April 2020 Midwest Edition by Autobody News

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Market Tsunami Sweeps Over Collision Industry by Autobody News staff

The last month’s all-but-unprecedented plunge in market conﬁdence has prompted the Federal administration to request $850B in support for the economy including $50B for the airline industry and $250B for small business loans. The macro impact to the economy of all the closures is being played out in business pressure on companies large and small. As of March 17, the virus has infected more than 5,145 and killed at least 91 Americans, according to

data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Globally, the virus has infected more than 189,386 people and killed at least 7,504. Given the slow ramp up of testing in the U.S. the numbers are likely far higher domestically. It’s likely that any public event involving more than 50 people scheduled for this spring is canceled or postponed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now urging a nationwide halt to gatherings of more than 10 people for See Market Tsunami , Page 20

Due to the recent cancelations and postponements of events, please check for up to date information on any meetings discussed herein. For updates on all meetings see www.autobodynews.com

U.S. Lawmakers, Trial Lawyers Clash Over Self-Driving Vehicle Rules by Keith Laing, The Detroit News

Lawmakers in the U.S. House on Feb. 11 took to task a trial lawyers’ lobby group that helped kill a bill setting regulations for self-driving cars. The Washington-based American Association for Justice, which lobbies for trial lawyers who typically represent plaintiﬀs, had objected to a lack of concrete protections that would ensure the right to sue an automaker if someone is hurt or killed in a self-driving vehicle.

The 2018 Senate bill had been championed by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Bloomﬁeld Township. A similar measure was approved unanimously by the House in 2017, but lawmakers had to start over when the new Congress began in 2019. Speaking during a hearing of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee on Feb. 11, U.S. Rep. Greg Walden, R-OR, placed blame for the roadblock mostly on trial lawyers, who typically align

AUTOBODYNEWS.COM Vol. 9 / Issue 7 / April 2020

Auto Body Parts Association Denied By Supreme Court in Ford Parts Patent Fight by Matthew Bultman, Bloomberg Law

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to consider an automotive trade group’s challenge to design patents covering parts for Ford Motor Co.’s F-150 pickup truck. The high court’s denial of the Automotive Body Parts Association’s appeal leaves in place a decision that rejected the ABPA’s attempt to block Ford from enforcing patents on headlamp and hood designs against the group’s members. Replacement parts distributors and insurance companies for years

pushed for legislation that would cut the amount of time automakers could enforce design patents against collision repair parts makers.

The ABPA, a trade association representing companies that sell vehicle replacement parts, was among those that backed the legislation, See Ford Parts Patent Fight, Page 22

2020 NADA Expo Brought 23,000 to Las Vegas by Ed Attanasio

The jam-packed aisles at the Las Vegas Convention Center were ﬁlled with 23,000 attendees, dealers and suppliers from across the globe at the 2020 National Automobile Dealer Association (NADA) Convention & Expo in Las Vegas, Feb. 14 through Feb. 17.

See Self-Driving Vehicle Rules, Page 23

PERMIT #288 ANAHEIM, CA

PAID

Change Service Requested P.O. BOX 1516, CARLSBAD, CA 92018

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE Midwest_Issue_0420.indd 1

38 YEARS

UpdatePromise was in full force at NADA 2020. Pictured, back row, (l to r) Adam Guizado, Stephen McCallum, Krista Lucchino, Chief Operation Officer Richard Pannazzo, President and CEO Curtis Nixon, Tyler Holman, Brandon Nixon and Taylor Su. (Front row, l to r) TJ Huntington and Chad Genco. Credit: Update Promise

The annual NADA Show brings the entire industry together for the world’s largest automotive retail conference and expo, including companies that make products and equipment for the collision repair industry. Thousands of dealers and managers, OEM executives, allied industry, international guests and collision repair professionals connect with their peers and learn about the industry’s innovations. Over the course of four days, attendees were able to visit 500-plus exhibitors, more than 60 workshops, dealer franchise meetings and a lengthy list of keynote speakers at NADA 2020. 2020 NADA Chairman Rhett Ricart said times are good for the nearly 17,000 dealerships in the U.S., but there is still much work to do. “NADA has never been in a more ﬁscally ﬁt position,” he said. “We want to make sure we can leverage that for advocacy as well as we want to get deeper and better education and tools for all the dealers.” Collision-related companies such as Global Finishing Solutions, SpaneSee 2020 NADA Expo, Page 24

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CONTENTS AASP-MN Announces 2020 Annual Meeting & Leadership Conference ��6 ASA Ohio Launches All New Collision Performance Leaders Group ��12 CARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body Opens in MN ��16 Collision Hub’s Kristen Felder Shared Lessons on File Documentation at AASPI Annual Meeting ��13 Fire Destroys Auto Body Shop in Warren, OH ��16

Resources Available for Collision Repairers ��34 Phillips - Uber for Business Offers Collision Shops Alternative for Customer Transportation ��36 Sisk - Driving the Future at WIN’s 2020 Educational Conference, Now Postponed ��42 Sisk - Mike Anderson Discusses “Utilizing Technology to Thrive and Not Just Survive in 2020” during February CIECAst ��46 Yoswick - Long-time Industry Lobbyist Offers Perspectives on Government’s Role in Industry Issues ��26

KABA to Host Second Annual Trade Show ��12 Longtime Dealership Parts Director Retiring After Building a Powerhouse Department ��8 Metallica Scholars Grant Gets an Encore at CLC ��10 MI Gov. Whitmer Signs Legislation to Strengthen Mobility Industry ��6 OEM Repair Procedures Legislation Examined in MN ��14 Students Participate in WI Auto Show Competition ��16 The Future is Clear at MCRA’s Bi-Annual Rocky Mountain Trade Show and Educational Conference ��14 Vantage Students Head To SkillsUSA Ohio State Championships ��8

NATIONAL 2020 NADA Expo Brought 23,000 to Las Vegas ��1 ABPA Denied By Supreme Court in Ford Parts Patent Fight ��1 Auto Glass Industry Faces Calibration Issues ��22 Automating Claims for Drivers & Insurers ��52 Dealership-Based Collision Repair Facilities

Anderson - Performing All OEM Safety Inspections is Critical—but OEMs Can Help Us Too ��30 Antonelli - Techs of Tomorrow: 16-Year-Old Texas Student Views Collision Repair as Art Form ��44 Ledoux - ADAS for Off-Roaders ��38 Phillips - SCRS Executive Director Shares Free

franchised dealerships operate collision repair centers, the National Automobile Dealers Association reports. But CARSTAR forecasts that could grow. CARSTAR has created partnerships with some 50 automobile dealerships in the U.S. and Canada that combine the local dealer’s brand name with CARSTAR’s proprietary operating procedures, insurance relationships, training and procurement programs. Source: CARSTAR

Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Contributing Writers: John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr, Stacey Phillips, Victoria Antonelli, Gary Ledoux Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano, Andrew Staicer (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Digital Marketing Manager: Bill Pierce Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia Graphic Designer: Vicki Sitarz Online and Web Content Editor: Abby Andrews Accounting Manager: Heather Priddy Editorial/Sales Assistant: Randi Scholtes Office Assistant: Dianne Pray

Serving Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and adjacent metro areas. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher. ©2020 Adamantine Media LLC.

Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 40

Matrix Automotive Finishes �� 9

Axalta Coating Systems �� 2

McGrath City Hyundai �� 30

BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 53

Michigan Collision Equipment �� 13

Bob Hook Chevrolet �� 35

Midwest Parts Group ��18-19

Car-O-Liner �� 21

MINI Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 52

Certified Automotive Parts Association �� 6

MontiPower Americas, Inc. �� 23

Classic Chevrolet �� 37

MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers ��32-33

Classifieds �� 54

Morrison’s Auto Parts �� 20

Courtesy Subaru �� 43

Nissan/Infiniti Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 44

Eagle Abrasives, Inc �� 15

Patrick BMW MINI �� 34

ECS Automotive Concepts �� 22

Patrick Hyundai �� 38

Equalizer Industries, Inc. �� 8

PPG Refinish �� 11

Gandrud Parts Center �� 25

Richfield-Bloomington Honda �� 36

GM Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 47

SATA Dan-Am Company �� 5

Haldon Company �� 17

Sears Imported Autos, Inc �� 24

Hawkinson Kia �� 16

Shaheen Chevrolet Parts Warehouse �� 42

Autobody News P.O. Box 1516 Carlsbad, CA 92018 (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com editor@autobodynews.com

to Grow ��3 Expect Towing To Kill Range Of Electric Pickup Trucks ��49 Fatal Tesla Model X Crash: Driver was Playing Video Game ��4 General Motors’ $20 Billion EV Plan Starts by Abandoning Trump’s Emissions Rollback ��50 Insurers Win Again—Mostly—in Antitrust

COLUMNISTS

CARSTAR, North America’s premier network of independently-owned collision repair facilities, foresees a resurgence of collision repair facilities based in auto dealerships throughout the U.S. and Canada, following the 2020 NADA Show in Las Vegas. This comes in response to changing dealership dynamics, as dealership owners look to improve their facility performance and profitability. Today, nearly two of every five

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

REGIONAL

Dealership-Based Collision Repair Facilities to Grow

Lawsuits Filed by Body Shops ��50

Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers ��28-29

Spanesi Americas �� 12

Market Tsunami Sweeps Over Collision Industry ��1

Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 49

Steck Manufacturing Company �� 10

Tesla Model Y Delivery Emails are Being Sent

Innovative Tools & Technologies, Inc �� 27

Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 48

Kelly BMW �� 26

The Porsche Exchange �� 14

Kia Motors America, Inc �� 7

The Sharpe Collection of Automobiles �� 45

Kia Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 51

VanDevere Chevrolet �� 41

Laurel Auto Group of Westmont �� 39

VanDevere Kia �� 41

LKQ Corporation �� 55

Zimmer Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram �� 56

to Customers ��4 More Bad News at Nissan Toyota Fuel Pump Recall Expanded to Nearly 2 Million Vehicles ��53 U.S. Lawmakers, Trial Lawyers Clash Over Self-Driving Vehicle Rules ��1

Luther Bloomington Acura-Subaru �� 31 autobodynews.com / APRIL 2020 AUTOBODY NEWS 3

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Fatal Tesla Model X Crash: Driver was Playing Video Game by David A. Wood, CarComplaints.com

A deadly 2018 Tesla Model X crash in the area of U.S. 101 and State Route 85 in California was caused by the driver, Tesla’s Autopilot system, inaction by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and inaction by officials in California. The Model X crash killed 38-yearold Walter Huang, who was playing a video game on his phone when the SUV slammed head-on into a damaged crash attenuator installed to decrease crash forces. In a report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Huang was partially blamed for the 70 mph crash for not paying attention to his surroundings, the road and the Model X. Huang had even previously complained about his Model X steering toward the same attenuator when Autopilot was engaged, yet he still allowed it to happen while he focused on his phone. The NTSB says Autopilot was engaged with Traffic-Aware Cruise Control set at 75 mph when the lane-keeping assist system Autosteer initiated a left steering input while the SUV was about 5.9 seconds and 560 feet from the crash attenuator. Autopilot and other safety systems apparently took a vacation because the forward collision warning system did not provide an alert and automatic emergency braking did not activate. Huang also did nothing

to avoid the crash, not by steering, braking or any other action. Huang may not have taken any actions to avoid the crash, but there is still the issue of why the Model X failed to follow the correct lane in the first place.

Credit: CarComplaints.com

NTSB investigators believe various causes were responsible. These include bright sunlight that interfered with the cameras on the SUV, road lane lines that were faded and because of how close the vehicle ahead was to the Tesla Model X. In its final report, the NTSB found the probable cause of the crash as Tesla’s Autopilot system, which steered the Model X into the barrier. Also listed are the driver’s complete lack of response due to distraction from a game on his cell phone, and his overreliance on Autopilot. The report says the crash attenuator barrier had been damaged in a separate crash more than a week before the Model X crash, and the damaged barrier contributed to the driver’s injuries. The California Highway Patrol

was also blamed for failing to report the previous attenuator damage, and the maintenance department of the California Department of Transportation was named for not repairing the barrier in a timely manner. In addition to blaming NHTSA, which has done nothing to prevent distracted driving, the NTSB said tech companies should do more to create phones and devices that cannot be used while driving unless in emergencies. NHTSA has also allowed automakers to install every kind of distracting infotainment system imaginable while automakers boast of the safety of the systems, even though the devices are incredibly distracting. The NTSB also says Tesla is failing consumers by placing vehicles on the roads with technology in “beta” mode, which means the systems are being tested on public roads and then updated when defects or bugs are discovered. According to the NTSB, it should be obvious that crashes and injuries will likely occur, then Tesla will deny all responsibility by telling the public they were warned the systems were still being tested. Government officials emphasize there is no vehicle that can drive itself, a fact that seems to be lost on many Tesla drivers. Safety advocates have been screaming for years about NHTSA allowing automakers to self-regulate their self-driving cars and technology, primarily by creating voluntary

guidelines that are contributing to crashes and deaths. The Center for Auto Safety says the story may be about Tesla and the NTSB, but the real story is the lack of leadership at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. According to the Center, NHTSA’s “willing ignorance or extraordinary incompetence” is causing the agency to “fade ever more into irrelevance.” The NTSB crash report blames NHTSA and the U.S. Department of Transporation for ignoring multiple previous safety recommendations and taking a “nonregulatory approach to automated vehicle safety.” The report says NHTSA has failed to protect consumers by failing to ensure automakers install safeguards for systems related to automation. “The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s approach to the oversight of automated vehicles is misguided, because it essentially relies on waiting for problems to occur rather than addressing safety issues proactively.” - NTSB report According to the NTSB, partial automation doesn’t mean “self-driving,” and a driver cannot read a book, watch a movie, read a cell phone or play a video game without risking their own and everyone’s property and life. The driver’s family filed a lawsuit against Tesla by claiming Mr. Huang believed the technology was safe. We thank CarComplaints.com for reprint permission.

Tesla Model Y, Crossover with Full Self-Driving Potential, Delivery Emails are Being Sent to Customers by Randell Suba

Tesla has begun sending Model Y delivery confirmation emails to early customers, notifying them that their all-electric crossover is coming soon. Customers in Northern California who purchased a Tesla Model Y Performance with Performance Upgrade are being notified that their vehicle is almost ready for delivery. The confirmation email to customers is part of the final step and aimed at preparing customers for any remaining steps needed such as trade-ins or financing prior to taking delivery of their new vehicle. Model Y buyer Howard Feinstein shared on Twitter a screenshot of the email from Tesla saying: “The next step for you is to confirm

when you’re able to take delivery so we can ensure the best experience possible. Once you confirm your availability, we’ll send you an update in the coming days to notify you when you can log into your Tesla Account and complete any remaining steps such as financing or trade-in. Your Tesla Advisor will be available to answer any additional questions you may have. We’re excited to have Model Y join your home and be a part of your transition to sustainable energy. Welcome to the Tesla family.” Members of the Tesla Model Y Facebook group corroborated what Feinstein said. Some of the members of the group who also just recently ordered the Performance version of the all-electric crossover and are in North-

ern California also received the email notification. Tesla’s strategy to deliver new products that are fully-optioned to customers closest to its factory in Fremont isn’t a new one. The company adopted a similar priority schedule in 2017 when Model 3’s started rolling off the production line. According to the delivery date email sent to customers, it would appear that the first Model Y deliveries will take place no earlier than March 15, 2020. Elon Musk confirmed during the Q4 2019 earnings call that Tesla has started a limited volume production run of the most energy-efficient electric SUV in Fremont last January or roughly 10 months after building a prototype. The full-spec Model Y costs around $67,990 including the Performance Up-

grade and the Full-Self Driving feature. It will cost $1,000 more if one opts for another paint color other than the standard Pearl White Multi-Coat. The Model Y was first expected to hit the production line in the fall of 2020 but was later moved up to the summer of 2020. However, in its Q4 2019 Update Letter, Tesla confirmed that the first deliveries of the Model Y crossover will happen before the end of Q1, marking a significant improvement in the pace of vehicle production. The Fremont factory in California is expected to churn out 500,000 vehicles this year while Giga Shanghai is expected to roll out the electric crossover for the Chinese market starting 2021. We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

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MI Gov. Whitmer Signs Legislation to Strengthen Mobility Industry the Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification. “In the state that put the world Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed two executive directives on wheels and that’s home to some of to help strengthen the state’s auto in- the most innovative, driven workers on the planet, we must continue to dustry as of Feb. 25. work to solidify Michigan as a global leader in mobility,” Whitmer said. “That’s why we’re harnessing our resources in state government to ensure Michigan remains the go-to state to build, test, and deploy the cars of the future. I’m excited to work with leaders in the Office of Future Mobility to build on the progress we’ve seen in the last year and cement our status as a hub for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs executive directives to innovation and opportunity strengthen the auto industry during the 2020 MICHAuto in the automotive sector.” Summit in Detroit. CREDIT: Office of Gretchen Whitmer Whitmer made the announcement of the directives during The two directives are as follows: the 2020 MICHAuto Summit in De• Executive Directive 2020-1 - di- troit. rects the creation of the Michigan The move has drawn praise from Office of Future Mobility and Elec- the auto industry. “Ford commends trification and the designation of a Governor Whitmer on prioritizing Chief Mobility Officer to head the and streamlining the state’s mobility efforts, which will help to secure office; • Executive Order 2020-2 - creates Michigan as a leader in this new era by Will Kriss, WKZO News

of transportation,” said John Lawler, CEO of Ford Autonomous Vehicles LLC and vice president of Ford’s Mobility Partnerships. “We appreciate Governor Whitmer’s recognition that the freedom of movement unlocks

denced in our recent announcements to create the first all-electric GM assembly and manufacture a variety of electric vehicles, including the self-driving Origin, in our backyard. Leveraging our capabilities and Re-

“In the state that put the world on wheels and that’s home to some of the most innovative, driven workers on the planet, we must continue to work to solidify Michigan as a global leader in mobility,” — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer socioeconomic benefits and drives human progress forward. We will continue to be a collaborative partner in making transportation accessible to all.” General Motors also weighed in with praise of their own. “General Motors applauds Governor Whitmer’s measures to propel the state’s mobility leadership forward,” said Brian O’Connell, General Motors regional director, state government relations. “Michigan will continue to play a key role in our commitment to advance the future of mobility as evi-

search & Development leadership, we look forward to working with the State to create an all-electric future.” Officials say that these directives will help expand on the efforts that have already been made, such as the Electric Vehicle Charger Placement Optimization project created by the Michigan Energy Office. Whitmer’s office say that over 11,000 automotive jobs have been created in the last year. We thank WKZO News for reprint permission.

AASP-MN Announces 2020 Annual Meeting & Leadership Conference The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota is pleased to announce its annual meeting and leadership conference, to be held April 23 at Delta Hotels by Marriott Minneapolis Northeast. The event, themed “Power Up Your Leadership,” offers a lineup of seminars tailor-made for auto service and collision repair shop owners and managers and presented by some of the industry’s top trainers. In addition to the impressive agenda of educational programming, there will be ample opportunity for attendees to network and socialize with their peers and industry vendors as they showcase new products and services during happy hour. Here’s what’s in store: 8 to 9:30 a.m. – Opening General Session: Leadership Redefined: Ownership, Engagement, Results! presented by Meridith Powell, MotionFirst 9:45 to 11:30 a.m. – ADAS Presentation and Roundtables 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. –

Luncheon Keynote: Make Accountability Your Competitive Edge, presented by Sam Silverstein, Sam Silverstein Enterprises, Inc. 2 to 4 p.m. – How to Use the Storybrand Framework to Clarify Your Message, presented by Kim Walker, Shop Marketing Pros 2 to 4 p.m. – Prove it! File Documentation for Profit, presented by Kristen Felder, Collision Hub 2 to 4 p.m. – Top 8 Front Counter Mistakes & How to Avoid Them, presented by Rick White, 180Biz 4 to 6 p.m. – Vendors Showcase & Social Hour For registration information, visit the AASP-MN website, www. aaspmn.org or contact the AASP-MN office at 612-623-1110. AASP-MN is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving Minnesota’s automotive service industry and the success of its nearly 750 members. For more information, visit www.aaspmn.org. Obtained via AASP-MN.

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Longtime Dealership Parts Director Retiring After Building a Powerhouse Department by Abby Andrews

In 1970, Rick Stewart was a recent high school graduate who took a job as a parts delivery driver for a local Ford dealership, thinking it was a temporary gig. Instead, Stewart climbed the ranks and now, five decades later, he is the parts director for Commonwealth Dodge in Louisville, KY, just now contemplating leaving the parts department—if his boss will let him. “He can’t retire, because he can’t be replaced,” said Howard Kearschner, general manager of Commonwealth Dodge. Since Stewart was named the dealership’s parts director in January 1983, he built it up from a two-employee operation with $40,000 in inventory to one boasting 22 employees and $1 million in inventory. That growth was largely spurred by Stewart’s idea to expand the dealership’s parts inventory to enable it to sell wholesale to local collision repair shops. Stewart said he worked with wholesale customers in his previous job before joining Commonwealth, and he knew he had the experience

and contacts to make it work. “They really believed in me,” Stewart said of the dealership’s management team. “They trusted me, and helped me increase the inventory. They knew I was enthusiastic and had the contacts.”

Rick Stewart, right, parts director at Commonwealth Dodge in Louisville, KY, for 37 years, is contemplating retirement. Howard Kearschner, left, general manager, is not so sure about that. Credit: Aaron Poole

That trust turned out to be wellplaced; the dealership’s parts department is now the largest supplier of Mopar parts in the tri-state area, and No. 17 in the U.S. “It was Rick’s idea; he took the ball and ran,” Kearschner said.

Stewart said the key is building relationships with body shop owners, who have the same goal he does—to take care of customers. “Our (dealership’s) slogan some years back was ‘We put ourselves in your shoes,’” Stewart said. Stewart said his favorite part of his career is the people he has met and worked with over the years. He also reflected on how technology has changed the way he does his job.“We went from looking up parts in big heavy books on the counter to online catalogs,” Stewart said. “We used to have to hand write and bill out every parts invoice,” he said. “For a collision repair, you could have 12 to 15 parts, all with numbers, price, information, customer information, and it had to be quick and legible. Now everything is done on the computer. “It’s been an amazing change to see over the years,” Stewart said. “Young people who work here can’t imagine how we could do that.” Speaking of young people, Stewart said he would like to see more consider a career like his, that does not require a college degree to get started.

“A little enthusiasm and hard work will get you places,” Stewart said. “It blessed me with a great career and good financial standing. “College is great, but it’s not for everybody,” he said. After more than 37 years as parts director at Commonwealth, retirement is on Stewart’s horizon. Though he does not have a date in mind, Stewart is already leaning toward continuing to “hang around” part time—”if they need that”—pulling parts or driving a delivery truck again. But he’s also looking forward to spending more time on a golf course and traveling with his wife to visit their four children and 10 grandchildren, some of whom live in Colorado and Utah. “I’ve put in the hard work,” Stewart said. “I’m fortunate to be able to take some trips and see parts of this country.” Kearschner said whenever that day comes, Stewart will be sorely missed.“His department runs like it’s on auto pilot,” Kearschner said. “But he’s an even better person than he is an employee. “And he’s a good golfer,” Kearschner added with a laugh.

Vantage Students Head To SkillsUSA Ohio State Championships Congratulations to the following Vantage Career Center students who placed in the top three in their category at the 2019-20 SkillsUSA Regional Championships, held Feb. 14 at Penta Career Center in Perrysburg, Ohio:

Back row, left to right: John Pseekos, Trevor Siefker, Jacksyn Nichols and Tanner Mathewson. Front row, left to right: Violet Taylor, Jacob Rose and Makenna Suever. Not pictured are Mark Rice and Robert Hobart. Credit: Submitted photo

• John Pseekos (Delphos Jefferson), Tanner Mathewson (Delphos Jefferson) and Makenna Suever (Van Wert), senior welding, received gold in welding fabrication - Trevor Siefker (Kalida), senior precision machining, received gold in CNC lathe

• Jacob Rose (Paulding), senior precision machining, received gold in CNC technician • Jacksyn Nichols (Ft. Jennings), senior welding, received silver in welding • Mark Rice (Delphos Jefferson), senior carpentry, received silver in carpentry • Violet Taylor (Parkway), senior criminal justice, received silver in extemporaneous speaking • Robert Hobart (Paulding), senior auto collision repair, received bronze in collision repair More than 700 students competed at the SkillsUSA Regional competition in various divisions. Vantage Career Center will have a total of 21 students representing Northwest Ohio at the SkillsUSA Ohio State Championships on April 4 in Dayton, Ohio, and April 7-8 in Columbus. Vantage wishes all our competitors the best of luck at SkillsUSA state competition. We thank The West Bend News for reprint permission.

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Metallica Scholars Grant Gets an Encore at CLC by College of Lake County

College receives second year of funding from Grammy Award-winning band’s foundation; monies cover eight career programs. College of Lake County (CLC) students will rock on another year! $100,000 in scholarships will be available for students studying in career programs through Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation (AWMH). CLC was selected as one of 10 community colleges in the country to receive this heavy metal grant for the second consecutive year. The funding, in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), is part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative sponsored by the multi-Grammy Award-winning band’s foundation. More than 60 CLC students benefited from the grant during the inaugural year. They received full-tuition scholarships in one of eight career programs: automotive collision repair, automotive technology, electrical engineering technology, computerized numerical controls, laser/photonics/ optics, automation/robotics/mechatronics, heating and air conditioning (HVAC) and welding. “With more than 700 medical instrument, precision manufacturing and tooling companies in Lake County, the College plays a crucial role in providing a talent pipeline for the local workforce,” said CLC President Lori Suddick. “These scholarships help students pay for classes, equipment and other financial burdens so they can complete their credential and engage in a career that provides them a family sustaining living wage. We are honored to be selected again for the Metallica Scholars Initiative.” Wheeling resident and grant re cipient Wael Jabban completed his Automation Robotics Mechatronics certificate last spring. “After hearing the field was in dire need of skilled workers, I quickly completed the short-term program, eager to start working in automation,” he said. “The scholarship allowed me to become a full-time student without worry about the distractions of a part time job.” Jabban is now gainfully employed as a field service engineer at an international robotics company. The Metallica Scholars Initiative

was created in 2019 through a partnership between All Within My Hands and the AACC, a Washington, D.C. based organization representing the country’s more than 1,000 community colleges. As one of 10 colleges representing communities that had supported Metallica during its recent

U.S. tours, CLC received $100,000 last year toward programs designed to support students training to enter the American workforce. Subscribe Final reports from all 10 schools including more than 700 first-wave Metallica Scholars revealed an overall 80-90 percent program completion rate and 95 percent job placement for those Metallica Scholars who completed their certifications/studies. Year two of the Metallica Scholars Initiative will add five more community colleges, bringing the total number of schools to 15. It will also be receiving matching grants from new partners supplementing All Within My Hands’ cumulative $1.5 million contribution. “Our 2019 Metallica Scholars have exceeded expectations and inspired us in more ways than we could have possibly imagined,” said Metallica’s Lars Ulrich. “We’re really excited to be able to expand the initiative in its second year, assisting more students in achieving their dreams and transforming their lives in 2020.” As was the case last year, this year’s Metallica Scholars awards were distributed following a competitive application process, and the benefactors are eager to continue the program’s success. “The impact of the Metallica Scholars Initiative has been extremely gratifying,” said Dr. Edward Frank, Executive Director of All Within My Hands. “We are indebted to all the schools, the AACC, and co-sponsors for their dedication to making this program successful and their help in changing the lives

of so many people. This transformative effect is exactly what the band and the board had hoped for when we started this program.” Jennifer Worth, AACC senior vice president of workforce and economic development, said, “The colossal reputation of Metallica has given these colleges, and the trades they are supporting, new life and attention. It has been an honor and a privilege to have the band’s and foundation board of directors’ trust to design and implement programs that will change the lives of hard-working Americans looking to advance.” For more information on the AWMH and Metallica Scholars initiative, visit https://www.allwithinmy hands.org/news-media/news/metallica -scholars-year To apply for a scholarship, visit https://clcillinois.academicworks. com/opportunities/4435 About College of Lake County: The College of Lake County is a comprehensive community college committed to equitable high-quality

education, cultural enrichment and partnerships to advance the diverse communities it serves in northeastern Illinois. Offered at three campuses in Grayslake, Vernon Hills and Waukegan or online, college classes are affordable and accessible to help each student achieve academic, career and personal goals. More than 70,000 students graduated with degrees and certificates since the college opened in 1969. The College of Lake County is the only higher-education institution ranked among the top 15 best places to work in Illinois by Forbes and is a national leader in many areas, including sustainability and conservation. Learn more at www.clcillinois.edu or call (847) 5432000. About the All Within My Hands Foundation: The AWMH Foundation was established in 2017 by Metallica as a means to invest in the people and places that have supported the band. It also provides a mechanism for Metallica’s See Metallica Scholars, Page 24

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ASA Ohio Launches All New Collision Performance Leaders Group by Chasidy Rae Sisk

ASA Ohio launched its brand-new Collision Performance Leaders Group (CPL), Feb. 6 at Ohio Auto Kolor Training Center in Columbus, OH. ASA Ohio Executive Director Matt Dougher said the event, facilitated by Mike Anderson of Collision Advice, went very well. “Shop owners and their management teams were able to share valuable information to improve their business,” Dougher said. The group began its inaugural meeting by discussing “burning issues,” where members were encouraged to share some of the issues, obstacles and challenges impacting their businesses, and their peers, along with Anderson, offered insights to assist them. Anderson also led attendees in a discussion about which KPIs require the most attention in 2020, from the perspective of OEMs, insurers and consumers. The group discussed administrative structures and staffing, as well as parts management best practices. They also learned how to use

owner’s manuals to educate the consumer and increase capture rate. By the end of the meeting, each CPL participant identified an alternate method to employ for specific process and established a 30-day goal to improve their shop’s processes. “Association-sponsored events are very important to the independent body shop industry because they provide a forum for small businesses to meet and discuss today’s industry challenges and solve those challenges to improve and to maintain profitability,” Dougher said. “The Initial ASA Ohio Collision Performance Leaders Group exceeded all expectations, and the group is looking forward to our next meeting,” Dougher said. “It was so successful that we are looking to expand to other markets in Ohio.” ASA Ohio’s CPL Group will next meet June 4, and again Sept. 24. For more information about the CPL, contact Dougher at 513-659-5324 or mdougher@asaohio.org. For more information on ASAOH and its events, visit asaohio.org.

KABA to Host Second Annual Trade Show by Chasidy Rae Sisk

The Kansas Auto Body Association (KABA) will host its Second Annual Trade Show, April 24 and April 25 at the Cyrus Hotel in Topeka, KS. “We are very excited to see if this year’s trade show will be as great as our 2019 event—we think it’s going to be even better!” said KABA President Jeff Oldenettel. The event will begin on the evening of April 24 with a meet and greet, followed by an opening night mixer and a private tour of the nearby Evel Knievel Museum. At 8:30 p.m., Dave Dunn, managing director and co-founder of Masters School of Autobody Management and owner of Dave’s Auto Body in Galesburg, IL, will discuss “Management Marketing in 2020.” The morning of April 25, Erica Eversman, chief counsel for Vehicle Information Services, Inc., and the founder of the Automotive Education and Policy Institute, will deliver an informative presentation on shop liability. Next, attendees will hear from National AutoBody Research about

its variable rate system, before Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt discusses what her office does during “Helping Consumers Through the Collision Repair Process.” After lunch, Eversman will continue her presentation before the show closes with Dunn’s “Compensation and Scorekeeping for Experimental Work Groups.” A vendor expo will be open during all educational sessions, featuring industry suppliers and service providers. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about new products and get face-to-face time with vendors. “KABA’s goal is to put on relevant events for members, so that body shop owners can better understand their business as well as their customers,” said Clay Hoberecht, KABA board member. “Local body shops need to see the benefits of joining the movement.” For more information about KABA and its future events, visit kansasaba.com.

www.autobodynews.com

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Collision Hub’s Kristen Felder Shared Lessons on File Documentation at AASPI Annual Meeting by Chasidy Rae Sisk

AASP of Illinois (AASPI) held its 2020 Annual Meeting on Feb. 22 at the Diplomat West in Elmhurst, IL, featuring Kristen Felder, CEO of Collision Hub.

“Our annual meeting helps bring industry participants together for practical advice on tools and lessons in the industry, as well as build momentum for future statewide and regional initiatives and meetings,” said AASPI Executive Director Brian Wojcicki. During her presentation, Felder discussed the importance of documentation and shared tips on negotiation, offering “a jam-packed day of practical advice and lessons on file documentation and insurance pay-

ment negotiations,” said. Wojcicki said throughout the day, attendees actively engaged Felder with questions and shared lessons from their own experience, and since the event, have already followed up with interest in more material from Collision Hub as well as future regional association-sponsored education events. Wojcicki believes associa tion-sponsored events and educational opportunities are vital because “they bring association members, industry service providers, and leaders in the industry together, which helps the association keep a pulse on what is important to its members while also providing a return on investment for their support.” AASPI’s Annual Meeting also included an OEM repair procedure legislation update, specifically as it pertains to passage of AASPI’s legislation seeking to mandate all collision repair estimates be prepared based on OEM repair procedures, as well as the association’s related work with the state associations for auto manufacturers and dealers. “We are weeks away from some

of the first legislative deadlines regarding the association’s OEM procedure legislation and are hopeful

“We have significantly and con sistently increased association participation and attendance over the past few years, and we are using that momentum to better engage members with industry information at both the larger annual events as well as future regional events,” Wojcicki said. Sponsors for AASPI’s Annual Meeting include Fix Auto, AkzoNobel, Axalta Coating Systems, BASF, Enterprise, FinishMaster, Jack Phelan Mopar Warehouse, Micro Auto Paint & Supplies, Mobile Auto Solutions, PPG Industries, ABC Auto Parts, Bankcard Analytics, Erie-LaSalle Body Shops, Gold Coast Kristen Felder of Collision Hub presented at AASPI’s Auto, Hawk Auto, Mayer’s Annual Meeting. Credit: AASPI Collision Center, National for success this year as we look to Coating and Supply / Single Source partner with the state associations and Parkville Auto Body. for auto manufacturers and dealers,” For more information about AASPI, Wojcicki said. Looking forward to the rest of updates on its legislative activities 2020 and the future, Wojcicki is opti- or its events, visit aaspi.org or folmistic about the direction the AASPI low them on Facebook.com/AASP Illinois/ has taken.

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OEM Repair Procedures Legislation Examined in MN The Minnesota House Commerce Committee on March 3 held an oversight hearing on the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of MN’s (AASP-MN) legislative proposal to ensure coverage and payment for repairs conducted in accordance with original vehicle manufacturer repair procedures. Commerce Committee Chair Rep. Laurie Halverson (DFL-Eagan) offered the hearing to air the issues when AASP-MN reported to her it had not reached a compromise with the insurance industry on the measure introduced in the 2019 Session. The hearing did not involve debating the specific language of the proposal. No action by the committee was expected and none was taken. AASP-MN prepared and delivered testimony outlining the repair industry’s position. Darrell Amberson of LaMettry’s Collision served as the association’s spokesperson. Amberson cited the repair industry perspective that, with the increasing technological sophistication

of vehicles, it has become more important to follow all vehicle-specific repair procedures to ensure vehicles are restored to safe operating condition—including all of the operations necessary to test and recalibrate sensors and other systems designed to ensure occupant safety. The repair industry’s concern regarding liability for proper repairs was a key issue presented to the committee. The committee was also informed of the extensive discussions and negotiations between AASP-MN and the insurance industry that took place last summer and fall in an attempt to reach a compromise. The Insurance Federation of Minnesota (IFM) also testified and expressed its fundamental concerns with the proposed legislation as it was introduced last year. Aaron Cocking, the new executive vice president of IFM, said the reliance on original vehicle manufacturer repair procedures would result in higher repair costs and higher premiums. Cocking also expressed concern that shops were relying on guidance

which was not definitive, citing the fact that certain original vehicle manufacturer documents are framed as “recommendations” rather than requirements.

He specifically indicated any general guidance document should only be considered on a case-by-case basis, rather than as a repair standard. Parts recyclers, including LKQ and the Automotive Recyclers of Minnesota, got into the mix as well. They said reliance on original vehicle manufacturer procedures would “stifle healthy competition”. They acknowledged the importance of recalibrating sensors through scans

or other special tools but expressed concern about OEMs creating barriers to participation in the broader repair and service marketplace. The likelihood of increased costs of repair leading to an increased number of totaled vehicles was also a concern. It is apparent from the tone of the hearing this repair industry initiative will likely face insurmountable barriers to enactment in Minnesota, unless a compromise can be reached with the insurance industry. The 2019 efforts fell just short and now it is unclear whether IFM will re-engage in negotiations on the issue until a consensus policy is developed by the insurance industry at the national level. Clearly, the world of vehicle repair is changing quickly. AASP-MN will continue to seek clarity and equity for members who are committed to safely and properly repair the increasingly sophisticated vehicles on the road today. Source: AASP-MN

The Future is Clear at MCRA’s Bi-Annual Rocky Mountain Trade Show and Educational Conference by Chasidy Rae Sisk

The Montana Collision Repair Association (MCRA) will hold its Bi-Annual Rocky Mountain Trade Show and Educational Conference, April 3-4 at the Billings Hotel and Conference Center in Billings, MT.

“The conference and trade show will feature top-notch speakers and vendors from all over the country, and shops from all over are welcome to join us for a weekend full of education and camaraderie,” said MCRA President Paul Flores. The trade show will open at 8 a.m. April 3, and I-CAR classes will be available throughout the day. At 9 a.m., Frank Terlep will discuss his new book, “Auto Industry Disruption, Who and What

is Being Disrupted and What to Do About It.” Next, Ron Kuehn, president of Collision Business Solutions, will share tips on repair planning, including 100% teardown, blue-printing and prioritization. That afternoon, Collision Advice’s Mike Anderson will present “Positioning Yourself in The Collision Repair Industry.” That evening, attendees will have access to a meet and greet with Danny Menholt, including live music, drinks and hors d’oeuvres. “This will be an excellent opportunity for shops and vendors to introduce themselves and mingle with body shop owners and managers,” Flores said. After breakfast and MCRA’s meeting April 4, the trade show floor will open for industry members only. Educational content will include Anderson’s “Utilizing The Vehicles Owners’ Manual to Educate Consumers and Insurers,” as well as additional seminars taught by Kuehn and Terlep.

The day’s Lunch and Learn will include an available product showcase. MCRA will conduct closing ceremonies beginning at 4 p.m. At the trade show, there will be dozens of industry vendors in attendance, and MSU Billings will also host a booth to share information about their school’s collision repair education program. “The MCRA is very aware of the collision technician shortage our industry is facing. We want to do our best to help spark a student’s interest in a career in the automotive industry,” Flores said. The 2020 Bi-Annual Rocky Mountain Trade Show and Educational Conference is free for collision repairers, and MCRA just asks that attendees register in advance in order to accommodate all participants. For more information, visit mcramt. com.

AUTOBODY

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Students Participate in WI Auto Show Competition Young auto mechanics took part in a competition at the Milwaukee International Auto Show. The high school students worked on cars at the annual event, backed by the Auto Dealers Association and Milwaukee Area Technical College, to encourage young people to consider careers as auto technicians. “Tech education in high schools in general has gone away,” said MATC’s Steve Herro. “Not just because they’re not interested in tech, but ‘cause it’s very expensive to have an automotive program in a high school. So what we’re doing at MATC is trying to provide opportunities for high school students to get involved.” Two of the six-member student teams will win a chance to go to New York and represent Wisconsin in a national auto technology competition. We thank WDJT News for reprint permission.

CARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body Opens in MN CARSTAR, North America’s largest multi-store network of independently owned collision repair facilities, announced the opening of CARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body, located at 13928 233rd St., Cold Spring, MN. Gary Spychala, Erik Gebault and Mark Seidenstricker are the owners of CARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body. The team has been in the industry for more than 15 years, with Gary and Erik meeting through St. Cloud Technical and Community College, then Mark years later through other industry ties. With a common interest in high facility standards and operations, this like-minded ownership group prioritizes repair quality. “We wanted to stay current with the demands and trends of our industry, which can be overwhelming if you do not have the proper support in place,” said Seidenstricker, owner, CARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body. “CARSTAR brings in new opportunities for shop education, provides a network of other facilities

to work with and helps us grow our overall business for our customers who entrust us with their vehicles.”

20% of collision repair centers that have completed the rigorous training requirements to earn this certification. “Having franchise partners who understand the importance of certifications and operational processes is what makes our network of premier facilities what it is,” said Dean Fisher, president of CARSTAR. “We are proud to welcome facilities like CARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body, as they value their service levels and repair standards, which is a foundCARSTAR Precision Collision Auto Body owners, left to right: ing value for our organiErik Gebault, Gary Spychala and Mark Seidenstricker zation.” CREDIT: CARSTAR Looking to give back CARSTAR Precision Collision to the community and industry they Auto Body is an 8,000-square foot love, the team at CARSTAR Prefacility with the industry’s latest cision Collision Auto Body looks equipment to provide premier re- forward to continuing their sponsorships of nearby high schools and appairs to all makes and models. As an I-CAR Gold certified prenticeship programs to help raise facility, CARSTAR Precision Colli- awareness about the opportunities sion Auto Body is a part of the small within collision repair.

Fire Destroys Auto Body Shop in Warren, OH by Nadine Grimley, WKBN News

A fire destroyed an auto body shop Feb. 18 in Warren, OH, and for some people, the building brings back special memories. It started a little before 3 a.m. at the L&L All in One shop in the 1700 block of Niles Road. When firefighters got there, flames were everywhere. Firefighters said it was tough trying to get them under control. Tuesday afternoon, restoration crews were busy trying to secure the building. “I usually come by here almost every day and you know, this was the first place I bought my car from,” said James Campbell, of Warren. The building that used to house D & J Auto is now a total loss. “I never knew I would see this place burnt like that,” Campbell said. The estimated damage to the property and its contents is around $500,000. Even though the fire department first got the call around 2:45 a.m., they believe it had been burning for quite some time.

“That fire had a significant head start and the firefighters did their best to bring it under control but it was just too far gone at that point,” said Warren Fire Chief Ken Nussle. Firefighters used about 100,000 gallons of water to attack the flames. The fire was so overpowering that it took down trestles and a back wall. The cause of the fire is un known at this point, but it remains under investigation by Warren fire investigators and the state fire marshal’s office. “Any time you have fires early in the morning like that, a lot of times it does tend to be suspicious. Given the fact the fire gained some headway also and there wasn’t a call for quite some time, but that also could be because of the time of day,” Nussle said. We thank WKBN News for reprint permission.

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Market Tsunami the next eight weeks, until approximately the beginning of May, citing the risk of the coronavirus. Stores and other suppliers are also closing at an unprecedented rate as employees are asked to stay home. In the past few weeks iconic events including the Masters golf tournament and the Boston Marathon have been canceled in addition to multiple sports leagues, notably the NHL, NFL and NBA at home and internationally. Major League Baseball has pushed back opening day until mid-May at the earliest. And with heavily populated states like CA, NY and NJ closing or curtailing patronage of bars, restaurants in at least 11 states are stopping group dining, it’s no surprise that almost all collision industry events have been postponed or modified because of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The automotive industry has been particularly hard hit in Hubei province, site of 9% of China’s vehicle production and the epicenter of the outbreak. Hubei is one of five major automotive manufacturing centers in China as well as a hub for auto parts production for U.S. domestic and foreign automakers. Plant closures have already affected global automotive supply chains. And with stocks diminishing rapidly, a global shortage of auto parts looms in 2020. The Automotive Service Association (ASA) Board of Directors postponed the association’s joint CARS (Congress of Automotive Repair & Service), TTF (Technology & Telematics Forum) and annual business meeting until late August or early September. The event, co-located with the Technology & Telematics Forum as well as the association’s annual business meeting, was to have been held May 4-5, in the Dallas-Fort Worth community of Hurst. NORTHEAST has been postponed from March 20-22 to Aug. 21-23. It will likely still will be the collision industry’s second-biggest show, as NACE appears unlikely to occur this year.

AASP-NJ, which hosts NORTHEAST, said it always had August as a backup date since the start of the coronavirus outbreak. “Thankfully, the MEC had a few open dates available for us to choose from,” AASP-NJ President Jerry McNee said. “We wanted to make sure it was far enough in the future so that the COVID-19 danger would pass, but not so far as to be too close to SEMA. We also felt that August would work for us since NORTHEAST is predominantly a ‘drive to’ show as opposed to a ‘fly to’ show.” ATE 2020, sponsored by ASA Northwest, is rescheduled for July 31–Aug. 2 at the DoubleTree Hilton by SeaTac Hotel in Seattle. The International Bodyshop Industry Symposium had been slated to return to the U.S. for a second year April 1-2. However, the organization has instead opted to hold the event virtually instead at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Jacksonville, FL. The agenda will be condensed into a three-hour live webinar. “As a result of the Coronavirus, IBIS USA will now be held as a webinar on 2 April instead,” the organization said. “We will deliver much of the planned IBIS USA industry-leading content in a three-hour live broadcast. Throughout this time, delegates will have the opportunity to interact and ask questions via the soon to be launched mobile app.” Despite being hosted online, the event will remain invitation-only, according to IBIS. For more information, contact suzie@ibisworldwide .com. SCRS decided to re-book significant spring events in conjunction with the July industry meetings taking place in Philadelphia, PA, prior to the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) quarterly gathering, scheduled for July 22 and 23. Calling it a “difficult decision,” the Collision Industry Conference announced it would cancel its April 8-9 gathering in Jacksonville, FL. “The decision was made with the concerns related to public safety and logistical issues due to corporate travel restrictions,” CIC said in an email. “While you may be disappointed, we hope that you can see that this was the right direction giv-

en the circumstances.” CIC also cited the declaration of a national state of emergency over the coronavirus as a contributing factor. CIC had previously declared it would proceed with the event, the same day that the popular NORTHEAST show announced it would reschedule for August. The National Auto Body Council also announced a change in plans. The organization said its Lone Star Parts for Cars event on April 2 in Dallas, Texas, would be pushed back to May 27. NABC cited “travel restrictions for many of the event participants” as well as virus concerns. “This follows the recommended procedures and protocols by the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local authorities.” The organization also pushed back its NABC board meeting to May 28 at the Berkshire Hathaway Automotive headquarters in Dallas. “We thank all of our members and those who registered for this

event for your continued support of the National Auto Body Council,” NABC CEO Bill Garoutte said in a statement. “We appreciate your understanding as we manage through this unique challenge. We hope everyone remains healthy and well in their local communities, and look forward to seeing everyone in May.” I-CAR has said “All unnecessary travel has been stopped, but local training is still going on until further notice.” The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) has announced the cancellation of its 2020 Annual Educational Conference scheduled for May 3-5 in Newport Beach, CA, due to concerns over COVID-19. “After careful consideration due to the coronavirus affecting potential safety and health concerns, the Women’s Industry Network has decided to cancel our Annual Educational Conference for 2020,” said Cheryl Boswell, WIN chair. Full conference registration fee refunds will be issued to all participants—this includes Scholarship See Market Tsunami, Page 22

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Market Tsunami

Auto Glass Industry Faces Calibration Issues

Walk and guest tickets for the WIN Celebration. No action is required on their part.

by Emmariah Holcomb, glassBYTES.com

Regional events cancelled and postponed AASP-MN has cancelled all scheduled committee meetings and events, including the Annual Meeting & Leadership Conference on April 23. See autobodynews.com for a new category of updates on collision industry events throughout the year. All associations are invited to submit their updates to our list. Please forward to aandrews@ autobodynews.com

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Select Honda vehicles equipped with multipurpose cameras (LDW and LKAS) have become more challenging to recalibrate due to the camera being incorrectly mounted in the bracket, according to some auto glass installers. Several installers say the vehicle’s camera is not aligned within the trapezoidal shape of the camera window. glassBYTEs.com has been receiving reports involving DOT numbers 459 and 563, which installers are saying are at the root of recalibration issues. The DOT numbers are for glass made by Fujian Yanhua Glass Industry, Co., also known as Fuyao, and Shenzhen Automotive Glass Manufacturing, also known as Xinyi. Neither company has responded to glassBYTEs request for comment as of press time. We thank glassBYTEs.com for reprint permission.

Continued from Cover

Ford Parts Patent Fight which stalled in Congress. ABPA sued Ford in 2013 after certain members were accused of selling infringing parts. The group argued an F-150 owner has the right

to repair a damaged truck, and either make replacement parts or have those parts made for them. A judge in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan refused to find Ford’s U.S. Patent Nos. D489,299 and D501,685 unenforceable against ABPA members. Buying a vehicle doesn’t give the owner the right to make “new auto-body parts covered by Ford’s design patents,” the judge said. “It follows that the owner lacks the right to have those parts made for

her by ABPA members,” U.S. District Judge Laurie Michelson wrote. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the ruling in July 2019. In appealing to the Supreme Court, ABPA argued the ruling could minimize, or even eliminate, the right to repair in design patent cases. “This result not only will adversely affect the automotive repair industry with its thousands of daily repair part transactions, but also will adversely affect every industry where products or product components have designs or portions of designs covered by design patents and are in need of repair,” the trade group wrote. Ford didn’t file a response to the ABPA’s petition. The case is Automotive Body Parts Association v. Ford Global Technologies LLC, U.S., U.S., No. 19-1002, 3/9/20 We thank Bloomberg Law for reprint permission.

AUTOBODY

22 APRIL 2020 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

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Continued from Cover

Self-Driving Vehicle Rules with Democrats. “It should be clear from the history of this process that Republicans and Democrats on this panel worked very hard with your organization to get sign off and support when we first moved this bill,” Walden said. “So you might imagine my disappointment when you all asked for more changes in the Senate, despite the deal we had here in the House with your organization. “But it was even more curious that when Senate Republicans and Democrats ceded to the provisions you were seeking, you still didn’t support the deal,” Walden continued. Daniel Hinkle, state affairs counsel for the American Association of Justice, defended the organization for insisting on clear liability rules in any future self-driving legislation. He cited lawsuits filed against General Motors Co. that revealed the company’s flawed ignition switches had been found to be defective years earlier, but nobody inside the company

had raised the alarm. In all, 2.59 million cars were recalled due to faulty switches that ultimately were linked to 124 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

Silicon Valley robotics company Nuro has been granted approval to run its self-driving R2 delivery vehicle without the steering wheel, brake pedal and other features required of vehicles driven by humans. Credit: Nuro

“The difference between an automated vehicle and a human-driven vehicle is a promise,” he said. “It is a promise from the manufacturer of that automated driving-system that they will operate the vehicle safely on our roads...The key question is whether our laws will hold these companies accountable for that promise.” U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn, argued it is essential for Congress to set rules for self-driving testing to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in the global race to de-

velop the technology. “Automated vehicles aren’t just something we read about in science-fiction novels anymore. They’re here, transforming mobility and transportation as we know it,” Dingell said. “AVs are bringing jobs to this country, but we cannot take it for granted,” she continued. “This transformation is an open international competition, and other countries are stepping up. Other countries are in the game and trying to beat us. Automated vehicles will be developed globally, whether we like it or not, and it’s critical that America be at the forefront of innovation by leading the development of this technology.” The push to revive self-driving legislation comes after the federal government gave the green light to the first self-driving vehicle with no steering wheel, brake pedal—or human driver. Nuro Inc., a robotics company based in Mountain View, CA, was given permission by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to put up to 5,000 of its autonomous R2 electric delivery vehicles

on the road over a two-year period. John Bozzella, CEO of the new Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which lobbies for self-driving friendly laws, touted the potential for autonomous vehicles to drastically reduce the number of deaths that occur annually on U.S. roadways. “Unlike conventional human drivers, AVs can’t get distracted, drive impaired or fall asleep at the wheel,” he said. Dingell agreed, saying the rapid development of self-driving technology should spur lawmakers to action. “Safety, including cybersecurity, has to be our top priority here,” she said. “Nobody wants to let unsafe technologies on the road. But we also don’t want to prevent vehicles that would improve safety and mobility… from reaching consumers easier.” “We must in 2020 get this over the line,” Dingell continued. “If you’re a safety advocate, you should want a bill to give NHTSA the authority to ensure these vehicles are safe. If you’re an innovator, you need certainty to know what the rules of the road are.” We thank The Detroit News for reprint permission.

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al years, he said. “It’s a popular show and space is limited, so we were on their waiting list,” Morgan said. “We were able si, Inc., Dr. ColorChip, asTech, Gar- to meet with the decision-makers, mat, CCC Informational Services, Pro which is what you always want from Spot International and UpdatePromise a show like this. Will we participate were exhibitors this year. next year? Absolutely.” Public Relations & Event Mar- Here is a brief recap from all of keting Specialist Ronnie Guindon at the highlights of this year’s show, acGlobal Finishing Solutions said his cording to press releases from NADA: company’s participation in the show Every year, NADA is wellwas a success. Sending three compa- known for helping nonprofit organiny reps and three of their western dis- zations in cities that host its annual tributors to the show was definitely a show. good idea, he said. This year, they donated $50,000 “We got a lot of traffic and met to the Nellis Support Team, a nonprofpeople from dealerships and colli- it organization supporting the 30,000 airmen and their families at Nellis Air Force Base, Creech Air Force Base and Nevada Test and Training Range in southern Nevada. This is the second donation in three years that NADA has made to the organization. Assurant, Inc., a globGlobal Finishing Solutions was happy with the show’s traffic al provider of lifestyle and and the leads they gathered at NADA 2020. Credit: GFS housing solutions that supsion centers who are in the market port, protect and connect major confor our equipment,” Guindon said. sumer purchases like automobiles, “At the NADA Show, we get quality contributed $25,000 through its leads as opposed to a large volume of Assurant Foundation to the NADA them, like at SEMA. More and more Foundation’s Workforce Initiative. dealerships are investing in their own “Assurant is proud to support in-house body shops, which is good the NADA Foundation’s Worknews for us.” force Initiative that’s committed to COO Tim Morgan at Spanesi, developing the next generation of Inc. was happy to be an exhibitor at auto professionals,” said Assurant’s NADA 2020 after waiting for sever- Global Automotive president, John Continued from Cover

2020 NADA Expo

Continued from Page 10

Metallica Scholars fans to become engaged in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Foundation is focused on supporting sustainable communities through workforce education (in addition to combatting hunger through an alliance with Feeding America), and is fully supported by the band, the AWMH board, and by fans. All expenses of the Foundation are covered by the band, the board, and a few special friends, so that 100 percent of donations go to the organizations it supports. AWMH is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For more information, please visit www.allwithinmyhands. org.

About the American Association of Community Colleges: As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), delivers educational and economic opportunity for 12 million diverse students in search of the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s nearly 1,200 member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C., AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all. We thank Grayslake Patch for reprint permission.

Laudenslager. “We believe it is important to invest in the future and encourage the next generation of innovators, leaders, engineers and technology professionals.” During NADA Show 2020 in Las Vegas, Assurant drove dealers to their booth with a pledge to donate $100 to the NADA Workforce Initiative for each dealer who visited. On Feb. 16, Assurant presented NADA with a $40,300 check, representing funds raised during NADA to support the Workforce Initiative’s mission. NADA Foundation launched the Workforce Initiative in 2019 to harmonize industry efforts and offer a brand-neutral tool for recruiting service technicians and sparking an interest in service technician careers. The foundation’s website, nadafoundation.org, includes the first and only interactive U.S. map of training and scholarship opportunities available for aspiring technicians, as well as videos featuring a variety of technicians highlighting their careers and the challenging nature of their work. Once again, NADA backed its bark by raising funds for service dogs from Canine Companions for Inde-

pendence (CCI) over the expo floor on Feb. 16, as NADA Foundation and KAR Global auctioned off a VIP all-access “Epic Experience” package for the 104th running of the Indianapolis 500. Proceeds from the auction benefit the NADA Foundation’s Frank E. McCarthy Memorial Program, which supports CCI, a non-profit organization that pairs highly-trained assistance dogs with people with disabilities. With more than 120 educational sessions, attendees to NADA Show 2020 featured top industry experts that included an Intro to NADA Analytics with NADA’S Chad Royston, Orbee Auto’s Daniel Kim and Cox Automotive’s Jason Jager. LinkedIn’s Mariel Lasala discussed why the social platform is a gamechanger for auto dealerships. NADA 2020’s Distinguished Speakers series featured best-selling author and digital expert Erik Qualman. Using practical research, Qualman outlined the five habits that drive success and happiness for employees, partners and customers in today’s highly digital, WiFi world.

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with Erica Schroeder

Industry Insight with John Yoswick

—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon who has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.

Long-time Industry Lobbyist Offers Perspectives on Government’s Role in Industry Issues

Shop Showcase

Bob Redding serves as the industry’s should be able to expect they’ve been eyes, ears and voice in Washington, maintained and repaired properly, D.C. with Ed Attanasio Redding said, but those owning them As the national lobbyist for the may not “have skin in the game” for Automotive Service Association, Red- ensuring that happens. ding helps keep the autobody industry “If your family needs some cash (along with the mechanical service so you’re driving for Uber or Lyft, industry) appraised on legislative and (safe repairs) might not be the first regulatory activities and proposals, thing you have in mind as long as and brings the industry’s viewpoint to the car is blowing and going,” Redwith Ed Attanasio ding said. “We think with new vehicle technologies, somebody needs to be looking at these vehicles. Not just post-repair inspection, but also some type of annual or biennial vehicle safety with Ed Attanasio inspection.” A topic Redding said he thinks the industry should be more attuned to is eminent domain, the right of a Bob Redding serves as a lobbyist for the Automotive local or state government to with Ed Attanasio Service Association. Credit: Sheri LaFlamme expropriate private property table when lawmakers or government for public use. agencies are making decisions. The New York Times recently During a recent interview in his published a special section on the office, just a five-minute walk from many automotive businesses—inkey U.S. Senate office buildings, Red- cluding Joe’s Auto Body—in a secwith Phillips ding talked about someStacey of the topics tion of Queens now owned by the he’s engaged in as part of his work for city and slated for redevelopment to ASA. “become New York’s next gleaming Almost every year, for exam- neighborhood.” ple, the association opposes efforts The city of Austin, TX, is seekto curtail or even eliminate existing ing to update its land development state vehicle inspection programs. code in a way that will effectively with Stacey Phillips This year there are been proposals to zone out some existing automotive scale back the inspection programs businesses. in Virginia and West Virginia. Redding said a section of Alex Redding said in addition to help- andria, VA, that “has a long history ing shops in those states voice sup- of having collision and mechanical port for the vehicle safety inspection shops” could change as a major Amwith Stacey Phillips programs, ASA is supporting efforts azon facility and new subway service to add such programs in those states moves into the area. without them, including California. “How are you going to have a “There’s interest there, but we’ve subway station and Amazon across got to get a study first, and that’s what the street from a mom-and-pop mewe’re working on now,” Redding said chanical shop and a couple collision of the multi-association effort in Calishops,” Redding said. with Stacey Phillips fornia. He said it’s hard to get the in Redding said such programs— dustry motivated on the issue. in place in only about 15 states—are Redding is one of three co-chairs increasingly important as ride-share of the Collision Industry Conference and other trends reduce private own- Governmental Committee, and in a reership of vehicles in use. cent poll by that committee, eminent Those riding in such vehicles domain ranked a distant last on the

Social Media for Shops

SEMA Show Goes On

topics CIC attendees said they wanted the committee to address at upcoming meetings. “I almost think it comes down to: If it’s not my shop, I’m not worried about it,” Redding said. “Which is tragic. Because next time it could be your shop.” As a long-time observer of politics, Redding tends not to speak about one party being better for the industry than another. He understands many ASA members share positions relative to taxes as Republicans, but sees Democrats as also being sympathetic toward small businesses and some industry issues. At a state level, for example, he points to a Republican-controlled Senate in Pennsylvania that wanted to kill that state’s vehicle emissions testing program—a program ASA supports for its mechanical shop members— only to have Democrats in the state

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House save it. So Redding mainly focuses on what likely can and cannot be accomplished based on whatever party has control. Looking to this fall’s election, Redding said control of the U.S. Senate is “really up for grabs,” but that Democrats will likely maintain the majority in the U.S. House despite Republicans likely picking up some seats there. “If it stays Democratic, you will see more vehicle safety initiatives, and efforts to put much more money into electric vehicles and electric vehicle infrastructure,” Redding predicts. “If autonomous vehicle legislation has not gone across the finish line by then, they will have another two years (to work on it) and I think it likely would.” Democratic control of the House See Lobbyist Offers Perspectives, Page 44

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with Victoria Antonelli

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with Stacey Phillips

From the Desk of Mike Anderson with Mike Anderson

Mike Anderson is the president and owner of Collision Advice, a consulting company for the auto body/collision repair industry. For nearly 25 years, he was the owner of Wagonwork Collision Center, an OEM-certified, full-service auto body repair facility in Alexandria, VA.

Performing All OEM Safety Inspections is Critical—but OEMs Can Help Us Too At last November’s SEMA, I had the honor of moderating a session featuring representatives from a number of automakers. The subject came up of the detailed safety inspections most automakers call for being done on vehicles that have been in a collision. In many cases, these inspections require a lot: measuring the steering column, checking seat belt anchors, inspecting wiring and connectors, removing the dash to check the knee bolsters and mounting points, etc. During the discussion, Nicole Riedel of Subaru of America was asked if the detailed, labor-intensive safety inspections that her company—like many other automakers— call for really must be done on every vehicle undergoing collision repairs. “Every time,” Riedel emphasized. “Even if you are in New York City and vehicles are just getting sideview mirrors clipped, you still have to do it (after those repairs.) We will not deviate from that procedure…We need you to do it every single time.” I think it’s critically important that shops research on every job what safety inspections the particular automaker is calling for, to educate themselves, their customer and, if necessary, any insurer involved. I’m getting a lot of calls from both shops and insurance companies about these safety inspections. In some cases, the educated shops that recognize the need to do them are being told by a third party that a dealership or an OEM-certified shop says the inspections are not necessary. My message to you, is that you, as a professional--whether a shop or an insurer—need to understand that whatever an uneducated dealer or shop thinks does not negate the need to follow the OEM procedures, nor remove you from the liability for not doing so. I think too few shops in the industry are doing these inspections, and that makes it tougher for the shops trying to do the right thing. There are generally very sound

reasons why the post-crash safety inspection steps are so important. One automaker explained to me, for example, that measuring the steering column is necessary because that column contains collapsible plastic bushings. If those bushings are collapsed, the steering column needs to be replaced. There’s no other way to know that without measuring it. A vehicle scan isn’t going to tell you if those bushings are collapsed, or if a dash or sensor bracket or seatbelt mounting point is damaged. That all requires a visual inspection. So first and foremost, my mes sage here is that you need to be doing these inspections whenever they are called for under the automaker procedures. I was in a meeting recently with about 30 other industry professionals where one person shared that of 10 steering columns he’d inspected for one particular domestic automaker, three were damaged. Another said his shop had just removed a headliner and found a supplemental restraint system senor had been dislodged. Wow. Think about what may have happened if those issues were not found. The result in a future accident could have had disastrous consequences. But I also have a message for the industry as a whole and for the automakers in particular: We need to develop more clarity on this subject, if only to remove the friction I’m seeing. I salute the automakers looking for creative solutions that reduce the need for the invasiveness of some of these inspections. One OEM, for example, has put a sight glass in the steering column underneath the airbag cover. If you look through that sight glass and see a particular marking, that tells you the steering column has collapsed and needs to be replaced. If you don’t see the mark, you’re good to go. That’s an easier, less labor intensive solution. Some automakers also try to clarify differences in what steps are nec-

essary based on whether airbags have deployed or not deployed. But others use such phrases such as “minor to moderate collision.” I think we need to get a better definition of what qualifies as a “minor to moderate collision.” Just like most of you, I’m not an engineer, so I don’t feel qualified to determine that. If what’s required in terms of safety inspections varies based on the severity of the collision, we need the automaker engineers to help us define that. Perhaps I-CAR can work with the automakers to do that. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has developed one definition (https://www.nhtsa. gov/car-seats-and-booster-seats/car -seat-use-after-crash) of a “minor crash” in relation to when child safety seats must be replaced. I don’t know if that’s how au-

tomakers would define it in terms of post-collision safety inspections, but it’s one possible starting place for the discussion. I’m by no means saying the safety inspections may not always be necessary. The automakers are the experts. If they say the inspections are necessary every time, then they are. Shops need to continue to research the procedures and follow them every time. But the automakers can play an important role here in clarifying or communicating exactly when and why the safety inspections are needed to help remove some of the friction that is leading both shops and insurers—those trying to do the right thing—to reach out to me on this topic every single day.

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with Stacey Phillips

Tips for Busy Body Shops

Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications, and is co-author of “The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops.” She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.

with Stacey Phillips

SCRS Executive Director Shares Free Resources Available for Collision Repairers There are many key components to national organization provides the running a successful collision repair industry free of charge during a prefacility. Body shop owners and man- sentation he gave at the AkzoNobel with Stacey Phillips agers often aren’t aware of the free North American Performance Group resources available in the industry (NAPG) meeting, held in San Diego, intended to help them operate their CA. businesses effectively and efficiently. “There are a lot of opportunities for information exchange within the collision repair industry that we don’t take with Victoria Antonelli enough advantage of,” said Schulenburg. Established in 1982, SCRS represents more than 6,000 collision repair businesses and 58,500 specialized industry professionals. The mission of the organization is to with Ed Attanasio educate, inform and represent Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of SCRS the collision repair profes Aaron Schulenburg, executive sional in all aspects of the industry. Schulenburg discussed five free director of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), recently SCRS resources for collision repairshared some of the information the ers:

My SEMA

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Product Innovation

OE Shop Certification with Gary Ledoux

1. Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG) The Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG) aims to help improve the quality and accuracy of collision repair estimates, through feedback from the collision repair industry and other “end users,” to the Information Providers (IPs) that supply the databases for the various estimating products. It was developed in 2008 and is currently funded and managed by SCRS and the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP), along with some additional support from sponsors. “The DEG is a really valuable tool for businesses in identifying errors, omissions and inaccuracies in the estimates that you might be writing in the estimate systems,” said Schulenburg. For information, visit degweb.org.

2. The Complete Guide to Repair Planning There are several informational resources offered by SCRS. One of these is the “Complete Guide to Repair Planning.” The PDF document includes more than 1,000 potentially missed operations. “It was initially compiled by a shop owner in Hawaii, March Taylor, who passed away well before his time but gave us such great resources,” said Schulenburg. “SCRS took it to the next level and developed it into a resource that the industry could use.” The checklist is intended to ensure estimators consider all repair operations performed at the facility and formulate an accurate repair plan, minimizing the need or expense of a supplement. It does not contain pricing, quantities or labor hours. With the length of estimates

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today, Schulenburg said it can often be cumbersome to go through a PDF checklist of 1,000 potentially missed operations. The next evolution of the document is SCRS’s Blueprint Optimization Tool (BOT), which is currently scheduled to be launched at the end of March. Schulenburg said it is essentially a digitized checklist to help improve efficiency and provide access to information for estimators. While the “Guide to Complete Repair Planning” is a free product, the BOT will be a paid subscription with a discount for SCRS members. For information, visit scrs.com/ BOT, or watch a YouTube video at https://www.youtube.com/watch ?v=JIuKDe5aZmQ&feature=youtu. be 3. Repairer Driven News In 2015, SCRS launched “Repairer Driven News,” a free online publication that provides insight into what is going on in the collision repair industry. “The news is focused on information that matters to collision repairers,” said Schulenburg. “Our goal is

to provide news, information and trends that are going to help you make good decisions in your business and prepare for what’s coming.” To subscribe, visit www.repairer drivennews.com. 4. Technical Resources SCRS also offers a variety of technical resources to the industry, such as links to crash repair and OEM information, refinish manufacturer technical information and I-CAR’s repairability technical support. Schulenburg highlighted two resources available on the SCRS website. The first is a made-to-print one-page sheet containing information about destructive testing on spot welds. “This walks your technicians through how to perform destructive testing on spot welds to make sure they are going through the steps that are necessary to set the welder up, test the weld and see if it is producing a quality weld before they start ‘testing’ welds on consumers’ vehicles,” said Schulenburg. The SCRS executive director also shared information about a

flowchart created with CCC to help estimators and adjusters navigate the CCC bumper prompt and correctly answer the refinishing question. All of these resources are available on the SCRS website under the Resources tab: https://scrs.com/ technical-resources/ 5. Videos The SCRS YouTube Channel contains a variety of informational videos for the industry and can be found by visiting youtube.com/scrscollision. In addition, the SCRS website includes years of videos produced to address topics such as welding and refinishing information. Schulenburg recommended collision repairers watch three videos from 2019, all of which are under 10 minutes long. The first is “Electric Vehicle (EV) and High-Voltage System Safety in Collision Repair.” “We’re seeing more of these vehicles on the roadways and if you don’t plan to work on them and be certified in EVs, you need to have a plan, so your employees know what to do if one comes on your lot,” said Schulenburg. “If you don’t have a

plan in place, there are safety ramifications, so I highly encourage shops to watch this video and consider developing an EV plan.” There is also a video on “Test Drive, Road Test and Dynamic Calibrations,” explaining the differences of each and providing detailed information. The brief video “Performing Diagnostic Scans” reviews the steps and considerations involved when performing in-house diagnostic scans. “These are things we hope you are using in your businesses to justify the work that is being done,” said Schulenburg. In addition to the free resources offered by SCRS, Schulenburg mentioned some of the member benefits, such as the new 401(k) plan, discounts to Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Relearn Charts and discounts for SCRS members and employees who need rental vehicles for personal use. Special rates are provided at locations in more than 100 countries around the world. In addition, merchant card services and financial technology soluSee SCRS Executive Director, Page 40

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with Stacey Phillips

Tips for Busy Body Shops with Stacey Phillips

Uber for Business Offers Collision Shops Alternative for Customer Transportation When a vehicle is dropped off at a Rather than using the personal duction in risk. coupons shops can hand out to cusbody shop for repair, transporting a Uber app, Bauman encourages col- “If you were going to pull a CSR tomers, who can then decide when customer to his or her desired location lision repair facilities to sign up for or technician off the shop floor to get they want to ride. The business sets withMany Stacey Phillips can often be an issue. shops rely Uber for Business, which is the same a customer to work, you lost all of the parameters of the voucher and on loaner cars, rental cars and shuttles. price and offers the same functional- that person’s productivity when they can decide how much of a ride will However, Jim Bauman, auto- ity as the regular Uber app. were giving a person a ride,” said be covered or where it can go. motive partnerships lead at Uber, said Bauman said the vouchers help these options aren’t always conducive businesses enhance customer service “It’s a great way for shop owners to take care of their to every situation. and drive repeat business, as well customers and keep their costs in check,” — Jim Bauman “We’ve talked to a lot of body as remove the customer’s burden of shops—both with independents driving, navigating and parking. Victoriaand Antonelli MSOs—as well as insurance com- “There is no contract, no mini- Bauman. “Instead, that employee can “These are going to be great panies, and across the board there mum usage and no premium in terms stay focused on his or her job.” products for collision centers as they The ride is covered under Uber’s offer a really seamless experience for is no one, perfect solution for taking of fee for using a business account,” care of customer mobility,” said Bau- he said. “What it allows a body shop insurance policies in case anything customers,” said Bauman. “We want man. “Obviously, rental cars are a big to do is to control who is allowed to happens, which Bauman said reduces to make sure the collision industry part of the collision industry, but they book an Uber ride for a customer and the risk exposure for body shops. knows we are here for them with don’t solve everywith problem, Ed especially Attanasio gives full transparency and account- “It’s a great way for shop own- solutions that solve their problems.” if a customer doesn’t have rental cov- ability.” ers to take care of their customers and For information on how to eserage replacement insurance.” Bauman leads Uber for Busi- keep their costs in check,” he said. tablish an Uber for Business account, In situations like these, shop ness’s strategy and partnership for Currently, there are more than visit this link https://www.uber. owners may ask a customer service the automotive industry, which of- 1,000 car dealerships in the U.S. that com/us/en/business/info/automotive representative (CSR) or technician fers mobility solutions for those op- use Uber Central daily. -solutions/ or contact an automotive to drive a customer in their person- erating large and small businesses. Uber Vouchers are configurable account executive at 415-910-9384. al or shop-owned vehicle. with Gary Ledoux There are two main Uber for Not only can this impact a CSR’s Business products Bauman recomproductivity, but Bauman said it also mends for body shops: Uber Central and Uber Vouchers. Uber Central uses dispatch software to book rides for customers. Riders aren’t required to have the Uber with Stacey Phillips app on their phones and all of the communication occurs via text. “If you know how to use the Uber app for yourself, you’re going to learn how Uber Central, one of the Uber for Business products, uses to use Uber Central with dispatch software to with book ridesMike for customers. Credit: Uber Anderson no problem,” said Bauman. At Richfield - Bloomington Honda we maintain a increases the risk exposure for a body “It’s a very similar flow, but it’s a discomprehensive inventory of high quality, Honda shop. patching software so you can set up Genuine parts. Our Honda Parts professionals Recognizing the success car deal- rides for customers to get them from are here to answer your questions. Overnight erships are having using Uber for Busi- point A to point B.” parts ordering available. ness’s tools to address these challenges, There are additional benefits Uber began reaching out to body shops to using Uber Central that Bauman Parts Dept. Hours as well. said business owners don’t have acMon.-Thu. 6:30am - 9pm Since launching its ride-sharing cess to with the regular app. Fri. 6:30am - 6pm platform in the U.S. 11 years ago, For example, employees can keep Sat. 6:30am - 5pm Uber has expanded internationally track of the repair number, so they Phone: and instituted a variety of programs in know the trip associated with each job. the 66 countries in which it operates. Bauman said the company built Fax: 612.866.9915 In 2014, the company established easy-to-use tools that have an immeStart something special! 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ADAS for Off-Roaders by Gary Ledoux

Recently, I purchased a 2020 Jeep Wrangler 4WD, and it came with, among other things, an epiphany— at no additional charge, mind you. Now, this is not my first 4WD vehicle, but the last one was purchased more than 30 years ago, certainly before the days of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS.) The Jeep Wrangler arguably has more available accessories than perhaps any other 4WD (or 2WD for that matter) vehicle sold in America. Many new Jeep owners, and those who buy other 4WD vehicles, like the ultra-popular Ford, GM and Ram pickup trucks, start by replacing the factory wheels and tires with a taller accessory wheel/tire combination, for more ground clearance. And then, to make the taller rubber fit, a lift kit is needed. This is followed by side steps to get into the 4WD skyscraper, rock-liquefying high-intensity offroad lights—and the list goes on. And now about that epiphany. ADAS systems, which by now we have all come to know and love, have some flexibility built into them to allow for the wearing and replacement of standard-size tires, and the sagging and replacement of aging suspension systems. What they don’t automatically allow for is a vehicle whose driving geometry has completely changed, being several inches higher than it was originally, or a rate of tire rotation for taller tires, which could affect automated braking systems and speedometer readings. And then of course, you have the accessory bumpers designed to accept a plethora of driving lights (or a winch to get you out of those really tough spots) but that could affect air bag deployment. A trip to a few Jeep-owner social media sites revealed most Jeep owners were pretty much oblivious to the concept of ADAS or other safety features and how various accessories could adversely affect them in an accident. But this is not to target Jeep owners. In their defense, the RAM, Ford and GM pickup trucks, also favorites for four-wheelers, have much more robust ADAS systems.

Of course, no 4WD owner, Jeep or otherwise, would ever think to have their ADAS system recalibrated to allow for the big tires and lift kit when the items are first installed. That responsibility will, by default

Jim Bemis, of Palm Harbor, FL, owns this 2018 Jeep Wrangler, outfitted with a lift kit and taller tires, creating a 3- to 4-in. lift. Credit: Jim Bemis

and for better or worse, rest on the shoulders of the collision shop that repairs that same vehicle after a collision. Chuck Olsen, master technician and now senior vice president of automotive technology for AirPro Diagnostics, said FCA is probably the most attuned to this sort of thing, because of their association with Jeep and the degree to which Jeep owners like to alter their vehicles. “Allowance for ride height, within reason, can be made for Jeep and Ram pickups,” Olsen said. “To do this, the calibration procedure is done with a scan tool and requires values, such as tire size and specific height measurements and even an inclinometer measurement of a camera mounting position, to be input by the technician via the scan tool during some ADAS calibration procedures. “These values also have limitations to a certain tire size or maximum height of the vehicle that the manufacture determines the ADAS system can account for and still operate as intended,” Olsen said. If you are an off-roader looking for a new ride and worried about your ADAS system working properly and concerned about your vehicle’s warranty, think Chevrolet. As stated on their website, Chevrolet offers a lift kit designed, engineered, tested and backed by Chevrolet specifically for the all-new 2019 Silverado 1500.

Chevrolet says the kit was developed by the same vehicle-level engineers that built the truck. The system was tested under the same grueling conditions, and will not void the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The good news is, the kit includes “an exclusive front camera reconfiguration and an Electronic Power Steering calibration so that all driver-assist systems continue to function seamlessly.” The bad news is there is a whole litany of Chevy truck models that the kit will not cover, including the popular Z45 models and those with a snow plow package. And it’s only a 2-in. lift. Jeep also offers a dealer-installed lift kit. For GMC and Chevy trucks, Olsen said, information can be requested from GM to make the necessary allowances for ride height to ensure the ADAS functions within parameters. “To do this, you will need to perform reprogramming of modules with modified vehicle specifications

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before re-calibrating any ADAS systems,” Olsen said. “You will need to use special module programming that may be available from a GM service programming system or request an updated programming file from GM technical support. However, you must use genuine GM wheels and approved tires and wheels when making such a request.” For Ford products, Olsen said, Ford can help make the necessary changes, but they will need a VIN number and access to “as-built data” to see exactly how the truck was originally built, and then get other specifications off the truck to know how to make the changes, and to what degree. “To do this, you will need to input any new tire size changes and new ride height measurements from lifts kits that have been installed,” Olsen said. “When this is done the AsBuilt file that is stored for that vehicle with that VIN will be updated. “In turn, these new readings can be changed and used to update calibration of ADAS functions cor-

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recting front camera angle, side object detection readings, park assist functions, active cruise control and TAD readings and other functionality such as steering assist, speedometer, ABS wheel speed and so forth,” Olsen said. These procedures of making vehicle modifi cations and incorporating them into programming or vehicle module build data requires a high level of vehicle control systems diagnostics, programming and calibrations by the manufacturer. This is not something for the faint of heart or average technician to perform. If a vehicle is modifi ed outside of the ranges or limits that OEMs account for, the performance and expected operation of the vehicle is left in question or will be completely disabled. Regardless of the vehicle you are working on, a “rock-climber” or a “grocery-getter”, Olsen off ered the following tips when working on an ADAS system. “First, don’t over-generalize,” Olsen said “Not all ADAS systems are designed and built the same. Steps that are necessary to recalibrate

one system may not be necessary to recalibrate another. “One may require a vehicle have a full tank of fuel. Another may not. One may require all extemporaneous items, like those golf clubs your customer likes to carry around in the trunk, be removed. For others, it may not make a diff erence,” he said. “Don’t memorize,” Olsen said. “If you know that, say, a 2019 Honda Accord requires steps X, Y and Z, don’t assume that the 2020 Accord will require the same steps. Take the time to look up the steps and requirements for the particular year and model you are working on, especially if it is early in the model year. The vehicle manufacturer may make several changes while the car is still in production. “Speaking of steps,” Olsen continued, “make sure you go through all of them to ensure your recalibration is correct. So many times, I see techs jump halfway through the procedure, ignoring most or all of the prerequisites. “If the vehicle must be on a level surface, make sure it is. If it requires that tire pressure be checked

and adjusted to X lbs., make sure it gets done. Your customer’s life, and the fi nancial wellbeing of yourself and your shop, could be at stake,” Olsen said. Given how far and how fast ADAS systems have evolved, Olsen pondered the future of collision repair and how the industry will deal with ADAS systems. “There will always be room for those shops to make general repairs to most cars,” Olsen said. “However, the time is fast approaching where some shops will specialize in scanning and recalibrating certain brands of cars. “Already we have new specialty shops popping up that only scan and recalibrate vehicles, and do no body work,” Olsen said. “In one case, we found a body shop that specializes in scanning and recalibrating Toyotas. Other local body shops and even Toyota dealers sublet recalibration work to this shop. The face of the industry is really changing.” As for your humble reporter, I’ll keep my Jeep at the stock height with stock tires and stock suspension, thank you very much!

Continued from Page 35

SCRS Executive Director tions are off ered that allow SCRS members to accept all major credit and debit cards nationwide with custom-tailored plans and additional features like automated digital invoices, tracking and reporting, and e-commerce management. “We have a great group of individuals who bring a lot of informational resources to the table,” said Schulenburg. “What we as an association and board of directors do is take this information and the knowledge we have…and turn it into usable resources that can help shops perform quality repairs and capture what they need to build a sustainable business.” For more information about SCRS, visit scrs.com, and to join, visit scrs.com/join-scrs.

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Midwest Associations with Chasidy Rae Sisk

National Associations

Chasidy Rae Sisk is a freelance technical writer from Wilmington, Delaware, who writes on a variety of fields and subjects, and grew up in a family of NASCAR fans. She can be contacted at crsisk@gmail.com.

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Driving the Future at WIN’s 2020 Educational Conference, Now Postponed

Northwest Associations

The Women’s Industry Network Educational sessions focus on (WIN®) was to host its 2020 Edu- industry issues and professional dewith Chasidy Rae Sisk cational Conference, “Driving the velopment, while networking opporFuture,” May 3 through May 5 at the tunities provide a chance for industry Hyatt Regency in Newport Beach, professionals to get to know one anCA. The event has been postponed. other. This year’s event was to feature several changes to the normal format, beginning with awith returnEd to WIN’s forAttanasio mer tradition of starting the conference on a Sunday. “We are excited to return to a Sunday evening start to the conference, when we will kick off with an engaging networking welcome recepwith Ed Attanasio tion,” said conference organizer Wen- WIN also raises funds for scholdy Rogers. “Look for more changes in arships at the annual Scholarship this year’s agenda, including the 2020 Walk Fundraiser, and the association WIN celebration dinner on Tuesday will honor WIN scholarship recipients evening.” and the 2020 Most Influential Women WIN’s conference provides two (MIWs) during the WIN Celebration Attanasio Dinner. and a half days’with worth Ed of education, networking and celebration for col- On May 3, two WIN member lision repair industry professionals. orientation sessions will be available

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for first-time attendees, as well as returning attendees, before the conference welcome reception begins at 5 p.m. During the reception, WIN will introduce its 2020 scholarship winners and MIWs. WIN will also partner with NABC to donate two Recycled Rides® vehicles to deserving individuals. The May 4 and 5 agendas are filled with speaker presentations, networking opportunities and breakout sessions. The main stage presenter May 4 will be Neeta Bhushan, who will teach attendees to “Step Into Your Greatness.” Next, attendees will participate in an Hour of Giving during WIN’s charity networking event. After lunch, Mina Starsiak Hawk, star of HGTV’s Good Bones and co-founder of Two Chicks and a

Hammer, will share her experiences living “Life in the Fast Lane.” Each afternoon, attendees will choose a breakout session to attend. This year, there will be three options. Tracy Darrington will explain how to “Make Sure Your Personal Brand is a WINner,” while Marcy Tieger and Jim Webber address planning for the unexpected in “When Disaster Strikes: Is Social Media Your Friend or Foe?” Beth Rutter and Amber Ritter will discuss a different way of looking at the industry’s tech shortage during “What Tech Shortage?? A New Approach to an Old Problem.” The morning of May 5, Kim Hazelbaker of the Highway Loss Data Institute will present “Changes in Auto Safety Technology: Are We There Yet?” The second guest speaker of the final day of the conference will be

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Fred Gruner-Nvidia, who will discuss “The Seismic Shift—A.I. in the 4th Industrial Revolution.” After a question-and-answer session with Hazelbaker and Nvidia, attendees will take their second breakout session. The 2020 Scholarship Walk will be held the afternoon of May 4 before the evening reception. After the educational seminars end on Tuesday, attendees will take a break to prepare for the WIN celebration dinner, formerly the MIW gala. Each year, WIN uses this opportunity to recognize the winners of their annual scholarships as well as the recipients of the Most Influential Women awards. MIWs are women whose leadership, vision and commitment to excellence have enriched the collision repair industry. Attendees will celebrate with music and dancing after dinner and the awards ceremony. More details about the 2020 WIN conference will be available online as they are confirmed. Registered attendees will receive “Countdown to Conference” emails

every other week, providing more details about the speakers, seminars and other events during the conference. A week before the conference, instructions for downloading the conference app will be sent to attendees, which will include the full agenda as well as a list of other conference attendees.

that there were so many phenomenal ladies!” Mello said. “The welcoming openness to engage has yielded many professional opportunities and lifelong friendships. “Each year we unite by bringing our talents and insights for the good of the industry,” Mello continued. “I encourage you not to miss the oppor-

“Each year we unite by bringing our talents and insights for the good of the industry,” — Kathy Mello Kathy Mello, WIN board member and former MIW honoree, shared her thoughts on the conference. “As a founding member of WIN, I have had the opportunity to attend each of the conferences,” Mello said. “They have all been stellar in content and networking, and have provided growth and improvement to the collision industry. I have seen it evolve from the first conference with no budget and just a handful of volunteers to a well-organized, multifaceted event, which is well worth the reasonable fee. “I knew that there were women through the nation and beyond in this industry, yet I never dreamed

tunity. I hope that you are able to join us for this 2020 event. You deserve it and are sure to prosper from it!” According to WIN’s website, The WIN Educational Conference is a unique opportunity to meet and network with women in the collision industry, and a place where relationships are built that will enrich lives on a business and a personal level. “I look forward to the [conference each year] and have met some of my most treasured mentors and friends here,” said Vice Chair Jenny Anderson. “There is truly a place for everyone at WIN. It’s about inclusivity, support, leadership and educa-

tion. I can’t say enough great things about my experience at conference! I hope to continue contributing to this same experience for other women in the future.” WIN reminds attendees to bring business cards for networking purposes, and prior year attendees should also pack their WIN commemorative pins. WIN also encourages members to get involved with the association by joining a committee. Early bird registration, before March 31, is available for just $300 for members. After March 31, members will pay $475. Non-members will pay $700 to attend the 2020 WIN Educational Conference, but member prices are available for those who join the association first; annual membership to WIN costs $95. For more information about WIN and the latest news about the 2020 WIN Educational Conference, visit womensindustrynetwork.com. www.autobodynews.com

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Techs of Tomorrow: 16-Year-Old Texas Student Views Collision Repair as Art Form was given a damaged piece of sheet metal in class. Ivan Reyes took his first collision re- “Without hesitation I began to pair class in 2018 during his freshman fix it and finished within five minyear at Kingwood Park High School utes,” he said. “It was in that moment in Kingwood, TX. Reyes said he when I looked around the room and wanted a different perspective on the saw my peers still trying to figure automotive industry and believed things out, I discovered my talent.” Reyes described the prothat instructor Jeff Wilson’s cess of metal forming as course would offer that. pretty straight forward. “I feel collision repair is “First you get your palm a form of art because it transdolly and a hammer, typicalforms something damaged ly one with a flat head, you back to looking new again,” he explained. “I’ve always place the palm dolly behind had a love for art, and I feel the metal, apply pressure, Ivan Reyes that collision repair also reand lightly tap the hammer quires the same amount of patience, directly behind the metal while the technique and the right ‘eyes’ for de- palm dolly is supporting the protail.” cess,” he explained. “With caution, Wilson said Reyes is a perfec- you smoothly start making circles tionist on the non-structural side of around the direct damage until it has the collision industry, while most of gone flush.” his students are more drawn to paint- Reyes said he finds this practice appealing because it takes him to a ing. “He has a natural talent for form- “stress-free zone.” “It’s just me and the metal, and ing metal back into shape and making it look new again,” Wilson added. all I can focus on is right in front of Reyes recalls the first time he me,” he added. “It feels natural and by Victoria Antonelli

Continued from Page 26

Lobbyist Offers Perspectives also would likely ensure the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), created in 2010 within the Department of the Treasury, isn’t dismantled, Redding said. “Now, you might ask, what have they done lately,” Redding said of the FIO. “Well, they have no money and no staff and no authority, so it’s not a lot. But as I keep saying, FIO is the bones of federal regulation of insurance. The only groups that appreciate the potential of FIO are insurance companies, and they hate it.” Redding said the FIO hasn’t focused at all on issues related to property-casualty insurance, but that’s something ASA hopes to change. “The FIO is going to be with us at least another three years, because I don’t think any administration can kill it with either a Democratic House or Senate in place,” Redding said. “But if you have both a Democratic House and Senate, it’s going to get more aggressive,” he said. “If you get a trifecta, with a Democratic

House, Senate and president, then it could really have some meat to it.” If President Donald Trump is reelected, Redding said, “then the tax and regulatory aspect for small business should be good to go.” But the Department of Justice (DOJ) under a Republican administration, Redding said, probably won’t address “most favored nation clauses,” such as those in some direct repair program agreements requiring a participating shop to give the insurer the same or better pricing than the shop offers any other insurer. “We have Democratic support (on that issue) from a House member from the Northwest who brought the head of antitrust at the Department of Justice over for a briefing when Obama was still in office,” Redding said. “So if a Democrat is elected president, the most favored nation clause issue could be back on the table because back in 2010, the DOJ went after Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan,” he said, alleging the insurer’s “most favored nation” clauses in its contract with hospitals were anti-competitive.

simple to me.” Reyes said his favorite project so far was working on an SUV trunk door with extensive damage.

Ivan Reyes, sophomore at Kingwood Park High School, is already becoming a role model in his collision repair classes, says instructor Jeff Wilson. Credit: Ivan Reyes

“We got to repair the panel and apply etching primer, 2K primer, base and clear coats to complete the job,” he explained. “Seeing the final product definitely evoked a feeling of

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success.” One minor challenge Reyes has come across in Wilson’s class is perfecting his technique when using body filler. “I find this part a bit difficult because of the patience needed to get it right,” he said. “But I know that with Mr. Wilson’s help and mentorship, I will also master this process one day soon.” Reyes said one of his proudest accomplishments was fixing a customer’s 2001 Dodge Ram tailgate. “It had been through years of use and I was able to transform it back to looking brand new,” he explained. “What made that moment special to me was the amount of admiration I received from Mr. Wilson and my peers.” “He is truly becoming a positive role model for the course,” Wilson added. Once Reyes graduates in two years’ time, he said he plans to attend UTI for autobody and collision repair along with automotive techSee Techs of Tomorrow, Page 50

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Mike Anderson Discusses “Utilizing Technology to Thrive and Not Just Survive in 2020” during February CIECAst by Chasidy Rae Sisk

On Feb. 13, CIECA offered a CIECAst webinar entitled “Utilizing Technology to Thrive and Not Just Survive in 2020” with Mike Anderson of Collision Advice. Topics included eliminating human disruption, how AI will impact collision repair facilities, electronic quality control checklists, text reminders, customer updates using technology, and much more. CIECA Executive Director Ed Weidmann began the webinar by welcoming attendees and introducing Mike Anderson of Collision Advice. After covering antitrust and competition guidelines, Anderson dove into a discussion about eliminating human disruption. “It is no secret that more and more admin tasks are being added to collision repair facilities,” Anderson said. “Due to this fact, we, as collision repairers, must find ways to utilize technology to work smarter, not harder, and improve our efficiencies. “We must also find ways to eliminate human disruption so that we can stay on task and not get side-tracked. Claims count is also declining, and we need to utilize technology to counter this.” Recommending that shops reevaluate their staffing, Anderson pointed out that estimators can’t handle the same workload as they could in the past due to the increased admin time needed to research OEM procedures, source parts due to insurance requirements, meet customer service expectations and more. He urged, “We MUST embrace technology to reduce the workload of your staff.” Anderson identified suggestions for reducing this administrative burden. Instead of manually scheduling appointments, shops can use scheduling technology to optimize shop production and consumer demand after hours. Automatic email and text appointment reminders can be sent, and online reservations for rental cars should be used.

He also discussed electronic QC forms and management system interfacing with vendors to import parts invoices instead of manually inputting those invoices. “There are a lot of things we can utilize technology for,” Anderson stressed. “No matter what segment of the industry you’re in, ask yourself what things you can stop doing manually and start utilizing technology to do. Work smarter, not harder.” Next, Anderson discussed customer service expectations and informed webinar participants that consumers have liquid expectations and no longer compare their experience with a collision repair facility to oth-

views may become the CSI of the future. We are seeing some insurers using online reviews as their CSI, and some OEMs are also considering this.” Talking about business photos on Google, a shop’s website, Facebook and anywhere else it may be published, Anderson said, “Your first picture should be what your business looks like from the street, so a client recognizes your building while driving down the road. “I would discourage you from including pictures of equipment or disassembled cars—this means nothing to consumers—but include photos of your waiting room, happy customers and staff.”

Connected cars will spur innovation and growth among automotive and non-automotive industries alike,” — Mike Anderson er automotive services experiences; they are comparing the experience to the ease and relevance of their experience of the best in all industries. Examples he gave were Uber, which provides electronic receipts and Amazon, which is available 24/7. Anderson asked, “Are you using technology to offer your services after hours?” Anderson said more accidents happen on Saturdays than any other day, and 36% of consumers need services outside of normal business hours. “Normally, they want to schedule for an estimate or drop-off, and you have to provide the ability to schedule appointments after hours,” he said. “You absolutely need to do this if you want to tap into that 36%.” Emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of their shop’s Google listing, Anderson explained that most consumers search “best” when they are looking for a type of business, and only businesses with four or more stars get listed under that designation. He explained how that listing can be used to receive texts from potential clients after hours, and he discussed how to obtain reviews and link them to a business’s website. Anderson predicted, “Online re-

Moving on to photo estimating, Anderson acknowledged the controversial views many collision repairers have of this tool, but he pointed out, “Photo estimating is not a perfect solution, but we must start somewhere as a way to interact with the customer outside normal business hours. “There’s a difference between settling a claim and a marketing strategy, and claimants like this technology,” he said. “Remember that 36% of people need your services outside of normal business hours, and couples want to make a joint decision when they are both together to discuss alternate transportation, finances and other matters. “Don’t rush to conclusions about photo estimating; there’s a right application for this tool,” Anderson continued. “Offer it as a marketing strate gy so customers can reach you after hours,” he said. “Use the photos to triage or schedule work, or utilize them to get a jump start on researching OEM procedures. “You know you can’t write an estimate without completely disassembling the vehicle, but this isn’t a black and white area,” Anderson said. “Photo estimating is something the industry needs, but we have to

set parameters around it.” Noting that ADAS is also starting to have an impact on the industry, Anderson noted that claims were down by up to 7% last year, and he anticipated that trend continuing. Noting that as claims frequency declines, capture rate is and will continue to be critical, Anderson suggested, “Increasing severity is hiding the loss of car count. Scanning and calibration caused severity to increase, hiding the fact that we have fewer cars coming to our shop doors, so it’s important that we use technology to track the car count, not just income produced. “Lots of sales cover lots of sins,” Anderson said. “When sales are up and shops are making money, we quit paying attention to things that make us successful, like capture rate. Are you following up with potential customers?” Anderson urged shops to build best practices now, and onitor where work comes from monthly. “Referral source reports from many management systems allow you to track where your work is coming from, but the attention is in the detail!” Anderson said. “Make sure you note who referred your customers, and if they are a DRP client, you want to know if they were referred by the insurer or were already planning to use your shop and just happen to be a policyholder for an insurance company with which you have a DRP relationship,” he said. “I want you to thrive, and not just survive!” Anderson reiterated. “In order to do that, you have to provide details that allow you to proactively assess what’s going on,” he said. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a common topic people discuss, and Anderson explored how AI will impact collision repair centers. According to CCC Information Services, the company has been working with deep learning (DL) and machine learning (ML) technologies since 2011, and the algorithms it has in place show that, today, it is 90% accurate in predicting when an insurer will declare a car a total loss through analysis of a

46 APRIL 2020 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

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photo of the damaged vehicle. “What does this mean to the collision repair professional?” Anderson pondered. “As AI is implemented into our industry, total losses will be identified before the vehicle is sent to a shop. This eliminates the vehicle storage profit center which is huge for some shops, therefore, they’ll have to replace that lost revenue. “On the positive side, shops with DRP agreements will be able to focus on repairable vehicles,” Anderson said. Regarding total losses, Anderson offered a “golden nugget.” “Make sure to ask customers if they want you to delete their personal data from the vehicle before sending it to the salvage yard,” he said. “Customers store cell phone data, garage door codes, GPS information and more in their vehicles, and removing that information benefits the consumer and the insurer. Shops need to offer it,” he said. Anderson then explained that the days of pen and paper QC forms are gone, and electronic QC procedures are imperative, pointing out that the

electronic version records a date, time, and in some cases, a geotag. He explored some of the challenges related to electronic checklists, such as data storage, setting standards and holding staff accountable for accurate completion. The benefits of utilizing electronic QC checklists were also addressed. According to Anderson, “Collision repairers today absolutely must use electronic QC checklists. They create verifiable trust between all parties, including the OEM, insurer and consumer, and it allows the shop to hold everyone to the same standards.” Anderson then explored the opportunities that exist with test drives and the importance of ensuring the shop has a strong WiFi signal that can handle all employees accessing it at the same time. Examining the topic of telematics and connected vehicles, Anderson observed that the age of connected cars began with GM’s OnStar in 1996, and as of 2016, there were 250 companies with over $38.7 billion in funding in that space. “Today, it is coming at us at

lightning speed,” Anderson said. “Connected cars will spur innovation and growth among automotive and non-automotive industries alike,” he said. “For companies willing to invest in the automotive industry of the future, payback could be huge. In 2020, analysts project the global connected car industry to be a $141 billion market.” Anderson urged collision repairers to acquire training now, as he discussed generational preferences related to connected cars and the importance of checking owner’s manuals to learn if a vehicle needs to be placed into service mode prior to disassembly to prevent an alert being sent to the vehicle owner while the car is in the shop. Talking about voice activated search and the frequency with which this is utilized while driving, Anderson pointed out, “The vehicle will be and may already be watching you! As more cars are connected to the Internet in the future, we’ll see more cameras, and it’s important to understand that anything we say or do around the vehicle can actually be recorded on

those cameras.” As the February CIECAst came to a conclusion, Anderson shared his wish list. He’d like to see a genius feature for parts and OEM research where the system is more integrated and makes recommendations, in addition to a search feature to identify one-time use parts and AI to determine best scheduling practices. “The collision repair industry hasn’t scratched 10% of its potential when it comes to utilizing technology,” Anderson said, quoting an “old country song” to add, “We have a long way to go and a short time to get there!” CIECA’s webinars are eligible for AMi credit toward an industry-recognized professional designation and specialty degree. The next CIECAcast is scheduled for Tuesday, March 17 at 11 a.m. CST and will feature Michael Ortega, Senior Director of Application Development at IAA. The webinar is entitled “The Key to Collaboration: Combining Technology and Communication.” For more information on CIECA and its webinars, visit cieca.com.

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Expect Towing To Kill Range Of Electric Pickup Trucks by: Eric Loveday, Inside EVs

Will towing significantly reduce the range of the Tesla Cybertruck, Hummer electric pickup, Rivian R1T, Nikola Badger or any of the other upcoming electric pickup trucks from the likes of Ford, General Motors, Bollinger and others? The answer is a solid “yes” and the drop can be substantial, but gas/ diesel trucks suffer from this too. Though our focus here is on electric cars, trucks and SUVs, we often need to look beyond electric vehicles when examining certain topics such as towing. Up until recently, towing wasn’t a major concern for electric car owners and potential EV buyers. That’s mostly because the electric offerings available today aren’t exactly suited to towing, aside from a few vehicles like the Tesla Model X and Audi e-tron. However, there will soon be an influx of electric pickup trucks on the market and you can bet that buyers of these trucks will take interest in the towing capabilities. We’ve all seen the claims put

forth by the EV truck makers in regards to towing, but those are just weight figures. Most electric truck can tow a lot, some can tow millions of pounds under certain circumstances, but what’s the impact on the range? That’s the burning question and the answer might surprise you. In regards to range, we need look no further than conventional pickup trucks. Sure, EVs differ some, but the range hit on conventional trucks will rather directly correlate with what we see with standard gas/ diesel trucks. Reduced range from towing is the result of much higher drag, the added friction of more tires on the roadway and, to a lesser extent, the weight of what’s being hauled. If you’re interested in learning how much towing can impact the range of a Ram 3500 diesel pickup truck, then this article and the video within will help spell that all out. Basically, range drops dramatically when towing a trailer, and that mostly is a result of aerodynamics and lots of drag. Losing 50% of your total range or more is not uncommon

depending on what you’re towing, so you should pick your electric truck accordingly.

The author tows this 1,900-lb. camper. Credit: Inside EVs

Case in point. I’m an avid camper. I own a 2019 Ram 1500 V8 Hemi (hopefully someday this will be replaced by an electric truck) and tow the camper seen above. It’s lightweight at only 1,900 lbs. It stands about 8.5 feet in height and is about a foot wider than the truck that’s towing it (not counting the mirrors.) My Ram truck can easily cover 520 miles or so on a full (29 gallon) tank of gasoline. That’s without the camper attached. With the camper attached, my total range varies considerably depending on speed and wind condi-

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tions. The worst result to date was achieved on a mostly highway trip to a state park, in which my total calculated range was only 217 miles. That’s a massive drop from the 520 I can achieve without the camper in tow. On other trips, my range was better at up to around 315 to 320 miles on a full tank of gas. Though far from scientific, my results match up with other anecdotal stories you can find on various websites. Aerodynamics and the impact of drag on range are largely the same for gas/diesel and electric vehicles, so expect similar results in an electric pickup truck. The main difference is that gas/ diesel trucks are easily and quickly refueled on the road en route to your destination. The same isn’t always true for electric vehicles.

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Insurers Win Again—Mostly—in Antitrust Lawsuits Filed by Body Shops by Jim Sams, Claims Journal

A federal appellate court threw out most of the claims by automotive body shops in Indiana, Utah and Mississippi alleging major insurers violated anti-trust laws and engaged in anticompetitive practices by steering policyholders to “approved” shops. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals found March 6 claims filed by body shops in Indiana and Utah must be dismissed for procedural reasons. The appellate panel also upheld the dismissal of most of the claims filed by the Mississippi body shops, but it revived specific tortious interference claims by two of the Mississippi body shops against Progressive Insurance. The case is Automotive Alignment & Body Service and Alexander Body Shop LLC v. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. The panel decision, which was made by three appellate judges, follows last year’s en banc ruling by all seven 11th Circuit judges dismissing separate lawsuits alleging antitrust violations by insurance carriers. That

case was Quality Auto Painting Center of Roselle v. State Farm. Defense attorneys worried a ruling in favor of the body shops in Quality Auto would have allowed plaintiffs to merely cite parallel conduct by competitors as sufficient basis for pleading an antitrust violation.

The decision released March 6 stems from multi-district litigation referred to the federal court for the Middle District of Florida. The body shops claimed State Farm group was the leader of a conspiracy involving several insurance carriers to conduct “market rate surveys” that actually were shams intended to reduce the cost of autobody work. The body shops alleged the carriers refused to pay for necessary repairs and procedures, and required

body shops to use subpar “aftermarket” parts instead of new parts. The carriers also steer their insureds away from noncompliant body shops and toward body shops that comply with their pricing demands and other requirements, the lawsuits alleged. The 11th Circuit said the complaint was very similar to the price-fixing allegations made in the Quality Auto case and must be dismissed for the same reasons. The court found the body shops in Quality Auto did not prove the carriers had colluded on price simply because they used similar practices and each had set the same top rates. The 11th Circuit didn’t address the merit of the complaints filed by the Utah and Indiana body shop’s arguments in the Automotive Alignment case decided March 6. The panel found instead the plaintiffs had not met the deadline to file amended complaints after those suits were dismissed by the district court. The Mississippi plaintiffs did amend their complaints on time, but the 11th Circuit dismissed most of the complaints for the same reasoning stated in Quality Auto.

“We have already held that this allegation of ‘price leadership’—‘following the example set by a competitor, without agreeing to do so in advance’—is insufficient to establish the existence of an agreement,” the court said. On the other hand, the panel said Autoworks Collision Specialist and Walkers Collision Center had adequately played their claims against Progressive Insurance. Each body shop claimed it had lost one customer because Progressive misled customers by telling them Progressive would guarantee the repair work if they used Progressive’s preferred shops, leading those customers to presume their shops would not guarantee their work. The court said the body shops stated a plausible allegation that Progressive had conspired to harm them with malicious intent and without justifiable cause. The 11th Circuit vacated the district court’s decision to vacate those specific complaints and remanded the case for further proceedings. We thank Claims Journal for reprint permission.

Continued from Page 44

General Motors’ $20 Billion EV Plan Starts by Abandoning Trump’s Emissions Rollback by Joey Klender, Teslarati

General Motors has announced its plans to begin manufacturing electric vehicles at scale. To make its $20 billion plan a reality, it has to do one thing: Acknowledge that its alignment with President Donald Trump’s emissions rollback efforts is a lost cause. This is because creating electric vehicles and abiding by an environmentally-harming plan go together like oil and water. When GM decided it would follow along with Trump’s auto emissions rollback efforts and not with California’s Clean Air Act, the state made the decision to halt the purchase of vehicles from the automaker. But on March 4, GM held its first “EV Day,” where it outlined an ambitious plan to dive into and saturate the EV sector, making it evident the company is ready to make a serious push towards the adoption of sustainable vehicles. GM has said to customers for years it will pursue a future that promotes environmental longevity. However, the company’s decision to not abide by California’s environ-

mental plan seems to show it has not been completely dedicated to ideas that could help the Earth. To make its push toward electric vehicles and sustainability a reality, GM has to begin by abandoning Trump’s emissions rollback efforts that would lower the average fuel efficiency requirements of vehicles. If successful, the government’s initiative could result in automakers rolling out gas-guzzling vehicles once more, similar to the rise of SUVs following the death of the EV1, GM’s electric car. The Trump administration’s plan is expected to hike oil consumption in the U.S. by half a billion barrels a day, but it could also reduce automakers regulatory costs by more than $300 billion annually, according to Reuters. This would put more money in the carmaker’s pockets, but more carbon dioxide into the air. While GM is not the only automaker to side with the Trump rollback efforts, it is the only one that is making a big push toward an electric lineup. When asked to comment, the company said, “Regardless of the standards, we are committed to a fu-

ture of zero crashes, zero emissions and zero congestion. The pathway to that future includes continually improving fuel economy year-over-year and our commitment to an all-electric future.” This year, GM resurrected the Hummer, but this time around, the vehicle will be all-electric and won’t boast the same devil-may-care fuel consumption that its gas-powered predecessors did. While GM has notable EVs like the Chevy Bolt, the automaker’s plans for the release of an electric lineup of vehicles must still coincide with the company’s larger goals. Volkswagen, Ford, BMW and Honda have all committed to increases in fuel economy year-over-year. GM can become the next automaker to adopt this pledge, but it must first take a strong stance against the administration’s emissions rollback efforts. If GM cannot do this, then its $20 billion electric vehicle plan may end up being just that—a plan, and very little else. We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

Techs of Tomorrow nology training courses. “My dream job in the auto body industry is working for a Porsche or Lamborghini dealership,” he said. Reyes also has a slew of hobbies outside of collision repair, including cycling, drawing, painting and hunting with his dad. “I’ve been a cyclist for a year now and commit to riding at least 125 miles per week, he said. “I started this hobby for fun and as a way to spend more one-on-one time with my dad.” However, when Reyes and his father began comparing his results to those of more experienced riders, the boost of confidence made him want to compete. “Riding in large groups is where I get most of my training, which will benefit me during race season this spring,” he explained. For more information on Kingwood Park High School, visit www.humble isd.net.

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Automating Claims for Drivers & Insurers by Bill Brower, Property Casualty 360

At this point in time, it has become accepted that automation is either on its way to your industry or has already arrived. For many auto insurers, automation has not only arrived but has transformed the overall claims process for the better. It’s a win-win situation for both insurers and customers, with automation helping insurers do their jobs more effi ciently and providing more convenience for their customers. Insurers who have eff ectively implemented automation into the claims process can possibly have huge benefi ts across the board, especially when it comes to reducing operating costs and increasing customer satisfaction. So, accepting that automation is here to stay, it’s important to examine the most eff ective ways for insurers to implement it if they aren’t doing so already. Balancing Automation & Empathy However, automation is not something everyone embraces. The key for insurers is to understand this fear and balance it with empathy. Insurers that understand how to do that eff ectively will be the most successful in implementing automation into their claims. While consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z, increasingly demand self-service and digital access, there are times their biggest desire is actually human touch. Our Future of Claims study has shown that throughout the claims process, customers want one-on-one human interaction easily accessible when they need it. In particular, to help consumers overcome these fear-based barriers, insurers should look to provide access to a live representative during important preclaim phases. More than half of consumers (52%) say they believe interaction with a live person is critical during the process of submitting the fi rst notice of loss (FNOL) because they complain that self-service FNOL processes ask too many questions, whereas only 21% think a live person is helpful during the estimate submission phase. Talking to an

actual person on the phone enables the representative to express empathy, which creates a closer customer touch and has proven to positively impact customer satisfaction. Automation can help insurers deliver this human interaction identifying when that appropriate time is in the claims process.

and productive human touch where a smoother experience for both the appropriate. This is possible today insurer and the customer. When it comes to auto insurif an insurer integrates a data prefi ll solution early into the claims ance claims automation, we are process. As insurers continue to ef- still relatively early in the process fectively integrate more data prefi ll in terms of what’s possible given c signals are solutions into the claims process, it how cars and even traffi makes the self-service option as easy becoming increasingly connected. and painless as possible for custom- However, early indicators show that ers and enables the insur- automation can be increasingly bener to further expedite the efi cial to both insurers and consumers. Automation is not something the claims through automation. Customers want to pro- consumer should be afraid of, and if vide their insurer with all of insurers can ease their concerns by the necessary details about coupling it with empathy and guidtheir car accident in order to ance at the right time during the help ensure that their claim claims process, it can lead to enoris accurate. And as a result mous benefi ts. Claims automation is no longer of data prefi ll solutions, this Despite the benefits of automating claims, not everyone entire process is able to be the future, the journey has already embraces this change� Insurers must learn to balance expedited from the FNOL begun, and it is having an immenseempathy against the fear of using new technology� because the carriers are able ly positive impact on the industry. Credit: Shutterstock to electronically confi rm The question then becomes, how Let me give you an example of each claimant’s information and fo- can insurers continue to evolve when customers prefer automation cus any necessary conversations on their claims automation capabilities as it can conveniently simplify their additional details needed to acceler- alongside connected cars and cars of claims. Beyond just effi ciency in the ate the claim. As a result, automating the future. claims-handling process, thanks to claims both simplifi es and speeds We thank Property Casualty 360 automation, insurers today have an up the entire process and makes it for reprint permission. opportunity to pay claims faster than ever before. Setting the pace in 2016, Allstate formed a partnership with Mastercard to create an instant payment method called QuickCard Pay. In order to participate in QuickCard Pay, all claimants needed was a debit card and an email address. According to Allstate Chief Claims Offi cer Ken Rosen, “QuickCard Pay gave claimants an immediate and secure payment method that helped deliver on Allstate’s promise of a fast, fair and compassionate claims experience.” As a result, Allstate’s solution Choose Original MINI Parts. is currently one of the fastest claims payment methods in the property Illinois Michigan and casualty industry that eclipsed MINI of Grand Rapids their previous industry-leading serPatrick MINI vice, Fast Mobile e-Payment, which Grand Rapids Schaumburg produced same-day payment with 888-708-1359 847-605-4055 just an email address or mobile (616)-452-1101 Fax (847) 619-4511 Fax phone number. miniofgrandrapids.com Hours: M-Sat 8am-5pm patrickMINI.com Capturing the Details The key to striking a balance is havThe Dealers Above Are Original MINI Parts Distributors ing data integrated within the claims workfl ow to automate steps such as the claim payment and at your ad©2020 MINI USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The MINI name, model names and logo are justers’ fi ngertips to ensure adjusters registered trademarks. are well equipped for a meaningful

52 APRIL 2020 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

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Toyota Fuel Pump Recall Expanded to Nearly 2 Million Vehicles by David A. Wood, Car Complaints

A Toyota fuel pump recall is expanded to include nearly 2 million vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, an expansion of a fuel pump recall issued in January.

About 1.8 million of these vehicles are recalled in the U.S. and more than 158,000 are recalled in Canada. The fuel pumps can fail and cause the engines to run rough, stall and fail to restart. Affected vehicles include: - 2013-2015 Lexus LS 460 - 2013-2014 Lexus GS 350 - 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser - 2014 Lexus IS-F - 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner - 2014-2015 Toyota Land Cruiser - 2014-2015 Lexus GX 460 - 2014-2015 Lexus IS 350 - 2014-2015 Lexus LX 570 - 2015 Lexus NX 200t

- 2015 Lexus RC 350 - 2017 Lexus IS 200t - 2015 Lexus RC 200t - 2017-2019 Toyota Sienna - 2017-2019 Lexus RX 350 - 2018 Lexus GS 300 - 2018-2019 Toyota Avalon - 2018-2019 Toyota Camry - 2018-2019 Toyota Corolla - 2018-2019 Toyota Highlander - 2018-2019 Toyota Sequoia - 2018-2019 Toyota Tacoma - 2018-2019 Toyota Tundra - 2018-2019 Lexus ES 350 - 2018-2019 Lexus GS 350 - 2018-2019 Lexus IS 300 - 2018-2019 Lexus IS 350 - 2018-2019 Lexus LC 500 - 2018-2019 Lexus LC 500h - 2018-2019 Lexus LS 500 - 2018-2019 Lexus LS 500h - 2018-2019 Lexus RC 300 - 2018-2019 Lexus RC 350 - 2018-2019 Lexus RX 350L The Toyota fuel pump recall involves low-pressure pumps manufactured by Denso and located inside the fuel tanks. The Denso fuel pump has an impeller that absorbs too much fuel and deforms, causing the impeller

to make contact with the fuel pump body. A driver will notice warning lights and messages, and the engine will run rough, stall and won’t restart. Toyota said in January most of the reports indicated vehicles typically stalled at speeds of less than 20 mph.

According to the automaker, 63 fi eld reports said the fuel pumps failed while driving less than 20 mph and three reports said the vehicles were moving above 20 mph. In addition, Toyota told the National Highway Traffi c Safety Administration the fuel pumps failed primarily in hotter climates. When the automaker announced the January recall, hybrid vehicle

owners were told a separate fuel pump customer service program would eventually be off ered. Toyota says the hybrid vehicles are equipped with the defective Denso fuel pumps, but those vehicles enter a failsafe mode if the pumps fail. Toyota said this allegedly removes a safety risk associated with pump failures in non-hybrid vehicles. Following the January Toyota fuel pump recall, the automaker was served a class action lawsuit that alleges the vehicles have lost value. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges the Toyota fuel pump recall failed to include all 2018-2019 vehicles equipped with defective Denso fuel pumps that begin with part numbers 23220 or 23221. Toyota and Lexus owners will be contacted by May and dealers will replace the Denso fuel pumps with allegedly improved pumps. Customers aff ected by the Toyota fuel pump recall may call 800331-4331 and Lexus owners may call 800-255-3987. We thank Car Complaints for reprint permission.

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When you repair a BMW, use the parts that are identical to those used in Series production – and just as reliable. Choose Original BMW Parts and Accessories. Because you can’t repair your reputation. ©2020 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks. autobodynews.com / APRIL 2020 AUTOBODY NEWS 53

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