Counterman

Repairify and Autel U.S. announced an exclusive long-term collaboration agreement for the delivery of Repairify’s patented global OEM remote solutions for diagnostics, calibrations and programming through Autel’s remote-capable products across North America. As part of the agreement, Repairify will integrate its patented global remote diagnostic, calibration and programming solutions as a new service offering into a revised version of Autel’s Remote Expert platform. Repairify and Autel will jointly manage the platform that now will offer customers the choice of using the certified and warrantied OEM remote solutions from Repairify, along with the independent Remote Experts (vetted for their experience) who already are serving the platform. Launched in 2022, Autel’s Remote Expert provides customers onsite aftermarket scanning and access to remote OEM tools supported by experienced professionals. Remote Expert is available through the Autel MaxiSYS Ultra, Ultra EV, MS919, MS909 and MS909 EV diagnostics tablets. Remote Expert also will be expanded into Autel’s ADAS calibration systems. “We are excited to enter into this collaboration with Repairify,” Autel U.S. CEO Chloe Hung said. “Autel developed the Remote Expert platform to provide our users remote access to specialized and experienced module programmers and diagnosticians. We are very proud that its success drew the attention of a company of such quality and industry success as Repairify. We are confident that this partnership will benefit both companies and, most importantly, be of immense value to our users.” According to the companies, combining the Repairify remote services solutions program with the Autel Remote Expert Platform delivers what automotive repair professionals have requested for years: a seamless experience that delivers fast, accurate, certified and safe vehicle repairs with the choice of aftermarket or OEM tool support. “Since its launch into the North American market in 2005, Autel has been known for their consistent delivery of leading innovative solutions across the mechanical and collision markets,” said Cris Hollingsworth, president of Repairify Global Holdings. “Repairify is honored to embark on this partnership and to broaden the reach of our solutions through the new and existing Autel network of customers.” For additional information, visit the Repairify website. The post Autel, Repairify Announce Agreement for Remote Diagnostics appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The CAR Coalition has reported that Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell is prepared to move forward with the Massachusetts Right to Repair law. Ballot Question 1, which updated the state’s landmark 2013 Right to Repair law, passed with 75% of the vote in November 2020. Since then, automakers have kept the law tied in up federal court in an effort to block its implementation. While a federal judge has delayed ruling on the automakers’ lawsuit on six occasions, the attorney general recently issued notice that she intends to enforce the law effective June 1: “The people of Massachusetts deserve the benefit of the law they approved more than two years ago. Consumers and independent repair shops deserve to know whether they will receive access to vehicle repair data in the manner provided by the law. Auto manufacturers (“OEMs”) and dealers need to understand their obligations under the law and take action to achieve compliance.” – Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell On the national stage, U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn recently re-introduced federal Right to Repair legislation. HR 906, as introduced in Congress, aims to “ensure consumers have access to data relating to their motor vehicles, critical repair information and tools, and to provide them choices for the maintenance, service and repair of their motor vehicles, and for other purposes.” “When it comes to repairing their automobiles, consumers deserve options,” said Dunn, a Florida Republican. “The REPAIR Act would give owners, including the rural communities in my district, secure access to critical data so their chosen service center can replace parts and repair their vehicles. I am proud to support competition in the vehicle repair industry.” Dunn is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has responsibility for consumer protection, among several other topics. The bill was referred to the committee on Feb. 9. The post Massachusetts Attorney General to Enforce Right to Repair Law appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products (SMP) continues to expand its line of parts for hybrid and electric vehicles. The hybrid and EV market is growing larger every day, and SMP is committed to continually adding to its product offering for these vehicles, as well as expanding its powertrain-neutral coverage, the company said. Approximately 7 million hybrid vehicles are currently on the road, and many of them are more than 10 years old. With two distinctly different powertrains – a conventional internal combustion engine and an electric motor – these vehicles feature more components when compared to gas and diesel vehicles. Hybrid repair opportunities continue to grow thanks to a growing vehicle population, an aging fleet and multiple drivetrain components. Standard and Four Seasons are prepared to meet the demand, with more than 4,000 parts available for 150 models, according to the company. Electric vehicles use the same sensors, switches and climate-control systems as ICE vehicles, while adding new opportunities around the thermal management of high-voltage battery and drive motor components. Currently, SMP offers more than 1,900 parts for 40 models, with more parts being introduced on a consistent basis. Additionally, SMP offers more than 50,000 powertrain-neutral parts through its Standard and Four Seasons brands. These parts fit vehicles regardless of powertrain and include categories like advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) components, collision repair parts, A/C compressors and thousands of other switches, sensors, actuators and connectors. “As hybrid and electric vehicle sales increase, SMP is prepared to meet the growing demand for high-quality replacement parts,” said Jack Ramsey, senior vice president of sales and marketing, SMP. “Standard and Four Seasons are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve, engineering and manufacturing superior products that last.” From 2022 through February of this year, SMP has added substantial coverage for hybrid and electric vehicles through its Standard and Four Seasons brands. In total, SMP added 258 SKUs for hybrid vehicles, 60 SKUs for electric vehicles and 1,530 SKUs in the powertrain-neutral category. Recent additions include a universal battery pack charging cord for electric vehicles and stoplight switches and brake-pedal travel sensors for hybrid models like the Toyota Prius and Lexus ES300h. The array of powertrain-neutral parts added include park-assist cameras, dome-light switches, rocker switches, power sunroof motors, taillight connectors and much more. All new Standard EV and hybrid products are listed in the e-catalog found at StandardBrand.com, and in electronic-catalog providers. The post Standard Motor Products Expands Hybrid, EV Portfolio appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When ball joints are on the counter, what’s the No. 1 upsell? Shop rags, latex gloves and floor cleaner, because it’s going to be a messy job! Seriously, though, it depends on the suspension. For light cars and trucks with strut-type suspension, most ball joints aren’t greaseable, and most of them only have one lower control arm on each side, resulting in only one lower ball joint on each side (multi-link suspensions are another story). Most of these are a cakewalk to replace, and you barely get your hands dirty. But, heavier trucks and older cars with upper-lower A-arm suspension and greaseable joints are a different story. That’s when it gets real. But before we start wiping up grease, let’s look at two of the stickier aspects of ball joints: inspection and installation. Ball joints have wear specifications, and the maximum allowable play as well as proper inspection procedures can vary considerably between different applications. When checking a ball joint for wear, technically speaking, not only should we confirm the recommended procedure and specifications, but we also are always supposed to check them using a dial indicator. In the real world, that rarely happens. Most technicians understand that a little bit of play in a ball joint is normal and acceptable. But at the same time, there’s a common misconception that any play in a ball joint means it’s wearing out. The root of the problem goes deeper than this article can cover, but let’s face it: Time is money, and taking the time to look up specs, set up a dial indicator (if you have one) and recording the readings just isn’t realistic, especially when a shop manager is breathing down your neck for a diagnosis. Another part of the problem is when you check a ball joint for wear, you always can feel even the slightest amount of play – so again, rather than performing the correct procedure, it’s easier to estimate the free play in your mind based on your familiarity with these types of measurements. You can’t always see the movement when it’s minimal, but the worse it gets, the easier it is to see. Experienced technicians are good at recognizing when the amount of play is still “acceptable,” or when a ball joint is – as we like to call them when the vehicle isn’t safe to drive – “wasted.” When a ball joint exhibits wear but still is acceptable and safe for use, that’s how we represent it to the customer, and we’ll just recommend checking them again at the next service. “Let’s keep an eye on those ball joints,” we might say. This all might sound like I’m criticizing technicians, but that’s far from the case. I’ve been a tech my whole life and it can be tough to wear our shoes. There’s a lot we need to know – we’re all human – and we do make mistakes. When it comes to parts, we rely on the knowledge of a counterperson more often than you realize. One of the strongest traits of a good technician is understanding that you don’t know everything, and not being afraid to ask questions or accept advice. In the case of ball joints, they usually don’t come with specifications, and there’s rarely any information with them aside from installing the grease fitting. And when they do come with information, does it always get read? You probably can guess the answer. This is the real world of automotive repair. As crazy as it sounds, when you’re deep into a suspension repair with parts and tools all over the place, it can seem like it takes an eternity to unbox a bunch of parts and remove them from their plastic bags, etc. – so again, it’s no surprise that details are missed should they happen to be included. It’s worth its weight in gold when we learn something we don’t know about any particular part, and we’re always eager to learn. If the line between misconception and mistake isn’t blurry enough, there’s an extra kicker with ball joints. Some vehicles utilize telescoping ball joints. What this means is that the ball-joint stud telescopes a small amount to compensate for manufacturing tolerances, primarily related to the ears of a steering knuckle. When you install one of these joints, it may appear as if the stud is too long or too short, potentially causing a technician to think it’s the incorrect joint. Also, since the stud is engineered to slide in and out of the housing, they can exhibit as much as .060” (sixty-thousandths of an inch) of free play. For comparison, .060” is about the thickness of a penny, and while this amount of play rarely would be represented as unsafe, it could easily be misdiagnosed as a worn joint. This may turn out to be more important in the case of a warranty concern. I’m sure it wouldn’t be the first time you had a part returned as defective and you were surprised by it. This is when your knowledge can save time and money for your company as well as for a technician, shop and the end customer. Information like this often doesn’t make it to a technician level, and it’s a great opportunity for you to educate and build rapport with your customers at the same time. Replacing Control Arms Where do control arms come into the picture? Independent suspension, be it front or rear, has been around for a long time. There are many different types, of which upper-lower A-arm, MacPherson strut and multi-link are the most common variations we deal with today. One thing they all have in common is some type of control arm. To put a simple spin on it, any control arm is nothing more than a link between the fixed frame of a vehicle and the steering knuckle – the component that in turn provides a mounting point for the brakes, wheel bearings and wheels. Control arms move freely up and down in response to suspension movement and not only offer mounting points for springs and sway bars, but they also are integral to suspension design, affecting the alignment angles and suspension travel. The control arm also carries another distinction: It offers a provision for mounting a ball joint to provide articulation between the arm and steering knuckle. Ball joints are either bolt-on or press-in, and in many cases on newer vehicles, the ball joint is an integral part of the control arm. If you have to replace the ball joint, you have to replace the entire arm. Control arms are either steel, cast-iron or aluminum, and the most important factor when replacing a press-in style of ball joint is making sure the hole in the control arm isn’t worn. Generally, if there’s no visible damage or corrosion to the control arm and the old ball joint requires considerable force to remove, as long as the new joint requires a similar force to install, the control arm will be OK. However, since we don’t have the technology (in our shops) to measure the roundness and integrity of the hole, many manufacturers recommend to only replace a press-in style ball joint one time. The next time, the whole arm should be replaced, and this is good advice to pass along to your customer. As with any type of suspension work, any torque-to-yield fasteners should be replaced, torque specifications always should be utilized, and in the case of control-arm replacement, fasteners should be torqued with the vehicle at ride height. The post Ball Joints: How Much Play Is Too Much? appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lafayette Warehouse has joined forces with Auto-Wares Group of Companies. Like Auto-Wares, Lafayette Warehouse, Inc. (LWI) is built on long-lasting relationships with customers, employees and suppliers that have grown their businesses. Mike Brown will lead Lafayette Warehouse as general manager. Pat James and the current location managers will continue to lead the Lafayette Warehouse location teams going into the future. The Lafayette Warehouse customers will be introduced to the Alliance exclusive brands and the Auto Value Parts Store and Certified Service Center programs. In addition to increased inventory and improved Indiana logistics, this acquisition will make full-line AC Delco and Mopar Original Equipment lines available to all Auto-Wares customers in the coming months. Lafayette Warehouse has four large locations that will improve Auto-Wares logistics in Northwest and Central Indiana: Lafayette Auto Supply Distribution Center, 1501 Kepner Dr., Lafayette Lafayette Auto Supply, 118 S. 4th Street, Lafayette Kokomo Auto Supply, 1299 Home Ave., Kokomo NWI Auto Supply, 755 E. 82nd Ave., Merrillville “First and foremost we want to thank our employees and customers for the success we have had over the past 96 years,” said Pat James, president of Lafayette Warehouse. “We could not have done it without all their support. Auto-Wares presented an opportunity for our legacy to continue by offering great opportunities for our current employees and customers. We also would like to thank Auto-Wares for choosing us to be their next partner.” Auto-Wares CEO Todd Leimenstoll added: “All of us at Auto-Wares are excited to have Lafayette Warehouse team join the Auto-Wares Group of Companies. Lafayette Warehouse has a very successful history and tremendous reputation. I am thankful for the trust that Pat James and the James family have placed in us. We look forward to the next chapter in growing the company.” The post Lafayette Warehouse Joins Auto-Wares appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Being a somewhat evolved primate, I appreciate tools. I have a LOT of tools – maybe more than strictly necessary for a guy who spends most of the day behind a parts counter rather than in a shop bay. To be completely honest, I even own a few tools that I’ve never actually used, simply because at the time of purchase, I thought they were pretty darn cool, and I might need them some day. Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it, right? Historically, tool selections were pretty basic: an open stock display of wrenches, sockets and drive tools, and a small display of specific-use tools from one of the major jobber distributor brands. These days, in-store tool selection reflects the diversity of manufacturers in today’s aftermarket and the vehicle-specific engineering that goes into servicing a wide range of global nameplates. Given the tight confines of the modern engine bay and the variety of service opportunities, the “underhood” tool category is spread across several vehicle systems, and includes a number of specialty tools. Underhood services can include belt-drive and cooling-system service; electrical diagnosis and repair; fuel and emissions; LOF (lube, oil, filter) and other fluid-exchange services; and internal engine repairs. Considering that performing one repair often requires disassembly or removal of multiple components just to access the affected part, underhood repairs often will require multiple specialty tools as you dig deeper into the engine bay. While a complete review of each and every specialty underhood tool is nearly impossible, there are a few types that are universally required for servicing many different vehicles. Quick-disconnect (QD) tools are one of the most universally requested tools in this category, and also the most diverse. Fuel and emissions lines, transmission and coolant connections and A/C lines all routinely feature a QD fitting of some variety. From scissor-type tools to pliers and spring-lock tools, each is designed for a particular type of fitting. Master-disconnect kits cover the majority of styles in one convenient case, and many QD tools can be purchased individually. For OEM clamped-hose connections, flat-band clamps have mostly replaced worm-drive clamps, and the “go-to” tool for this type of clamp is the cable-operated plier, which can reach remotely into the engine bay where your hands won’t fit. Another popular OEM clamping method is the “Clic” and “Clic-R” clamp, a reusable clamp similar to the Oetiker ear-type clamps found on CV boots. Clic-R-style pliers make removal and re-use of these clamps possible without damage. Blunt flat-bladed hose-removal tools then can be used to separate stubborn hoses without puncturing or gouging the rubber – a common problem when improvising with a screwdriver or pick tool. Screwdrivers also can damage stretch-to-fit serpentine belts, so using the proper removal and installation tool increases the chances of reusing a good belt! Belt-tension release tools make accessing buried tensioner assemblies much easier, especially when clearance issues prevent the use of a breaker bar or ratchet. LOF service – once the most basic of maintenance tasks – has become increasingly complex in recent years. The resurgence of cartridge-type filters has resulted in a variety of specialty sockets for opening engine-oil and diesel-fuel filter housings. GM, Ford and some European OEMs now feature uniquely shaped plastic oil-drain plugs that require specialty sockets to remove and replace without damaging the plug. Some tools (for example, a particular-size specialty socket or bit) are “required” in the sense that you cannot use any other tool to perform a specific task, while others have been developed to make a job easier or beat the published flat-rate schedule. For professional technicians, time is money, and specialty tools are an investment that help them save time and earn more money. For DIYers, specialty tools reduce the frustration of fighting with an unfamiliar component, and reduce the potential for damaging new or existing parts when using improvised tools and methods. Tool rentals allow the DIYer (and even some professionals) access to more expensive tools that they otherwise wouldn’t purchase. As add-on sales, specialty tools can earn the parts store additional income, encourage sales of parts that may be more difficult to install without the proper tools and reduce “defective” returns resulting from installation errors. Having a diverse selection of relevant specialty tools in stock is easier than ever before, and is another way to differentiate yourself in an increasingly competitive market. The post Selling Tools for Underhood Repairs appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts reported net sales of $11.2 billion for 2022, up 1.4% from 2021, while comparable-store sales were flat. Fourth-quarter net sales increased 3.2% to $2.5 billion, while comparable-store sales were up 2.1%. “In 2022, our team members once again worked to serve our customers with relentless focus and dedication,” said Tom Greco, president and chief executive officer. “Despite challenges throughout 2022, we made progress on our strategic initiatives, including the expansion of our footprint, further strengthening of our DieHard brand and improved customer loyalty. However, we are not satisfied with our results in 2022 and are taking decisive actions to improve performance in 2023. Importantly, the disciplined inventory and pricing actions we discussed last quarter to adapt to an evolving competitive landscape contributed to stronger results in Q4 and we ended the year with positive momentum. “We expect to see further improvements in inventory availability throughout 2023, which we view as the single most important driver to accelerate topline growth. After several years of significant investments in complex transformation initiatives and the majority of the integration behind us, we’re now able to focus more time and resources on leveraging our differentiated asset base and improving execution to drive long-term shareholder value.” Advance’s 2023 guidance is for net sales between $11.4 billion and $11.6 billion, and year-over-year growth in comparable-store sales between 1% and 3%. “In 2023 we are shifting to GAAP as our reporting method for annual guidance,” said Jeff Shepherd, executive vice president and chief financial officer. “As the GPI integration nears completion, we expect transformation costs to be less impactful, which reduces the need for non-GAAP adjustments. In addition, we believe that focusing on GAAP results will improve the understanding and comparability with our closest peers. In 2023 we are elevating our performance to improve topline growth and share gains while delivering operating income margin expansion.” The post Advance Reports 2022 Sales of $11.2 Billion appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our cover story for the January issue of AMN/Counterman, we asked distribution leaders to reflect on the successes and challenges of 2022 and share some of their insights for the industry in 2023. Here’s our Q&A with Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. AMN/CM: What is the greatest threat facing the automotive aftermarket? What is the greatest opportunity? PM: I have combined these questions, because if you look through a longer-term lens, the aftermarket’s greatest threat and opportunity are the same: technology. EVs have generated concern in the aftermarket, but that needs to be kept in perspective. Remember the aftermarket’s history: With every new technology there were projections that there will be nothing or not enough to repair – but every time we still see problems and failures with these new parts and technologies. Think of fuel injection, electronic ignition or TPMS. Auto engineers are not perfect, and the real world is a difficult operating environment. In fact, NADA data indicates that EVs are coming back to the dealer more often than ICE vehicles – and needing more repairs per visit than ICE. New technologies have historically been good for aftermarket revenue – and we are looking at a flood of new technologies unlike any we have ever seen. With so much focus on electrification, we aren’t talking enough about the revolution happening now: ADAS. We released a study at Vision that projected ADAS will exceed a billion-dollar market for replacement parts by 2030. Let me say that again: a billion-dollar market for replacement parts. That’s all opportunity and upside for the aftermarket. And, the story of increasing vehicle content is not only ADAS or EVs. The increase in new-vehicle prices demonstrates the lifecycle opportunity. New-vehicle prices hit an eye-watering $30,000 a decade ago; now, the average is $50,000. And while some of that is near-term supply issues, increasing vehicle content has driven this long-term trend. Every one of these new technologies can break or need calibration or maintenance. We believe this huge increase in vehicle content bodes well for the future of aftermarket tickets. The aftermarket is now living the famed “Innovator’s Dilemma” everyday: the challenge of managing two businesses. One, maximizing the returns from our existing business, which has a very long, fat tail. In parallel, we are growing new, innovative businesses prepared to take advantage of the aftermarket opportunities of electrified, automated and connected vehicles. In our view, the aftermarket is well-positioned in both the old and new industries. The aftermarket should not be afraid of the future. If we engage the classic aftermarket entrepreneurial spirit, we believe technology and content bring more opportunity than risk. AMN/CM: How can the independent aftermarket parts and service segments best prepare to repair the car of tomorrow as ADAS, EVs and other technologies become more prominent? PM: In addition to the points above, we have a lot of work and training to do – together, up and down the value chain – to make sure that shops are prepared, and consumers know that the aftermarket is ready and able to supply the parts, tools and technologies to fix these vehicles. And we can. AMN/CM: How is the Right to Repair issue impacting your members’ business? PM: All this opportunity is contingent on one thing: Right to Repair legislation that allows market competition. Right to Repair, and the Federal REPAIR Act, are necessary to realize our future. Consumers need this. If Congress takes action to ensure choice in vehicle repair and maintenance, consumers will save enormous amounts of time and money. We appreciate the cross-industry partnership on this bill – a unified effort is essential to success. We have momentum. You’ve heard about the many bipartisan bill co-sponsors, the executive order, the FTC report and the hearings all in favor and support of consumers right to choose where and with what parts their vehicle is repaired. This new Congress is our moment; it may be our best chance of getting a bill passed. If we don’t succeed, by 2035 $63 billion in consumer service choices will be thwarted by repair restrictions – and that number will quickly grow. Our industry must – and will – be heard to protect consumers and free markets. The post Paul McCarthy Sees ‘Opportunity and Upside’ in ADAS appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our cover story for the January issue of AMN/Counterman, we asked distribution leaders to reflect on the successes and challenges of 2022 and share some of their insights for the industry in 2023. Here’s our Q&A with Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association. AMN/CM: What did your organization accomplish in 2022 that you are most proud of? BH: I am most proud of the work our communities have done to engage and develop the industry. AWDA celebrated its 75th anniversary this year and as I noted during their awards ceremony, AWDA is represented on every single Auto Care community and committee and is engaged in every aspect of the industry. Women in Auto Care drew the largest crowd at the AAPEX stage during their awards ceremony, their breakfast had a waitlist, they raised more than $100k for scholarships and the registration for their upcoming Leadership Conference is the highest ever. YANG (Young Auto Care Networking Group) had record-breaking attendance at their reception at AAPEX and donated more than $20k to the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation in 2022 through various fundraisers, including their Top Golf meetup that was attend by more than 160 young executives nationally. Automotive Content Professionals Network started off our Connect Conference in May with record attendees and continues to set the example for welcoming newcomers to the industry. Auto Care has invested in all our communities through increased staff representation and the creation of a community engagement department to facilitate the collaboration and growth of all Auto Care communities. AMN/CM: How is the ongoing Right to Repair issue impacting your business? BH: From an industry perspective we have seen ongoing awareness of Right to Repair in our sector as well as agriculture and consumer electronics. The more exposure this consumer issue receives, we gain increased mindshare of legislators and regulators. The Auto Care Association has been helping to vigorously support our position to implement the will of the voters in the Massachusetts court case, and after numerous delays we are hoping to have a ruling soon. We are also working with CARE to support a ballot initiative in Maine to further expand our state strategy. We are also working with AASA, SEMA and the CAR coalition to reintroduce our REPAIR Act in Congress, which would provide a nationwide/federal solution for the access of telematics data and are encouraged by the momentum around the issue that we see. The European Union, Australia, South Africa and our Canadian colleagues all have Right to Repair initiatives taking place and we are working hand-in-hand with them to provide support and guidance as needed. We are also working with other aftermarket associations around the globe to support their Right to Repair initiatives and are in the process of developing a global Right to Repair positioning statement that unifies our industry in our approach. AMN/CM: What do you feel is the greatest threat facing the automotive aftermarket right now? BH: The biggest threat is two-fold: meeting the challenges of today’s technology on the vehicle and finding young men and women to repair and maintain those vehicles. Our industry has always adapted to technology. However, the financial investment required by a shop to keep up with that technology has become increasingly difficult. ADAS calibration, for example, requires more than $100k in equipment, not to mention the amount of space required to conduct those calibrations. Attracting talent to our service bays requires an investment on all our parts by providing scholarships and apprenticeships. I firmly believe that a national apprentice program is long overdue, and such a program will help reduce student-loan debt while providing good-paying jobs. Our good friends and members at Dynamic Automotive in Frederick, Maryland, are a great example of a progressive shop working with state and local governments to provide meaningful apprenticeship programs that groom qualified technicians for the next generation of technology. The post Bill Hanvey: ‘A National Apprentice Program Is Long Overdue’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

You can’t turn a corner these days without seeing a headline about electric vehicles. In recent years, this caused some consternation in the automotive aftermarket, with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles being the bread and butter for this industry. However, new data shows there will continue to be room for – and a need for – products for both incoming electric and ICE vehicles. According to data from the Joint EV Trends and Outlook Forecast from MEMA and Auto Care Association, while EVs are beginning to penetrate the U.S. car parc, ICE vehicles will maintain the majority share through 2040. By 2030, the average estimate for approximately 30% of new car sales will be electric vehicles, according to PwC, which partnered with the associations on the joint forecast. That being said, over the past several months, we have seen a significant uptick in industry activation surrounding vehicle electrification, in a variety of ways. Within the automotive aftermarket, we are beginning to see a mindset shift, moving from skepticism surrounding the idea of EVs into more companies seeing the opportunities available in this rapidly growing space. Take for example longtime diagnostic products provider Autel entering the market this past June with the launch of its new Autel Energy division, which released the MaxiCharger Home and Commercial Level 2 AC chargers, available in 40-amp and 50-amp flexible charging configurations, compatible with all plug-in electric vehicles. In the automotive repair equipment space, BendPak recently introduced its EV2400SL EV battery pack and powertrain lifting system. This push-around full-rise scissor lift table is designed to make replacing both electric vehicle battery packs and internal combustion powertrain components more efficient, the company said. The patent-pending design offers all the benefits of BendPak’s former SL24EVT lifting system with several user-friendly enhancements. Just this past month, GM announced plans to invest a total of $20.5 million across three of its Customer Care and Aftersales parts distribution centers in Tennessee and Michigan to modernize warehouse operations as the automaker prepares for industry growth and electric vehicle readiness. NAPA also saw the need to invest in preparation for the incoming change and this past fall announced its “NexDrivePowered by NAPA” training program in the U.S. to prepare repair shops for the changes electrification brings in the repair segment. In January, Shell paid a cool $169 million to acquire EV charging company Volta to “unlock long-term growth opportunities in electric vehicle charging,” the company stated. Bridgestone unveiled at CES this January it’s new Smart Corner solution, a demonstration of the ability to enhance the performance, comfort and efficiency of electric and autonomous vehicles, while maximizing the lifespan of tires and air springs. The solution combines premium Bridgestone tires and Firestone Airide (previously Firestone Industrial Products) air springs that are engineered specifically for electric and autonomous vehicle applications. Standard Motor Products said it is committed to providing replacement parts for hybrids and EVs and has added new part numbers specifically for hybrids and EVs through its Standard and Four Seasons brands. Valvoline and ENEOS both have developed automotive fluids specifically for use in Hybrid and Plug-in EVs. These are just a handful of examples of businesses that have long been involved in the traditional ICE market segment creating opportunities in the EV market, as well. From a consumer standpoint, the rate adoption of EVs varies from country to country, with cost (be it cost-savings or cost barriers) being one of the top factors. According to AMN’s sister publication dedicated to EVs, The Buzz, “While internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles still dominate future vehicle purchase intentions, preference for electrified powertrains continues to rise. Overall, the global shift to EVs is occurring at different speeds as individual markets face varying challenges to adoption, including cost and availability of charging infrastructures.” Citing data from Deloitte’s 2023 Global Automotive Consumer Study, The Buzz noted that “Despite mounting concerns about climate change and reducing emissions, lower fuel expenses are the top reason consumers choose EVs in the U.S., Germany, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Southeast Asia, in an effort to reduce vehicle operating costs.” In the U.S., intent to purchase hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and all-battery powered electric vehicles (BEV) are each up by 3 percentage points from 2022. Globally, consumer interest in BEVs is highest in China (27%, up 10 points year-over-year). The post Charging Ahead: Aftermarket Eyes EV Opportunities appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Oil changes continue to be one of the most common DIY repairs performed on vehicles today. According to a recent Counterman P.A.R.T.S. report, changing the engine oil was the second-most popular DIY auto care job, behind only changing the wiper blades. Changing the oil and filter is right in the sweet spot for do-it-yourself (DIY) vehicle owners: It’s a regular maintenance task that’s critical to the overall health and longevity of the engine, and it’s easy to perform. It’s the sort of basic maintenance that can be performed by someone who might not get their hands dirty otherwise. Chances are you’ve had a DIYer in your store asking how to get started. Let’s talk about some of the tips you can share with your DIY customers to help them change their own oil – and do it right. Essential Tools vs. Non-Essential Tools Tools are a long-term investment. They may cost more than they’ll save on the first oil change, but they pay for themselves in the long run! Let’s start with the essential tools that every DIYer should have in their garage. At the top of this list, we find a jack and jack stands. Whenever you’re working underneath a vehicle, you need to make sure that it’s lifted up on level ground, and that it’s safely supported with jack stands. If you lift the vehicle up with a hydraulic jack, and don’t support it with jack stands, the jack can lose pressure and the vehicle will start to lower itself. If you’re underneath the vehicle when this happens, it can be deadly. Be safe, be smart and live to wrench another day. If any of the wheels are coming off, I place them underneath the vehicle for an added layer of protection. My thinking is simple: If something went wrong, having to replace a wheel and/or tire could be the least of my problems! As a personal rule, I like to use jack stands that are rated for far more weight than I’ll ever put onto them. I have a number of 4-ton and 6-ton jack stands, and I prefer them over the less expensive 2-ton stands due to their increased footprint, and more robust construction. Figure 1 Next on the list are the basic tools and supplies you’ll need to finish the job. You’ll need a basic set of sockets, wrenches and ratchets. You’ll also need some form of tool to remove the oil filter or filter housing cap (Figure 1). It’s worth mentioning that you may need to purchase specialty tools to remove the drain plug or filter housing on certain applications. For example, Volkswagen uses a proprietary tool to remove the plastic drain plugs from its modern four-cylinder engines. GM Ecotec engines require a special socket to remove the filter housing cap on its 1.4T and 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines. These are only two examples of many, so it’s best to do some online research before starting the job. Make sure you have all the tools you need on hand BEFORE you start to drain the oil. You’ll need some form of drain pan or container to catch the oil as it drains out of the engine. It’s a good idea to have some old rags or towels on hand to clean up any spills or messes along the way, and I usually have a can of brake cleaner for added cleaning “umph.” Finally, let’s talk about personal protective equipment (PPE). It’s a good idea to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes, and gloves to protect your skin. Tips & Tricks First and foremost, a DIY customer probably will have a lot of questions about what type of oil they need, how much oil their engine holds and more. While you may be able to lookup fluid specifications and capacities in your catalog, your DIY customers won’t have access to something like that. But a quick Google search should get them on the right track. I would always advise them to follow the OE maintenance guide and specifications, regardless of mileage or age. There are a lot of things that you’ll learn through experience. Any tips, pointers or advice you can share with your DIY customers can go a long way toward helping them, and might just be the thing that gets them back to your store for the next repair. For example, some oil-drain plugs feature a gasket or crush washer that seals up against the oil pan. This type of gasket will need to be replaced at every oil change. A leaky drain plug can be a real pain, and could be really discouraging to a DIYer after their first oil change. Then there are the little things that just make the whole job go a little bit smoother. I like to keep some old, cut-up cardboard boxes around the garage. In a pinch, they work great as a “poor man’s creeper.” Sometimes you don’t have enough room under the vehicle to slide around on a creeper, so the cardboard gives me something to lay on without having to lay directly on the cold, concrete floor. When replacing a spin-on oil filters, always wipe off the mounting surface before installing the new filter. This ensures that any dirt or debris will be wiped away, AND if the gasket was stuck in place, you’ll either feel it, or you’ll knock it off of there. If you installed the new oil filter on top of the old gasket, it wouldn’t seal correctly. The result would be a massive blowout, leaving oil all over the garage floor. Not a great way to spend an afternoon! Figure 2 The same applies to cartridge oil filters, but for different reasons. Cartridge oil filters are held in place by a filter housing cap. This cap will contain one or more O-rings that seal inside the housing. These O-rings need to be replaced with every oil change, and they’re almost always included with the new cartridge oil filter. Whatever you do, don’t double up these O-rings! This can lead to massive oil leaks, but it also can make the filter housing cap nearly impossible to remove (Figure 2). Finally, always dispose of the used oil safely. If your store will take used oil, be sure to let your customers know. If your store cannot take in used oil, make a list of nearby shops that will. Some shops use oil-burning heaters, so they may take used oil without a charge to the customer. The post DIY Oil Changes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

For the first few years after any new model or platform is introduced, dealerships see the majority of service and parts requests for these vehicles under warranty. Aside from accessories and non-warranty maintenance items such as filters, wipers and bulbs, the aftermarket demand for new-model components can be limited. Once these vehicles “age out” of their warranty periods, aftermarket personnel begin to field more and more requests for aftermarket replacement parts. The latest Silverado and Sierra platform is now well into its fourth year of production, and due to its popularity and the number of vehicles in operation, the aftermarket demand for replacement parts is increasing. General Motors introduced its latest full-size truck and SUV platform in late 2018, for the 2019 model year. Known as the “GMT1,” it replaces the previous “GMK2” platform introduced for MY 2014. The Silverado and Sierra 1500 were the first vehicles to use the new platform, but true to history, GM also carried over the previous model, creating yet another confusing single-year overlap in body styles. In 2007, GM used the “Classic” designation to identify the “old-body” 1500s that were built on the previous GMT800 platform, while the “new-for-2007” Silverados and Sierras were built on the GMT900 platform. Fifteen years on, it continues to be a sticking point when cataloging parts for these trucks. For 2019, the “classic” GMK2 carryovers are known as the Silverado LD (“light-duty”) or “Legacy,” and the Sierra “Limited.” Fortunately, GM moved final assembly of these carryover trucks to its Oshawa plant in Ontario. These Canadian-assembled GMK2 platform trucks are unique in being the only MY 2019 Silverado/Sierra 1500s featuring a VIN beginning with “2,” making it the simplest way to identify these trucks for cataloging purposes. Aside from the visual styling cues and VIN differences, the GMT1 platform also is the first Silverado to feature an electronic parking brake, with a push-button rather than a pedal, and the service-brake system now features pad-wear sensors. These two new features will require additional service steps, including putting the e-brake into service mode before pad replacement and resetting pad-wear-life monitors afterward. The 2500 HD and 3500 HD made the transition to the GMT1 platform for MY 2020, while the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL all switched over to the GMT1 platform for the 2021 model year. GM also returned to the medium-duty category in 2019, after a 10-year absence (the Kodiak and TopKick were discontinued in 2009). The Silverado 4500 HD, 5500 HD and 6500 HD are part of a joint venture between GM and Navistar International, with these trucks being built at a Navistar assembly plant in Ohio. The first three digits of the Silverado HD VIN (1HA) identify these trucks as “incomplete Chevrolets manufactured in the US by Navistar,” and there are no equivalent GMC models. Beginning in 2018, GM began making significant changes to the service parts ID (SPID) decal information. The familiar sticker in the glovebox, listing all of the relevant RPO codes we use to decipher options, has been replaced by a QR code! This QR code is located on the certification label, found on the driver’s side B-pillar. Most QR apps for Android and iPhone are capable of translating the code, but the “search results” are now reduced to a maximum of 48 individual RPO codes, rather than a full accounting for every installed option. Major RPOs for suspension, brake, engine and transmission seem to be present in most of the QR-decoded examples I’ve seen, but coverage is nowhere near as comprehensive as we once enjoyed. The paint code is plainly written at the left lower corner of the QR-code square, so one of the most common uses of the SPID decal still is readily available without downloading information to your phone. This was implemented as a running change beginning in 2018, so some vehicle certification labels featured QR codes before others. If no QR code is present on the door tag, look for a traditional SPID in the glovebox, trunk or other location. The post Cataloging Confusion appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MAHLE Motorsport now offers Honda/Acura K24 2.4-liter forged pistons manufactured in high-strength 2618 aluminum alloy in a slipper-skirt forging. Designed for reliability in extreme-duty applications, this set features heavy-duty 0.250-inch wall thickness H13 tool steel wrist pins and comes complete with a nitride-steel 1.2-millimeter top, 1.2-millimeter 2nd and 2.8-millimeter oil ring set. Dual-coated with phosphate and MAHLE’s GRAFAL skirt coating, the pistons are forged with valve pockets designed to accommodate K20 and K24 heads and fit OE 152.0-millimeter-length connecting rods and OE 22-millimeter Ø wrist pins. For more information, view this spec sheet, view this video, call MAHLE Motorsport toll-free at 888-255-1942 or visit the MAHLE Motorsports website. For more information about the full line of MAHLE Motorsport products, download the 2023 Application Guide. The post MAHLE Motorsport Introduces Honda/Acura PowerPak Piston Set appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts announced a multiyear agreement to become the official sponsor of IndyCar’s checkered flag used at each NTT IndyCar Series race through the 2025 season. The partnership connects Advance’s distinctive logo, which features the checkered-flag icon, with the iconic flag NTT IndyCar Series drivers aspire to see first at the end of each race. Through the agreement, Advance also becomes the official automotive aftermarket retail partner of IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). Advance’s marks will be displayed on the iconic IMS scoring pylon and other digital boards throughout the Racing Capital of the World for its signature events, including the Indianapolis 500 in May and the Brickyard Tripleheader race weekend in August. Advance’s partnership with IndyCar will include a charitable component during the 2023 season. As race-winning drivers strategically use “advance” as a verb in their post-race interviews, Advance will gift winning drivers a cash prize to be donated to a charity of their choosing. “It’s a privilege to associate the Advance brand and our checkered flag with those used at the Indianapolis 500 and every IndyCar race,” said Jason McDonell, Advance’s executive vice president of merchandising, marketing and eCommerce. “We know IndyCar fans are incredibly passionate about the sport, its heritage and future. Whether they’re road tripping to the next race or tackling their everyday commute, race fans know we’ll be ready with quality auto parts and expert advice to help them advance to their own checkered flag.” Advance and IndyCar also will team up on a unique content series viewable on the NTT IndyCar Series’ Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Leading into each race weekend, IndyCar will create a video highlight reel celebrating the most exciting wins and checkered-flag moments at that track, giving race fans an opportunity to witness some of auto racing’s most historic wins though archived footage. “We’re honored to welcome Advance Auto Parts to both the IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway families,” said Mark Miles, president and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp. “Advance is a world-class and highly respected brand, and the perfect partner emblem to display on the checkered flag welcoming our NTT IndyCar Series drivers to the finish line at the iconic Yard of Bricks and across all of our events.” IndyCar kicks off the NTT IndyCar Series season with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Florida) on Sunday, March 5 (noon Eastern time on NBC, Peacock). In 2023, the series will feature 17 high-speed and highly competitive races across the United States and Canada. The post Advance Named Sponsor of Checkered Flag for NTT IndyCar appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

“The GPC team capped off a record-setting year with a strong fourth quarter highlighted by double-digit sales and earnings growth and continued margin expansion,” said Paul Donahue, chairman and CEO. “We are incredibly proud of our progress throughout the year and thankful to our teammates across the globe for their ongoing commitment to excellence. Working together, we have been agile in navigating the dynamics of the macro-economy and continue to deliver market share gains and drive positive momentum in our top and bottom-line results.” Full-year net sales for the Global Automotive Parts group were $13.7 billion, up from $12.5 billion in 2021. In the fourth quarter, net sales for the Global Automotive Parts group were $3.4 billion, up 7.6% from fourth-quarter 2021. Comparable-store sales were up 8.2% in the auto parts segment. Industrial sales were $2.1 billion, up 29.6% fourth-quarter 2021, and reflecting a 16.7% increase in comparable sales and a 14.3% contribution from the KDG acquisition. “The strength in Automotive sales was broad-based, with double-digit total sales growth in local currency in each of our global operations,” said Will Stengel, president and chief operating officer. “In addition, Industrial generated its seventh consecutive quarter of double-digit sales comps and 10th consecutive quarter of margin expansion, while continuing to execute well and create value with the accelerated integration of KDG. Our strong fourth quarter and record financial performance in 2022 are testaments to our teams’ hard work and dedication to serve our customers.” For full-year 2023, GPC is projecting total year-over-year sales growth between 4% and 6%, according to its guidance. GPC is estimating year-over-year sales growth between 4% and 6% for both the Automotive Parts Group and the Industrial Parts Group. “We had an exceptional 2022, which included celebrating our 95th year of operations,” Donahue said. “We have quickly turned our attention to the year ahead and, while the macro environment remains uncertain, we are confident in our strategic plans to drive sustained sales and earnings growth, continued margin expansion and strong cash flow. We believe our progress in these key areas, combined with a strong balance sheet, position GPC with the financial strength and flexibility to pursue strategic growth opportunities while also returning capital to shareholders The post Genuine Parts Co. Reports Record 2022 Sales appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The wheel bearings are the backbone of the vehicle suspension. They support the weight of the vehicle, help to keep the wheels in alignment and allow the wheels to rotate with as little friction as possible. But wheel bearings can’t do their job without a strong mounting point, and that’s the knuckle. What Is the Knuckle? The knuckle, also known as the spindle, is the suspension component that houses the wheel bearing, and the connection between the wheel and the suspension system. In the past, knuckles typically were made of steel, but today they’re more commonly made of aluminum or another lightweight alloy to save weight. On the front of the vehicle, the knuckle will pivot on upper and lower pivot points as the driver turns the steering wheel, changing the direction the vehicle is traveling in. In the rear suspension, the knuckle won’t pivot, but instead will travel up and down. Any time you’re removing or replacing a wheel bearing, ball joint, tie-rod end or control arm, you’ll be working on a knuckle. Since the wheel bearings and the knuckles work together, sometimes it will make more sense to replace them together. This type of assembly is referred to as a “loaded knuckle.” Why would a customer decide to install a loaded knuckle? In most cases, it comes down to one of two reasons: damage or time. What Can Damage a Knuckle? They can be damaged during a crash or a collision, or from violently striking a curb or a deep pothole. This type of damage can change the geometry of the suspension, causing a crooked steering wheel, wandering steering feel while travelling straight, or steering bind. If left alone long enough, it even can result in abnormal tire wear down the road. A knuckle also can be damaged due to a failed CV axle or wheel bearing. In this case, I’m talking about a scenario in which a driver ignores the grinding, metal-on-metal noises from a failing wheel bearing, and continues to drive for a long, long time. I’ve seen this exact scenario in the shop before, and it usually isn’t pretty. Eventually, the wheel-bearing bore becomes deformed thanks to the added stress, and the entire knuckle is only good for scrap. There’s one more thing that could damage a knuckle: overtightening a ball joint or tie-rod end. Ball joints and tie-rod ends usually feature a tapered seat, which becomes tighter as the fastener is tightened. In older knuckles that were made of steel, that tapered bore would hold up pretty well, even if the fastener was a bit overtightened. But the modern aluminum or alloy knuckles are much softer, and they’re susceptible to damage from over-tightening. If the joint is tightened down but it’s still loose inside the tapered bore, the bore is damaged and the entire knuckle will need to be replaced. What About Time? So, we know why a customer might replace a damaged knuckle, but what does time have to do with it? That’s easy: Time is money. This applies to both DIY and DIFM customers. DIY customers are trying to get their vehicle fixed and back on the road as quickly as possible, especially if it’s their one and only vehicle. DIFM customers are trying to maximize their efficiency, and keep the shop running smoothly. In either case, if the customer runs into trouble, the results can be costly. This is especially prevalent with press-in wheel bearings. This type of bearing is quite labor-intensive to remove and replace. After years of exposure to road debris, grit and salt, they can become stuck in place inside the knuckle. In extreme cases, it could take more time and labor to remove and replace a press-in bearing versus simply replacing the whole thing with a loaded knuckle. On vehicles with aluminum knuckles, you may find that corrosion will form around a pinch bolt, axle nut or snap ring. This corrosion can make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to remove that fastener. At some point, it makes more sense from a time and money standpoint to simply replace the entire knuckle, rather than get bogged down trying to remove a stubborn fastener. Advantages of Loaded Knuckles First and foremost, the nicest thing about a loaded knuckle is that it comes to you pre-pressed, so there’s no need to press out the old bearing, clean everything up and press in the new bearing. There’s no second-guessing if you set the bearing or the hub to the correct depth, or if you inadvertently damaged something by applying too much force with the shop press. That is a huge advantage to the DIY customer who might not have the necessary tools for this type of repair. It’s also helpful to the DIFM customer as it allows them to manage their time much more efficiently. Customers might think that they can save a little bit of money by only replacing a wheel bearing and reusing the steering knuckle. But those savings can go right out the window if they run into unforeseen troubles during the repair. If they end up damaging other components, or they spend more time than expected simply trying to remove the old bearing, it can spell disaster. DIY customers can end up being without their vehicle for longer than anticipated, and DIFM customers can lose out on other business if the vehicle is stuck on a lift for longer than anticipated. Replacing the entire knuckle and bearing assembly at the same time reduces the likelihood of a customer comeback, and increases the chances of the repair being completed correctly the first time. Installing a loaded knuckle can reduce installation time by up to 75% depending on the application. Just like a loaded strut, a loaded knuckle can help to take the hassle and guesswork out of a potentially troublesome repair. The post Understanding Steering Knuckles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

EnerSys will feature its full portfolio of ODYSSEY batteries for heavy-duty applications at the American Trucking Association Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) 2023 Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition. The advanced-battery lineup will be on display in ODYSSEY booth No. 209 at this year’s technical conference, which takes place Feb. 27 through March 2 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orange County, Florida. “Our selection of ODYSSEY batteries for heavy-duty applications offers fleet operators with tremendous value by providing multiple operational benefits including dependability, performance and longevity, which often lead to a lower total cost of ownership,” said Dave McMullen, senior director of global marketing, transportation & specialty at EnerSys. “Virtually maintenance-free and engineered with proprietary Thin Plate Pure Lead technology for greater surface area and deep-cycling capacity, they are the ideal power solution for drivers dealing with idling restrictions or seeking to achieve less manual labor requirements and frequent battery replacements.” ODYSSEY Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) batteries are engineered with pure lead plates that can be made thinner than those in conventional flooded lead-acid batteries, so more fit into the same size footprint to provide greater surface area. This enables more electrochemical reactions with the electrolyte to produce more power than battery chemistries of comparable size, according to the company. In addition to greater starting power, ODYSSEY batteries provide ample deep-cycling reserve power, with engine-cranking pulses up to 3,125 amps for five seconds, which is double that of equally sized conventional lead-acid batteries, according to the company. They also feature sealed absorbed-glass-mat (AGM) construction, which packs the plates tightly in absorbent fiberglass separators that hold the electrolyte and make the batteries virtually maintenance-free. The rugged AGM construction and non-spillable design of ODYSSEY batteries also protect against high-impact shock and mechanical vibration, helping to provide longer service life, according to EnerSys. ODYSSEY batteries feature a two-year storage life at 77 F (25 C) and are available in a wide variety of sizes with cold-cranking amps as high as 2,250. For more information on EnerSys and its full line of products, systems, and support, visit www.enersys.com. The post EnerSys to Spotlight ODYSSEY Batteries at 2023 TMC Show appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

BBB Industries (BBB) has appointed Emily Weaver as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective immediately. Weaver will be based in the company’s corporate center near Mobile, Alabama. She replaces James T. (Tim) Garner, who left the company. Weaver is an experienced industrial-sector CFO having served in that capacity previously with Ingersoll Rand (formerly Gardner Denver), a Fortune 500, worldwide manufacturer of mission-critical flow technologies for industrial, energy and medical end markets, as well as specialty vehicle products and technologies. More recently, she served as CFO of PSSI, a portfolio company of private-equity firm Blackstone. Prior to those experiences, Weaver served as vice president – finance for Danaher, where she led the successful spin-off and public offering of the industrial segment now called Fortive. She then joined Fortive as chief accounting officer with responsibilities that included Fortive’s FP&A, accounting and reporting functions and finance talent development. “Emily is the right finance leader to guide us through the next stage of our journey,” BBB Chief Executive Officer Duncan Gillis said. “She brings a unique mix of intellectual capacity, drive and experiences coupled with the right leadership style. I am absolutely delighted that Emily decided to join our company and look forward to partnering with her over the coming years.” The post BBB Industries Appoints Emily Weaver as CFO appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our cover story for the January issue of AMN/Counterman, we asked distribution leaders to reflect on the successes and challenges of 2022 and share some of their insights for the industry in 2023. Here’s our Q&A with Sanjay Patel, president of Carquest. AMN/CM: What did your organization accomplish in 2022 that you are most proud of? SP: As I’ve transitioned into this new role, I’ve been incredibly impressed by our Carquest team and our family of independent owners, along with their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the communities they serve. Our owners are resilient, and they find a way to win because they have hustle and heart. With that said, there are three accomplishments that stand out, one being our first-annual Women of Carquest networking event. We had so many terrific women store partners in attendance, along with leaders from across our enterprise and industry. The breakout sessions and workshops were invaluable, and we’re already looking forward to hosting this again in 2023. Another was our Leadership Summit in San Antonio, where we welcomed more than 525 store partners, members of our leadership team and supplier partners. After several years of virtual discussions and smaller group meetings, you could feel the energy in each mainstage session, training and panel discussion, especially as we unveiled our new Carquest logo and brand positioning. I’m also proud of the passion our store partners have for supporting our military veterans. This was our first year fundraising for Hire Heroes USA, and our store partners helped us raise more than $100,000 to provide employment assistance for veterans entering the workforce. AMN/CM: What are your thoughts about the business environment for the automotive aftermarket in 2023? SP: Looking through the lens of our store partners, 2023 provides a strong environment for us to be successful. We’re seeing increases in personal vehicle usage and fleet miles driven. When you also consider advancing vehicle technologies as well as vehicles becoming more resilient, that creates health for our industry. These longer-lasting cars present a great opportunity, as older vehicles will require more repairs and maintenance, creating an increase on parts and supply demand. And, when you bring in our Carquest independent owners, their product knowledge and unrelenting commitment to serving the customer … that’s where you get the magic! AMN/CM: How can the independent aftermarket parts and service segments best prepare to repair the car of tomorrow as ADAS, EVs and other technologies become more prominent? SP: I love this question, because I’m a car guy at heart! My background is in the service industry, and these technologies are so interesting to me. The big area of opportunity is around training. Our independent owners can partner with Carquest Technical Institute (CTI) to offer training programs to repair shops. We encourage our owners to communicate this to their professional customers. For a long time, technicians didn’t always have access to quality training. It always seemed to sit in the OE channel. Now, with CTI, Worldpac Training Institute (WTI) and events like the Supplier & Training Expo, we offer training on all makes and models, along with EVs, hybrids, ADAS and other emerging technologies. This increased availability of training helps technicians enhance their knowledge while giving independent repair shops the opportunity to serve a wider segment of the car parc. The fact is, there are a lot of vehicles – especially hybrids – that are hitting that six- to 15-year-old range. These vehicle owners are looking for options. They’re not just defaulting to taking their car to the dealership. When our owners communicate this training availability to repair shops, these shops can offer more services, serve more vehicles and tap into service revenues. The post Carquest’s Sanjay Patel: ‘Our Owners Are Resilient’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dana Incorporated now offers genuine Spicer automatic-transmission end yokes specifically designed for replacement on Allison transmission applications. “With a high volume of Allison transmissions currently in service with yokes approaching the end of their product lifespan, Dana is ready to meet the demand by offering an OE-quality replacement option for Allison transmission applications,” said Bill Nunnery, senior director, sales and marketing, global aftermarket for Dana. The new Spicer commercial-vehicle automatic-transmission end yokes are precision-engineered and manufactured by Dana specifically for Allison transmission applications. The end yokes are designed to help minimize noise and vibration and keep drivelines running smoothly. “There is a real need in the marketplace for quality automatic transmission end yokes, and Spicer is the answer,” continued Nunnery. “Dana customers know that by installing genuine Spicer heavy-duty end yokes, they will be getting OE-quality parts and a cost-efficient solution that boosts uptime and makes repair jobs easier.” To help service technicians quickly and easily measure yokes so they can determine the series of the driveshaft needed, a Spicer yoke ruler measurement guide is available. To obtain a Spicer yoke ruler, contact a Dana sales representative. To learn more about the new Spicer replacement end yokes for Allison transmissions and other quality Spicer commercial vehicle products, visit www.SpicerParts.com. To check inventory and order directly, visit www.DanaAftermarket.com. The post Spicer End Yokes Available for Allison Transmissions appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Magna announced it is investing more than $470 million to expand its operations across Ontario. The growth includes a new battery-enclosures facility in Brampton to support the Ford F-150 Lightning and future OEM programs. In addition to the Brampton facility, Magna says it is growing in its locations in Guelph, Belleville, Newmarket, Windsor and Penetanguishene. These expansions follow new-business awards from various automakers in key product areas. They are also supported by $23.6 million in grants from the Ontario government to bring additional high-quality jobs to the region with ongoing training and development programs for employees. Magna says the new and expanded operations are expected to bring more than 1,000 new jobs to Ontario over the next few years. “Magna’s roots in Ontario run deep, and we are excited about opening a new facility dedicated to a strategic electrification product,” said Eric Wilds, Magna chief sales and marketing officer. “The Brampton facility, coupled with investment and growth in five existing Ontario facilities, allows Magna to keep up with customer demands across several product areas. We are excited to bring new business, more investment and additional jobs to Ontario.” “This investment represents another tremendous show of confidence in the growing strength and resilience of our province’s auto sector,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Together, with our industry partners, we’re putting Ontario back on the map as we build up Ontario’s electric vehicle supply chain from mining to manufacturing. The cars of the future and the batteries that power them will be built right here in Ontario, by Ontario workers.” The post Magna Expanding Operations in Ontario appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Auto Care Association is forming a new advisory committee that focuses on environmental sustainability in the automotive aftermarket. The new sustainability committee aims to increase awareness of the importance of sustainability, while supporting Auto Care members by encouraging industry best practices in a quest to become more environmentally friendly. The Auto Care Association says it is looking for members who are involved in a sustainability function, are interested in getting more engaged and playing a more active role in the Auto Care Association and are passionate about the ecological integrity of the industry’s activities. The founding team of the new Auto Care sustainability committee will influence the direction and priorities on the most relevant topics for our industry as it relates to the environmental aspects of sustainability. Click here to apply. Members of the sustainability committee will have the opportunity to serve as an advisor on overall emerging sustainability trends and provide expertise and direction on the best ways to enhance the association’s sustainability efforts. Applications are being accepted for a 32-month term commencing May 1. The committee typically meets two times per year in conjunction with Auto Care Association Leadership Days (spring and fall), to provide direction and develop plans for the industry and the association. Additional virtual meetings can be expected throughout the year. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, March 16, and applicants will be notified of their status in late March. The post Auto Care Needs Sustainability Committee Members appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

O’Reilly Automotive reported 2022 sales of $14.41 billion, up 8% from $13.33 billion in 2021. Comparable-store sales were up 6.4% for the full year, while diluted earnings per share were up 8% to $33.44. Fourth-quarter sales were up 11% to $3.64 billion, while fourth-quarter comparable-store sales were up 9%. “Our ability to continue to grow our business and capture market share year in and year out is a testament to our team’s commitment to providing excellent customer service, and we couldn’t be more pleased with how our team finished 2022,” O’Reilly CEO Greg Johnson said during the company’s Feb. 9 conference call. O’Reilly’s third-quarter sales were up 9% on a year-over-year basis, and the momentum continued into the fourth quarter, which kicked off with “strong sales volumes” that continued through the end of 2022 on the DIFM and DIY sides of the business, according to O’Reilly Co-President Brad Beckham. “As we finished the year, we saw broad-based strength across all of our markets in weather-related categories such as batteries, cooling and antifreeze, as well as our other core non-weather-related categories,” Beckham explained during the conference call. “We saw strength in both our DIY and professional businesses, with professional again leading the way with double-digit comparable-store sales growth on robust increases in both ticket counts and average ticket size.” Looking back at the full year, Beckham said company leaders “are excited about the strength we built … in our professional business.” O’Reilly rolled out a companywide professional pricing initiative last February. On the DIY side, O’Reilly was up against tough comps from the stimulus-driven sales boom of the pandemic. “Our DIY ticket counts in 2022 were pressured in comparison to 2021 as we were still calendaring the impact of government stimulus and faced headwinds from gas-price shocks and inflation,” Beckham said. “We feel like we have now completely lapped the artificial spikes in demand and are pleased with the steady DIY traffic we saw in the back half of the year. “While there has been a lot of volatility in our comparisons over the past three years, our overall growth in DIY ticket counts has been solidly positive in total during that timeframe. We have clearly taken market share since the onset of the pandemic through consistent execution and excellent service.” The company’s full-year guidance for 2023 includes projected revenue between $15.2 billion and $15.5 billion, and comparable-store sales growth between 4% and 6%. “The health of the automotive aftermarket continues to be supported by strength in the core fundamental drivers of demand, and the last few years have further reinforced the compelling value proposition that motivates consumers to invest in their vehicles,” Beckham said. “ … We also have a positive outlook on the strength of the consumer in our industry and their ongoing willingness to prioritize their transportation needs. We continue to view the health of our customers as strong, supported by extremely low unemployment and robust growth in wages over the past two years. We think these factors provide a solid backdrop for growth and miles driven in our industry and solid demand over the next year.” The post O’Reilly Reports Record 2022, Q4 Revenue appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our cover story for the January issue of AMN/Counterman, we asked distribution leaders to reflect on the successes and challenges of 2022 and share some of their insights for the industry in 2023. Here’s our Q&A with Larry Pavey, CEO of the Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group). AMN/CM: What are your thoughts about the business environment for the automotive aftermarket in 2023? LP: We believe that most market drivers will be very positive for the aftermarket in 2023 and expect that the overall business environment will also be very positive. Fuel prices should remain stable, allowing miles traveled to continue to grow. We see the number of vehicles on the road between six and 12 years old at the highest level in years. The overall fleet age is the highest in history, providing tremendous repair opportunities as new-car sales continue to lag and used-car values remain high. More vehicles, driving more miles in their prime repair and maintenance age, with fewer warranties, will provide a strong market environment in the coming year. AMN/CM: Has your business been impacted by labor and supply chain issues this past year? If so, how did you address this? LP: Supply chain issues continued to be a challenge in the past year, although we saw improvement as the year went on. We worked closely with our supplier partners to provide data and information and alter processes where possible. We recognize that to achieve improvement requires collaboration, and our focus was to find ways together to support strong sales increases while dealing with supply disruptions. We are thankful for our supplier partners and the help and support they provided, and we look forward to a return to more “normal” challenges in the future. AMN/CM: How is the ongoing Right to Repair issue impacting your business? LP: As the industry continues to go through transition, the need for vehicle repair and outstanding customer service not only affects our industry but impacts most businesses and individuals as well. Restrictions on where and who can repair vehicles will impair safety and air quality and cause consumers to postpone or avoid needed maintenance and repair. Higher costs for transportation impact budgets, reducing funds available for food, shelter, education and other basic needs. Restricting the Right to Repair will also eliminate jobs and lessen the ability for others to work. The Right to Repair issue is about so much more than the impact on our organization and other businesses in our industry. It is about the effects on the mobility of our entire society and all of those who provide or rely on transportation for their livelihoods. The post The Group’s Larry Pavey: ‘Achievement Requires Collaboration’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

On Feb. 9, U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn re-introduced federal Right to Repair legislation. HR 906, as introduced in Congress, aims to “ensure consumers have access to data relating to their motor vehicles, critical repair information and tools, and to provide them choices for the maintenance, service and repair of their motor vehicles, and for other purposes.” “When it comes to repairing their automobiles, consumers deserve options,” said Dunn, a Florida Republican. “The REPAIR Act would give owners, including the rural communities in my district, secure access to critical data so their chosen service center can replace parts and repair their vehicles. I am proud to support competition in the vehicle repair industry.” Dunn is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has responsibility for consumer protection, among several other topics. The bill was referred to the committee on Feb. 9. The bipartisan bill has three co-sponsors: Reps. Brendan Boyle (Pennsylvania) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (Washington), both Democrats, and Rep. Warren Davidson, a Republican (Ohio). “There are hundreds of neighborhood mechanics in Philadelphia,” Boyle said in a news release. “The last thing those small business owners need is to be boxed out of making a living. This legislation would not only protect the business relationships between automobile owners and their mechanics, but it also ensures consumers continue to have more options on where to go for repairs.” Aftermarket trade groups applauded the legislation. In a news release on behalf of MEMA Aftermarket, the CAR (Consumer Access to Repair) Coalition and SEMA, the Auto Care Association said: “The legislation will 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.” According to the Auto Care Association, the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act will accomplish this by: Preserving consumer access to high-quality and affordable vehicle repair by ensuring that vehicle owners and their repairers of choice have access to necessary repair and maintenance tools and data as vehicles continue to become more advanced. Ensuring access to critical repair tools and information. All tools and equipment; wireless transmission of repair and diagnostic data; and access to onboard diagnostic and telematic systems needed to repair a vehicle must be made available to the independent repair industry. Ensuring cybersecurity by allowing vehicle manufacturers to secure vehicle-generated data and requiring NHTSA to develop standards for how vehicle generated data necessary for repair can be accessed securely. Providing transparency for consumers by requiring vehicle owners be informed that they can choose where and how to get their vehicle repaired. Creating a stakeholder advisory committee and providing them with the statutory authority to provide recommendations to the FTC on how to address emerging barriers to vehicle repair and maintenance. Providing ongoing enforcement by establishing a process for consumers and independent repair facilities to file complaints with the FTC regarding alleged violations of the requirements in the bill and a requirement that the FTC act within five months of a claim. “As vehicle technology continues to advance, new barriers to a competitive auto repair market are emerging,” Auto Care said. “These barriers limit consumer choice in where to repair their motor vehicles and increase the cost to repair and maintain vehicles. The REPAIR Act will reduce these barriers, putting consumers’ interests first.” Momentum for Right to Repair Momentum has been building for Right to Repair in recent years. In November 2020, Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly voiced their support for Ballot Question 1 (also known as Right to Repair) with 75% of the vote, which preserves their right as vehicle owners to have access to and control of their vehicle’s mechanical data necessary for service and repair at the shops of their choice. In May 2021, the Federal Trade Commission released its “Nixing the Fix” report, which highlighted barriers that vehicle manufacturers have instituted to squash a consumer’s right to repair. The FTC has said it strongly supports expanding consumer repair options and found “scant evidence” for repair restrictions imposed by OEMs. In July 2021, President Biden issued the “Promoting Competition in the American Economy” executive order, which encouraged the FTC to address anti-competitive repair restrictions. In December 2022, the Digital Fair Repair Act was signed into law by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, and in January 2023, John Deere signed an MOU with the American Farm Bureau Federation. The REPAIR Act is the only bill that addresses vehicle maintenance and repair restrictions, including heavy-duty vehicles the U.S. economy depends on for freight transport. Automotive aftermarket companies can urge legislators in their district to also co-sponsor the bill by visiting repairact.com. The post Florida Republican Introduces Federal Right to Repair Bill appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article