Counterman

Yokohama Tire Corporation (YTC) announced it has become a lifetime trustee of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF). YTC President and CEO Jeff Barna, who made the announcement, also has been named to the UAF board of trustees. Since 1986, UAF has provided millions of dollars in scholarships to thousands of students studying for technical and professional industry careers. Among the many benefits UAF provides are: Support for continued education for industry participants, including the AAP and MAAP certification programs. Support of industry educational initiatives. Provide a recognition platform to honor or memorialize individuals. Highlight industry career opportunities to attract the next generation of industry professionals. Engage industry members to work together for the future. “UAF helps pave the way for the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders,” Barna said. “Yokohama believes in, and is committed to, seeding the industry with future talent. We think it’s important for tire manufacturers, like Yokohama, to consider being involved in this worthy endeavor, and are honored to lay the foundation for others to follow.” “On behalf of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we extend our sincere thanks to Yokohama Tire Corporation for their generous support and welcome Jeff Barna to the UAF board of trustees,” said Roger McCollum, MAAP, chairman, University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “By becoming a Lifetime Trustee, Yokohama is demonstrating their commitment to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive industry innovation and service excellence. Their support is not just a contribution, but an investment in the future of the tire industry.” According to McCollum, donations to UAF benefit: Students pursuing technical careers in automotive maintenance and repair, collision, heavy duty/diesel, performance or other segments of the industry. Students planning careers in the industry in such fields as engineering, supply chain, IT/cybersecurity, sales, marketing and finance. Suppliers/vendors and other industry organizations through the education of those who work for them through programs like Leadership 2.0. Employees, customers, colleagues, children and friends of industry participants. All members of the motor vehicle aftermarket as UAF helps attract talent and supports multiple industry education initiatives. The post Yokohama Tire Becomes a Lifetime UAF Trustee appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

US Motor Works announced its new USMW professional series fuel pump modules are now available. The new fuel pump modules provide application coverage for several Toyota, BMW, RAM and Nissan vehicles. Visit www.usmotorworks.com for detailed applications, or contact customer service for further information. The post US Motor Works Releases New Fuel Pump Modules appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NPW is celebrating the success of its 34th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, held on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Miami Shores Country Club. This year’s tournament embraced a scramble format, bringing together more than 100 participants, including channel partners and customers. The day was filled with spirited competition, as golfers tackled challenges such as the longest drive, closest to the pin and top team performance. The atmosphere ensured that players of all skill levels could fully enjoy the event. Chris Pacey, chief executive officer of NPW, expressed his appreciation for the event’s success, stating, “The Annual Charity Golf Tournament is more than just a tradition; it’s a celebration of our industry’s dedication to making a difference. Hosting this year’s event at the beautiful Miami Shores Country Club was a great choice, and the turnout exceeded all expectations.” He continued, “Our partnership with First Tee Miami remains the heart of this initiative. Their impactful work in empowering youth through golf and life skills aligns perfectly with our values, and we’re proud to support their mission.” NPW said it extends its gratitude to all sponsors, participants, and volunteers who played a crucial role in making the tournament a success. Their contributions not only ensure the event’s continued growth but also enhance the ability to support vital community programs for years to come. The post NPW Celebrates 34th Annual Charity Golf Tournament appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

SKF Automotive has announced that the company’s SKF Tech center is now available to the North American aftermarket. The free online resource includes E-learning courses, a video library, and a document library. According to Isabella Nordström, Marketing Manager, SKF Vehicle Aftermarket, “The purpose of the tech center is to both provide technical training resources for the mechanics and parts pros who work with SKF aftermarket products, as well as to allow these professionals to become more familiar with all the products and support resources that SKF has to offer them.” SKF Tech center E-learning courses​ The online learning section of the SKF Tech center employs video-based instruction. It is designed to allow participants to proceed at their own pace, and those who complete the learning modules receive a certificate of course completion after each module’s exam. 19 learning modules are available, covering topics such as bearings, wheel end service, and much more. SKF Tech center video library The Tech center video library includes tips on repair and parts replacement procedures as well as videos on some of SKF’s leading edge technologies and world-wide capabilities. There are currently 596 videos included, with playlists based on language/region. SKF Tech center document library The document library includes downloadable tech tips, catalogs, brochures, and product literature. It offers a wealth of information for service and parts pros alike. The document library requires user registration, but it is free and available to all. The post SKF Offers Free Online Training in North America appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

With the recent announcement that MotorTrendTV has ceased production of its automotive enthusiast programming, including Hot Rod Garage, Roadkill and its affiliated titles, as well as Garage Squad, my social media (and the internet in general) has been filled with doomsday prophecies about the end of automotive programming everywhere. At a time of the year when I normally spend a lazy Sunday flipping channels rather than turning wrenches, the idea of not riding along virtually with Finnegan and Freiburger every week certainly caught me off guard. Fortunately, many reports of MotorTrendTV’s death have been greatly exaggerated, and none of us gearheads will be forced to interact socially with actual people rather than watching car shows in our off-hours. Here’s why… The MotorTrend network is currently part of the Warner Brothers Discovery (WBD) family of media channels. Warner Brothers merged with Discovery back in 2022, and in the spring of 2024, all existing MT streaming content was moved from its own platform to Discovery+ and Max. MotorTrend Studios was a separate division of WBD, responsible for producing content that appeared on MotorTrendTV. In November, content creators Joe Zolper (Garage Squad), David Freiburger (Roadkill), Alex Taylor (Hot Rod Garage) and Ian Rousseau (Full Custom Garage) have all taken to social media, confirming the rumors that production has ceased on those shows formerly produced by MotorTrend Studios. Production had already wrapped on some of these affected shows, so there are still completed episodes that have yet to air. According to motortrend.com, “new content” from the cancelled MotorTrend Studios shows will be released throughout 2025 and into 2026. In the interim, many of the former MT hosts and other on-air talent are migrating back to the YouTube channels that originally spawned many of MotorTrend’s most popular programs. It appears that the majority of MotorTrend programming for the near future will consist of re-runs of MT properties, as well as shows produced by companies not owned by the MotorTrend Group. Brenton Productions, headquartered in Tampa, FL, is currently promoting new episodes of Two Guys Garage, Build for Off-Road and TruckU, although no new information exists officially from Brenton regarding new episodes of All Girls Garage, Car Fix or Four Wheeler. With Ian Johnson scheduled to host Build for Off-Road, as well as his own YouTube channel (Big Tire Garage), it looks as though we’ve seen the last episode of Four Wheeler. In Springfield, OR, Mark Worman and The Division Productions have already dropped Season 20 of Graveyard Carz, and across the pond, UK presenter Mike Brewer has confirmed that his long-running series Wheeler Dealers will return in 2025, although spinoff series Wheeler Dealers Dream Car is officially cancelled. Restoration Garage, a series following David Grainger and his shop in Ontario, Canada, as well as Dan Short’s Norfolk, VA-based show Fantomworks were both cancelled prior to the recent MotorTrend upheaval, but are enjoying new life on their respective YouTube channels. Time will tell how the future of shows like these will play out, but for now, it looks like those of us who can’t get enough of cars and parts during the work week still have something to look forward to on weekends! The post The Future of Car Shows After MotorTrendTV’s Shift appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

There are few (if any) counter professionals who know parts as well as Moe Ali. But at the start of his career at Arch Auto Parts, that wasn’t the case. “My first day at the register a customer asked for a hose clamp,” recalled Ali. “I’m like ‘A hose clamp? I don’t know.’ Then I called one of the professionals over and said ‘Hey, what is a hose clamp?’” Though he faced a laugh from his coworkers, it marked the beginning of his journey to mastering the parts business. Moe Ali helps a customer at Arch Auto Parts. At the time, Ali was only 15, eager to get his driver’s license. He saw a job at an auto parts store as the perfect way to learn. Over the years, the knowledge he gained not only stuck, but grew, shaping his career into what it is today. More than three decades later, Ali has ascended to an executive role at Arch Auto Parts, becoming the Vice President of Sales. It’s all thanks to a relentless work ethic, a steadfast commitment to customer service and a vast knowledge of parts. It’s those same qualities that make Ali the 2024 AMN/Counterman Counter Professional of the Year, sponsored by WIX Filters. For the man who first hired Ali back in the early ’90s, it’s an honor that’s well deserved (and, in Arch Auto’s opinion, long overdue). “Although I’m VP of sales, just being in the office and sitting down… that’s not me, I don’t want to be (in the office). I want to be in the field. I want to be on the floor selling parts.” – Moe Ali “When I heard [that Ali won] I thought, ‘What took so damn long?’” remarked Kish Samaroo, vice president of operations at Arch. “He has just worked his ass off and earned a lot of respect from his colleagues and customers. He is the go-to guy. Customers look for him because he has this personality that’s really cool and calm. He really built himself up and developed really good relationships with customers.” Those relationships were forged through 30-plus years of hard work. After starting as a part-time cashier, Ali tackled various other roles, including stocking parts and working behind the counter. As he refined his skills and added to his knowledge, Ali was ready to become a store manager. While his career was growing, so was his company. When Arch Auto Parts began opening new locations in the New York City area, Ali became a district manager, overseeing multiple stores. Eventually, his career progression led him to his current executive role. ‘WHERE THE ACTION IS’ Being an executive doesn’t mean Ali is content to sit in an office all day. More often than not, you’ll find him out on the sales floor. “Although I’m VP of sales, just being in the office and sitting down… that’s not me,” Ali explained. “I don’t want to be (in the office). I want to be in the field. I want to be on the floor selling parts. I want to be where the action is. Daryl Benton, VP of sales & marketing for WIX North America, speaks at the 2024 Counter Professional of the Year dinner. “I would say within my work week, half of the time I’m on the counter selling parts,” Ali continued. “Not because we’re short-staffed or anything like that. I want to be out there. I want to be on the floor. I want to see what we’re missing. I want to see what brands we need to bring in. I want to see what items that we need to stock.” Having developed an extensive knowledge of those items makes it easy for Ali to execute his simple, yet effective, customer service philosophy: “Get them the right part, the first time.” “Moe has developed excellent parts and sales skills,” said Chris Bodh, group president of general repair businesses at Arch’s parent company, NexaMotion Group. “He’s loved and respected by his staff and customers and has an amazing attitude, even when he is juggling a lot of priorities.” GENERATIONS OF CUSTOMERS Ali’s reputation for friendliness and reliability has won him some die-hard customers. Their loyalty has been passed down to younger generations. “Thirty years ago when he started (with Arch) as a young man, he built relationships with these mechanics and customers,” said Samaroo. “Then their kids started coming to him. And their kids did the same. Moe has built relationships with generations of families.” What keeps these customers, and their families, coming back to him? It all boils down to great customer service. “They trust you to give them the right part,” said Ali. “You need to work with them on the pricing and make sure that’s good. Ultimately, you need to have a good relationship with your customers. If you do that, they’re always going to keep coming back.” GROWING WITH ARCH Ali is the rare employee who has been with only one company in his career. After 33 years at Arch, he’s more than happy to stay put. Moe Ali with his wife of 28 years, Ramona. “It’s a great place to work, but you got to work here to see it,” explained Ali. “And the way we carry ourselves, the way we train our guys, the way we manage our employees, it goes a long way.” Ali has an appreciation for Arch’s culture of promoting from within. He tells us 95% of the store’s managers were trained just like he was. That training is something Ali takes an active role in now. Not only does he hire new employees, he takes them under his wing, providing the training and guidance they’ll need to succeed. Ali explained to us what he looks for in a potential counter professional. “Everyone who gets hired here, we start them as either a stock associate, and then we train them to be a counter professional,” Ali explained. They look like they have the right attitude, they have good attendance, they’re punctual and they keep themselves professional. So those are the guys who I would interview for the counter. (I’d ask) ‘Hey, listen, you want to learn a career? You want to learn something different? You want to make more money? You go to the counter.’” The Pronto Network’s Steven Ng poses with Moe Ali. Both Ali and the company he works for have grown considerably. As Ali went from cashier to VP of sales, Arch Auto Parts grew to 22 stores. In 2023, Arch was acquired by NexaMotion Group (NMG). As the company’s growth continues, Ali says he’s excited to be a part of it. “I’m going to continue to do what I’m doing and help Arch and NMG grow. I’m going to focus on how I can help NMG’s other locations grow like we have.” PERSONAL LIFE Ali is a man who is deeply committed to his career, often working six days a week. The limited time he gets to spend with his family, he cherishes. He and his wife Ramona have been married for 28 years. They have two daughters, both of whom are in their 20’s. Ali describes himself as a casual sports fan who has been to a few Yankees and Mets games. He also enjoys fishing, though he has no fish stories to share because, in his words, “none of the fish were big enough.” And while he admits he’s far from a master technician, he has learned through his work how to do things like change the oil and replace the wiper blades, along with other similar tasks. After more than three decades in the industry, Ali’s passion remains unwavering. “I really love what I do, and I’ll be here till the end until it’s time for me to retire or not.” The post Moe Knows Growth: The Journey of the 2024 Counter Professional of the Year appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FCS announced the release of 116 new part numbers for December. The new coverage expands FCS’s offerings on complete strut assemblies, suspension struts, shock absorbers, lift supports, shock absorber assembly kits, shock absorber conversion kits and air spring to coil spring conversion kits. The new numbers include: 1 Air Spring to Coil Spring Conversion Kit 2 Shock Absorber Conversion Kits 7 Shock Absorber Assembly Kits 8 Complete Strut Assemblies 3 Hydraulic Suspension Struts 2 Hydraulic Shock Absorbers 35 Shock Absorbers 57 Suspension Struts 1 Trunk Lid Lift Support FCS said all the units are in stock and ready to ship. They cover applications such as the Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Altima, Chrysler 300 and more. According to the company, the new numbers represent over 23 million vehicles on the U.S. and Canadian roads today. The post FCS Introduces 116 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Alliance announced the promotion of Kris Goldman to the role of vice president & general manager of Alliance Parts Warehouse (APW), effective January 1, 2025. This promotion highlights Kris’s exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the company, as he continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of APW, according to the Alliance. Since joining APW in October, 2019 as controller, Goldman has consistently demonstrated remarkable leadership skills and a strong commitment to operational excellence. Prior to joining APW, Goldman served as executive vice president and CFO of Newmark Moses Truck Partners. His diverse experience and strategic vision were key in his promotion to general manager of APW in December, 2021, where he successfully oversaw the direction, logistics, operations, staff and channel partner relationships, navigating challenges such as COVID-19, supply chain disruptions and labor shortages. JC Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, expressed confidence in Kris’s continued ability to drive APW’s success. “We are incredibly proud of Kris’s continued growth and leadership within APW,” said Washbish. “His commitment to our service is the difference value, and his strategic direction has been instrumental in APW’s success. We are confident that, as vice president & general manager, he will continue to lead APW into its next phase of growth with the same dedication and vision.” Goldman will shift from his previous role as general manager only, where he oversaw daily operations and team management, to a more strategic, executive leadership role, the company said. In this capacity, he will lead key strategic initiatives, drive company-wide growth and work closely with senior leadership to shape APW’s long-term vision. His new responsibilities will include overseeing operations, logistics and market expansion, as well as managing high-level shareholder relationships and collaborating with executive leadership on strategic decisions. Additionally, he will collaborate closely with shareholders and manufacturing channel partners to align on a shared vision for success, ensuring mutual growth and continued value creation. “I am honored to step into this new role and continue working with such a talented and dedicated team,” said Goldman. “APW has seen tremendous success over the past few years, even amidst significant challenges. As we look to the future, I’m excited about the growth opportunities ahead and the potential to deepen our relationships with our channel partners to ensure that our shareholders continue to benefit from our commitment to excellence and service.” APW said its continued success is a testament to the strategic vision and leadership of Goldman, and it looks forward to the positive impact he will have in his new role. The post Kris Goldman Promoted to VP & GM of Alliance Parts Warehouse appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

AutoZone announced the promotions of two company vice presidents to senior vice presidents. Bailey Childress, vice president, merchandising, has been promoted to senior vice president, omnichannel and merchandising support, and Luke Rauch, vice president, merchandising, has been promoted to senior vice president, merchandising and global sourcing. Childress and Rauch will join the company’s Executive Committee and report to Bill Hackney, executive vice president, merchandising, marketing and supply chain. “We are very pleased to announce these promotions,” said Phil Daniele, president and CEO. “Bailey is a proven leader who has delivered outstanding results throughout his career at AutoZone. Luke is an experienced lead merchant who brings a remarkable track record of results across multiple industries to the role. Both are well-positioned to help AutoZone continue serving customers and driving accelerated growth for many years to come.” The post AutoZone Announces Organizational Changes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Anchor Industries announced it achieved another milestone in 2024 with the launch of 107 high-VIO part numbers, covering more than 30,211,120 applications through model year 2025. The launch of 107 new vehicle mounts includes: 57 part numbers for domestic applications; 22 for European applications; 21 for Japanese applications and 7 for Korean applications. For more information, contact your local sales representative, or call the Anchor Industries customer service department at 888-444-4616. Visit anchor-online.com for more information. The post Anchor Industries Recaps 2024 Product Releases appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

A major change is underway for the bottles of engine oils that line the shelves of American auto shops and supply factory and service fill stations. ILSAC GF-7—the next specification for passenger car engine oils—will see its first license on March 31, 2025. That means all factory and service fill engine oils must deliver new levels of performance across a range of criteria, most particularly fuel economy. For auto service professionals, it’s worth staying educated on developments like these to best satisfy the wants and needs of your customers. In this article, we’ll explore the new performance requirements of GF-7 in more detail, as well as the science that goes into delivering next-generation performance. A Focus on Fuel Economy: GF-7 Performance Requirements The new GF-7 specification requires that next-generation lubricants contribute to enhanced fuel consumption rates, as well as enhanced fuel economy retention over the course of the oil drain. To the average driver, these fuel economy gains will likely go unnoticed. But taken across all cars on the road, they will have a major impact on emissions reduction for the American auto population. But those aren’t the only new requirements. GF-7 will require lubricants to deliver heightened levels of overall engine protection and will measure the lubricant’s ability to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), piston deposit control, and premature timing chain wear over extended periods. These are important attributes. For example, LSPI is a potentially catastrophic problem unique to modern gasoline direct injection (GDI) and turbocharged GDI (TGDI) engines. The specification calls for advanced performance in several other areas, including deposit control, seal compatibility, wear and corrosion protection, oil pumpability, and catalyst compatibility. Taken comprehensively, the requirements of GF-7 will help to better protect cars on the road while enabling new-model engines to meet their full potential. Elsewhere, it’s important to note that GF-7 will in fact be split into two separate categories: GF-7A, which covers legacy viscosity grades 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, and 10W-30, and GF-7B, which covers 0W-16, a lower viscosity that some OEMs have specified in new-model vehicles to drive even higher fuel economy benefits than the GF-7A category. For auto service professionals, it’s worth knowing how and when to recommend GF-7B products to customers in conjunction with automaker recommendations. The Science Behind Performance To understand the technology that goes into GF-7 performance or other OEM specifications, it’s helpful to understand the anatomy of an engine oil. Formulations are composed of three primary component parts: Base oil. The base oil is the carrier fluid and delivers basic performance. It makes up the majority of the formulation and is a critical building block for formulating a high-quality lubricant. Additive. This is the key performance enabler, allowing the finished product to meet operational requirements when in use. Viscosity modifier and pour point depressant. This component ensures the final product will deliver consistent flow across a broad range of operational temperatures and climates. These components complement each other to create optimized performance that will need new performance specifications. Generally, engine oil producers will utilize high-quality base stocks blended with additives and viscosity modifiers to deliver the required performance. There can be some complexities here. Base oil availability and pricing can be inconsistent, and access to the highest-quality options is not always a guarantee for formulators. But by taking advantage of advanced additive technology, engine oil producers can typically meet the required performance standards with a range of available base stocks. Additionally, elevated additive performance can enable the use of viscosity modifiers (VMs) that help maximize engine durability while achieving the necessary fuel economy requirements of new specifications. Typically, passenger car engine oils are formulated with VMs that maintain a shear-stability index (SSI) of 35. The higher the SSI, the more easily the finished product will shear, contributing to fuel economy gains. Lower SSI VMs, by contrast, may hinder some of those fuel economy gains, but will deliver higher levels of durability. For example, heavy-duty engine oils for commercial trucks are typically formulated using VMs with an SSI of 25. Higher-performance additives, however, can change those considerations. Top-tier additives enable finished engine oils to achieve higher fuel economy gains in combination with lower-shear (25 SSI) VMs. This means no compromises when it comes to protection and durability while delivering meaningful fuel economy contributions. GF-7 is nearly here, and it raises the bar for what modern lubricants can contribute to today’s and tomorrow’s vehicles. Ultimately, today’s additive science is the reason engine oils are reaching those loftier performance standards—and that is a positive thing for every car on the road today. Padu Sreenivas is Product Manager at The Lubrizol Corporation and manages Lubrizol’s North American passenger car motor oil business. He has over 25 years of industry experience and has held numerous positions in technology, testing and commercial roles globally. The post The Science Behind Next-Generation Engine Oils appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dana Incorporated announced the new AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system, the next evolution of its 40,000-lb. 6×4 tandem axle system. Designed to meet evolving commercial vehicle fleet requirements with increased efficiency and enhanced overall productivity, the AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system includes the fastest axle ratio at 2.05 for advanced engine downspeeding, the company said. “The new AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system is a testament to our focus on developing high-performance solutions that deliver tangible benefits for today’s professional fleets,” said Brian Pour, senior vice president and president of commercial vehicle drive and motion systems at Dana. “Advanced design features ensure the ideal balance of efficiency and durability with package flexibility to adapt to unique operational demands.” Engineered with innovative component technologies, according to Dana, the AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system includes a range of design features that offer a marked progression in tandem axle design, providing fleets with a 6×4 system that enhances vehicle longevity and performance. Key features and benefits of the new system include: Broad ratio range with 18 total axle ratios, including the fastest at 2.05, enhances compatibility with downsped powertrains for more efficient performance; High-capacity bearing system enabling fast ratios and increased torque throughout the system; Higher weight-capacity design enables fleets to haul more payload for improved productivity; Inter-axle differential (IAD) equipped with advanced coatings to better retain lubricant, offering superior protection and extending the life of the drivetrain; Driver-controlled differential locking in either forward or rear axle allows the driver to enable locking based on the traction requirements, providing added flexibility; and Optional lubrication pump circulates lube in critical areas of the IAD during extreme conditions. The AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system will be available for ordering in select original equipment manufacturer (OEM) 2025 data books, Dana said. The post Dana Launches Spicer AdvanTEK 40 Pro Axle System appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501c3 supporting people in the automotive aftermarket industry and their families during the hardest moments of their lives, announced that nominations for the first-ever AACF Humanitarian Award, generously sponsored by NEXUS North America is fast approaching. The deadline to submit nominations is January 31, 2025. Nominees for this award should exemplify compassion, selflessness and a strong sense of social responsibility. Their actions should have made a significant and positive impact on communities locally, nationally, or globally, according to the AACF. Nominations will be reviewed by a committee consisting of AACF Board and Executive Committee Members as well as a NEXUS executive. “This prestigious award aims to recognize and honor outstanding individuals, companies, associations or groups within the automotive aftermarket industry who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving the lives of others through humanitarian efforts,” the AACF said. “Since first introducing the AACF Humanitarian Award in partnership with NEXUS North America in May earlier this year our team has been purposefully planning,” said John Kairys, executive director of AACF. “We’re excited to officially open the nomination process to provide an opportunity for individuals and companies who give back with grace and intention to be recognized for their efforts in the community.” The selection process for the AACF Humanitarian Award will be rigorous, with nominees evaluated based on their demonstrated impact and commitment to humanitarian causes. The award recipient will be announced at a special ceremony during Auto Care Association Connect 2025, bringing well-deserved recognition to their exceptional contributions, the AACF said. “On behalf of NEXUS North America and NEXUS Automotive International, I want to share our excitement to have this opportunity to support the AACF organization for this new, outstanding Humanitarian Award. We are honored to play a role in this initiative,” said Robert Roos, president Pronto Network & NEXUS North America. The post AACF Humanitarian Award Nomination Deadline Approaching appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Auto Care Association announced registration for 2025 Auto Care Connect is now open. The 2025 Auto Care Connect conference will take place from May 12-15, 2025, at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown in Phoenix, Arizona, and will feature: Executive keynotes: Keynote speakers with perspectives on business and inspiring messages; Expanded learning: An expanded lineup of learning sessions programmed by Auto Care communities as well as broader industry topics; Cross-industry collaboration: Opportunities for attendees to collaborate across learning sessions and committee meetings; Business solutions: An engaging and solution-discovering trade show; and Exclusive networking: Opportunities to engage in select community-exclusive events and also full industry networking events. Auto Care Connect offers a chance for the industry to come together and engage in learning sessions developed by their peers, industry pioneers and professional specialists to spur creative and strategic thought. All sessions at Connect are open to any attendee. Volunteer industry leaders from various Auto Care communities help craft the sessions to offer relevant and trending topics, the organization said. Attendees can customize their learning journeys by choosing from the different sessions occurring across the three and a half days and are invited to maximize their experience by discovering business solutions during the Tuesday, May 13 trade show. Early-bird rate available now: Follow the developing conference details and take advantage of the early bird rate to save $150 at autocare.org/connect. The post Auto Care Connect Registration Open appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. announced it was proud to present the Channel Partner of the Year award, the most prestigious of the Alliance’s honors, to the Robert Bosch Company for consistently performing with distinction and aligning with the Alliance’s brand strategy throughout 2024. This award and others were presented during the Alliance’s annual awards banquet on December 10, 2024, at the JW Marriott Turnberry in Aventura, FL, held during the 2024 Alliance Winter Meeting. “We are delighted to celebrate our dedicated channel partners and their continued commitment to the success of the Alliance and our shareholder members,” said JC Washbish, president of the Alliance. “Each of these companies has demonstrated excellence in supporting our vision and contributing to the growth and innovation of the industry. We look forward to building on this momentum.” JC Washbish, president, Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, presenting at the Alliance winter meeting awards banquet, Dec. 10, 2024, held at the JW Marriott Turnberry in Aventura, FL. “Together with our dedicated team and in collaboration with the Alliance and its shareholder members, we are honored to receive this recognition,” said Todd Hertzler, vice president of sales for Bosch Mobility Aftermarket North America. “This acknowledgment is both humbling and rewarding. We take great pride in being a trusted, high-quality channel partner and value the recognition of our ongoing efforts. As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited about the opportunities and continued collaboration with the Alliance membership.” Other notable awards presented include honors for Technology Support, Manpower, the Diamond Award, Training, Commercial Vehicle & Heavy-Duty (CVHD) Hauler, Technology Partner, Logistics, Marketing, Customer Service, and the prestigious Lonestar Award. Additionally, the Fill Rate Awards, which celebrated partners who maintained exceptional fill rates throughout the year, were presented earlier that Tuesday. Award2024 WinnerTechnology SupportStandard Motor Products, IncManpowerGatesDiamondKimberly- Clark ProfessionalTrainingDormanCVHD HaulerGrote Technology PartnerBridgeheadITLogisticsTrakMotiveMarketingValvolineCustomer ServiceBBB IndustriesLonestarEast Penn ManufacturingExclusive National BrandMPA/MacPherson Hub The 2024 Winter Meeting, attended by over 500 industry professionals, served as a hub for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among shareholders and channel partners. The four-day event featured joint business sessions, mixer events and discussions on key topics such as category management, sales and marketing, information technology, and national accounts, the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance said. The event culminated in the awards banquet, which remains the highlight of the Winter Meeting. “With each event, we strive to improve and create an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and meaningful connections. The energy and engagement this year was exceptional, and it’s rewarding to see our shareholders and channel partners come together so effectively. This meeting was the perfect way to close out a successful 2024, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum in the years ahead,” said Corey Bartlett, president & CEO of Automotive Parts Headquarters, Inc. The Winter Meeting formally concluded on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. Following the event, the Channel Partner Advisory Council (CPAC), a collection of valued manufacturing representatives, gathered to review the meeting’s key takeaways and strategize for future initiatives. “The Channel Partner Advisory Council is a great opportunity for vendors to give feedback to the Alliance office on how we can better collaborate to make us all better. The meeting has been very successful in helping the Alliance strategic direction and has helped us become better partners with the Alliance. It’s a true honor for us to be involved with the CPAC and to see the results,” said Joe Bergsieker, vice president sales – program groups for BBB Industries and chairman of CPAC. The post Alliance Announces Bosch as 2024 Channel Partner of the Year appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NexaMotion Group (NMG) announced it has opened a new C&M Auto Parts location in Beltsville, Maryland. The new store is located at 6405 Ammendale Road. The company said C&M Auto Parts provides a complete range of automotive aftermarket parts, expertly catering to the diverse needs of repair shops in the local market. A news release announcing the opening explained that, in collaboration with its sister NMG company, Transtar Aftermarket Solutions, this facility offers customers a customized product selection that simplifies complex vehicle repairs to keep the world moving. The company said that providing access to both general repair and transmission parts delivers a comprehensive solution for all automotive needs. “Investing in the expansion of our acquired brands helps them grow their footprint,” said Neil Sethi, CEO of NexaMotion Group. “This new location for C&M reflects NexaMotion’s strategic vision to proactively grow our markets and deliver unmatched value to our customers,” he said. The post NexaMotion Group Opens New C&M Auto Parts Location appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Repairify announced a strategic partnership with Auto-Wares for a collaboration that will enable Auto-Wares customers to access asTech’s advanced diagnostic technologies and repair solutions. Repairify said the arrangement will improve operational efficiency and service accuracy in the automotive repair industry. A news release from Repairify explained that through this partnership, customers of Auto-Wares’ Bumper to Bumper and Auto Value networks will gain access to asTech’s patented diagnostic platform, which connects original equipment (OE) diagnostic tools in asTech’s data centers to compatible aftermarket tools in the shop. This technology enables remote diagnostics, advanced calibration and module/part reprogramming—all powered by genuine OEM diagnostic tools, the company said. “We’re excited to partner with Auto-Wares to bring our cutting-edge diagnostic technology to even more repair shops across North America,” said Ben Johnson, VP of general automotive repair market at Repairify. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to providing repair professionals with the tools and support they need to improve operational efficiency, customer satisfaction and profitability.” According to Repairify, Auto-Wares will integrate asTech’s solutions into its extensive distribution network, offering customers an easy and affordable way to elevate their diagnostic and repair capabilities. With no monthly fees beyond the cost of standard aftermarket tools and minimal training required, repair shops can keep diagnostics in-house, eliminating the need for sublet technicians or dealership visits. “With asTech’s advanced diagnostic solutions and our robust distribution network, this partnership will set a new standard for repair accuracy and efficiency,” said Todd Leimenstoll, president & CEO, Auto-Wares. “This collaboration enables us to equip our customers with the resources they need to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional service.” To help customers get started, Auto-Wares will offer five free events within the first 30 days of use, allowing shops to test the system risk-free. More information can be found on asTech’s website. The post asTech Driven by Repairify Partners with Auto-Wares appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto-Wares announced that Brian Burkett has been named the new director of sales. Burkett began his career as a delivery driver at the Auto Value location in Houghton Lake, Michigan, was later promoted to a salesperson role, and eventually, in 2017, he became district manager, according to Auto-Wares. Burkett’s promotion is a testament to his hard work, leadership and dedication, the company said. Auto-Wares added Burkett attended college career fairs, networked through the Young Automotive Networking Group (YANG), and continually refined his leadership skills, solidifying his impact on the team and the industry. Burkett was awarded several scholarships to support his growth, including the Leadership 2.0 and Heavy-Duty Leadership Scholarships through Northwood University. That growth led Burkett to the director of sales for Auto-Wares Group of Companies. Beyond his new role, Auto-Wares said Burkett will continue serving as a Tech Expo committee member and lead the Customer Relationship Management program. The post Auto-Wares Announces New Director of Sales appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NPW recently announced the opening of its fourth Johnny’s Auto Parts location. The company said this new store in Hialeah, FL, will continue the mission of serving the needs of local installers and the wider Hialeah automotive community under the Johnny’s Auto Parts name. Flying the Auto Value banner, the company said Johnny’s Auto Parts #4 is positioned to bring expanded inventory, expert staff and superior service to the area, backed by NPW’s legacy of quality and commitment to customer support. “Launching our fourth Johnny’s location is a testament to the brand’s strong reputation and the loyalty of our customers,” said Chris Pacey, CEO of NPW. “This store will deliver the same exceptional service and broad product selection that Johnny’s is known for, and we’re excited to support the Hialeah area with a store that’s both accessible and community focused.” NPW added that Johnny’s Auto Parts #4 stands to deliver a range of services, from top-quality parts to fast delivery options. The addition of the new store supports NPW’s commitment to expanding the Johnny’s brand throughout South Florida, the company said. The post NPW Announces New Johnny’s Auto Parts Location in Hialeah appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Participating members of the Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group) are once again supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign by collecting toys and monetary contributions for deserving children in their local areas. “Our partnership with Toys for Tots resonates with The Group membership. They have enthusiastically taken on its mission and have raised awareness of this wonderful program within their communities,” said John Marcum, director of marketing at Federated Auto Parts. “Their dedication has turned Toys for Tots into an impactful, year-round initiative. We extend our gratitude to the Federated Alliance, The Pronto Network and our supplier partners for their continued generosity and support of the campaign.” Since partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program in 2012, The Group, its members and vendor partners have helped raise over $4 million for Toys for Tots. In addition to toy donations at participating locations, financial contributions can be made online by visiting The Group website at http://www.thegroupapsg.com/toys-for-tots.html and clicking on “Make a Donation.” Donors can use a credit card securely or print out a form and mail it with a check made payable to Toys for Tots. Since 1947, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation has distributed more than 652 million toys to more than 291 million children. “All donations made online or at participating member locations are distributed in the area where the toys and money are collected, helping make the holidays brighter for deserving children in their own communities,” said Marcum. The post ‘The Group’ Launches 2024 Toys for Tots Campaign appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MOOG recently announced the launch of its new line of Constant Velocity (CV) Axles. A news release explained that MOOG’s CV axles are engineered with high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure a precise fit across various vehicle models. These CV axles feature neoprene boots that help prevent dirt and moisture intrusion, heat-treated components for increased strength, and high-quality grease to provide optimal lubrication. “MOOG CV Axles represent MOOG’s commitment to providing problem-solving solutions,” said Thomas Galla, senior product manager at DRiV. “Our technician focus inspired the product design to be easy to install with an axle nut and inboard bolts included in each kit (where required), making vehicle maintenance a hassle-free experience.” The new CV Axles are compatible with a range of vehicle models. Notable compatible vehicles include the 2007-2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV (Front) with part number 10H002, boasting a vehicle in operation (VIO) of 9,710,288; the 2003-2009 Lexus GX470 (Front) with part number 14H002, which has a VIO of 4,998,289; and the 2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 (Front) featuring part number 10H001 and a VIO of 6,233,229. The post MOOG Unveils New Constant Velocity Axles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto-Wares Group of Companies announced that it has joined forces with Landon Auto Parts. Landon has five locations in lower Northern Michigan (Boyne City, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Indian River and Onaway). They join the 42 locations currently operated by Auto-Wares in the Northern and Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Landon Auto Parts and Auto-Wares officially joined operations on October 31, 2024. Landon Auto Parts stores will be rebranded to the Auto Value name and high-quality national-brand products will be available over the next weeks to replace some of the current private-brand products, according to a news release from Auto-Wares. That same news release explained that the Landon family members, their team and their commitments to the Landon Auto Parts customers will stay intact. While the Landon family operates a hardware and lumber business alongside Landon Auto Parts, the partnership will impact only the Landon Auto Parts business—the Landon-owned hardware and lumber businesses will remain owned and operated by the Landon family. The post Landon Auto Parts Joins Forces with Auto-Wares appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Two Federated Auto Parts members were recently honored for their commitment to the success of Federated initiatives. The awards were presented during the recent Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group) national conference held earlier this month in Las Vegas. Brake and Equipment Warehouse in Minneapolis, Minn., was honored as the Federated Co-Man Member of the Year. Federated said this award is presented to a member that has shown outstanding support of the member-owned Co-Man warehouse operation and its programs. TBA & Oil Warehouse in Indianapolis, Ind., was recognized with the Federated Marketing Excellence Award. This annual award is presented to the Federated member who has demonstrated consistent excellence in their marketing activities and provides support for other members where possible. “We want to express our gratitude to the entire Federated membership for their ongoing dedication to our programs,” said Sue Godschalk, president of Federated Auto Parts. “This year, Brake and Equipment Warehouse and TBA were standouts in their support of these key initiatives, and we congratulate them on earning these well-deserved awards.” The post Federated Members Recognized for Excellence appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The standard automotive powertrain for the majority of the 20th century was the front engine, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) design. The rear axle assembly housed the differential and individual axles, and it is through this assembly that power was transferred to the wheels. Even though both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) cars were also designed and manufactured during the early years of the automobile, they didn’t flourish and the durability and simplicity of the typical RWD design made it the sole choice of automobile platforms for many manufacturers. In a typical RWD vehicle, the power generated by the engine is transferred through the transmission to the driveshaft, differential and axles to the rear wheels. In a typical 4WD vehicle, a differential/axle assembly is located at the front of the vehicle, and to transfer power to the front, a transfer case is also installed after the transmission and a short driveshaft is installed between the transfer case and front axle. You will also notice that the front differential/axle assembly is different in two ways. One, the differential location is offset for clearance since the engines were always mounted in the center and, two, since the front wheels must turn to steer the vehicle, the axles must have some type of articulating joint at the end, the most common of which is the traditional Universal Joint (U-Joint.) The transfer case transfers the power that exits the transmission to either the rear wheels (RWD), or the front and rear wheels at the same time (4WD.) Another feature of a traditional transfer case is that it offers both high and low ranges in either RWD or 4WD positions, as well as a neutral position. This is so that if the vehicle must overcome particularly difficult terrain, it can be placed in the low range so the engine will operate at a higher RPM to provide additional torque to the wheels. The high range is 1:1, which means the output speed of the transfer case is the output speed of the transmission. The low range ratio varies depending on manufacturer. An important aspect of all this is differential operation. The differential itself transfers the power from the driveshaft to the axles, and it is necessary because it allows power to be transferred to the wheels, but also allows them to travel at different speeds when turning a corner. A conventional differential is considered an “open” design. An operating characteristic of an open differential is that it transfers power to the wheel that spins the easiest. As an example, if one wheel is on ice, that wheel will spin, resulting in minimal traction. The same affect is what causes a car under heavy acceleration to “burn rubber” with only one wheel. To combat this problem, there is another type of differential that is referred to as “limited slip.” There are many different names for this type of differential depending on the manufacturer, but their operation is the same. A limited slip differential contains clutch packs built in between the side gears and the differential case. When one wheel begins to spin from loss of traction, the clutches will grab and transfer power to the other wheel. The same clutches will slip just enough to allow the wheel speeds to differ when going around a corner, so the normal differential action is still available. The majority of cars and trucks on the road come standard with open differentials, due to the additional cost of limited slip. Limited slip differentials have always been an option, just not standard. So, on a four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with open differentials, technically speaking, the maximum number of wheels that can put power to the ground at any given time is two…kind of funny on something known as a 4×4, but it’s still twice as much traction as RWD only, and for the most part it got the job done. Most people who were really going to be in some serious off-road situations would be sure they were equipped with limited-slip differentials. 4WD, as it was originally developed, was a rather primitive system that required input from the driver, from engaging to transfer case to engaging hubs on the front wheels in many cases. Technology was the eventual downfall of rudimentary 4WD systems as we know them, but the drive to utilize this technology came from the safety benefits of AWD. The ability to transfer power to all four wheels has incomparable benefits for traction, vehicle stability and handling. Not only does this translate to the safety of daily driven vehicles, but it translates to performance, as well. With the advancement of computer and electronic technology, antilock braking systems (ABS) and traction control systems (TCS) all of a sudden knew exactly what was happening at each wheel at all times. Was it losing traction, was it locking up under braking? All this data was now available, and engineers knew that the key to vehicle performance, safety and handling all together, was in the ability to precisely control what happened at each wheel at any given point in time. Traditional differentials, even limited slip, were mechanical devices. There was no external control of how they operated. With electronics and computer control, the traditional differential became a technologically advanced unit containing not only gearsets, but clutch packs like those in an automatic transmission, and their own pumps to pressurize the fluid. The same technology is present in both front and rear differentials, as well as center differentials/transfer cases. AWD systems have the ability to precisely control the amount of torque that is transferred to any given wheel at any point in time, providing absolute control of the vehicle. In conclusion, 4WD is functional, durable, rough and tough, but not user friendly. AWD, the product of technology, computers and electronics, is technologically superior, and provides the safety feature we rely on in today’s vehicles. The post The Key Differences Between 4WD and AWD Systems appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NAPA has partnered with University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) to provide 20 scholarships for aspiring automotive students. As part of the commitment, NAPA is awarding 15 $2,500 scholarships to individuals accepted or enrolled in a transportation technician program, along with five $2,500 scholarships specifically for women. This is in addition to other initiatives, such as an apprenticeship program, which aligns with NAPA’s commitment to developing young talent and addressing the technician shortage, the company said. “With the technician shortage still impacting the industry, we understand the importance of nurturing individuals interested in a career in the automotive trades,” said Emily Schneider, senior director of marketing at NAPA. “These scholarships are designed to celebrate emerging talent and create opportunities for those beginning or continuing their journey in technician education.” To enroll, students can visit AutomotiveScholarships.com and complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships. They can also view the details of all available scholarships and continue to update their application. “Addressing the technician shortage means investing in the education of future technicians, which is why we continue to partner with organizations such as NAPA to create those opportunities for young professionals,” said Mike Buzzard, chairman, UAF scholarship committee. “NAPA’s reach coupled with their commitment to helping current students goes a long way in addressing the technician shortage, and these scholarships will continue to break down a barrier for anyone looking to join the industry.” For more information, reminders and updates about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation scholarship program, interested parties can text their name and email address to 720-903-2206. The post NAPA Partners With UAF to Offer $50K in Scholarships appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article