Counterman

Vast-Auto Distribution, a subsidiary of Groupe Del Vasto, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Canadian Auto Parts Suppliers (C.A.P.S.). The parties expect the transaction to close on Nov. 30, subject to customary closing conditions. Vast-Auto Distribution is a well-established distributor of automotive parts in Eastern Canada, and a shareholder of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. Over the course of its 22 years, Canadian Auto Parts Suppliers has established itself as a dominant parts wholesaler and retailer in Canada’s capital city of Ottawa. Founded in 1999 by Charles “Chuck” Berthiaume, C.A.P.S. has been committed to servicing both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers through a wide product assortment and an exceptionally qualified staff of auto parts specialists. “I am delighted to have chosen to sell my business to Vast-Auto Distribution, which has clearly established itself as a leading Canadian distributor within the automotive aftermarket,” Berthiaume said. “With a view to the sustainability of the business, and after working in the automotive sector for most of my career, the decision to sell was not easy to take, but today, I know that this choice is the best for the future of C.A.P.S. and our loyal customers and employees.” The completion of this transaction plays a pivotal role for Vast-Auto Distribution in its continued market share expansion strategy in Eastern Canada. “We are thrilled to welcome C.A.P.S. and all 60 of its team members and its entire customer base to Groupe Del Vasto,” said Mauro Cifelli, president and CEO of Groupe Del Vasto. “We are confident that our culture and our commitment to taking care of our customers and employees, will fit hand in glove with Canadian Auto Parts Suppliers longtime way of doing business. Moreover, we are extremely pleased to announce that Ghazi Mankal, a seasoned aftermarket business professional who has been with C.A.P.S. since the early beginning, will continue in his role as general manager and business associate, which will allow for a smooth transition.” This transaction will position C.A.P.S. to enhance its services and operational effectiveness through access to Vast-Auto’s robust supply chain, including its Ottawa distribution center, and leverage of its technology platforms. The post Vast-Auto Acquires Canadian Auto Parts Suppliers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Admittedly, windshield wipers aren’t the most glamorous component on a vehicle. For many drivers, they’re merely an afterthought – until they can barely see out their windshield. With winter weather approaching, however, this is an ideal time to talk to your customers about replacing their worn-out wiper blades before they become a serious safety hazard. Signs of Wear Most manufacturers recommend replacing wiper blades every six to 12 months. That’s all well and good, but the reality is that wipers are among the most overlooked maintenance items on a vehicle. If the rubber blade hasn’t completely disintegrated, chances are some of your customers will insist on keeping them until there’s a total failure. There’s an even greater chance your customers don’t even know when their wipers need to be replaced because they don’t know what to look for on the blade. With the seasons changing, now is a great time to encourage your customers to inspect their wiper blades for signs of wear. Studies show that winter and summer can be especially harsh on wiper blades. With rain, snow and sleet pelting our windshields as we approach the end of the year, visibility behind the wheel is more likely to be top of mind for many drivers who otherwise ignore their wipers. According to ANCO (part of the First Brands Group), motorists should look for these signs of wear. Some might be discoverable by physically examining the blades, while other problems will be more apparent when the windshield wipers are in use. Streaking/smearing Worn and dirty wiper blades are a major cause of streaking. Skipping/chattering If wiper blades go unused for a long period of time, they can develop a curvature that causes them to not make proper contact with the windshield. This can result in a skipping or chattering sound when they’re in use. Splitting Cold weather and freezing temperatures make the rubber hard and brittle, which can result in wiper blades splitting. Squeaking If there’s a buildup of dust, dirt or other debris on the windshield glass, the wipers won’t make a smooth pass and can make a squeaking sound. “The remedies for fixing streaking/smearing, squeaking and skipping/chattering windshield wiper blades are the same: Keep your windshield clean and free of dirt, dust and debris,” ANCO explains on its website. “Avoid operating your wipers on a dry windshield. If the windshield isn’t wet enough when you run the wiper blades, it can cause skipping that creates squeaky wipers. Clean your wiper blades with washer solvent or water to help eliminate streaks and smears.” If these remedies don’t address the problem, it’s probably time for new wiper blades. The same goes for wiper blades that are starting to split. The split will only get worse and will lead to poor wiping performance when it matters most – while driving in rain, snow or ice. The biggest mistake most vehicle owners make is replacing only one wiper (the bad one) instead of the pair. They think they’re saving money, but if one side is worn out, the other side isn’t far behind. Better to replace them both at the same time because both blades are needed to keep the entire windshield clear. Also, if they drive an SUV, minivan or hatchback, it’s a good idea to replace the wiper blade on the rear window while they’re at it. Winter Survival Tips ANCO offers a number of tips for keeping wiper blades in working order during the winter months. For example, some motorists who don’t have a garage will pull the blades up and away from the windshield when their vehicle is parked outside overnight. The idea is to prevent ice from building up on the blades and preventing the blades from sticking to the windshield. However, some people argue that this practice causes unnecessary wear and tear on the springs in the wiper arm. A less controversial suggestion is to make sure the wipers are turned off when parking the vehicle. This way, when the vehicle starts up, the wipers won’t automatically start operating, which can potentially damage the wipers if the windshield is coated with snow and ice. For motorists who are really passionate about protecting their wiper blades, they can cover them with tube socks when not in use, or wipe the blades with rubbing alcohol to prevent them from freezing to the windshield. And for goodness sake, use an ice scraper – not the windshield wipers – to clear ice and snow from the windshield. Sitting in the vehicle with the defroster on max while the wipers struggle to break through a thick layer of snow and/or ice is a recipe for damaging the wiper blades. The post Windshield Wipers: Window Of Opportunity appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

If you were buying a new vehicle, what would you want the engine to have: a timing belt or a timing chain? You may have an opinion, you may not. Either way, let’s compare the two; then you can decide. The Chain Gang For many years, timing chains were the go-to for engine design. Generally speaking, they were dependable and didn’t require any specific maintenance. They were lubricated by the engine oil, so if you changed it on a regular basis, the timing chain would hold up well. Or would they? A lot of people still say, “They don’t build them like they used to.” This is true, and coming from someone who is an old-car enthusiast, I’ll defend a level of workmanship that we don’t see in today’s vehicle. But the statement, while true, doesn’t always mean they built them better. In the case of timing chains, they sometimes wore quicker than a lot of people realized. What happened when they did? On an old car, nothing right away. At least nothing of which the owner was aware. A timing chain, just like a belt, is there for one reason: to connect the crankshaft to the camshaft at exact points so the valves open and close at the correct time for engine operation. A traditional, old-school timing chain was tight upon installation, and the overall timing set consisted of a crankshaft gear, a camshaft gear and a chain. There was no adjustment or no tensioner. When the chain or the drive gears began to wear, engine performance would suffer, but it would degrade slowly, and most vehicle owners had no idea there was a problem. They wouldn’t know at all until they started to get a hard-start or no-start symptom. And why? There was no crank sensor or cam sensor, and no computer to translate the signals into a crank/cam correlation diagnostic trouble code (DTC). So, we just drove the cars until they wouldn’t drive any more. Early engine design was split between gears or chains, but chains ultimately became more popular because they took up less space and ran quieter, and by the early ‘80s, the majority of cars produced had timing chains. An evolutionary change of timing-chain design included nylon-tooth cam gears. They ran quieter than a traditional steel gear, but they wore out a lot quicker and created problems long before vehicle owners expected, which didn’t do much for their reputation. The tried-and-true timing chain was simple and generally dependable, but times were changing. Buckle Your Belt As the ‘80s rolled on, electronics, emission controls and technology were on solid cruise control and like flipping a switch, timing belts were suddenly in the picture. Although timing-belt-driven overhead camshaft engines weren’t new by any means, the value of the design began to be recognized and auto manufacturers started to change over to this concept. The camshaft was now located on the cylinder head, which eliminated push rods and, on some designs, the rocker arms were eliminated as well, saving weight, lowering cost, reducing valvetrain inertia and making multi-valve designs possible. The easiest way to drive the camshaft was via a timing belt. Since timing chains suffered from inherent gear wear and stretching, engineers decided that belts were the way to go. They were quieter and lighter than a chain and less expensive to manufacture. The tensioning systems were simple, and the belts remained tight for a long time without wearing the cam or crank gear. Seemingly, all was good, but even with the advantages of a timing belt, they required replacement at specific intervals, and the one disadvantage that became known quickly was that if not replaced, they would break with no warning. Simple tensioning systems required adjustment from time to time, and oil leaks also were a problem with timing belts, as they would degrade the rubber quickly and lead to a broken belt. A broken belt could mean a very expensive repair on interference engines. Belt quality and tensioner design improved quickly, eliminating many of the early timing belt troubles, and by the mid- to late-‘90s, timing belts were used on the majority of automobile engines. Belt-service intervals became longer, and consumers were getting used to this being a part of normal maintenance. But you still cannot ignore the replacement interval, and was it possible times were changing again? The Old Ball and Chain As we said “Happy New Year” to a whole new century, engine technology was a freight train out of control. Materials and manufacturing were better, RPMs were higher, turbochargers were boosting like never before and horsepower wars like we hadn’t seen since the ‘60s were heating up again. Smaller engines were producing more power than ever, and variable valve timing was pushing engine performance to the limit. Just like that, engine design required something that was narrower, more durable and more dependable than a timing belt, and consumers no longer wanted the associated maintenance. Hello chains. As of the last decade, timing chains have risen back to the top. Design is far different than that of old, with modern chains traveling around awkward paths of sprockets, hydraulic tensioners and chain guides, offering a high level of dependability and performance. But they couldn’t do it without one critical thing on their side: lubricant technology. A primary reason for timing-chain wear always has been related to lack of oil changes, lower-quality oil, and poor or non-existent positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) systems, which wreaks havoc on engine oil. Modern engine oil is not only far superior than it was just a few decades ago, but PCV technology also is eliminating the majority of blow-by-related contaminants and moisture from building up, resulting in cleaner oil and better lubrication throughout the engine. Timing chains and variable valve timing systems are dependent on clean, healthy lubrication and now they have it, but then again, does everyone change oil as often as they should? Talk to the Techs Timing belts generally are easier to service. This is primarily because they’re located on the outside of the engine and run dry, with no lubrication. When replacing a belt, there’s less cleanup and no time required to reseal engine covers. On the other hand, the engine water pump is frequently driven by the timing belt, so when you replace it, it’s a good practice to replace the pump, as well as any tensioners or rollers. Timing belts came into prominence along with the inline four-cylinder engine. What this brought was more than just cam/crank timing, but also balance shafts and intermediate shafts that often drove distributors and oil pumps. These weren’t hard to work with, but had to be timed correctly during belt replacement. As the timing belt migrated to V-configuration engines, it became a lot longer with additional rollers and a more difficult installation, plus some components such as thermostats were all of a sudden underneath. Some things got better, some got worse. Inspection is an advantage with a timing belt; it’s usually just a couple of bolts and you’re looking right at it. One problem, and a challenge especially on a second-owner vehicle: If the mileage is over that of recommended timing-belt replacement and the owner doesn’t know if it was done, replacement is always recommended. Many belts can look great on the outside but strip the teeth off a day later. The only way to inspect them closely enough to really look at the integrity of the teeth can be to remove them. And then, does it make sense to put the old one back on, and is there a technician who would want to take that gamble? One solution to this is the bright yellow replacement decal that’s included in almost every timing-belt kit, for a technician to fill out and affix under the hood. If only they got used more often. Timing chains, as good as they have become, are not without faults. They can be a bear to inspect and replace, mainly because they’re located inside the engine so they can be lubricated by the engine oil. There’s a lot more cleaning to do and usually a seal or two that needs replaced. Just as with belts, there’s often a water pump that’s driven by the chain that should be replaced. While the chains are more durable and dependable, if oil changes aren’t religious, the guides have a tendency to wear out really quickly. Most guides are steel with some type of nylon or plastic that the chain rides along. Remember the nylon-tooth cam gears? These guides do the same thing and beyond a certain point in wear, the tensioner can no longer take up the slack in the chain. This often leads to a rattling noise and a “Check Engine” light. Most engines still run perfectly fine at this point, with the most common complaint a “Check Engine” light and a cam/crank correlation DTC. Timing-chain replacement is often very expensive due to labor time, but, then again, so is engine repair when a timing belt breaks. They both require special tools at times, so there’s no winner on that argument. And, one more thing: Did we mention the latest technology of belt-in-oil drive systems? Here we go again. So, do you have a preference, or do you agree with my conclusion? The post Timing Belts vs. Timing Chains appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental received the award for Best New Technology Product during AAPEX 2021 for its new Autodiagnos Drive remote vehicle-data solution. The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) presented the award during a special ceremony at the start of the show. Autodiagnos Drive is designed to deliver advanced diagnostic information to service providers, fleet managers and repair facilities so they can maximize theirdata-driven services. The easily installed, plug-and-play technology increases productivity, reduces downtime and enhances customer service by keeping customers continuously aware of the vehicle’s condition via live access to extended vehicle diagnostic data, according to the company. Continental Autodiagnos Drive was part of the AAPEX 2021 New Product Showcase, which debuted the industry’s newest products and allowed the products to be judged electronically by pre-registered buyers who viewed the products in the AAPEX Product Plus magazine. Entries with the most votes were named Best New Product in each of eight categories. In addition to New Technology, the other categories included: Tools & Equipment; Safety; Hard Parts; Chemicals, Lubricants & Filters; Automotive Lighting; and Appearance Chemicals & Car Care. The award was accepted by Howard Laster, executive director and general manager, Continental Automotive Systems, and Christopher Bahlman, head of Diagnostics and Services, Continental Commercial Vehicles and Services. “We are extremely delighted to be the recipient of this prestigious award,” Bahlman said. “We are proud of our entire team’s efforts to make Autodiagnos Drive a reality and help our customers increase productivity, reduce downtime, enhance customer service, while gaining better insights into the condition of the vehicles they service or manage. Every member of the Diagnostics and Services team is excited about the recognition they have received for their hard work and dedication.” In addition to the new Autodiagnos Drive, Continental’s Diagnostics and Services group also features two major diagnostic tool programs: Continental Autodiagnos PRO automotive diagnostic system; and Continental Autodiagnos TPMS tools. Both programs are designed to meet the needs of aftermarket service professionals by streamlining vehicle data that technicians can use to analyze, diagnose and repair vehicles faster and better, according to the company. For more information, visit autodiagnosdrive.com or contact salessupport-us@continental.com. The post Autodiagnos Drive Named Best New Tech Product At AAPEX appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Counterman will not be distributing its e-newsletter scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 25, in observance of Thanksgiving Day. Instead, Counterman will send the e-newsletter on Friday, Nov. 26. The staff of Counterman wishes you and your loved ones a wonderful Thanksgiving! The post Counterman On Holiday appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Returning from the first in-person AAPEX since 2019, “AMN Drivetime” host Bill Babcox sits down with Vange Proimos, CEO of AP Emissions, to talk about his journey from technician and shop owner to leading a privately owned, family-run business. A well-known industry advocate for many years, it was Proimos’ experience as a technician and shop owner that has informed much of his success as business owner as well. Right out of high school, Proimos and his brothers started in the gas station business, “when Jimmy Carter was president and the gas shortages were in effect. We really didn’t sell a lot of gas, so we got into auto repair and 24-hour towing, doing that for many years,” he said. Eventually Vange and his brothers turned the business into a specialty muffler shop, and over a 10-year period grew the business to about 21 shops. After that, EPA laws were created for aftermarket converters and according to Proimos, “no one was really doing a good job at it from the installer’s point of view.” “There were about 50 different kits to make it fit and the installer really wanted a direct fit converter.” So Proimos and his brothers began building catalytic converters, under the brand name CATCO. From there, the Proimos brothers grew the catalytic-converter business. They sold their muffler shops to their employees, and in 1998 purchased the aftermarket division of AP Emissions, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In 2014, his brothers wanted to retire, but Vange stayed on board and sold the business to a private equity (PE) firm, which consolidated AP with a brake business. A number of factors – including import tax duties and exploding precious metal costs – led the PE firm to sell the company and Proimos bought his beloved family business back. That was in September of 2020. “It feels really good,” he said. “The people have really come out and helped us in every aspect.” “Our whole goal is to understand what our customers want and need and how to get to their wants and needs,” he said. “And by doing that, our company becomes successful because they buy more products, and we make more products and our people work harder. That’s how we look at it.” The post ‘AMN Drivetime’: Creating Parts That Customers Need appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Returning from the first in-person AAPEX since 2019, “AMN Drivetime” host Bill Babcox sits down with Vange Proimos, CEO of AP Emissions, to talk about his journey from technician and shop owner to leading a privately owned, family-run business. A well-known industry advocate for many years, it was Proimos’ experience as a technician and shop owner that has informed much of his success as business owner as well. Right out of high school, Proimos and his brothers started in the gas station business, “when Jimmy Carter was president and the gas shortages were in effect. We really didn’t sell a lot of gas, so we got into auto repair and 24-hour towing, doing that for many years,” he said. Eventually Vange and his brothers turned the business into a specialty muffler shop, and over a 10-year period grew the business to about 21 shops. After that, EPA laws were created for aftermarket converters and according to Proimos, “no one was really doing a good job at it from the installer’s point of view.” “There were about 50 different kits to make it fit and the installer really wanted a direct fit converter.” So Proimos and his brothers began building catalytic converters, under the brand name CATCO. From there, the Proimos brothers grew the catalytic-converter business. They sold their muffler shops to their employees, and in 1998 purchased the aftermarket division of AP Emissions, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In 2014, his brothers wanted to retire, but Vange stayed on board and sold the business to a private equity (PE) firm, which consolidated AP with a brake business. A number of factors – including import tax duties and exploding precious metal costs – led the PE firm to sell the company and Proimos bought his beloved family business back. That was in September of 2020. “It feels really good,” he said. “The people have really come out and helped us in every aspect.” “Our whole goal is to understand what our customers want and need and how to get to their wants and needs,” he said. “And by doing that, our company becomes successful because they buy more products, and we make more products and our people work harder. That’s how we look at it.” The post ‘AMN Drivetime’: Creating Parts That Customers Need appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Returning from the first in-person AAPEX since 2019, “AMN Drivetime” host Bill Babcox sits down with Vange Proimos, CEO of AP Emissions, to talk about his journey from technician and shop owner to leading a privately owned, family-run business. A well-known industry advocate for many years, it was Proimos’ experience as a technician and shop owner that has informed much of his success as business owner as well. Right out of high school, Proimos and his brothers started in the gas station business, “when Jimmy Carter was president and the gas shortages were in effect. We really didn’t sell a lot of gas, so we got into auto repair and 24-hour towing, doing that for many years,” he said. Eventually Vange and his brothers turned the business into a specialty muffler shop, and over a 10-year period grew the business to about 21 shops. After that, EPA laws were created for aftermarket converters and according to Proimos, “no one was really doing a good job at it from the installer’s point of view.” “There were about 50 different kits to make it fit and the installer really wanted a direct fit converter.” So Proimos and his brothers began building catalytic converters, under the brand name CATCO. From there, the Proimos brothers grew the catalytic-converter business. They sold their muffler shops to their employees, and in 1998 purchased the aftermarket division of AP Emissions, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In 2014, his brothers wanted to retire, but Vange stayed on board and sold the business to a private equity (PE) firm, which consolidated AP with a brake business. A number of factors – including import tax duties and exploding precious metal costs – led the PE firm to sell the company and Proimos bought his beloved family business back. That was in September of 2020. “It feels really good,” he said. “The people have really come out and helped us in every aspect.” “Our whole goal is to understand what our customers want and need and how to get to their wants and needs,” he said. “And by doing that, our company becomes successful because they buy more products, and we make more products and our people work harder. That’s how we look at it.” The post ‘AMN Drivetime’: Creating Parts That Customers Need appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Returning from the first in-person AAPEX since 2019, “AMN Drivetime” host Bill Babcox sits down with Vange Proimos, CEO of AP Emissions, to talk about his journey from technician and shop owner to leading a privately owned, family-run business. A well-known industry advocate for many years, it was Proimos’ experience as a technician and shop owner that has informed much of his success as business owner as well. Right out of high school, Proimos and his brothers started in the gas station business, “when Jimmy Carter was president and the gas shortages were in effect. We really didn’t sell a lot of gas, so we got into auto repair and 24-hour towing, doing that for many years,” he said. Eventually Vange and his brothers turned the business into a specialty muffler shop, and over a 10-year period grew the business to about 21 shops. After that, EPA laws were created for aftermarket converters and according to Proimos, “no one was really doing a good job at it from the installer’s point of view.” “There were about 50 different kits to make it fit and the installer really wanted a direct fit converter.” So Proimos and his brothers began building catalytic converters, under the brand name CATCO. From there, the Proimos brothers grew the catalytic-converter business. They sold their muffler shops to their employees, and in 1998 purchased the aftermarket division of AP Emissions, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In 2014, his brothers wanted to retire, but Vange stayed on board and sold the business to a private equity (PE) firm, which consolidated AP with a brake business. A number of factors – including import tax duties and exploding precious metal costs – led the PE firm to sell the company and Proimos bought his beloved family business back. That was in September of 2020. “It feels really good,” he said. “The people have really come out and helped us in every aspect.” “Our whole goal is to understand what our customers want and need and how to get to their wants and needs,” he said. “And by doing that, our company becomes successful because they buy more products, and we make more products and our people work harder. That’s how we look at it.” The post ‘AMN Drivetime’: Creating Parts That Customers Need appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The 2021 Automotive Communications Awards were announced during the Women in Auto Care Awards ceremony at AAPEX to celebrate the marketing achievements in both business-to-business and business-to-consumer markets of the auto care industry. With 125 total entries, this year saw fierce competition for a chance to take home one of 30 awards presented in Las Vegas. The Automotive Communications Awards annually recognizes companies and agencies that provide automotive information to consumers and trade professionals through outstanding advertising, marketing, merchandising and effective public relations. The award submissions are judged and winners determined by volunteer members of the Auto Care Association Marketing and Communications Committee and the Automotive Communications Council (ACC). “The Women in Auto Care Automotive Communications Awards are really special, because not only do they recognize and reward our industry’s best marketers, but the awards also give back to the industry through scholarship dollars.” said Jacki Lutz, executive committee administrator, Women in Auto Care. “Congratulations to all of the winners this year. These submissions are judged by our industry’s greatest marketers, so you should really feel extra proud that you were awarded by your industry peers.” A portion of the proceeds from award submissions goes toward the Women in Auto Care Scholarship program, which annually awards both cash and tool scholarships to young women enrolled in post-secondary automotive programs. Business-to-Business 2021 Winners Category: Best Ad Campaign to Distribution/Retail Audience Company: NAPA AutoCare Submission: NAPA T&E Virtual Product Show Category: Best Ad Campaign to Technician/Repair Audience Company: DRiV Inc. Submission: Garage Gurus 2021 Spring Media Campaign Creative and Analytics Category: Best Ad to Either Distribution/ Retail or Technician/ Repair Audience Company: Snap-on Tools/Traction Factory Submission: PT338 Stubzilla Category: Training Communications Company: DRiV Inc. Submission: Walker Colorado Emissions Regulations Training Communications Category: Article/Blog/Content Piece – Technical Company: ADVICS & MBE Group Submission: Best Technical Article Category: Article/Blog/Content Piece – General Market/Special Interest Company: Ziebart Corporation Submission: Veteran Franchisee Spotlight Category: Newsletter Company: JohnDow Industries Submission: EuroVent Newsletter Category: Logo Design/ Usage Company: Pep Boys Submission: Pep Boys Centennial Rebrand Category: Website Company: DRiV Inc. Submission: Monroe.com Website Refresh Category: Promotional Goods, Gear, Marketing Collateral Company: BCA Bearings by NTN/Bower Bearings by NTN Submission: BCA/Bower “Summer Fun” Promotion Category: Special Promotion and/or Promotional Event Company: MOTOR Information Systems Submission: MOTOR Top 20 Awards Category: Packaging Company: Lumileds Submission: Philips Upgrade Lighting Packaging Category: Social Media Campaign Company: GATES Submission: “PROTECT THE RIDE” Vehicle Owner Education Campaign Category: Best App for Mobile Device Company: NAPA AutoCare Submission: NAPA AutoCare Mobile App Category: Use of Video – Technical Company: AutoNetTV Media Inc. Submission: Gates Modular Hoses Category: Use of Video – General Market/Special Interest Company: NAPA AutoCare Submission: NAPA Apprenticeship Program Video Category: Best 360-Degree Marketing Campaign Company: Plews & Edelmann Submission: Plews & Edelmann Elite Power Steering Program Business-to-Consumer 2021 Winners Category: Television Commercial Company: Pep Boys Commercial: Pep Boys Celebrating 100 Years TV Spot Category: Print ad Company: NAPA AutoCare Submission: INSIGHT Print Ad Category: Digital Display Ad Company: Pep Boys Submission: Centennial Anthem Category: Direct Mail Piece, Brochure, Booklets, Handout Company: Snap-on Diagnostics/Traction Factory Submission: Fast-Track Intelligent Diagnostics Category: Article/Blog/Content Piece Company: Endurance Warranty Submission: What Does It Mean to Be ASE Certified? Category: Video Company: AutoNetTV Media Inc. Submission: Permatex Pro-Tips Category: Consumer/Community event Company: Pep Boys Submission: Pep Boys Road Trip Events Category: Website Company: Purolator Filters Submission: New Website Award: Business-to-Consumer Category: Social Media Campaign Company: Idemitsu Lubricants America Submission: Digital Brand Awareness Campaign Category: Social media Campaign (Specifically for Independent Repair Shops) Company: Schaeffler USA Inc. Submission: REPXPERT Swag Bag Giveaway Category: Radio or Podcast Company: Ziebart Corporation Submission: COVID-19’s Impact on Transportation Category: Co-op advertising (Repair Shop Partnered with Manufacturer/Distributor to Market) Company: NAPA AutoCare Submission: NAPA PROimage Co-Op Offer Category: Best 360 Degree Marketing Campaign Company: Pep Boys Submission: Pep Boys Centennial For more information about the Automotive Communications Awards, visit the Women in Auto Care webpage or email Jessica Finnerty, staff liaison, Women in Auto Care, at jessica.finnerty@autocare.org. The post 2021 Automotive Communications Awards Winners Announced appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NGK Spark Plugs continues its commitment to the automotive aftermarket and The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF). To support this, the NGK and NTK brands hosted a “Pour It Forward” invitational at AAPEX this year to support the UAF Coffee Club donor campaign. Invited guests received a donation to the UAF Coffee Club in their company’s name for visiting the NGK/NTK booth. Invitees then had the opportunity to double the contribution by participating in an in-booth challenge game. NGK and NTK would like to thank the following customers, colleagues and industry partners who visited us and played the “Cliff Hanger Challenge” to raise a UAF Coffee Club donation of $2,500. 10 Missions Media AASAACIAdvance Auto PartsAftermarket Auto Parts AllianceAPHAPW Knox-Seeman WarehouseAutomotive Experts Marketing Group Auto PlusAutoZoneAVIBabcox MediaEndeavor Business MediaEpicorFederated Auto PartsGenuine Parts CompanyHanson DistributingHovis Auto SupplyNPWO’Reilly Auto PartsParts AuthorityPep BoysPronto NetworkRPS MarketingTri-State EnterprisesUAFUAF VeteransBob EaganPete and Anne KornafelJennifer TioUndercar PlusUniversal To donate and join the club, visit www.UofA-Foundation.org/CoffeeClub, choose a level of recurring support and complete the form. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. The post NGK/NTK And The Aftermarket ‘Pour It Forward’ At AAPEX appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Counterman’s “Guess the Car” contest challenges our readers to solve an automotive riddle, for a chance to win $100. And each month, we receive hundreds of responses from aftermarket professionals trying to guess the model of the vehicle depicted. The correct answer for the October/November contest is the Kia Carnival. The winner is Daniel Blaskie, a counterman at Athens Auto Supply in Union City, Michigan. Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion. CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business? DB: I’ve been with NAPA Auto Parts for about 10 years now. This is actually my first and only job that I’ve had. I started here part-time when I was in high school, and then moved to full-time when I graduated. I just loved it, and I’ve been here ever since. CM: What do you like most about your job? DB: Being able to tie my passion for vehicles and farming into helping customers. Being able to work with that every day is kind of the best of both worlds. CM: What’s the strangest question a customer has asked you? DB: We had a customer come in wanting to know what type of oil her car took. We told her to check on the oil cap; a lot of times it’s written on there. And this particular lady came back in and said, “It says ‘710.’” Because that’s “oil” turned upside down. She read it as “710.” CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on? DB: Both owned and worked on. It’s my ‘76 Jeep CJ-5. CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun? DB: I’m a part-time firefighter and EMT, and I’m a father of four, so I don’t have a whole lot of free time. One of my sons is just getting old enough to kind of get interested in vehicles and stuff, and I love working on things with him. Seeing how he picks things up and helps me out is just a blast for me. CM: What’s your dream car? DB: My dream car would be an ‘88 DeTomaso Pantera. I just love the Italian body style combined with American muscle. It’s the best of both worlds. The post Meet The ‘Guess The Car’ Champ: Daniel Blaskie appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The “Best Supporting Actor” Oscar is given annually to a performer who portrays a secondary role in a film, “supporting” the performances of the main characters. Never the primary focus of the story, these characters quietly shine in their own way, helping the lead actors tell their tale of action, adventure, love or mystery. When we hear the name of a classic film, it’s usually the lead actor whom we associate with the title. Joe Pesci is “My Cousin Vinny,” but who can forget Marisa Tomei as “Mona Lisa Vito,” his cranky fiancée (and expert witness) with the automotive knowledge to crack the case wide open! Tomei won an Oscar for that performance, despite being a secondary character. Sometimes, it’s the small roles that really count. Gas springs, aka “lift supports,” are one of those parts that don’t receive a lot of screen time, but play an important role in providing convenience to vehicle owners. These nitrogen- and oil-filled cylinders aid in the opening and closing of hoods, liftgates and trunk lids, as well as several accessory components. Like many components, most of our customers don’t think about them until they begin to fail, often in cold weather. As the temperature drops, the cylinder’s gas pressure (its “holding” force) also decreases. For those of us who regularly raise a hood to test a battery or change a bulb, the weak lift support can be a simple inconvenience, or it can be the cause of a nasty whack on the back of the head! For most applications, gas springs are a straightforward exercise in cataloging. When looking up liftgate struts, occasionally the parts specialist has to determine if the customer wants the supports that help raise and lower the entire liftgate, or just the glass. With the prevalence of power-assisted liftgates on late-model SUVs, the parts specialist also may encounter situations where gas springs play a secondary role to an electric motor-driven unit. Beyond the catalog, gas springs also are found in a number of “universal” applications. Truck caps, tool boxes and other accessories often feature one or more lift supports, but figuring out the appropriate specifications requires a little extra effort. Extended and compressed length are obvious key features, but the extension force (“weight rating”) is just as critical when selecting a replacement universal support. The back glass of a truck cap is considerably lighter than the entire liftgate of an SUV, so the two applications require totally different amounts of force. Customers who choose to replace their heavy OE steel hoods with lightweight fiberglass or carbon-fiber hoods also may need to change to a part with less extension force, to prevent stress at the hinge mounting points. Wherever gas springs are used in pairs, it’s especially important to replace them together. An older, weaker gas spring can cause the “dominant” one to carry more of the load, which may shorten its lifespan. Mismatched struts will exert unequal forces on the door, hood or gate, and can lead to damage. When in doubt, stick to the catalog information (if available), or refer to any existing specification labels/markings on the old unit. The humble gas spring also played a “supporting role” in one of the most iconic movie cars of all time. The gullwing doors of the DeLorean DMC-12 in “Back to the Future” get an assist from a pair of gas-charged lift supports, as do the “hood” (luggage compartment) and the louvered engine cover on the stock DMC-12s. You may not be able to actually purchase a flux capacitor for your DeLorean, but all of the lift supports are still available in the aftermarket. You don’t even need to set your time circuits back to 1985! The post Best Supporting Actor: Gas-Charged Lift Supports appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) board of trustees has elected its officers for fiscal-year 2022. An official confirmation vote was held during the recent UAF board of trustees virtual meeting on Oct. 27. The approved slate of officers is as follows: Chairman – Robert Egan, Egan & AssociatesSenior vice chairman – John R. Washbish, president and CEO, Aftermarket Auto Parts AllianceVice chairman – Larry Pavey, CEO, Federated Auto PartsTreasurer – William Maggs, executive vice president, supply chain, Parts AuthoritySecretary – Roger McCollum, CEO, N.A. Williams CompanyChairman emeritus – Rusty Bishop, leadership advisor, Federated Auto PartsExecutive director – Jennifer Tio, president, Maximum Marketing Services Inc. The following Lifetime Trustee representatives will serve on the University of the Aftermarket Foundation board of trustees in the coming year: Mohammed Al Fayyad, ACDelcoWilliam Babcox, Babcox Media Inc.Richard Beirne, Richard and Lisa BeirneBrent Berman, First Brands GroupMichael C. Buzzard, The Clay Buzzard FamilyMike Carr, CARDONE IndustriesMauro Cifelli, AWDAJeff Darby, Dorman Products, Inc.Ryan Devine, MiX representativeChris Gardner, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers AssociationDuncan Gillis, BBB Industries LLCTodd Hack, MevotechPhilip Halberg, Federal-Mogul (DRiV)Bill Hanvey, Auto Care AssociationTim Hardin, Epicor Software CorporationTodd Hertzler, Robert Bosch LLCPete KornafelJeffrey E. Koviak, Tenneco (DRiV)Fletcher Lord III, Parts Warehouse/Crow BurlingameJacki Lutz, YANG representativePaul McCarthy, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers AssociationDave McColley, Mann + Hummel MHFTRollie Olson, Rollie & Gayle Olson and FamilyHeather Preu, MAM Software Group, Inc.Chris Pruitt, East Penn Manufacturing and Flicker/Langdon/PruittJacqueline Rodriguez, Parts AuthorityRobert Roos, The Pronto NetworkRick Schwartz, The Schwartz FamilyRobert M. Segal, Sanel NAPA/The Segal FamilyEric Sills, Standard Motor ProductsSteve Smith, GCommerce IncDanielle Sonnefeld, Women in Auto CareBill Stroupe, KIAWA Education FoundationTom Tecklenburg, Dayco Products LLCChuck Udell, Morris/Rupp McCartney Education Trust of APSA Several more industry professionals will serve UAF in a variety of support roles: Wendy Earp, audit committee; Kristin Grons, marketing committee; George Keeley, legal counsel; Ken Marker, investment advisor; Larry Northup, AWDA liaison; Nathan Perrine, comptroller; Mort Schwartz, contributions committee; Billy Sissamis, accounting; Joe Stephan, marketing committee; and Casey Ventrillo, investment advisor. The University of the Aftermarket Foundation is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. To make a donation, visit UofA-Foundation.org. To learn about available scholarships, and to apply online, visit AutomotiveScholarships.com. The post UAF Announces Officers, Trustees For 2022 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

ADVICS won an Automotive Communications Award at AAPEX 2021 for “Best B2B Technical Article/Blog/Content Piece,” for its technical article titled “Ceramic vs. Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: How They Work and What They’re Made Of.” The award-winning article drove more website traffic than any other paid or organic source, achieving more than 55% of total website visits between October 2020 and August 2021. Additionally, the article had a bounce rate of only .06% – far lower than the industry-standard bounce-rate benchmark of 24% to 40%. “As the leader in braking technology for the automotive aftermarket, we recognize the importance of providing quality technical resources to technicians and automotive repair professionals,” said Fumiko Higa-Bales, branding and supply chain manager, aftermarket. “We are proud to accept this award for our content that has not only helped to educate technicians, but has also achieved outstanding results for our brand in the way of SEO, website traffic, brand awareness and more.” The results achieved by this article can be attributed to both the content resonating with the target audience and also the way it was optimized to serve ADVICS’ existing SEO strategy. Written using the analysis and findings from ongoing SEO-keyword research, this article achieved rankings on 26 tracked keywords, with 10 of those keywords ranking in first place. The award winning article, featured in the “Technical Resources” section of the ADVICS website, was written and optimized by MBE Group, a full-service marketing communications agency based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The Automotive Communications Awards, presented by Women in Auto Care, acknowledge companies and agencies for their outstanding advertising, marketing and public relations efforts in the automotive aftermarket. For more information on ADVICS, visit ADVICSAftermarket.com, and find its entire library of technical articles, videos and more here. The post ADVICS Wins Automotive Communications Award At AAPEX 2021 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

On Friday, Nov. 12, the world lost an iconic American racing hero: Bob Bondurant. Bondurant passed away at the age of 88 in Paradise Valley, Arizona. He is survived by his wife, Pat, president and CEO of the Bondurant Racing School, who vows to continue the legacy of the school. Robert Lewis Bondurant was born on April 27, 1933, to John Roper Bondurant and Ruth Williams Bondurant of Evanston, Illinois. His father owned two luxury-car dealerships named Bondurant Motors. When Bob turned 2 years old, the family moved to Westwood Village, California. Bondurant began his fascination with speed as a 3-year-old on his first tricycle with playing cards clothes pinned on his spokes for the sound of the rush. At age 8, his father introduced him to racing by taking him to Thursday-night midget races. By 12 years old, his parents were divorced, and he persuaded his mother to purchase a Whizzer electric bike to deliver his newspapers faster. By 14, he owned his first Indian motorcycle, and after the devastating death of his mother at 16 years old, he started racing flat track and even bigger Indians and Harleys. His mother’s death left him inconsolable, which is where the seed of his fearlessness was realized. Bondurant then was inducted as the youngest member of the “Galloping Gooses,” which eventually became “Hell’s Angels.” At 23 years old, he discovered that he had more control with four wheels than he did with two, and his racing career began in a Morgan Plus 4. From the age of 23 to 34, Bondurant became one of the most iconic race car drivers in the world. He won the National Corvette Title, Le Mans GT, the World Championship and the Baja 500. Between 1961 and 1963, he won 30 out of 32 races in Corvettes. Bondurant is the first and only American to bring the World SportsCar Championship trophy home to America in the legendary Shelby Daytona Coupe #No. 26. He then rose to the highest level in racing with Ferrari in Formula 1 and prototypes. A Fateful Race Bondurant left the Formula 1 race series to race the even faster Can-Am cars with best friend and team driver, Peter Revson, in the Lola T70 Mark II. In 1967, a fateful race at Watkins Glen changed his entire career, and the Bondurant School was born. His steering arm broke at 150 mph, and, lying in traction at the hospital, he vividly remembers his conversation with God explaining to Bondurant that he was needed more on earth and to start a driving and safety school to save thousands of lives of those otherwise dying on the highways and in motorsports. Answering the call, on Feb. 14, 1968, Bondurant founded the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. For 50 years, it earned and held a reputation as the No. 1 racing school in the world, crediting Bondurant as “the global expert authority on driver training and safety.” Using his notorious racing skills, he copyrighted “The Bondurant Method.” Personally, he taught his hand-selected instructors how to educate the world to be better drivers. Bob and the Bondurant team graduated more than 500,000 students at his famous school, including Christian Bale, Paul Newman, Clint Eastwood, Nicolas Cage, and Tom Cruise, to name a few. Bondurant was actively at the track every day, enthusiastically greeting his new students until he was well over 85 years old. He kept racing too. Bondurant’s last championship was in 1997 for the World Cup Challenge, racing for Steve Saleen. Bondurant retired from racing at 79 after winning his last race at Pomona Raceway in his No. 72 ERA GT40. Bob Bondurant has had a worldwide impact on the motorsports industry, and his legacy will live on eternally as the Bondurant Racing School moves forward into the future. “My life has been lived in two halves,” Bondurant said. “The first was becoming a world-champion driver. The second was teaching the world to become champions.” The post Legendary Racer, Instructor Bob Bondurant Passes Away appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Mevotech recently announced the introduction of 358 new part numbers. Focusing on continually providing engineered solutions for the professional technician, the new part numbers cover a wide range of domestic and import passenger vehicles, trucks and SUVs up to 2021, the company noted. The release expands both the premium Supreme and ultra-engineered TTX programs with additional control arms, ball joints, inner and outer tie-rod ends, stabilizer-bar links and wheel-hub assemblies. The parts feature X-Factor design and material upgrades for higher durability and a longer service life, according to the company. Additionally, professional technicians now have access to more replacement bushing options for control arms, steering knuckles and stabilizer bars. Highlights from the release include: Patented front lower control arms for the 2021-2018 Honda Odyssey – providing an extended part service life with Mevotech’s exclusive patented BiMetallic technology (U.S. Patent No. 8757648) and other upgrades. Seven new ultra-engineered TTX wheel-hub assemblies – including: 2019-2017 Ford F-250/350/550 Super Duty series 2021-2018 Nissan Titan XD2019-2011 GM 2500 HD/3500 HD series 2019-2011 Ford Explorer Enhanced steering-repair alternatives – reducing installation time and improving overall part durability for the: 2021-2018 Jeep Wrangler2021-2019 Ford Ranger2021-2019 GM 1500 trucks and SUVs For more information, visit mevotech.com. The post Mevotech Expands Supreme, TTX Lines appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Loyalty programs are nothing new. Airlines and hotels have been offering them for decades. Thanks to the smartphone, however, customer-rewards programs no longer are the exclusive domain of large national retailers. In a Counterman webinar earlier this year, Autologue Computer Systems CEO Jim Franco and TexTalk LLC CEO Brad Duncan made the case for implementing a rewards program, and explained how independent parts stores can get in on the action with relative ease. As for why parts stores should consider launching a rewards program, here are some of the potential benefits: Encouraging Future Purchasing According to Duncan, the overarching goal of a rewards program “is to give your customers one more reason to buy from you.” OK, they already have plenty of reasons to buy from you. But, it never hurts to add another incentive for additional purchases. Customer Retention It’s much harder to acquire new customers than it is to retain your existing customers, which means neglecting your current customers can be a costly mistake. An active rewards program that focuses on customer retention can go a long way toward keeping those relationships fresh. Revenue Boost “If you have an effective rewards program, revenues should increase because of customers buying more – and more often,” Duncan asserted. A good program should help to keep your business front and center in your customers’ minds. Competitive Response With more and more retailers implementing some type of customer-loyalty program, chances are your competitors have one. That’s certainly the case if your local competitors include one (or more) of the national auto parts retailers. Customer Appreciation From cashback credit-card rewards to that free guac you earned for eating large quantities of Chipotle, consumers have come to expect their favorite retailers to give them a little something extra for their continued loyalty. A rewards program is a great way to show your customers that you value their business. Reach Out and Text Someone As alluded to earlier, the smartphone has leveled the playing field for smaller retailers that want to offer the same kind of customer-rewards experience that the national retailers do. That’s because the smartphone is more than just a phone with a built-in camera. It’s a digital wallet that – increasingly – is populated with apps for our favorite brands. During the webinar, Franco and Duncan explained that the smartphone is the focal point of Autologue’s eRewards customer-loyalty software. There’s no email or snail mail involved, and no plastic cards to print out for customers who sign up. By design, all interactions with the customer occur via phone. Franco and Duncan pointed to statistics showing that text messages enjoy a 98% read rate, which means your messaging has a great chance of reaching your customers when you contact them via phone. “We decided early on that we wanted to communicate directly using the most effective and powerful marketing conduit there is,” Duncan said. Parts stores can use Autologue’s eRewards to develop a loyalty program for retail or wholesale customers. The main difference is in how the rewards are defined. In an eRewards program for retail customers, rewards are dollar credits toward future purchases, and the “exchange rate” is set by the store. For example, a store might want to offer $5 in rewards for every $100 in purchases made by a retail customer enrolled in the program. A wholesale eRewards program is structured more like what you’d expect in a frequent-flyer program. In a wholesale program, rewards accumulate as points rather than dollars, based on total purchases or on incremental increases in purchases. The store defines the “points multiplier” – meaning the customer accrues “X” number of points for every dollar they spend. Points are redeemed for reward prizes that are determined by the store. With eRewards, parts sellers can group retail rewards members into one of three buckets – active, semi-active or inactive customers – and tailor their messaging based on the customer’s status. For example, an active customer would receive a rewards statement, which details their current rewards-program earnings, encourages online reviews and showcases current specials and promotions. A semi-active customer would receive a reminder statement, which shows rewards-dollars availability and encourages return visits. An inactive customer would receive a reactivation statement, which focuses on current specials and promotions to help re-energize the customer relationship. Duncan described the concept as “loyalty-loop technology.” “This is what eRewards is all about: managing the customer-visit pie chart, if you will,” he explained. “It’s automated customer retention.” You can learn a lot more about Autologue’s eRewards software by listening to the on-demand webinar, which you’ll find archived at www.counterman.com/webinars/. Or you can visit www.autologue.com. The post Building A Rewards Program For Your Auto Parts Store appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Trico Products Corp. announced the introduction of ANCO Fleet blades, a new line created specifically for worksite vehicles. Additionally, the company introduced new ANCO Factory Spec Rear, ANCO Winter and ANCO Extreme Weather blades. The new specialty blades are engineered to deliver top-notch performance in all driving conditions, the company said. The new wiper blades launched at AAPEX in Las Vegas and are available to vehicle service professionals nationwide. “ANCO’s goal is to use our extensive experience to keep drivers safe by providing clear visibility in any situation,” said Michael Kutek, product manager at TRICO. “Safety and performance are of the upmost importance to ANCO, and these newly upgraded products allow for us to deliver that to our customers.” ANCO Fleet blades have been created for light-to-medium-sized worksite vehicles at commercial job sites and other environments that require the removal of harsh debris from windshields. Engineered to perform in the toughest conditions, the blades maintain maximum windshield contact and snap on easily to deliver a constant, no-fuss performance, according to the company. The ANCO Extreme Weather blade offers a step up from the classic style, as they’re made with a robustly constructed armor to protect against the harshest winter-weather conditions. Its one-piece design conforms to the shape of any windshield and provides a clean wipe. The ANCO Winter blade is made for typical winter driving and features a rugged, protective rubber boot to prevent snow and ice buildup. The blades are constructed of high-grade steel for added strength, and a heavy-gauge wiper element resists tearing in sub-zero temperatures. The ANCO Factory Spec Rear blades are original-equipment replacement wiper blades designed to fit each vehicle’s specific wiper-arm type. Designed for easy replacement, the blade provides 360-degree driving visibility for rear windshields. ANCO products have been engineered with the latest technology to ensure a clear, streak-free wipe for all drivers. Offering coverage for the light-, commercial- and recreational-vehicle markets, ANCO is a global OEM and aftermarket supplier that offers a wide range of wiper blades for any condition. For additional information about ANCO and its products or to purchase these products, contact your local ANCO sales representative, or visit https://ancowipers.com/. The post ANCO Launches 4 Specialty Wiper-Blade Lines appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has just launched the Autodiagnos Drive, a remote vehicle-data solution designed to deliver advanced diagnostic information that service providers, fleet managers and repair facilities can use to maximize their data-driven services. “This easily installed, plug-and-play technology provides users with live access to extended vehicle diagnostic data for all popular makes and models of passenger cars, light trucks and commercial vehicles, so they stay continuously aware of the vehicle’s condition,” the company said in a news release. “Autodiagnos Drive helps customers increase productivity, reduce downtime, enhance customer service and gain better insights into the condition of the vehicles they service or manage. The system will also help them to quickly provide vehicle owners with reliable and up-to-date information about their vehicle’s health and performance parameters.” The Autodiagnos Drive remote vehicle-data solution is the result of years of development and engineering. It incorporates OEM diagnostic data, unique OEM-grade hardware and secure data routing and storage. The platform is hosted by Continental and integrates with customers’ own service platforms through APIs. This means that shops, fleets, insurance providers, roadside services and owner-operators will have secure and robust access to not only generic, but also OEM-specific vehicle data that is tailored to their needs, according to the company. In order to deliver results with excellent reliability and maximum security, Autodiagnos Drive uses the latest in cybersecurity standards and testing. The hardware is built to OEM standards, using diagnostic data purchased and/or licensed directly from the OEMs. “Access to remote vehicle data reduces the need to bring the vehicle to the service provider to assess its condition,” said Christopher Bahlman, head of diagnostics & services, Continental Commercial Vehicles and Services. “Furthermore, it can greatly increase productivity for service centers, as well as reducing headaches for vehicle owners. This is especially important given the complexity of today’s vehicles and the value of everyone’s time.” Continental’s Autodiagnos Drive is an “all-makes” remote vehicle-data solution for light-duty vehicles with CAN-based architectures and is suitable for use on nearly every light-duty vehicle produced since 2008, according to the company. It is easy to use, but robust and secure, and can be updated as vehicles evolve. It will be accessible to users on a 24-hour/seven-day basis. “Continental has worked with OEMs, global telecoms, providers of cybersecurity services, and other automotive professionals to create a platform that is unique in its ability to harness OEM diagnostics data, unify that data and route it to service providers to deliver insights about vehicle health and usage,” Bahlman added. “Whether it’s knowing fuel level, odometer, vehicle location or a broad array of vehicle data delivered in real time with the utmost security, Autodiagnos Drive is a flexible and scalable solution.” In addition to the new Autodiagnos Drive, Continental’s Diagnostics and Services group also features two major diagnostic-tool programs: Continental Autodiagnos PRO automotive diagnostic system and Continental Autodiagnos TPMS tools. Both programs are designed to meet the needs of aftermarket service professionals by streamlining vehicle data that technicians can use to analyze, diagnose and repair vehicles faster and better. For more information, visit autodiagnosdrive.com or contact salessupport-us@continental.com. The post Continental Launches Autodiagnos Drive Vehicle-Data Solution appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

A perfect match for the eco-friendly adventure of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, NRS Brakes recently expanded its line of premium galvanized brake pads designed to match the safety and the performance of the plug-in hybrid SUV. “NRS Brakes’ new EV brake pads for the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV reduce moisture dissipation and corrosion risk typical of electric-vehicle and hybrid brake pads to deliver a safe and smooth ride,” the company said in a news release. Recognized as the world’s longest-lasting brake pad, according to the company, NRS Brakes for the Outlander PHEV feature advanced noise-cancelling piston cushions and shims, best-in-class friction, a patented mechanical attachment and fully galvanized steel backing plates, which prevent issues related to rust and improve performance in challenging weather conditions. NRS Brakes require significantly fewer replacements, making them the most affordable option based on total cost of ownership over the life of the vehicle, according to the company. All NRS brake pads undergo rigorous testing in one of the world’s most advanced brake-testing labs to ensure quality, efficiency and performance. To view a complete listing of NRS galvanized brake pads and vehicle compatibility, visit https://nrsbrakes.com/. The post NRS Adds Galvanized Brake Pads For Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has introduced a new line of active grill shutters for popular Ford and Chrysler models. Previously available as a dealer-only part, Continental active grill shutters now are available to the aftermarket for direct replacement on popular Chrysler and Ford models. Continental currently offers 18 part numbers covering more than 16 million Chrysler, Ford and Lincoln VIO from 2012-2020. Key applications include the Chrysler 200; the Ford Focus, Escape, Mustang, Explorer, F-150 and Fusion; and Lincoln MKZ. Continental expects to expand coverage for its active grill shutters to more than 100 part numbers in 2022. “Continental developed this line of active grill shutters to meet the rising demand for affordable replacement parts for sophisticated vehicle systems, like engine cooling,” said Christina Bergstrom, senior product manager. “These shutters provide the same operation as the OE part, and ensure the vehicles function at the proper temperatures, improving fuel economy.” Active grill shutters play an important part in improve vehicle fuel efficiency by maintaining ideal engine operating temperatures. They open at lower speeds to help keep the engine cool and close at higher speeds to reduce drag. They also assist in engine warm-up by retaining heat while the vehicle is parked. For more information, visit: continentalaftermarket.com or contact salessupport-us@continental.com. The post Continental Launches Active Grill Shutters For Ford, Chrysler appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lumileds said it has taken a major step in addressing the growing concern over air purity and respiratory illnesses brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Lumileds has created the new Philips GoPure GP5611 automotive air purifier, a powerful and innovative car air purifier that’s engineered to clean air quickly and efficiently in most vehicle interiors and help reduce the risk of airborne transmission of viruses and bacteria, according to the company. “The new Philips GoPure GP5611 is so advanced that it can capture ultra-fine particles, including microbes, in just 10 minutes, and its convenient design makes it an easy fit in most vehicle cup holders,” said Aubry Baugh, Lumileds product marketing manager. The GoPure GP5611 features three layers of defense: a Philips SaniFilter Plus filter, a powerful UVC light and a HESAMax filtration cartridge. The Philips SaniFilter Plus filter has been tested at IUTA laboratory in Germany and proven to capture 99% of ultra-fine particles, including particles as small as 0.004 microns that can get deep into the lungs and may create serious health risks, according to the company. The filter captures bacteria and respiratory viruses as well as airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander at a 99% efficiency. The Philips SaniFilter Plus filter features a special anti-microbial layer to inhibit the growth of microorganisms inside the device, including mold spores. UVC light damages the molecular bonds that hold DNA together, so it is highly effective at eliminating bacteria and viruses. For decades, UVC light has been used for sterilization in hospitals, transportation, factories and more. Now, it is being used to help clean the air inside cars. The Philips UVC lighting module inside the GoPure GP5611 is designed to kill bacteria and viruses trapped in the filter by exposing them to ultraviolet light. The UVC LEDs used in the module were tested independently from the air purifier at KR Biotech Lab on Sars-CoV-2 (COVID-19-causing virus) by applying UV light directly onto the virus in a petri dish, effectively destroying 99% of the virus in five minutes. In the GoPure GP5611, the UVC light acts on the particles captured by the filter. An air purifier does not treat or prevent COVID-19, and by itself, does not protect against exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19, but it can be part of a plan to help protect motorists from exposure, according to the EPA. The post Lumileds Introduces GoPure GP5611 Automotive Air Purifier appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Trico Products Corp. has announced the launch of three new TRICO Solutions lines of wiper blades that are designed to meet unique performance requirements specific to some of the most popular vehicle types on the road. Available now at Advance Auto Parts across the United States, the TRICO Solutions series features three different blade types: TRICO Truck, TRICO Asian Fit and TRICO High Mileage. “The TRICO Solutions series is the result of a culture of innovation that has kept Trico products positioned as ‘The Future of Wipers since 1917,’” said Dan Ehde, vice president of wiper product and engineering for TRICO. “TRICO Solutions are engineered to provide drivers with optimal performance based on the specific type of vehicle they drive.” TRICO Truck is designed exclusively for trucks and are engineered with stronger features to maintain maximum windshield contact in all conditions. The blades are 20% heavier than typical beam blades and have rugged airfoils that repel dirt, debris, snow and ice, according to the company. TRICO Asian Fit is designed to provide an exact factory match for Asian nameplate vehicles. Exactly matching the hybrid style and performance of original-equipment wipers, they feature a low-profile for improved wind lift resistance and a polymer shell that protects the blade from the elements. Finally, TRICO High Mileage blades are specifically designed for worn wiper arms on vehicles that have logged more than 75,000 miles. The blades are engineered with an aerodynamic airfoil and a high-mileage coupler that uses wind force to distribute optimal pressure. “High Mileage blades will continue to deliver best-in-class load distribution with as much as a 40% reduction in arm load pressure,” the company said in a news release. The new TRICO Solutions line will be featured at AAPEX, and visitors can get more details at the First Brands Group booth, A3638. For additional information about TRICO and its products, contact your local TRICO sales representative, or visit www.tricoproducts.com. The post Trico Introduces 3 New Lines Of Specialized Wiper Blades appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Delphi Technologies Aftermarket, a brand of BorgWarner Inc., will showcase its latest technologies at AAPEX (Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo). The event takes place Nov. 2-4 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. Delphi is exhibiting in booth 5027. At the show, visitors to the company booth can learn firsthand about launches, product-line expansions and electrification-program updates. “By expanding our product lines and launching new parts, we’re demonstrating our investment to meet our main objective: growing our customers’ businesses and accelerating additional revenue opportunities for distributors and garages in North America,” said Malcolm Sissmore, Delphi Technologies Aftermarket sales and marketing vice president. “We are also very excited about our technical partnership with Alpine F1 Team and want to share more with our customers. The Delphi Technologies’ branded logo will appear on Alpine F1 Team’s garage environment and commercial assets and on the A521 car at selected Grand Prix.” New Fuel-Tank Cleaning Tool Debuts at Show Delphi Technologies Aftermarket continues as a fuel-handling market leader with a full-service solution of reliable parts and expert customer support, according to the company. “Combining the benefits of original-equipment (OE) technology with performance and durability engineered specifically for the aftermarket, the company maintains a robust portfolio and continues to innovate in the category,” Delphi said in a news release. The new fuel-tank cleaning tool, the FC02, is designed to efficiently clean a hard-to-drop fuel tank before installing a new pump module. Installing a new fuel pump in an old fuel tank without a way to effectively clean that tank presents a challenge for technicians who want to avoid premature wear or failure of the new pump from debris and contamination. The FC02 fuel tank tool from Delphi Technologies Aftermarket is an easy and quick solution that allows technicians to maximize customer satisfaction and revenue opportunities from high quality fuel maintenance services, according to the company. Enhanced Core Aftermarket Portfolio Steering and suspension is another significant area of portfolio expansion for guests visiting the booth to discover more about. Delphi Technologies Aftermarket has added 400 SKUs in 2021, now offering more than 8,000 part numbers in the catalogue. “The company is committed to continuous product-line expansion to provide a comprehensive portfolio including first-to-market control arms, tie rods, inner and outer tie-rod ends, sway-bar links, ball joints, bushings, drag links, idler arms, pitman arms, trailing arms and more,” Delphi said in a news release. Delphi Technologies Aftermarket also has expanded its engine-management portfolio, adding more thann 350 part numbers in the last 18 months. Maintaining full-line coverage for ignition coils and MAF sensors, Delphi now offers more than 2,000 engine-management SKUs. Delphi Technologies Aftermarket’s engine-management products are backed by stringent OE development and product validation methods for reliable and accurate OE performance, the company noted. Electrification for the Aftermarket Delphi Technologies Aftermarket’s pioneering product portfolio benefits from BorgWarner’s strategic business investments to globally expand its electrification capabilities, allowing aftermarket customers access to OE-quality replacement parts. Automotive power electronics help in the efficient conversion, conduction and control of electric power in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs). At AAPEX, the company will showcase the latest power electronics for the aftermarket: Delphi Technologies Aftermarket’s mode 2 charging cables for Chevy Volt and other EV models. Diagnostics A full-service solution includes diagnostics as an important step to a reliable repair. Visitors to the Delphi Technology Aftermarket booth “will find world-leading Hartridge test benches and see their advanced capabilities firsthand.” The company will showcase the Excalibur GDi Master at AAPEX, which gives technicians the ability to test gasoline direct injection and port fuel injection up to 250-bar pressure, in test cycles as little as five minutes. Also present at the show, Delphi will display the Sabre CRi Master – a compact, all-makes diesel CR injector test bench packed with advanced functionality for injector testing and injector coding. The post Delphi Aftermarket Announces Portfolio Expansion At AAPEX appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article