opportunity for upsells with spark plugs, coils, exhaust components or O2 sensors. Since DTC P0420 alone doesn’t indicate an immediate danger of breaking down, a DIYer may decide that it’s time for a tune-up and general maintenance, and they’ll start with that. If the code persists, then they can move on to the converter. Just make them aware of the possibilities so they know what they could be faced with going into it. Selling Opportunities Is there anything you can do to prevent catalytic-converter theft? Some people engrave or paint their converters to discourage it, but I personally can’t say whether it’s effective or not. Also available are different designs of converter “locks,” which often look like a network of cables or a cage, and sometimes a shield. Your company may carry some of these products, making another good suggestion for customers. Even if replacement is a result of regular maintenance, a converter “lock” is a nice upsell, especially on taller trucks and SUVs. They’re more common victims since you can generally slide underneath, offering easy access to the converter. Mufflers, at least from a standpoint of fit, can be a little easier to deal with, because there’s usually a little more room to work with. This fact alone is one reason there are so many custom exhaust options on the market. Older vehicles and trucks have the most room, opening up plenty of options for different mufflers with different sound levels and tones. Exhaust adapters and couplers make almost infinite possibilities for installation, but if you’re helping someone get the right parts, help them to find what they need while utilizing the fewest adapters possible. Even if they have to try a few different options and return what doesn’t work, it makes a cleaner installation and saves money on clamps. Many people prefer to go with factory-style exhaust, especially on sedans where space is limited. Performance exhaust systems on many new cars have similar space restrictions as converters, and performance or stock, selling specific make-and-model systems is often the easiest thing to do – as well as the best thing to do to save your customer some grief. Those looking for a universal replacement style of muffler or a custom system most likely are experienced with this type of installation, and they’ll know exactly what they’re looking for. When someone is installing an exhaust system, good recommendations are new hangers, exhaust sealing putty, mechanic or leather gloves and safety glasses. Exhaust putty isn’t a substitute for proper component fit, but it’s a nice touch that can prevent small leaks. The biggest thing about exhaust work is you’re underneath it and rust always likes to fall into your eyes, making safety glasses an important piece of personal protective equipment. The other exhaust caveat is that there’s always a sharp edge or two, especially when you cut a pipe. Durable gloves (not latex) are the best protection, and this is one job where I always recommend them. The post Mufflers and Catalytic Converters appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

KBS Coatings Rust Converter chemically converts rust into a permanent, hard and highly durable black surface, according to the company. KBS Rust Converter is directly sprayed onto any iron or steel object that has tightly bonded rust, or surface rust, to kill the existing rust and stop new rust from forming. The quick-drying rust killer forms an inert primer layer that can stand alone or be painted over. “KBS Rust Converter saves time by eliminating the needed for scraping and sanding metal surfaces before topcoat applications, which is especially advantageous when time to complete the project is limited or the object is large,” the company added in a news release. “One 12-ounce aerosol can covers approximately 20 square feet of surface. For more information, visit the KBS Coatings website or call 888-531-4527. The post KBS Coatings Introduces Rust Converter appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In an email blast, Auto Care Association President and CEO Bill Hanvey said the association is working with other Right to Repair supporters to respond to NHTSA’s June 13 letter that urges 22 automakers to ignore the expanded Right to Repair law that Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved in November 2020. Hanvey said Auto Care is working with the Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE) and the Massachusetts Right to Repair Coalition “to craft a response to that letter and to develop a plan to refute NHTSA’s misunderstandings over the interpretation of the law and to demonstrate the viability of our solution to securely grant access to vehicle generated repair and maintenance data by approved agents of the vehicle owner.” “The NHTSA letter has generated a tremendous amount of backlash on social media and in the press and we need to initiate another wave of support,” Hanvey added. Hanvey also expressed frustration that NHTSA’s letter “arrived after repeated attempts by Judge Woodlock to engage NHTSA some two years ago during the initial trial for their position on the law and after the window for submissions to the court was over.” NHTSA: Safety Act Trumps Mass. Law In the letter to the automakers, NHTSA’s legal counsel asserted that the Massachusetts data-access law “conflicts with and therefore is preempted by” the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. “While NHTSA has stressed that it is important for consumers to continue to have the ability to choose where to have their vehicles serviced and repaired, consumers must be afforded choice in a manner that does not pose an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety,” Kerry Kolodziej wrote on behalf of NHTSA. “ … Given the serious safety risks posed by the Data Access Law, taking action to open remote access to vehicles’ telematics units in accordance with that law, which requires communication pathways to vehicle control systems, would conflict with your obligations under the Safety Act.” Kolodziej, NHTSA’s assistant chief counsel for litigation and enforcement, also expressed the agency’s concerns regarding open data access and cybersecurity. “Open access to vehicle manufacturers’ telematics offerings with the ability to remotely send commands allows for manipulation of systems on a vehicle, including safety-critical functions such as steering, acceleration or braking, as well as equipment required by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) such as air bags and electronic stability control,” she wrote. “A malicious actor here or abroad could utilize such open access to remotely command vehicles to operate dangerously, including attacking multiple vehicles concurrently.” Kolodziej also noted that some automakers have said they’ll disable vehicle telematics systems, presumably to circumvent the Massachusetts law. Doing so would have “its own adverse impacts on safety,” Kolodziej wrote. “For example, telematics-based safety features could facilitate better emergency response in the event of a vehicle crash. Telematics data can also be an important source of information for safety oversight and field performance monitoring by the authorities and vehicle manufacturers. NHTSA often utilizes telematics data in its investigations, and the inability to obtain these data from vehicles with this capability undermines the agency’s ability to fully examine safety-related issues.” ‘A Profound Impact’ In a blog post, Dallin Wilson and Brandon Bigelow of the law firm Seyfarth Shaw LLP asserted that “NHTSA’s unequivocal declaration that the Data Access Law conflicts with and is preempted by federal law is likely to have a profound impact, both in the pending litigation and more generally.” Meanwhile, U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey, both Massachusetts Democrats, fired off a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg urging NHTSA “to explain its rationale for its harmful actions and respect Massachusetts state law by reversing course.” “NHTSA’s decision to give auto manufacturers a green light to ignore state law appears to favor Big Auto, undermine the will of Massachusetts voters and the Biden administration’s competition policy, and raise questions about both the decision process and the substance of the decision by NHTSA’s leadership,” Warren and Markey wrote. In November 2020, an expanded Right to Repair Law – Ballot Question 1 – passed with 75% of the vote. The law would require automakers to equip vehicles sold in Massachusetts with a standardized data platform that enables motorists to access their vehicles’ telematics data through a mobile app. While the law mandated that the changes were to take effect starting with the 2022 model year, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation – a lobbying group for the major automakers – has kept the law tied in up federal court to block its implementation. In March, however, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell announced that she was prepared to begin enforcing the new law on June 1. In response to an 11th-hour bid to thwart the law from seeing the light of day, the federal judge presiding over automakers’ lawsuit against the state of Massachusetts denied their request for a temporary restraining order. The post Auto Care Weighing Response to NHTSA Right to Repair Letter appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Just when it looked like the nearly three-year Right to Repair saga in Massachusetts was entering its final chapter, the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA) dropped a bombshell. NHTSA’s June 13 letter to 22 automakers, filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, informs vehicle manufacturers that complying with the expanded Right to Repair provisions in Massachusetts would be in direct conflict with “their obligations under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.” In the letter, Kerry Kolodziej, NHTSA’s assistant chief counsel for litigation and enforcement, voices the agency’s concerns that open remote access to vehicle telematics could make it easier for cybercriminals – here or abroad – to take control of consumers’ cars, trucks and SUVs and cause mayhem. “Vehicles crashes, injuries or deaths are foreseeable outcomes of such a situation,” she adds. Count U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey among those who were gobsmacked by NHTSA’s letter. In a June 15 letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Warren and Markey call the timing of NHTSA’s letter “extraordinary” – given that the agency had “ample opportunity prior to June 1 to raise preemption arguments through the judicial process.” “Although the state and outside experts introduced evidentiary proof of the possibility of compliance at trial, NHTSA declined multiple requests from the judge to participate,” the senators wrote. “Instead, NHTSA sent the June 13 letter with no warning, circumventing the legal process, contradicting a judicial order, undermining Massachusetts voters, harming competition and hurting consumers and causing unnecessary confusion by raising this novel view two weeks after enforcement of the law began.” So, where does that leave the data-access law that Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved in November 2020? While it might seem like NHTSA’s invocation of the federal rule of law leaves Right to Repair dead in the water, an editorial in the Boston Globe suggests: “The one organization that might be able to break the stalemate is the state Legislature.” According to the Boston Globe, state Sen. Michael Moore noted that NHTSA’s concern that federal law preempts the Massachusetts data-access law still leaves the door open for the state law to be rewritten. “While I understand the NHTSA’s cybersecurity concerns, Bay Staters overwhelmingly voted to approve this ballot measure – it is now on the Massachusetts legislature to amend the legislation to ensure the will of the people can be enacted in the Bay State in a safe and secure manner,” Moore told the Boston Globe. Moore, who chairs the Joint Committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity, also told the Globe that lawmakers “will explore all available options to make sure Bay Staters get the results they voted for.” The Globe editorial board concludes: “That’s a goal worth pursuing.” The post OpEd: Mass. Lawmakers Could End Right to Repair Impasse appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

BBB Industries announced the passing of its founder and chairman emeritus, Donald (Don) G. Bigler, at the age of 91. “On behalf of BBB Industries, our board and our management team, I offer our deepest condolences to the Bigler family,” said Duncan Gillis, CEO of BBB Industries. “Don was not just one of BBB’s founders, he was a friend, mentor and an inspiration to many within the company. I already miss his friendship.” Bigler founded BBB alongside his sons, Jeff and Bruce Bigler, who live in the Mobile area. Together, they grew the company from a small, regional remanufacturer of rotating electrical parts into one of the largest and most successful sustainable manufacturers in the world. Bigler had three great loves: his wife, Linda; his family; and his work. A Missouri farm boy, he began his career in manufacturing at Aerojet General Corp. in Downey, California. While working at Aerojet, he attended college at night to earn his engineering degree. Bigler was program manager on the Polaris Program and was named Engineering Manager of the Year. As a result, he was promoted to plant manager for 13 years. In 1968, he changed companies and became president of Fansteel in Los Angeles. After only two years there, Bigler decided it was time to return home to Missouri. In 1970, Bigler joined Teledyne Industries, where he was president of Teledyne Neosho in Neosho, Missouri. In 1974, Bigler moved to Mobile, Alabama. There he was president of Teledyne Continental Motors, a leading general aircraft-engine manufacturer. Ultimately, Bigler became a group executive for Teledyne Industries. He remained with Teledyne for more than 25 years. In 1987, Bigler and his sons, Jeff and Bruce, founded and built BBB Industries LLC. Bigler’s many awards include recognition at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., for designing and manufacturing the engines of the Voyager aircraft. He also received the General Aviation Award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics; the Bolivar, Missouri, High School Hall of Fame Distinguished Alumni Award; and the NAPA Partnership Award. A visitation is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, at the Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. A second visitation is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21, followed by funeral services. The post BBB Industries Announces Passing of Founder Donald Bigler appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Content Professionals Network (ACPN) recently announced the winners of the 2023 ACPN Content Excellence Awards. ACPN, a community of the Auto Care Association, announced the winners at its annual Knowledge Exchange Conference, which took place in May during the Auto Care Association’s Auto Care Connect event in Orlando, Florida. The Content Excellence Awards recognize best-in-class examples of data standards (ACES and PIES) use and compliance, as well as electronic cataloging and content in B2C and B2B platforms in the automotive aftermarket. ACES and PIES Data Award – All Vehicle Types This category is intended to recognize excellent source data. This award judges ACES and PIES files on a variety of criteria that ACPN deems as essential when creating best-in-class ACES and PIES data for all vehicle types. Gold (Small – 10-50k applications) – Continental Corp. Gold (Medium – 50-250k applications) – First Brands Group Gold (Large – more than 250k applications) – BorgWarner* Gold (Large – more than 250k applications) – DRiV Inc.* *Due to a clerical error, ACPN awarded two deserving recipients for the 2023 ACES and PIES Data Award – All Vehicle Types – Large category. ACES and PIES Data Award – Off-Highway & Equipment Only This category is intended to recognize excellent source data. This award judges ACES and PIES files on a variety of criteria that ACPN deems as essential when creating best in class ACES and PIES data for Off-Highway & Equipment Vehicle Types Only. Gold (more than 500 applications) – Old World Industries Web-Based Catalog Award This category is for catalog-application lookup that is purely browser-based (websites) and does not require any special client-side app to be installed. The 2023 winners are: Bronze – Mevotech Silver – First Brands Group Gold – Dorman Products Technician’s Choice Award This award is presented by ACPN in partnership with the Car Care Professionals Network (CCPN), Women in Auto Care (WIAC) and the Young Automotive Networking Group (YANG). This category is for business-to-business systems that are either web-based or client-side install (app) supported. This award is judged from a technician’s and shop owner’s point of view (an end consumer). Bronze – Factory Motor Parts Silver – Parts Tech Gold – Parts Authority Receiver’s Choice Awards The Receiver’s Choice Award recognizes organizations that are supplying high- quality content including ACES, PIES, digital assets and other customer-specific formats. Honorees are selected by content receivers who support ACPN for their exemplary content and are leading the way in integrity, accuracy, timeliness, completeness, best practices and other proprietary-specific judging criteria. Advance Auto Parts presented Award to Dorman Products, Inc. Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance presented Award to Motor Car Parts of America AutoZone presented award to BBB Industries Epicor presented award to Cardone Industries O’Reilly Auto Parts presented Award to Continental Corp. PartsTech Inc. presented award to DRiV WHI Solutions presented award to Dorman Products Learn more about the ACPN Content Excellence Awards at ACPN Awards. The post ACPN Announces 2023 Content Excellence Award Winners appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The automotive specialty-equipment market posted 2% year-over-year growth in 2022, reaching $51.8 billion in sales, according the new 2023 SEMA Market Report. The 2022 results lagged the industry’s typical annual growth rate of 4% to 5%. However, given an environment of rising interest rates and what might be described as a post-pandemic economic hangover, the slowdown wasn’t a surprise. Looking at the bigger picture, 2022 continued a decade of growth for the industry. The specialty-equipment market showed positive results in 2022 with an overall market growth of 2% and reaching $51.8 billion in sales, according the new 2023 SEMA Market Report. This continues a decade of growth for the industry, even among recent economic turmoil created by the pandemic. SEMA estimates that sales growth will remain fairly flat in 2023, before ramping back up toward the industry’s historical growth trend in 2024. “Even as economic uncertainty looms, particularly around inflation, consumers are passionate about customizing and continue to buy from our industry,” SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp said. “This report provides new and relevant findings that businesses can use to better connect with their customers, find areas of opportunity and drive their business.” Available for download on the SEMA website, the SEMA Market Report provides a comprehensive review of the automotive specialty equipment market in 2022 and includes new data on the U.S. market size, consumer profiling and industry trends that can help companies make more informed business decisions. Key findings from the report include: Pickup accessorization remains the biggest segment for the industry, topping $15 billion in sales. The CUV accessory market continues to grow, reaching 14% of specialty-equipment sales in 2022. Younger people continue to be the most likely to accessorize and perform more upgrades; 50% percent of those modifying their vehicles are under the age of 40. 50% of accessorizors own a powersports or recreational vehicle, opening up cross-selling opportunities. Over 80% of companies expect their sales to stay the same or grow in 2023. The report is the focus of the upcoming SEMA Market Update webinar on June 21. The post Automotive Specialty-Equipment Market Grew 2% in 2022 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lumileds has introduced the new Philips Xperion 6000 headlamp, “a headband-mounted work light that allows service pros to shine brilliant LED illumination exactly on the task at hand.” Powered by state-of-the-art Philips Xperion LED chips, the Xperion 6000 headlamp utilizes two light sources to deliver exceptional performance, according to the company. Across the front of the headband, an LED light strip provides a broad beam of light of up to 300 Lumens in Boost mode and up to 150 Lumens in Eco mode. Mounted on the side of the headband, a spotlight provides a narrow, intense beam of up to 120 Lumens. To ensure ease of use, the Xperion 6000 is equipped with a hands-free motion-detection feature that allows the user to turn the light on and off without touching it. “Like all Philips Xperion Work Lamps, the Xperion 6000 headlamp was conceived, engineered and built for auto service professionals,” the company said in a news release. “Designed to meet the demands of today’s auto service environments, the Xperion 6000 headlamp has been engineered to deliver years of reliable service. It is resistant to solvents and is rated IK07/IP65 against impacts and dust and water intrusion. The adjustable elastic headband makes the headlamp comfortable to wear for hours at a time.” Powered by a rechargeable lithium battery, the Xperion 6000 headlamp can be fully charged within 2.5 hours using the USB-C charger that’s included. Battery run time is up to 4.5 hours in Spotlight light mode, up to 4 hours in Eco mode and up to 2.5 hours in Boost mode. The Xperion 6000 Headlamp is part of the Philips Xperion 6000 line of work lamps. The line includes six handheld lights; two flood-projector lights; an underhood extendable light; a multi-dock charging station; and the Find My Device accessory as well as the wearable Xperion 6000 headlamp. The post Philips Introduces Xperion 6000 Headlamp appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article