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Students Receive First-Hand Introduction to Industry from LKQ & Centerline CARSTAR in Ohio by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
Collision repair students from Medina County Career Center in Ohio learned about the industry first-hand from LKQ and Centerline CARSTAR during an all-day field trip in March. The day started out with a visit to LKQ in Akron. In addition to viewing an automotive recycling center, the students learned that LKQ is a paint and body equipment distributor as well as an aftermarket parts supplier. Their next stop was Centerline CARSTAR in Strongsville. The students met with Paul Struhar Sr. and his son Paul Jr. and were given a tour
Students toured Centerline CARSTAR in Ohio as part of an all-day field trip
of the 17,750-square-foot facility. Centerline recently went through a reorganization and expansion in order to increase production. The students were shown sunlight corrected lighting, epoxied floors, a central vacuum sandSee Students Receive, Page 16
IN Shop Tech Helps Police ID Jeep in Alleged Drunk Driving Hit-and-run Accident
consistent with the debris found at the scene. Sheriff deputies found Joan Geesaman, 49, inside the residence where the vehicle was found. She was arrested for leaving the scene of the accident and operating while intoxicated. Deputies said a breath test showed her blood alcohol-level was .051 about six hours after the accident occurred. Police said Geesaman was attempting to turn left onto C.R. 1 from C.R. 10 when she drove off the road and hit a stop sign, 40 feet of chain link fence and a Verizon utility box. The homeowner told police he heard the crash around 10 p.m.
Change Service Requested
P.O. BOX 1516, CARLSBAD, CA 92018
An alleged drunk driver crashed into a fence, sign and utility box late on evening of April 11 and fled the scene, according to the Elkhart County, IN, Sherrif's office. The suspect’s identity may have remained a mystery, except the owner of the damaged fence at the corner of C.R. 10 and C.R. 1 works as an auto body repairman. He was able to study debris that broke off the suspect’s vehicle to identify it as a dark gray Jeep Cherokee, according to the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department. Police used that information to locate a Jeep parked in a driveway about a mile from the accident with damage
VOL. 5 ISSUE 8 MAY 2016
MO Shop Owner Killed During Craigslist Transaction by Cass Heckel, Research Associate
Jake Brantner, owner of Jake’s Performance Fabrication in Lees Summit, MO, died April 3 after being shot during an apparent gun sale transaction. The 39-year-old shop owner was killed in a shopping center parking lot in Kansas City around 8:30 p.m. His 10-year-old daughter, Makenzie Brantner, was present at the time of the incident. Police are seeking public help in locating the suspect. The night of April 3, Jake was meeting an unknown individual to sell his handgun, according to police. A friend of Brantner’s said the transaction was arranged through Craigslist. The online sales site prohibits the sale of weapons; however, users have found loopholes to this restriction. Fox News 4 reported that an off-
duty officer was the first to arrive at the scene. The officer had heard shouting and gunshots prior to investigating the disturbance. It was at that time that he found Jake fatally wounded and called 911. According to Raw Story News, Jake’s daughter Makenzie was in a parked truck nearby when witnesses found her uninjured. Missouri is well known for having some of the most lenient laws when it comes to gun control, according to Laws.com. Under Missouri law a buyer’s permit is not required for the purchase of a firearm. In other U.S. states, a buyer’s permit is only issued after a background check is completed by the buyer. In other cases, sales can only be made through a licensed dealer such as in California. Missouri also does not require a handgun to be See Craigslist killer, Page 20
Grants Available to MN Shops Interested In Reducing VOC Emissions, Application Deadline is May 11 by The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) come from industrial and commercial processes all around us. You may recognize them as the solvent-like fumes coming from materials like coatings,
tive health impacts on employees and the general population. The reductions can help:
● Save money by reducing regulatory fees ● Create healthier air for employees and the community ● Make shops smells better ● Produce less PPE
inks, solvents, adhesives, gasoline, and other chemicals used in everyday commerce. VOCs can be reduced by making changes to manufacturing processes and heating equipment, and through facility-wide opportunities such as purchasing safer products. Reducing VOCs can have posi-
Where’s the money? Grants will soon become available to help Minnesota small-businesses interested in reducing emissions of VOCs throughout their facilities. Find out more about the MPCA’s grant at https://www.pca .state.mn.us/quick-links/grants-helpsmall-businesses-reduce-vocs. Applications are due by May 11 2016. See Grant Available, Page 20
Presorted Standard US Postage PAID San Bernardino, CA Permit #2244
2 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
COLUMNISTS Attanasio - Do Vehicle Wraps Make Sense for Your Shop?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Attanasio - Mixing Paints During the Day and Cocktails at Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Attanasio - Turtles, Dolphins, Gators, Oh My! FL Shop Steps Up to Help Non-Profits. . . . 44 Attanasio - Women Shop Owners and Female Consumers Get Help from AskPatty.com. . 54 Phillips - Utah Shop Stresses Importance of OEM Certifications and Educating Customers About Parts Usage . . . . . . . . . 26 Phillips - Wisconsin Auto Body Shop Creates USO Mobile Canteen for Troops . . . . . . . . 24 Yoswick - Anderson Shows NORTHEAST Shops How His “Who Pays for What?” Surveys Can Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Yoswick - ASA Lobbyists, Allstate Acquires Sterling, Recycled Parts Market Share, Chinese OEMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 NATIONAL AASA Hosts Connected Cars Panel at Vision Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 AkzoNobel’s Acoat Selected Bodyshop Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 All-new “Who Pays for What” Surveys Shops About “Not-Included” Body Labor Billing and Insurer Payment Practices . . . . . . . . . 30
American Honda is ASA Corporate Member. . 16 ASA Hosts Online Demo of New OEM Resource Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Auto Body Shop Owner in Texas Restores Vehicle for Car Donation Using OEM Parts . . . . . . 60 AutoUSADirect.com Launches Website. . . . . 27 BASF’s Glasurit 90 Line Introduces New Boosters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Caliber CEO Accepts Prestigious National Award in Support of U.S. Military . . . . . . . 58 Car-O-Liner Group Has New Website Updates . 59 CARSTAR’s Bob Keith Receives I-CAR Award . 63 Collision Financial Services Offers 0% Loans . 12 Communication Was Key at Mopar Masters Guild Annual Meeting in Las Vegas . . . . . . 38 EMM Becomes ISO 9001:2015 Certified. . . . 14 ETI Hires Rick Matz as Technical Manager . . 41 Farmers Insurance Launches All-New Claims Filing to Maximize Ease of Use for Customers Nationwide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Herkules Adds Two New Lifts to BossLifts Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 IPA’s® 12-Button Remote Control for the Super MUTT® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 ITW Evercoat Launches New Body Filler . . . . 28 Lang - Golden Oldie Vehicles Soar . . . . . . . . 40 Mitchell Says Remember Your Forgettables. . 55 NABR Launches VRS Labor Rate Survey in HI . 60 NACE 2016 MSO Symposium Agenda and Topics Announced, Held Aug. 11 in Anaheim. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 National Group Joins Fight to Save Dallas Car Repair Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 New Auto Care Career and Education Award (ACE) Application Now Available. . . . . . . . . 3 New Ideas from Technicians are Backbone of Killer Tools Unique Products . . . . . . . . . 41 NHTSA Won’t Consider Takata Impact in Recalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 PDA Expands Team with New CFO Appointment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Phillips - Why Are Online Reviews Important to Your Auto Body Shop? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Pliogrip™ 5770 Adhesive Recommended by GM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Polyvance Finishes First Day of LeMons Race in AL, Releases New Plastic Repair Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 PPG Refinish Continues Commitment to Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 RAND Corp. Report Says Calling Driverless Cars Safer than Human Drivers is Statistically Impossible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 SCRS Board of Directors Meeting Held . . . . . 59 Self-Driver Navigates Roads in Total Darkness . . 4 Sherwin-Williams Launches New Custom & Restoration Websites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Tours Announced for NACE | CARS 2016 in CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 U.S. Official: Automakers Must Fix Security Gaps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 VISION HiTech Training & Expo Honors Top Contributor & Educator. . . . . . . . . . . . 28 WIN Elects Board Leadership for 2016-2017. . 48
The Auto Care Association is now accepting applications for a new award, the Auto Care Career and Education Award (ACE), to honor auto care companies that continually provide the culture for and facilitation of employee career development, and invest in employee education and training. The ACE award, formerly known as the Head of the Class Award, recognizes three companies designated by total number of employees. The award winners will be selected by the Auto Care Association Education Committee. “With the association’s emphasis on providing tools for career development and employee retention, the Education Committee decided to add a focus on employee career development to the award,” said Sue Kalish, senior director, education, Auto Care Association. “As employees grow in their roles and within the company, this in turn contributes to the success of the company. The ACE award will recognize companies for their commitment to providing opportunities for employees to increase their knowledge and improve skill-building, in addition
to providing the environment and culture for individual employee growth.” Companies winning the previous Head of the Class Award noted that the recognition for their education and training program increased their reputation in both their employees’ and customers’ eyes. The companies used the materials, logos, promotion and other materials provided by the association for their own promotion campaigns. To apply, use the online application form, available at: www.autocare .org/What-We-Do/ProfessionalDevelopment/Education/auto-carecareer-and-education-award/. The online application format enables applicants to enter, save and re-access text, attach sample pdf documents and include internet links. Applicants are encouraged to focus on their company’s career development, education and training story, and to outline their approach and return on investment. Applications are due by May 20. Winning companies will be notified in June. Winners will be recognized during Fall Leadership Days 2016 in Washington, D.C.
Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Assistant Editor: Stacey Phillips Online Editor: Victoria Antonelli Contributing Writers: Tom Franklin, John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, David Brown, Rich Evans, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Sean Hartman, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Sales/Research Associate: Cass Heckel Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia
Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 50 Axalta Coating Systems . . . . . . . . . . 5 Blue Springs Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 59 Bob Hook Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Car-Part.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Carcoon America Airflow Systems . 42 Carstar Automotive, Inc. . . . . . . . . . 13 Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA). . . . . . . . . . . 39 Charles Gabus Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Chief Automotive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Classic Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Courtesy Subaru. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Dent Magic Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Diamond Standard Parts . . . . . . . . 31 Dominion Sure Seal, Ltd. . . . . . . . . 10 Eco Repair Systems of North America, LLC . . . . . . . . . . 26 EMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Equalizer Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . 38 Erhard BMW of Bloomfield Hills . . . 19 Erhard BMW of Farmington Hills . . 19 Ganley Westside Hyundai . . . . . . . 52 Ganley Westside Subaru . . . . . . . . 43 GM Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . 61 Graham Auto Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Hall Volkswagen-Mazda . . . . . . . . . 47 Herkules Equipment Corporation. . 16 Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32, 33 Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers . 54 Jake Sweeney Chevrolet . . . . . . . . 44 Kelly BMW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Kia Elite Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
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. ©2016 Adamantine Media LLC. Autobody News Box 1516, Carlsbad, CA 92018; (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com Email: news@autobodynews.com
Midwest
REGIONAL CARSTAR Partners with Axalta for Earnhardt Jr.’s Race in Kansas . . . . . . . . . 11 Cunningham Brothers is GM 2015 Supplier of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 D Patrick in IN Recognized as Top 5 Collision Center in US. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Enterprise Hosts CREF, I-CAR St. Louis Career Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 FinishMaster acquires Zitco, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . 30 Gerber Aquires OH Glass Repair Business & Collision Collision Cure Body Werks in IN . . 8 GM’s Lansing Grand River Plant in MI Starts Third Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Grants Available to MN Shops Interested In Reducing VOC Emissions, Application Deadline is May 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 IN Shop Tech Helps Police ID Jeep in Alleged Drunk Driving Hit-and-run Accident . . . . . . 1 Michigan Moves on Self-Driving Testing Facility . 4 MN Body Shop Going Green One Paint Job at a Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 MO Shop Owner Killed During Craigslist Transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Nagy’s in OH Welcomes New Leadership . . . 10 Networking Event in MO for Students . . . . . . . 8 Southeast Technical Transportation Programs Career Night Held in March on MN Campus. . 8 Students Receive First-Hand Introduction to Industry from LKQ & Centerline CARSTAR in Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Toyota Establishes Third Autonomous Driving US Research Institute in MI . . . . . . . . . . . 20 WI Business, Shop Owners Form Group to Combat Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Indexof Advertisers
Contents
New Auto Care Career and Education Award (ACE) Application Now Available
Kia of Des Moines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Kia Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . . 57 Killer Tools & Equipment Corp . . . . 20 Laurel Auto Group of Westmont . . . 45 Lusid Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Luther Bloomington Acura-Subaru. 11 Luther Hopkins Honda . . . . . . . . . . 12 Maplewood Toyota-Scion . . . . . . . . 46 Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 56 Mercedes-Benz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Mitsubishi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 37 Morrison’s Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . 52 NACE / CARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Nissan of South Holland . . . . . . . . . 28 Nissan Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . 60 Orio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Polyvance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 PPG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Reliable Automotive Equipment . . . 14 Richfield-Bloomington Honda . . . . 24 Russ Darrow Automotive Group. . . 41 SATA Spray Equipment . . . . . . . . . 25 Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 55 The Sharpe Collection of Automobiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Toyota of Des Moines . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Toyota of Grand Rapids . . . . . . . . . 36 Toyota Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 58 Valspar Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 VanDevere Kia-GM . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Zimmer Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram . 64
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 3
Self-Driver Navigates Roads in Total Darkness
A self-driving car has successfully navigated winding desert roads in complete darkness in trials in Arizona. The Ford Fusion Hybrid tipped around a closed circuit in the dark—with its headlights off. It could do so because of LiDAR technology—a series of sensors that make a 3D map of everything around but doesn’t rely on visible light.
Ford Fusion
Jim McBride, Ford technical leader for autonomous vehicles, says LiDAR “allows autonomous cars to drive just as well in the dark as they do in the light of day.” The car drove at night through the Arizona desert without human interference and with its headlights switched off, to test the limits of its artificially intelligent navigation system. The new LiDAR system is made by Velodyne, a company that Ford has been closely working with for a decade. These sensors shoot 2.8 million laser pulses per second, to scan the surroundings precisely. The car uses
high-resolution 3D maps in conjunction with the LiDAR sensors to pinpoint itself on the map, all in real time. In addition, the car also uses a conventional radar which gathers additional information and enhances the sensing capabilities of the vehicle. Wayne Williams, research scientist and engineer at Ford said,” Inside the car, I could feel it moving, but when I looked out the window, I only saw darkness. As I rode in the back seat, I was following the car’s progression in real time using computer monitoring. Sure enough, it stayed precisely on track along those winding roads.” LiDAR addresses the need to recognise objects, road signs and signals, which is especially difficult in the night. Also, irregular signage standards and bad weather make it difficult for autonomous vehicles to perceive the road ahead. This LiDAR equipped Ford Fusion Hybrid can drive in practically any condition.The cost of these LiDAR systems are high at present, but Ford’s CEO, Mark Fields says the advancement in this technology and the downward trend of technology costs in general, will make it a viable option for full scale production cars in the future. For 2016, Ford plans to triple its autonomous car fleet, to 30 Ford Fusion Hybrids.
Michigan Moves on Self-Driving Testing Facility
Michigan is making a bid to retain its title as the auto capital of the world, even as the industry turns more toward connected and autonomous vehicles. The former Willow Run General Motors powertrain plant in Ypsilanti Township is becoming a development and testing site for autonomous vehicles called the American Center for Mobility, the first facility of its kind in America that brings together government, industry and academia on the technology. The state of Michigan is expected to provide $20 million in funding toward the $80 million development of the Willow Run site, which is a joint initiative between the Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan Economic Development Corp., UM, BLM and Ann Arbor Spark. The center will feature a 2.5-mile loop that will serve as a simulated highway with ramps, bridges, merge lanes, signs, changes in elevation and potentially a curved tunnel, Maddox said. Vehicles will be able to travel at highway speeds up to 80 mph. It will also feature a large configurable intersection and areas to simulate urban, suburban and commercial area (a mall or freight center) as well as an offroad section for possible military vehicles.
In May, Ann Arbor Spark was awarded a nearly $250,000 grant to develop a plan for the center at Willow Run. The grant was awarded as part of a program by the U.S. Department of Commerce. In Michigan it is legal to test driverless-cardriverless cars on public roads under Public Act 231 and Public Act 251, both of which were signed in 2013 and went into effect soon thereafter. Referred to as “automated motor vehicles” under the law, in order to operate them (for the purpose of testing and refining the technology), here are some of the guidelines which govern the use of self-driving cars in MI:
● Autonomous vehicles must be properly insured under the no-fault law; ● Transporters of these vehicles must carry the requisite public liability and property damage insurance; ● The vehicles can only be operated by designated individuals authorized by the manufacturer of the technology; ● The person operating the self-driving vehicle must be present and must be able to take control of the vehicle at all times; and ● The human operator must also be properly licensed to operate a motor vehicle in MI.
4 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Celphy Gets Pulled Over Dark Driving in AZ.
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 5
MN Body Shop Going Green One Paint Job at a Time by Katrina Styx, Hastings Star Gazett
Wayne’s Auto Body in Hastings took a big step toward being more environmentally friendly. The business made some big changes in its operations in order to reduce the amount of VOCs it produces. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals that become airborne and add to air pollution. As an auto body repair business, Wayne’s does a substantial amount of work with paint, and the solvent-based paint that many auto body shops use contains VOCs. But last year, Wayne’s owner, Mark Beer, found out about a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency grant, which was being offered to small businesses for the express purpose of reducing VOCs. Wayne’s applied for the grant, and was issued just shy of $25,000 last June. Since then, Wayne’s has been at work upgrading its operations. The basic change was a switch from solvent-based to waterbased paint, but there was a lot more involved than simply replacing some paint canisters. They had to reconstruct their drying booth, adding new air blowers and nozzles so that the new paint would dry properly. They had to get a new paint gun designed to work with water-based paint. They had to get a new air compressor, a new paint mixing bank, new
training for their in-house painter. And, of course, they had to replace all their old solventbased paint with water-based paint. “We just basically switched everything over to water,” Beer said.
Courtney Swanson and Mark Beer are pictured inside the paint room at Wayne’s Auto Body. They recently converted the shop to use all water-based paint to reduce the VOCs they produce. Credt: Hastings Star Gazette photo by Katrina Styx
And it’s all in the name of being a little greener in how they do business. “We’re trying to reduce the pollution,” said Courtney Swanson, who also works at Wayne’s and has been helping with the transition. And so far, they’ve done just that. One of the most noticeable effects is that the shop has a much weaker paint smell than ever, and
that’s something that many customers have noticed, Swanson said. Wayne’s has been keeping track of the details, too. They tracked their VOC output for three months before making the switch and three months after. In just three months, they were able to reduce their VOCs by 35 parts per million per month, Swanson said, and they’ve also reduced how much paint they use by about 30 gallons a month. And those aren’t the only benefits the business has seen. Because water-based paint dries faster, they’ve been able to speed up productivity, Beer said. They’re also getting better color matches with the new paint. Many major auto manufacturers have been using water-based paint for five to 10 years already, so now Wayne’s is able to use the same original colors when working on a repair. It’s also translated into lower electricity and utility bills. “We didn’t figure that,” Beer admitted. “We didn’t figure the savings,” Swanson agreed. “But overall it’s helping everything.” Plus, they expect to see more cost reductions in the future as they get more proficient with their new equipment and processes. The big question, then, is why aren’t more auto body shops making the transition? The answer is twofold; first, solvent-based paint is what the industry is used to, Beer said. Plus, it’s a big
up-front cost to update all the equipment. “And a lot of shops can’t afford to do it,” he said. Even Wayne’s wouldn’t have been able to make the change as quickly as it has, he said. Although it’s a change he would have eventually made, it might have taken two or three years to come up with the funds on his own. That’s why the grant was so important. Beer and Swanson are hoping that their success will encourage other body shops to do the same. There’s another round of MPCA grants coming up, Beer said. “They’re trying to get everybody to do it, which I think is a great thing,” he said. “Everybody’s got to do their part.” They don’t pretend it was a simple matter. The process was long, and the transition wasn’t exactly easy. “There were a lot of things we had to do to get up to it, but it was worth it,” Swanson said. “It definitely makes a big impact,” Beer said. Applications for this next round of grants is due May 11. For more information, go to www.pca.state.mn.us/ quick-links/reducing-voc-emissions-your-business. We thank Hastings Star Gazette for reprint permission.
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Southeast Technical Transportation Programs Career Night Held in March on MN Campus
In March, Minnesota State College – Southeast Technical’s Transportation Programs offered a career night on its Winona, MN campus. It was an opportunity for students, college instructors, employers, and job-seekers to gather in the Norman P. Abts Transportation Center for networking and hands-on experiences. Prospective students could check
Automotive Technology, Diesel Maintenance Technician, and Truck Driving. These programs offer certificates, diplomas, and degrees that can lead directly to high-paying, high-growth occupations. “Career Night was designed to be more than an open house to showcase our facilities,” said Auto Body Collision Technology instructor Tom Brandt. “Industry representatives from all the transportation fields were on-hand to talk with about career options and opportunities in these high-demand job markets. They were there to give current and future students a realistic idea of what transportation careers are like in the workforce.” College student services Auto Body Instructor, Tom Brandt assisting during staff were also available to career night assist students in applying out a modern semi-tractor inside and out, for admission to Southeast Technical see the working parts of automobiles, and explain options for paying for coland experience automotive paint spray- lege. Of special interest is the new Mining first-hand. nesota State Occupational Grant Southeast Technical offers four Program, which may make up to two college programs in the transportation years of tech college available tuitionfield: Auto Body Collision Technology, free to qualifying students now in the
Gerber Aquires OH Glass Repair Business & Collision Cure Body Werks in IN
In March, Gerber acquired through its Glass America subsidiary, Ryan’s Auto Glass, a glass repair business serving the Cincinnati, Ohio area. The Cincinnati metropolitan area is the largest in Ohio and has a population of over two million. Ryan’s Auto Glass has four locations and has been serving the community for over 25 years. It also provides a mobile glass repair business serving customers directly at their home or business. “We are very pleased to acquire Ryan’s Auto Glass,” said Eddie Cheskis, president and CEO of Glass America. “This acquisition and its excellent employees give us the ability to provide timely, quality auto glass repair and replacement services in a consumer-friendly environment. We look forward to serving the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas.” Gerber also acquired a multistore operation (MSO) in Indiana consisting of six collision repair centers located in the Indianapolis region. The centers previously operated as Collision Cure Body Werks, with the first location established in 2003 in Ander-
son, Indiana. “Over the past few years we have added several locations in northwest Indiana, focusing on serving customers in the Chicago region,” said Tim O’Day, president and COO of the Boyd Group’s U.S. operations. “With this acquisition we have established a footprint in the Indianapolis region, vibrant communities with a population of nearly two million.” The new centers are located north of Indianapolis and include Anderson, Fishers, Kokomo, Marion, Muncie, and Westfield, Indiana. They are in close proximity to Gerber’s two locations in Lafayette, Indiana, acquired in January. “We are pleased to now provide our customers and insurance partners in central Indiana with several locations to serve their collision repair needs,” added O’Day. For further information: contact Stephen Boyd, 204-594-1776, stephen .boyd@boydgroup.com; or Kim Allen, 847-410-6003, kim.allen@gerber collision.com For information on The Boyd Group Inc. visit www.boydgroup.com.
8 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
high school class of 2016. Students must be Minnesota residents and family income must be less than $90,000.
Students had the opportunity to see the working parts of automobiles during a career night held in March
Minnesota State College – Southeast Technical is a two-year public, non-profit institution that provides its students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they will need for a lifetime of learning. With more than 30 programs of study and 90 degree, diploma, and certificate options, students are prepared to launch a career in a technical or trade field as soon as they graduate. Southeast Technical is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. For more information, visit www.southeast mn.edu.
Networking Event in MO for Students
The Springfield Chapter of ASA sponsored a networking and panel discussion event at Ozark Technical College in MO to introduce students seeking a career in the automotive service industry to the local independent shop owners and managers. Local shop owners and managers had the opportunity to make a connection with future technicians that could potentially become employees and discuss the skills they look for in their hiring process. The panel discussion gave shop owners a chance to talk about their experiences in the industry and answer questions from students entering into the field. These students represent the new generation of automotive service professionals, it is important for current professionals to mentor and guide them in order to strengthen and secure the future of our industry. Industry professionals, educators, and students were all encouraged to attend.
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WI Business, Shop Owners Form Group to Combat Crime by Amanda DeVoe, WIFR
Two business owners in a Beloit neighborhood say crime in their area Is out of control. They’re using their bravery, to take a stand. It’s not uncommon seeing signs that say “Stop
Darrell Wildes, owner of Wildes Auto Body Shop
the Violence” on different streets in Beloit’s Merrill neighborhood. John McKillips and Darrell Wildes have auto shops that share the same street in that part of town. They say the area is no stranger to shootings and drugs, especially in the daytime. “We got murders going on down the street in the park. We got drug deals going on in our front yard, and we have customers who are afraid to leave their cars here because of all the stuff that’s going on,” said Darrell Wildes, Owner,
Wildes Auto Body Shop. “People, whenever they ask, where exactly are you located, and I’ll tell them. They say well that’s in a bad neighborhood. That’s kind of bad over there,” said John McKillips, Owner, McKillips Muffler and Exhaust. The businesses owners say enough is enough. They’ve formed a group called Businesses Rally Against Violent Environment, or B.R.A.V.E. The men use their bravery to confront every criminal they see. “We usually go out there, and try to figure out what they’re doing. Ask them what they’re business is here. If they don’t want to talk, then we’ll do most of the talking. Take a picture of their car and their license plates so we have all that and kind of let them know that kind of activity is not going to go on around here,” said McKillips. It’s those initiatives that the men hope other neighbors and business owners use to make the city safer. “We’re hoping other people will follow and not put up with it in their neighborhood. Then they don’t have to worry about having a bad neighborhood,” said McKillips. “We used to be the All American city. We want to take that title back,” said Wildes. Thank you to WIFR for reprint permission.
10 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Nagy’s in OH Welcomes New Leadership
Nagy’s Collision Centers, based out of Orrville, OH, announced the promotion of Courtney Chenevey to location manager at their Millersburg location. Chenevey has been with Nagy’s since July 2009 at the company’s Cleveland Rd. location. She was hired as the detailer and moved to office manager and then to estimator. Chenevey lives with her son in Wooster. The MSO also announced the promotion of Ken Trescott to estimator at their Cleveland Rd. location in Wooster. Trescott started with Nagy’s in 2014 as a technician and has grown in his position throughout three locations prior to this promotion. He and his wife Megan, who also works for the company, live with their daughter in New Franklin. Nagy’s Collision Centers has locations in Ashland, Doylestown, Green, Hartville, Orrville, Millersburg, Wadsworth & Wooster. For more information about Nagy’s Collision Centers, visit www .nagys.com or call (330) 642-1012.
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Enterprise Hosts CREF, I-CAR St. Louis Career Fair
Top recruiters, executives and students from the collision repair and automotive industries will gather at Enterprise Rent-A-Car’s global headquarters in St. Louis, MO for the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) and St. Louis I-CAR Committee’s Greater St. Louis Area Career Fair Apr. 28. Attending students will have the opportunity to network with industry employers, distribute resumes and, in some cases, land jobs on the spot. “This event is a collaborative effort among our collision and automotive repair partners to connect well-trained students to challenging and rewarding careers,” said Dan Shymanski, St. Louis I-CAR committee chairman. “With a shortage of qualified candidates and employees in the collision repair industry, this career fair will help address a critical need for local employers.” “The St. Louis I-CAR Committee has really taken the lead in organizing this event for the community,” said Brandon Eckenrode, director of development for CREF. “I would like to thank this group of volunteers for their commitment to making a positive impact on students’ future careers in the collision repair industry.”
CARSTAR Partners with Axalta for Earnhardt Jr.’s Race in Kansas CARSTAR North America will make its debut in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Kansas Speedway this May. This opportunity is thanks to a joint promotion with CARSTAR’s new paint partner Axalta Coating Systems. The No. 88 Axalta/CARSTAR Chevrolet SS, driven by NASCAR’s 13time most popular driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr., will race on Saturday, May 7, in Kansas City, KS. The CARSTAR logo will be featured prominently on the car. “I’ve enjoyed working with Axalta this season,” said Earnhardt. “It’s great to see how they’ve rallied behind the 88 team and how they are bringing new partners like CARSTAR into the sport. I’m looking forward to having CARSTAR on our Axalta Chevy at Kansas. I expect to run very well there, so we’ll do our best to give the CARSTAR folks plenty to cheer for.” While in Charlotte on April 14, Earnhardt had the opportunity to drive the No. 88 Axalta/CARSTAR Chevrolet SS through the streets of his hometown. “CARSTAR and Axalta put together the opportunity for me to take the car around the city blocks of Charlotte where I grew up, something I’ve
never had the opportunity to do, but was always curious about,” he said. “There were a lot of folks walking around, excited to see us there and wondering what we were doing. We got a lot of great responses about the
CARSTAR colors on the No. 88 Axalta car and represent the CARSTAR shop owners and thousands of employees across North America at Kansas this spring. I hope we’re able to take them to Victory Lane on Sat-
(l to r) Jose Costa, group president, Paint & Collision, Driven Brands; Dean Fisher, COO, CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts; Michael Macaluso, president, CARSTAR North America; Jim Muse, North America Sales Director, Axalta; and Dale Earnhardt Jr.
partnerships announced that day.” In Kansas, Earnhardt Jr., a 26time Sprint Cup winner, has had three top-five finishes, nine top-10s and one pole. He has led 146 laps at the 1.5mile speedway. “It will be an honor to carry the
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urday night,” said Jim Muse, Axalta’s North America sales director. Muse went on to explain how using Axalta Coatings Systems on a racecar really put their products to the test. “When you look at the fact that we are in the transportation coating
business, certainly a form of transportation and a fast one at that, we get to challenge our products every single week out there on that track under pretty heavy conditions,” he said. “We are really proud to be able to use the same technology we use in our commercial and refinish businesses that Dale and his team have on the racetrack every week.” “This year has been a series of milestones, beginning with the consolidation of CARSTAR US and CARSTAR Canada into CARSTAR North America,” said Michael Macaluso, president, CARSTAR North America. “To now take the CARSTAR brand to one of North America’s top spectator sports with the series’ most popular driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr., is an incredible honor. We can’t wait to see the No. 88 Axalta/CARSTAR Chevrolet on the track and share the CARSTAR story with millions of race fans.” As part of the race weekend, Axalta and CARSTAR will host top CARSTAR franchisees from across North America, along with prospective franchisees and corporate team members. For updates, visit www.carstar .com/gocarstar and follow CARSTAR on Facebook and twitter.
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 11
AASA Hosts Connected Cars Panel at Vision
The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) held a panel on connected cars and the aftermarket during its annual Vision Conference. The panel discussed the future of vehicle-to-vehicle communications, the independent aftermarket supplier’s role with advanced vehicles and how the diagnostics community can better prepare for these advances. Panelists included: Nat Beuse, associate administrator, Vehicle Safety Research, National Highway Traffic Safety Administra-
tion (NHTSA). Donny Seyfer, AAM, chairman, Automotive Service Association (ASA) and co-owner of Seyfer Automotive Inc. Xavier Mosquet, senior partner and managing director, Boston Consulting Group. David Williams, senior planning manager, Marketing & Strategic Planning, DENSO. Following the panel, Seyfer said, “Emerging vehicle technologies continue to generate a high level of interest from industry leaders and policymakers alike.”
RAND Corp. Report Says Calling Driverless Cars Safer than Human Drivers is Statistically Impossible
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says more than 90 percent of car crashes are caused by human errors such as driving too fast, alcohol impairment, distraction and fatigue. NHTSA officials have said driverless cars could eventually lead to zero traffic fatalities, but RAND’s report calls that impossible given number of miles driven. How safe can autonomous vehicles be, given the statistics? The RAND report answers: “The answer is crucial for developing sound policies to govern their deployment. One proposal to assess safety is to testdrive autonomous vehicles in real traffic, observe their performance, and make statistical comparisons to human driver performance. This approach is logical, but it is practical? In this report, we calculate the number of miles that would need to be driven to provide clear statistical evidence of autonomous vehicle safety. Given that current traffic fatalities and injuries are rare events compared with vehicle miles traveled, we show that fully autonomous vehicles would have to be driven hundreds of millions of miles and sometimes hundreds of billions of miles to demonstrate their safety in terms of fatalities and injuries. Under even aggressive testing assumptions, existing fleets would take tens and sometimes hundreds of years to drive these miles —an impossible proposition if the aim is to demonstrate performance prior to releasing them for consumer use. Our findings demonstrate that developers of this technology and third-party testers cannot simply drive their way to safety. Instead, they will need to develop innovative methods of demonstrating safety and reliability. And yet, it may still not be possible to establish with certainty the safety of autonomous vehicles. Therefore, it is imperative that autonomous vehicle regulations are adaptive—designed from the outset to
evolve with the technology so that society can better harness the benefits and manage the risks of these rapidly evolving and potentially transformative technologies.
Key Findings ● Autonomous vehicles would have to be driven hundreds of millions of miles and sometimes hundreds of billions of miles to demonstrate their reliability in terms of fatalities and injuries. ● Under even aggressive testing assumptions, existing fleets would take tens and sometimes hundreds of years to drive these miles—an impossible proposition if the aim is to demonstrate their performance prior to releasing them on the roads for consumer use. ● Therefore, at least for fatalities and injuries, test-driving alone cannot provide sufficient evidence for demonstrating autonomous vehicle safety. ● Developers of this technology and third-party testers will need to develop innovative methods of demonstrating safety and reliability. ● Even with these methods, it may not be possible to establish with certainty the safety of autonomous vehicles. Uncertainty will remain. ● In parallel to developing new testing methods, it is imperative to develop adaptive regulations that are designed from the outset to evolve with the technology so that society can better harness the benefits and manage the risks of these rapidly evolving and potentially transformative technologies. “Our results show that developers of this technology and third-party testers cannot drive their way to safety,” Nidhi Kalra, co-author of the study and a senior scientist at RAND, said in a statement. “It’s going to be nearly impossible for autonomous vehicles to log enough test-driving miles on the road to statistically demonstrate their safety, when compared to the rate at which injuries and fatalities occur in human-controlled cars and trucks.”
12 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Collision Financial Services Offers 0% Loans
In today’s collision repair industry environment, there is increasing pressure for customers to bear a greater financial burden for collision repair services. After-insurance deductibles, short-pays, balance billing and uninsured events are creating customer responsibilities that can easily reach into the thousands of dollars. “Payment arrangements are growing exponentially and maintaining these arrangements are no longer cost effective for collision repair facilities.” – Jeff Steigerwald, CPACollision Financial Services Payment Plans are designed to be an integral part of a collision center’s overall collection process. They work in concert with each shop’s current payment alternatives and business office operations. CFS customized programs relieve financing burdens and the billing and collecting effort of customer payable balances. CFS programs are offered to any customer identified by a CFS shop client as having the willingness and ability to pay, but needing additional time to do so.
approval ● Affordable payments - up to 2 year payment plans ● No pre-payment penalties CFS will fully assume the management of your current and future in-house customer payment plans. This option allows bodyshops to generate an immediate influx of cash while CFS takes over the dayto-day billing, collection and customer interaction for these plans. There is an increase in customers’ out-of-pocket expense and an increased burden on collision centers to offer customers creative payment alternatives. Today’s leading collision business focusing on increasing profits need to work with a creative partner to offer multiple payment options to their customers, including longer term payment plans. CFS provides a superior system to manage and collect the customer pay portion of collision repair bills. CFS’s system creates customer focused payment plans that are implemented while measurably improving a collision center’s collection performance. For more information, please visit www.info@collisionfinancial services.com
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GM’s Lansing Grand River Plant in MI Starts Third Shift
The Lansing Grand River Assembly plant has fully transitioned to a third shift. GM had hired 500 people in January to prepare for the new shift, which was added due to the increasing demand for the Chevrolet Camaro. The new employees were trained throughout the winter and gradually added to the first and second shifts before the plant instated third shift on April 4. “This is the first time the plant has been fully utilized since it was brand new,” said Mike Green, president of UAW Local 652. “It’s big news for us.” Lansing Grand River Assembly opened in 2001 and produces the Camaro, Cadillac ATS and CTS. Demand for the Camaro has grown in recent months. Camaro deliveries in March were up 15.5 percent to 6,879 from 5,956 last year. For the first quarter, deliveries were up 7.3 percent to 18,581 from 17,320 in the first quarter of 2015. Cadillac CTS deliveries remained flat in March compared to the same time last year while ATS sales declined 8.8 percent in the same period. Lansing Grand River Assembly reinstated the second shift last summer when it began producing the 2016 Camaro, rehiring most of the 450 people it had laid off in January 2015.
U.S. Official: Automakers Must Fix Security Gaps
Internet-connected and driverless cars could be targets for hackers— potentially including terrorists and hostile nations—so the automotive industry must ensure vehicles have built-in cybersecurity protection, a top U.S. Justice Department official said. “There is no Internet-connected system where you can build a wall that’s high enough or deep enough to keep a dedicated nation-state adversary or a sophisticated criminal group out of the system,” John Carlin, U.S. assistant attorney general for national security, said at an auto industry conference in Detroit on April 12. The market for cars connected to the Internet is expected to be valued at about $42 billion by 2025, with more than 220 million vehicles on the roads. Companies are expanding investments in telematics, which combines computers and wireless technology to provide services such as infotainment and real-time traffic updates to moving vehicles. Toyota Motor Corp., Google, Ford Motor Co., and Baidu Inc. intend to introduce driverless cars in as soon as five years.
EMM Becomes ISO 9001:2015 Certified
EMM International BV has obtained the newly introduced ISO 9001:2015 certification. ISO 9001 helps organizations demonstrate to customers that they can offer products and services of consistently good quality. More than 40 new products have been launched during the last three years under the brands Colad, Hamach and Ronin Tools. EMM has a number of different sites across Europe, with a head office based in the Netherlands. The company, which ships to over 125 countries, wanted customers to trust that they would always receive high-quality products. That is why EMM said it decided to join the ISO 9001:2015 certification program. This new certification, which just launched at the end of 2015, focuses more on “stakeholdermanagement,” plus the integration of risk management. As an organization, EMM said in a recent press release that they are very proud to have obtained this certification within a short period of time. “We know for sure that we as a company, but most of all, our global clients, will benefit from this improvement,” an EMM rep added. For information, visit www.emm.com
BASF’s Glasurit 90 Line Introduces New Boosters
BASF’s Glasurit® 90 Line automotive refinish introduced eight new Color Advance Boosters that increase efficiency and performance for challenging red, blue and green colors, according to a company press release. The boosters provide a higher pigment concentration to reduce the number of coats required to achieve a flawless repair. “Our Glasurit chemists developed these boosters to significantly improve hiding and still provide a high quality Glasurit finish for many tri-coats, metallics and vivid colors,” said Shefali Cromer, Glasurit market segment manager for BASF. “The boosters can reduce base consumption by up to 50 percent, resulting in lower film thickness, faster drying and reduced process times.” The Color Advance Boosters are available in three red, three blue and two green boosters. When added to the Glasurit 90 Line toners they enable a more even application and harder curing, allowing for better ease-of-use, improved tape resistance and easier sanding, according to the company. For information, visit http:// www.refinish.basf.us/GlasuritColor Advance
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Students Receive
ing system, ProSpot steel and aluminum repair systems, Matrix wand for blueprinting, vehicle mid-lifts and parts carts for vehicles. In each location, participants also had the opportunity to learn about the PCE (Process Centered Environment) process. Adam Rick, an instructor in automotive collision technology at Medina County Career Center, said the students enjoyed the visit to both businesses and came back with a better understanding of the industry. “For the juniors, it was the first time in a shop other than the lab and for the seniors who are already working in the industry, it opens their eyes to a more efficient way of doing business with state-of-the-art equipment and organization,” he said. Over the years, he has found it to be very beneficial to bring students into a shop and have them work side-by-side with those who have 20 plus years of experience. “I feel that hands-on learning is necessary to reinforce the newly introduced learned skills,” explained Rick. “Bringing students into a shop changes their perspective in the areas of
PPG Refinish Continues Commitment to Training
PPG Automotive Refinish will offer an expanded array of classes throughout 2016, with subjects ranging from basic and advanced product line training to custom painting techniques, business management, shop operations and customer service. “PPG’s commitment to training is the strongest in the industry,” said Randy Cremeans, PPG director of training. “We understand that training is a continuous process; it’s never complete, especially with the ongoing changes we see in this industry.” Courses will be available in 16 state-of-the-art PPG Business Development Centers in the United States and Canada. Specific locations are being upgraded with new equipment and remodeled to accommodate the increased demand. PPG trainers will also travel to numerous vocational schools, PPG distributors and other PPG-affiliated locations across North America. For more information about PPG Automotive Refinish training classes, schedules, locations and course descriptions, call (800) 6476050 or visit www.ppgrefinish.com
organization, speed and quality.” To further support this goal, the tech school offers a 10-week summer internship program for junior students the summer prior to their senior year. Currently, there are 14 juniors and 16 seniors who are part of the program.
During their tour, students had the opportunity to learn first-hand from technicians
“Halfway through their senior year, I try to place the students in the same shops that they interned in the past summer,” said Rick. If it seems like a good fit, the students are usually kept on as full-time employees after they graduate. “I want the shop to be comfortable with their decision because of the time and money they will spend to mold an intern into a productive, longterm employee,” he added. This was the first time LKQ PBE Department has conducted a tour of its facility with local schools. Jason
American Honda Joins ASA as Corporate Member
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has announced one of its latest corporate members: American Honda. Gary Ledoux, assistant national manager for American Honda, said, “ASA is a big supporter of the auto repair industry, and especially the collision repair side of the business, so we are pleased to be able to support and help them in their work.” Dan Risley, ASA president/executive director, also commented, “American Honda has been a longtime supporter of the industry and ASA. Its leadership is in sync with ours, and as a result, the relationship continues to grow to the benefit of the automotive service and collision repair industries and ASA members as a whole.” To learn more about ASA’s corporate membership program, contact Dan Risley at danr@asashop.org.
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Emch, PBE operations & sales manager at LKQ, said many of their current customers are looking to recruit younger body and paint techs in their shops. This prompted LKQ to reach out to Medina County Career Center to gain more knowledge on the training received by current students as well as the products they use. “The highlights for me were seeing these young students have their eyes open to the potential of having a successful career in an industry with huge demand that will thrive for many years to come,” said Emch. “The questions, comments and the amount of thanks that came after demonstrated the success of the event.” He said walking into a body shop and experiencing the work and pace can’t be taught from a textbook. “The students get the benefit of not only seeing it first-hand, but also speaking with body techs and painters,” said Emch. “It was rewarding to be part of giving them the opportunity and time with individuals who have not only walked in their shoes going through the motions of schooling, but have the expertise to help guide them as the next generation in this industry.” Kerry Ott from Centerline CAR-
STAR said the body shop has hosted similar events in the past with career centers in the area, including Cuyahoga Valley Career Center and Parma City Schools Vocational Center. She said vocational schools don’t always have the tools and equipment to teach all of the necessary skills to enter into the workforce with some type of onthe-job experience. “We encourage visits to our shop to give students a real-life picture of how a body shop looks and operates,” said Ott. “The benefit is the ability of the students to experience a body shop in operation and how the flow of a shop works.” Established 24 years ago, Centerline CARSTAR has 25 full-time employees and one apprentice. Three of the team members began as apprentices while in vocational school and are now full-time employees. Seven gradated from local vocational schools. “We enjoy hosting vocational school events as we feel that we can spark students’ interest in our industry and give them real-world experience,” she said. “Owners and managers can help students and parents understand that the trade is a viable and respectable way to earn a living and build a career.”
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 17
18 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Polyvance Finishes First Day of LeMons Race in AL, Releases New Plastic Repair Workstation
Polyvance, formerly Urethane Supply Company, completed the February 2016 24 hours of LeMons race at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama. “This was a fun team-building exercise for our company,” said Polyvance President Kurt Lammon. “The 24 Hours of LeMons is all about mak-
The Polyvance race team during the LeMons Race at Barber Motorsports Park
ing real racing affordable by limiting the price of the car to $500, excluding safety equipment.” The Polyvance race car, bought from company employee Fortunato Ruiz, was a 1997 Nissan 200SX that had been damaged by a tree that fell on it in the tornados that struck Rainsville, Alabama on April 23, 2011. “The car was a real trooper,” said
company Vice President Keith Lammon. “It had nearly 200,000 miles on it and the compression was so low you could turn the engine over by hand with the spark plugs in. We had to weld the front bumper with our nitrogen plastic welder and fabricate a rear window out of acrylic since the tree busted it out.” The Polyvance race team finished in 52nd place out of 93 cars, and would have placed in the low 40s except for a CV joint that went bad on the morning of March 13. “Luckily the local parts store had an axle on the shelf, so we dove in there and fixed it and were back on the track in an hour and a half,” said manufacturing employee Mason Martin. “It was a setback in terms of our finishing place, but it added to the team-building experience, for sure,” said Kurt. “Our most important modification was the brakes,” said Scott Bixler, Polyvance’s R&D and tech support manager. “We swapped the stock brakes, which looked like they should have been on a golf cart, for some big Wilwood brakes with four piston calipers. They lasted the whole weekend with no fade.” Polyvance’s race car survived the weekend unscathed, so the team is
planning to contest the 24 Hours of LeMons race at Carolina Motorsports Park in September as well. “This was a super-fun event, and I’d encourage our industry peers—manufacturers, body shops, or distributors—to get out
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there and race with us,” said Kurt. “We haven’t got the money to sponsor NASCAR teams like some of our esteemed peers, but I guarantee we had more fun than they did writing their checks!” For more information on the 24 Hours of LeMons series, visit www .24hoursoflemons.com Polyvance also announced a new plastic repair workstation. According to a company press release, “The new
6075 Bumper Mate 2 from Polyvance makes it easy for a repair technician to hold floppy plastic bumper covers solidly in place so repairs can be made most efficiently. One technician can fixture the bumper and do the needed repair work without any additional help, maximizing the shop’s productivity.” Weighing only 12 pounds, the Bumper Mate 2 is constructed in the USA of a plywood table top and aluminum extrusions. It can be folded open and rested on top of a common folding work stand. The aluminum extension arms support the ends of the bumper and the cutouts in the table top make it easy to secure the bumper cover using spring clamps or bungee cords. The table can be dropped down with the extension arms resting on the chains to support the bumper in a facedown position so work may be performed on the backside of the bumper easily. The rectangular cutouts in the table top allow for awkwardly shaped headlights to be stabilized as well. The 6075 Bumper Mate 2 is available from auto body jobbers and equipment distributors around North America. Suggested list price is US$425.00. Questions? Contact Kurt Lammon at 800-633-3047.
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Toyota Establishes Third Autonomous Driving US Research Institute in MI Dr. Gill Pratt, CEO of the Toyota Research Institute (TRI), announced on April 7 that Toyota will establish its third TRI facility in the U.S. The new facility will be located in Ann Arbor, near the University of Michigan (U-M) campus where it will fund research in artificial intelligence, robotics and materials science. Joining the TRI facility established last January in Palo Alto, CA working with Stanford (TRI-PAL), and in Cambridge, MA working with MIT (TRICAM), TRI-ANN is scheduled to open in June and target a staff of approximately 50. “TRI was drawn to Ann Arbor because of the strength of the university; the utility of Mcity and the Mobility Transformation Center which we currently sponsor; the promise of the future American Center for Mobility at Willow Run; and the proximity to, and synergies with, our two well-established Toyota Technical Centers nearby,” said Pratt. The Toyota Technical Centers have been conducting research in the area of autonomous cars for more than a decade. A group of about 15 team members will transfer to the new TRI-ANN facility when it opens. U-M Professors Ryan Eustice and Edwin Olson are joining TRI-ANN as the area leads for map-
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ping/localization and perception, respectively. Both will be based at the Ann Arbor office, and will retain their U-M faculty positions. “Sensor hardware and algorithms are improving at a tremendous pace. TRI researchers will push the frontier even further, with the goal of providing safer vehicles and more helpful robots in the home,” said Olson. Eustice added, “Ann Arbor is a fantastic location for TRI to expand its autonomous driving efforts. We will benefit from Toyota’s existing team and U-M’s research talent and facilities where we can perform extreme-limit testing in a wide variety of environments.” Although the focus of each of the three facilities will be broad, each will feature a different core discipline. TRI-ANN will focus primarily on fully autonomous (chauffeured) driving. TRI-PAL will work on what may be termed “guardian angel” driving, where the driver is always engaged but the vehicle assists as needed. TRICAM will dedicate a large portion of its work to simulation and deep learning. With initial funding of $1 billion, the Toyota Research Institute has four mandates. First, it will strive to enhance the safety of automobiles with the ultimate
petroleum-based solvents and parts cleaners
● Working with suppliers to purchase alternative solvents
● Switching to waterborne or powder coating paint system
● Replacing spray guns, cleaning equipment, etc. with equipment that has better transfer efficiency (e.g., electrostatic guns.) ● Installing equipment for recycling
Reducing VOCs has positive health impacts for your employees, the general population, and potentially your bottom line
● Considering purchasing efficient vehicles for business fleet
● Evaluating energy efficiency options (e.g., electronics, lighting, heating/cooling systems)
● Reducing vehicle miles traveled by using public transit or other alternative commuting options
Replacing your spray guns with those with better efficiency will help reduce VOCs
For more specific ideas and to find auto refinishing events that focus on reducing VOCs visit the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program.
20 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
goal of creating a car that is incapable of causing a crash, regardless of the skill or condition of the driver. Second, it will work to increase access to cars for those who otherwise cannot drive, including seniors and those with special needs. Third, it will help translate Toyota’s expertise in creating products for outdoor mobility into products for indoor mobility; moving people and goods across the country, across town, or across the room. Finally, TRI will accelerate scientific discovery by applying techniques from artificial intelligence and machine learning, particularly in the area of materials science. Using computation and machine learning, it hopes to accelerate scientific discovery in this area, lowering costs and improving performance of future mobility systems. TRI is also pursuing collaboration with other automakers, IT companies, suppliers, research labs and universities to jointly develop autonomous technologies. “Where we need autonomy to help most is when the driving is difficult,” said Pratt. “It’s this hard part that TRI intends to address. Toyota’s goal is safer mobility for all, at any time, in any place, and the tremendous improvements in quality of life that such universal mobility can bring.”
Continued from Cover
Craigslist killer
registered in order for it to be bought or sold. Jake opened Jake’s Performance Fabrication in 2008 in Lee’s Summit, MO outside of Kansas City. The shop provides services to all types of car enthusiasts interested in modifying their vehicles and sells Jake’s own line of fabrication parts. Jake was known to charm customers with his motto, “If you can dream it, we can build it!” He sponsored community programs such as “Broncobots,” a local program dedicated to encouraging science, technology, math and engineering among school-age children. The suspect responsible for Brantner’s death remains unknown. Investigators are searching for a metallic blue four-door Ford 500 with a sunroof. Fox News 4 stated that the vehicle is believed to have been in the parking lot at the time of the crime. Anyone with information is asked to call the TIPS Hotline at (816)-474-TIPS.
www.autobodynews.com C
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 21
NACE 2016 MSO Symposium Agenda and Topics Announced, Held Aug. 11 in Anaheim
Details have been announced for the 2016 MSO Symposium, taking place during NACE | CARS on Thursday, August 11 in Anaheim, CA. The sought-after program will cover business growth, M&A, private equity, insurance and industry trends, management-focused topics, industry trends and market intelligence. The Symposium features support from several sponsors, including Car-O-Liner, Axalta, AkzoNobel, Arrowhead Insurance, AudaExplore, and Celette. Now in its 6th year, this popular and exclusive event draws attendance from dynamic and fast-growth multishop operators throughout the collision repair industry. This year, the Symposium incorporates a broader group of collision repair executives, allowing more inclusivity for some of the best operators in the collision repair industry. The MSO Symposium will open on Thursday, August 11 with a private luncheon at noon and conclude with a private reception at 6:00 pm. The agenda-at-a-glance: 1:00pm – 1:30pm: Industry Update PRESENTER: Vincent Romans, Founding Principal & Managing Partner, The Romans Group 1:30pm – 3:00pm: Insurer Panel MODERATOR: Marcy Tieger, Sym-
phony Advisors LLC. PANELISTS: Russ Hoffbauer, State Farm; Clint Marlow, Allstate; Chris Andreoli, Progressive 3:00pm – 3:30pm: A Capital Markets View of Collision Around the World PRESENTER: Rex Green, Managing Director and Global Co-
Head of Automotive Aftermarket Investment Banking at Jefferies LLC 3:45pm – 5:15pm: MSO Panel MODERATORS: John Walcher, Veritas Advisors, Inc.; Dave Roberts, FOCUS Investment Banking LLC. PANELISTS: Jeff Middleton, Exhibition Automotive CARSTAR; Jake Nossaman, Collision Work; Jim Keller, 1Collision; Darrell Amberson, LaMettry’s Collision; Jim West, CARSTAR Collision Care Centers; Twila Harris, Auto Art; Rick Wood,
22 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Cooks Collision 5:15pm – 6:00pm: OE Panel MODERATOR: Russell Thrall, CollisionWeek PANELISTS: John Eck, GM; Jeff Hilton, Toyota; Gary Ledoux, Honda; Mark Allen, Audi. Beginning in 2015, the MSO Symposium added an advisory board to ensure the sessions are a direct fit for the audience. The advisory board works diligently to build the most competitive and insightful program possible for the industry each year. Advisory board members include: Randy Stabler, President, Pride Collision Centers, Inc.; Erick Bickett, Owner, Fix Auto; Marcy Tieger, Principal, Symphony Advisors, LLC.; Mike LeVasseur, Director of Corporate Development, ABRA Auto Body & Glass; Dave Roberts, Managing Director, FOCUS Investment Banking, LLC.; Tim Adelmann, Executive Vice President, ABRA Auto Body & Glass; Russell Thrall III, Publisher & Editor-In-Chief, CollisionWeek; Chris Abraham, CEO, Service King; Scott Benavidez, Owner, Mr B’s Paint & Body Shop Inc.; Tony Molla, Vice President, ASA; Courtland Gates, President, Vesper Investment Com-
pany; Mark Sanders, President & COO, Caliber Collision Centers; Darrell Amberson, President of Operations, LaMettry’s Collision; Larry Siembab, Sr. Director of Insurance Relations, CARSTAR; Tim O’Day, President & COO, Gerber Collision & Glass; John Walcher, President, Veritas Advisors, Inc. The closed and exclusive half-day program is limited to qualified multishop owners/operators, large independent shops planning for growth or divestiture, and insurance professionals. No other event offers this level and diversity of repair training while bringing together all facets of the automotive industry like NACE | CARS. Targeting business owners, management and technicians, this conference & exposition brings together all market segments for the latest and most comprehensive repair solutions, services, education, products and technology. Make your plans to attend NACE | CARS 2016 in Anaheim and find additional information at www.NACE expo.com or www.CARSevent.com. For information on booking exhibit space or sponsorships, contact Robert Martin at robertm@stonefort group.com or 832-646-0176.
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 23
Body Shops Giving Back
Stacey Phillips is the assistant editor at Autobody News magazine. She has more than 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips@autobodynews.com.
Wisconsin Auto Body Shop Creates USO Mobile Canteen for Troops with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR
A Wisconsin body shop has transformed an old bread truck into a USO mobile canteen that will serve troops at Fort McCoy Total Force Training Center. Richard Kalashian, a service writer at S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair Center in Genesee, Wisconsin, oversaw the unique project. Earlier this year, Kalashian received an email from Dan Toomey, president of the USO of Wisconsin, seeking his help. He asked Kalashian to spruce up a worn out, damaged truck and turn it into a gathering place for service men and women. The goal was to create an information center that would provide snacks and drinks as well as entertainment. “Fort McCoy does not really have a terminal to assist our troops,” said Kalashian. “The canteen truck would be able to travel around the airport.” Kalashian, a Vietnam veteran, is no stranger to working on these types of projects. In 2014, he built a military casket cart for fallen soldiers, which is being used at the Southwest Airlines’ airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “I asked Dan, ‘Why me?’” said Kalashian. “He replied that they were very impressed with the building and design of the military casket cart that was transformed from an airport baggage cart at not cost to Southwest Airlines.”
The USO of Wisconsin wanted to transform an old bread truck into an information center for servicemen and women
Kalashian decided to take on the challenge and do something similar for the USO of Wisconsin. The USO (United Service Organizations) is a nonprofit, charitable corporation chartered by Congress that offers a variety of programs and services designed to support service members and their families. Every president has been an honorary chairman of the
USO since it was established in 1941. The project took approximately three months to complete with the assistance of the local community. Robert Williams at S/S Research Body Shop &
They also manufacturered a removable hitch for the front of the vehicle so a power source could be added. Retired marines put in LED lighting. “I truly believe that the veterans
S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair Center spent about three months working on the project with the assistance of the local community
Auto Repair Center was responsible for the major body work and painting, and Ron Scheel at Modern Ink Signs & Graphics applied the graphics on the truck. Others involved included Wildon Woods at Woody’s Lock & Safe; Chuck Gosh at C&M Auto Parts; Bill Lemke at Lemke Photography; Local 494 Electrical Union; and VFW Post 5158 Hartland, Wisconsin. “By fundraising in the community and participating in their events and giving back, it bonds us all as one happy family,” said Kalashian. “There’s no limit of what we can do.” In addition to the help from the local community, Kalashian said that he is very grateful for the support of his boss, Robert Williams, owner of S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair. May 1 marks the Wisconsin shop’s 40th year in business. In addition to collision repair, Williams also runs a fullservice department. “Rich seems to find the projects and then we follow up and put them into the shop and make sure they get done,” said Williams. “We’re very proud of what we do.” Williams said three of his employees were involved in repainting the green truck white, doing some minor body work and adding chrome wheels.
24 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
don’t get enough acknowledgements,” said Williams, who served two years in the Air Force and six years in the Wisconsin National Guard 128th Air Refueling Wing for the Air Force. “I feel it’s my part to try to do as much as I can to help them.” Kalashian agreed. He served in Vietnam as a platoon sergeant with the 9th infantry division, 3rd battalion 47th infantry from 1968 to 1969 as combat infantry and tunnel rat. “Some came home and some died in Vietnam—I was one of the lucky ones to survive and carry the memories and share the stories of a war that was unpopular and returning veterans were not welcomed home,” said Kalashian. “I was very bitter for many years, but as the years went by I decided to take my anger and turn it into a positive force by working with the community so that together we can support our troops and veterans and make America great.”
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 25
Shop Strategies with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR
Utah Shop Stresses Importance of OEM Certifications and Educating Customers About Parts Usage Karl Schmidt has managed Go Collision Repair’s body shop in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. The familyowned business was founded by Karl Otto Schmidt in 1936, and is currently owned by Walter Schmidt. Autobody News spoke to Karl about the importance of OEM certifications and how he educates customers about the difference in parts.
Can you tell us about Go ColliQ: sion Repair and your primary area of focus?
and one of the very few that have chosen to become certified by various OEMs.
Our shop, including our sister What is the importance company Schmidt Signs, has of having OEM certifiA: Q: been in business for more than 70 years. cations and what was entailed
With almost 30 employees, we strive to do what is best for the customer, despite the insurance companies’ demands. We have tailored to fleets and their refinish needs for years as many customers utilize custom paint and graphics as part of their identity. During the past eight years, we have added about 5,000 square feet to the body shop, dedicated just to cars, giving our operation about 11,000 square feet total space. Our main focus has always been graphics and painting but now In addition to collision repair, Go Collision focuses on we are proud to be one of Salt graphics, lettering, pinstriping and bedliner, as well as light repair and full refinishing on heavy haul equipment Lake City’s premiere shops
26 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
to get certified?
The OEM certifications are not critical… A: yet. However, if you can’t
The family-owned business in Salt Lake City, Utah was
qualify for them now, you founded by Karl Otto Schmidt in 1936 will not be in business in the do them.’ Technology is changing and next five years. Cars are becoming so I want to be on top. We are not perfect, complex and we need to be tooled for the proper repair. In our quest to be- but we are progressing. come OEM certified we have invested In addition to collision repair, in some tooling and training that are what other services do you expensive, but it is needed to help enoffer and how does this complement sure air bag timing and proper repair. I know it is not business as usual your collision repair shop? even though many would love to tell In addition to collision repair, customers they have been doing rewe offer graphics, lettering, pinpairs for ‘20 years and I know how to
Q: A:
striping and bedliner. We also do light repair and full refinishing on heavy haul equipment. Customers always ask why we also focus on signs and graphics as it seems unusual, but it is all about the fleet and our ability to serve them. It has worked well for us being a one-stop shop.
question. I need to start off by saying that we are not a DRP for any insurance company. I let customers know
Utah is really hurting when it A: comes to consumer protection and the insurance commissioner’s
A:
During the past eight years, Go Collision has added about 5,000 square feet to the body shop
We have been known to give away items on our website, but that is such a small part of the importance of the web site. It is really only to grab the customer’s attention when they have questions about getting their repairs done. How do you educate your cusQ: tomers about the difference between OEM and aftermarket usage? How do I educate my cusA: tomers? Wow, that is a big
Is there anything additional Q: you would like to share with readers about your business or the in-
dustry?
I noticed that you were having a contest to win Q: free Utah Jazz tickets with a
customer's repair. Have you offered contests in the past and what is the benefit of doing this for your business?
out for them.
some of the schemes the insurance company is going to do to help mitigate the claims. I tell them that I work in their best interest and not for the insurance companies. I also let them know about our relations with the parts manufacturers and how they like to help, which ensures customers have OEM parts on their cars. I spend time letting consumers know that insurance wants to mitigate claims, and sometimes does not represent what is truly best for the consumer, or their vehicle. Consumers like knowing that someone is looking
stance on who is important to protect. The insurance is well represented in Utah and that is not a good thing. I do know we as body shops need to do more together to help our industry both as a group and at the state regulation level. For more information, contact Karl Schmidt, manager at Go Collision, at 801-486-0193.
D Patrick in IN Recognized as Top 5 Collision Center in US
BMW has recognized D-Patrick Motoplex Certified Collision Center as a top 5 BMW CCRC in the United States. D-Patrick, Inc. employs approximately 365 local people in a variety of positions and carries nine vehicle lines (Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Lincoln, Mercedes Benz, Nissan, Porsche, and Volkswagen) with seven showrooms, four service departments, four parts departments, four body shops, and a corporate office. For information, contact Dave Sutton or Bill Dahmer at 812-4736590.
AutoUSADirect.com Launches Website
www.autobodynews.com
AutoUSADirect.com launched its website, www.AutoUSADirect.com. Its portal spans across multiple states, focusing on automotive services in the U.S. The company’s search features allowed users to search for any auto dealers or any automotive resources by company name, zip code, city and state. It is also mobile-friendly. An automotive shop operator or a manager can submit a company profile to the directory for free.
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 27
VISION HiTech Training & Expo Honors Top Contributor & Educator The VISION awards committee announced and awarded the inaugural ASA-Midwest President’s Award and the annual Educator of the Year award during the 2016 VISION HiTech Training & Expo in Overland Park, Kansas.
The President’s Award was established to honor an individual or company who has made significant contributions to ASA-Midwest and the independent automotive service industry. This award was presented during the VISION Celebration of Independents Awards Dinner on March 5. The 2016 President’s Award was presented to Jeremy O’Neal with AdvisorFix. “Jeremy has made significant contributions to our association by pre-
senting valuable management training sessions to our members, allowing them to increase their revenues and streamline their businesses. He has made himself accessible for questions and advice, and continually goes above and beyond for ASA-Midwest, our staff and our members. We truly value Jeremy’s contributions and he exemplified every aspect I look for when selecting a recipient,” said Jerry Holcom, AAM, ASA-Midwest Affiliate president and owner of S&S Service Center. The Educator of the Year award was established to honor an educator that goes above and beyond in inspiring students, developing innovative training programs and working with the industry to further the opportunities for tomorrow’s technicians. This award was presented during the VISION eXchange luncheon on March 4. It was presented to Jeffry Curtis. Curtis has over 45 years of experience as a diesel equipment technician and has been an instructor for over 22 years, currently holding the position of Diesel Equipment Technology Instructor at Bellingham Technical College. To help his students gain knowledge and experience outside of the classroom, he takes them to Europe to visit transportation factories and museums. But
ITW Evercoat Launches New Body Filler
AkzoNobel’s Acoat Selected Bodyshop Network
Jeremy O’Neal, owner of Advisorfix. Credit: Howard Pitkow
ITW Evercoat announced the launch of Evercoat Commercial Ultra™ Body Filler, which has been developed to meet the needs of large industrial and commercial vehicle manufacturers including ambulance, fire truck, bus and train manufacturers. Evercoat Commercial Ultra Body Filler has been formulated to have a 10-minute work time and can be sanded in 30 minutes, allowing technicians to mix, spread, and work large quantities of body filler at one time. Evercoat Commercial Ultra can also be mixed with other Ultra products to meet customer requirements such as viscosity and cure times. “Until now, large industrial and commercial users have had to adapt existing products to meet their production requirements,” said Marvin Gillfillan, VP and general manager of ITW Evercoat. “Evercoat Commercial Ultra was developed in cooperation with industrial users to meet their exacting needs. Evercoat Commercial Ultra is available in one gallon containers (Part # 100181) and three gallon pails (Part #100183). For information, visit www .evercoat.com.
2016 marks the 40th anniversary of the AkzoNobel’s Acoat Selected network of premium body shops. AkzoNobel pioneered the idea of a premium body shop network in the 1970s when it established Acoat Selected as a business improvement program for customers of Sikkens, one of AkzoNobel’s premium vehicle refinishes brands. Its members, which include both independentlyowned body shops and body shop groups, are recognized as repair industry leaders, advancing their own performance and that of the industry as a whole. Today, Acoat Selected is an international organization with a multiple country and regional networks working to strengthen vehicle refinishing businesses across the globe. Over the years, members have benefited from training on the latest technology and processes, meeting key industry partners and work providers, as well as sharing valuable knowledge and experiences, according to a company press release. For information, visit http:// www.acoatna.com/. To register for an Acoat Selected Business Services class, visit www.akzonobeltraining .com.
28 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
his dedication to the automotive industry reaches much farther than the classroom. Curtis has served numerous officer positions for the National
Jeffry Curtis, Educator, Bellingham Technical College. Credit: Howard Pitkow
Association of College Automotive Instructors, including president and VP, and currently serves as a board member. He has influenced many with his contributions on iATN and was instrumental in the development of the iATN educator forum. He has volunteered his time to be a part of the VISION Educator Think Tank program since its inception. “Jeff’s energy, passion and commitment to tomorrow’s automotive
professional is inspiring to all. He is respected and admired by many of his industry peers and continually goes above and beyond in offering advice and assistance to fellow educators. We are proud to have Jeffry Curtis as the recipient of our 2016 “VISION Educator of the Year,” said Sheri Hamilton, VISION conference manager and ASA-Midwest executive director. VISION is the event for Automotive Service Professionals offering the industry’s leading management and technical training as well as a 60,000square-foot exhibit hall featuring the latest tools, equipment, services and technology. Professionals from 41 states and six Canadian provinces attended the four-day event. For more information about VISION, visit www.visionkc.com. ASA-Midwest’s purpose is to advance professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation, and member services. ASA-Midwest is one of the industry’s premier affiliates serving independent automotive service facilities throughout Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Arkansas and Oklahoma. For more information about ASAMidwest, contact sheri@asa-midwest .org or visit www.asa-midwest.org.
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 29
All-new “Who Pays for What” Surveys Shops About “Not-Included” Body Labor Billing and Insurer Payment Practices
The series of four different “Who Pays for What?” surveys continues in April with an all-new survey asking shops about “not-included” body labor operations. The survey is open through the end of April, and can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y HCXCR5 The series of four different surveys each year are conducted by CRASH Network and Collision Advice. Newly-released data from the “Who Pays for What?” refinish-related survey earlier this year shows that of shops that have never asked to be paid for the additional labor time involved to match the original OEM texture of chip/gravel guard, more than 82 percent said they either were not aware it was a “not-included” operation or just never thought to charge for it. Indeed, any extra steps taken for this operation are “not-included” in the estimating database times because not every situation requires it, yet it regularly must be done. Of the shops that do bill for extra labor time when they need it, the survey found that the eight largest insurers reimburse them “always” or “most of the time” in nearly 40 percent of the cases,
across all six regions of the country. “Participating in the surveys can be a good reminder to shops of ‘notincluded’ operations like this that they are doing so they can decide whether to include them as line items on their estimates,” Mike Anderson of Collision Advice said. Each of the four surveys explores a different area of shop operations. Previous surveys examined “Who Pays for What?” in terms of structural/frame and mechanical operations, aluminum repair, and refinish operations. The current survey, being conducted for the first time, focuses on about two dozen “not-included” body labor operations, asking shops how frequently they are paid for each of the operations by the eight largest auto insurers in the country. Survey participants will receive a 60-page report with complete survey findings, broken down by region, insurer and DRP vs. non-DRP, at no charge. The report also includes analysis and resources to help shops better understand and use the information presented. Anderson said the survey, which will take about 15-30 minutes, should be completed by the shop owner, man-
ager or estimator who is most familiar with the shop’s billing practices and the payment practices of the largest national insurers. Each shop’s individual responses are held in the strictest confidence and are not released in any way; only cumulative data is released. The results of previous surveys are also available online (www.collisionadvice.com/survey). Collision Advice ( www.Collision Advice.com ) is an independent training and consulting firm featuring some of the most respected and experienced experts in the collision repair industry. Mike Anderson and his team offer real-world, cutting edge training and guidance both in the classroom and one-on-one in the shop.
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FinishMaster acquires Zitco, Inc.
FinishMaster, Inc., a distributor of paint and related products in the U.S. and subsidiary of Uni-Select Inc., a distributor of automotive products in Canada, announced on April 15 it has completed the acquisition of substantially all of the operating assets of Zitco, Inc. doing business as Lowell’s PCE (“Lowell’s”). This acquisition broadens FinishMaster’s reach in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. Lowell’s has been a PBE distributor in the Minneapolis/St. Paul market for more than 40 years and has operated from one location in Edina, MN. “Our companies share a customer-centric focus and our commitment to excellence in service will strengthen as we join as one team. Combining experience and local market knowledge equips us to anticipate and exceed customer expectations in the service and support we provide,” stated Steve Arndt, president and COO of FinishMaster. “This acquisition is a great example of FinishMaster accelerating growth in a key market, which directly aligns with our profitable growth strategy,” added Henry Buckley, president and CEO of Uni-Select.
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M-F 7-5; Sat 8-2 parts@garyforcehonda.com
M-Thu 6:30-9; F 6:30-6; Sat 6:30-5 parts@rbhonda.com
M, W, Thu, F 7:30-6; Tu 7:30-7; Sat 9-1 dvice@roperauto.com
M-F 7-5 hondaparts@auto-plaza.com
Schaumburg Honda Automobiles S chau mb urg
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IND I ANA
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 33
Day Job/Night Job Mixing Paints During the Day and Cocktails at Night with Ed Attanasio
Sean Fitzgerald, 33, has a busy work schedule as he balances two jobs—as a body shop owner and a bartender— but he makes it all work because he
is off to work as a bartender to help him pay the bills. Fitzgerald started working initially in the printing industry, but he always had his sights on painting cars and making them look spectacular. “I was working as a printer during the day when I was 18 and 19 and then in the evenings and on the weekends I was building street race cars,” he said. “We would install turbo kits and do everything we could to make them as fast as we could. All of my friends had their own cars, so we had Sean Fitzgerald is only 33, but he’s already owned Phantom this group that would work on Autobody in Jeffersonville, IN for three years now each other’s vehicles.” stresses quality in everything he does. With bigger plans and a drive to get there, Fitzgerald decided to go back to While running the show at Phantom Autobody in Jeffersonville, IN, he is a school to get a degree in collision repair. hands-on owner who still paints most “I went through UTI’s one year program of the vehicles that come into his at their school in Houston, TX,” he said. shop. And after his 10-12 hour days “It was intense with more than 9-10 fixing cars and doing custom paint, he hours of instruction and lab work every
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
day, but when I graduated from there, I was ready to get a job at a shop.” Returning to the Louisville, KY area where he grew up, Fitzgerald started working at a local shop to learn more about the trade. “I worked as a prepper for four years and they never let me paint an entire car, mostly door jambs and things like that,” he said. “It
Known for his custom paint jobs on motorcycles, Phantom Autobody gets rave reviews on choppers, hogs and even a few newer foreignmade bikes
was a very competitive environment there, so all of the painters were fighting for work.” Because Fitzgerald was crosstrained as both a painter and a metal technician, he decided to start working at another shop in Louisville as a body tech, he explained. “I did that for 2-3 years, but it never really became full-time, so that’s when I started bartending. It helped to pay the bills and it also allowed me to sock away some money, because I started thinking about possibly opening my own shop around that time.” At first, he didn’t have a permanent location and that’s why people began calling it Phantom Autobody. “I started by doing side work in the evenings and on the weekends,” Fitzgerald said. “We would do it at the shop I was working at or anywhere we could. We really didn’t have a real location, so I named it Phantom Autobody and it became an inside joke.”
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their own collision center a few years back,” Fitzgerald said. “Now that we have a permanent location, things are really picking up.” At first, things were a little rocky, so the bartending became a way to keep the bills paid. “I was working at the shop all day long and then bartending at least three nights a week to make ends meet,” he said. “I still work on the weekends as a bartender, because it’s easy money. Occasionally, one of my customers at the bar By bartending at night and on the weekends, Fitzgerald will become a customer at the was able to get some of the seed money he needed to shop-either for collision repair open his shop or a car restoration or even cility and an address in 2013, he said. some custom paint.” “I put together almost $25,000, with Although Fitzgerald is a skilled some savings from the bartending painter and does a lot of motorcycle thrown in there too. We started on a builds featuring his custom paint, he very small scale first and now we still feels like he wants to get better have four employees and operate out and grow as a painter. “Some people of a 10,000 square foot facility. We do say I am an artist, but I don’t think of full collision repair, but we don’t have it that way. I just enjoy doing custom any DRPs, so it is pretty much word work and that’s where my interests reof mouth.” ally lie. We fit it in, but we make sure By knocking on doors and stressthat it does not interfere with the coling excellence, Phantom Autobody has lision repair or overwhelm our progrown steadily. “We do a lot of work duction by doing it.” for a local car dealership that closed Does Fitzgerald have a five-year After borrowing some money from his friends and selling three of his beloved cars, Fitzgerald got his fa-
plan for himself and his growing business? “We want to grow and fix more cars,” he said. “There is a lot of competition in this area, with shops that have been around for 15-20 years. So, I am still the new kid on the block.” Will he ever be able to step away from the bartending and be able to enjoy his weekends every once in a while? “I don’t know, I like doing it
Thrasher gets tired during motorcycle builds, but he is a valued member of the crew at Phantom Autobody
and I’m good at it, so no—I will still be working at that bar mainly on the weekends until I decide it’s enough. The bartending helped to get me here, so I’m not ready to retire just yet.”
PDA Expands Team with New CFO Appointment
Jennifer Salazar joined Property Damage Appraisers’ (PDA) C-suite leadership team as chief financial officer. “Jennifer is the perfect addition to PDA’s family,” said Tom Dolfay, CEO of PDA. “She has experience across diverse industries including media, nonprofits, oil and telecommunications and in various roles such as accounting, IT, operations, planning and analysis as well as strategic development and execution. Her background adds a different perspective and allows the company to tap deeper into what’s important to customers.” Salazar is responsible for aiding PDA’s executive team in developing, implementing and executing PDA’s strategic business plan. She directs all strategic and tactical matters as they relate to responsibility for profit and loss management. She is also responsible for the finance department, including accounting, financial reporting, cash/treasury, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, risk management and employee benefits. To learn more about PDA, visit http://www.pdacorporation.com/.
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Why Are Online Reviews Important to Your Auto Body Shop? during his presentation. Over the last few months, he has Every month, nearly 10 million con- found that review sites now occupy 40 sumers search online for auto body re- to 80 percent of all first page links. pair shops and related services. One of With an abundance of different the first things they see are online re- review sites on the web, businesses views. might wonder what review sites are Whether your organizathe most important to focus tion has two, 200 or 2,000 on. “The review sites that locations, Frank Terlep, consumers use the most and see the most and know the founder and CEO of eMarmost are the ones that matter keting Sherpas, said that online reviews are extremely the most,” said Terlep. important to your business. Some of the more popular From his experience over the ones he mentioned include Frank Terlep. years, he said they can imYelp, Google, Yahoo!, Bing, File photo. prove customer engagement, Facebook, Citysearch, Yela company’s brand and increase on- low Pages and Judy’s Book. line referrals. What steps should a business put He cited data collected from the in place to get more online reviews? Bazaarvoice network in 2015, which “Just ask!” said Terlep. “If you said a business with one review can want to get reviews, you need to let experience a 10 percent increase in the customer know that reviews are sales, a business with 50 reviews can important to your business.” He said have a 30 percent increase and busi- it’s also important to make it easy and nesses with 200 reviews can see a 44 convenient for consumers to give you percent increase. a review and let them know which Terlep recently held a webinar dissites you would like to get the reviews cussing the importance of online reon. by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
“Eighty-eight percent of connected consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations from people.” — Frank Terlep
views and offered tips on how to have your business appear on page one of a Google, Yahoo! or Bing search in your local market. Terlep said that 88 percent of connected consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations from people and 90 percent said that positive online reviews influence their buying decisions. In 2015, a company named Review Inc. surveyed 1,000 consumers and found that consumers trust online reviews much more than any other marketing and advertising mediums, including websites, newspaper, television and the yellow pages. “A brand is no longer what we tell consumers it is – it is what consumers tell each other it is,” said Scott D. Cook, the founder of Intuit and a board member of eBay and P&G. “But the sad news is that 87 percent of small businesses like most of you on this call don’t really have a formal process in place to ask for and capture online reviews,” Terlep said
He suggested using signage, POS materials, verbal requests, delivery handouts, email, your website, Facebook, mobile apps and in some cases, in-house kiosks. He strongly recommended that a delivery review request handout be given to a customer when their vehicle is delivered. Another effective way he found to ask for online reviews is by sending an email or text. Currently, the average open rate for an email is 18 to 22 percent; while a text has a 98 percent open rate and is usually read within five minutes. When asking for a verbal review, Terlep said there are eight must dos: 1) Always get permission before sending a review request. 2) Ask at the peak of your customer’s happiness with your service. 3) Let your customer know that you’re asking for a “favor.” 4) Let your customer know how long this will take. 5) Let your customer know how you
36 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
benefit from their favor. 6) Get your customer’s primary email address.
The Review Engine software delivers reviews and reporting for businesses
7) Tell your customer how much their offering to write a review means to you. 8) Tell them that you’re looking forward to reading their review.
Terlep stressed the importance of responding to every review. Not only is it great for SEO (Search Engine Optimization), he said it demonstrates to the consumer that the reviews really are important to your business. eMarketing Sherpas specializes in
digital marketing solutions for the collision repair industry. The San Diegobased company developed the Review Engine product in 2015, with the intent of helping businesses build, promote, protect and manage online reviews and reputation. The Review Engine software delivers reviews and reporting for businesses and can be set up to import a company’s estimating management software into their platform. It also integrates with more than 100 social media and review sites. Other features include customized review request delivery handouts and automated email and text review requests. eMarketing Sherpas offers a free demonstration of the product. “Because we use so many different tools and techniques to request and capture online reviews, your business can expect to see a 100 percent to 300 percent increase in the number of online reviews your business receives,” said Terlep. For more information, call 858547-8697, email sales@emarketing sherpas.com or visit http:www.emarketing sherpas.com.
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 37
Communication Was Key at Mopar Masters Guild Annual Meeting in Las Vegas by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
Parts and service directors across the country gathered in Las Vegas, Nevada March 29-April 1 for the Mopar Masters Guild (MMG) annual meeting. Susan McDaniel, newly elected president of MMG, said that communication was the main item on the agenda.
(l to r) Rick Cutaia, Susan McDaniel, Don Cushing
“We wanted to build a solid, up-todate database and get as many people involved as possible so that we could have great discussions about the current state of our businesses and help each other grow,” said McDaniel, who is the parts director at Bill Luke Dealerships in Phoenix, Arizona. With record attendance of 36 members, the group shared ideas and best practices during the four-day meet-
ing, which was held in conjunction with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) annual convention. Mopar is the parts, service and customer care organization within Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Established in 1992, the MMG’s motto is “The exchange of information by like-size dealers in a non-competitive environment.” McDaniel said the goal is to strengthen themselves as managers in order to deliver the best service to customers. She said their conquest program still remains strong, referring to the FCA Match the Estimate – Price Matching Program. (FCA was formerly known as the Chrysler Group.) “Our collision shops present a copy of their original estimate and we can match the price to ensure that their customers receive quality OE parts on their vehicle,” she explained. “FCA is more competitive with their pricing than ever and driven to learn new ways to be even stronger in the marketplace.” Some of the highlights during the annual meeting included presentations from FCA/Mopar executives and supporting vendors. “We pride ourselves on building strong relationships with
38 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
our vendors to help each other grow,” said McDaniel. The third day of the meeting— March 31—began with a tribute to one of the MMG members who recently passed away. The guild celebrated the
(l to r) Tiny Bubbles, Barbara Davies, Tony Strongarm
life of Crete Colby, on the day that would have been his birthday. Elections were also held on March 31 and the following individuals began their two-year terms: President Susan McDaniel – Bill Luke CJDR; Vice-President Andy Reed – Autonation; Treasurer J.D. Ipsen – Ken Garff W. Valley CDJR; Secretary Matt Jarvis – Bald Hill DCJR
The week ended with a reception on April 1 themed “Gangsters and Flappers.” Members had the opportunity to dress up in their favorite costumes while discussing the previous few days of presentations. MMG will be celebrating its 25th anniversary beginning January 24, 2017. Two days later, they will hold their next meeting in New Orleans, LA, January 26-29. Until then, MMG plans to focus on its membership drive and community outreach programs throughout the year. McDaniel said the hope is to increase membership to 50 by next January. McDaniel encourages those who qualify to be Mopar Master dealers and have not yet been contacted to call her at 602-336-1557 or email smcdaniel@billluke.com. A list of qualifying dealers are listed on the Dealer Connect website (dealerconnect.com >>Home Page> 2016 Dealer Recognition Programs> Mopar Masters Tracking). For more information about the Mopar Masters Guild, visit: mopar mastersguild.com. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Mopar and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC.
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 39
Golden Oldie Vehicles Soar by Jim Lang, Lang Marketing
Golden Oldie Vehicles Soar “Cars and light trucks 15 years and older will be the fastest growing vehicle age group in the U.S. over the next four years (2016 through 2019). More than 11 million light vehicles 15 years and older will be added to the nation's VIO (vehicles in operation) by the end of 2019, an unprecedented 17% surge.” “Rapid growth of older vehicles will influence four key aftermarket dynamics: parts proliferation, product volume, where vehicles are repaired and the product brands used to repair them.” – Jim Lang
Older Vehicles On The Rise Virtually all VIO (vehicles in operation) net growth in the U.S. over the next four years (2016 through 2019) will be generated by vehicles 15 years and older. This boom in the oldest segment of the vehicle population reflects the increasing life-span of vehicles on U.S. roads. Improved vehicle design, advanced engineering and more durable materials combine to extend the operational life of cars and light trucks produced since the mid-1990s.
Longer Vehicle Life Despite record gains in annual vehicle sales over the past six years, vehicle scrappage rates remain low relative to the historic surge in new vehicle sales. Although new car and light truck annual sales rose 70% between 2010 and 2015, the annual rate of light vehicle scrappage has trended downward. The high costs of vehicle replacement and moderate gas prices at the pump are helping to keep older vehicles (which often are less fuel efficient than newer models) on the road longer, increasing their population. Since 2013, average pump prices have annually declined, reducing the financial incentive to replace older gas guzzlers with new, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Golden Oldies Dominate VIO Growth Virtually all car and light truck VIO growth on U.S. roads between now and the end of 2019 will be generated by the surging population of vehicles 15 years and older. This historic increase in the number of older vehicles will influence
four key aftermarket dynamics: parts proliferation, annual product volume, where vehicles are repaired, and the product brands used to repair them.
Parts Proliferation Rises With cars and light trucks lasting longer and the older-vehicle population rising, Manufacturers, Distributors, and Retailers must maintain parts inventories for older vehicle age groups for much longer than they ever have before. This is increasing parts proliferation as parts for new vehicles are being added to inventories at the same time that parts for the large and growing group of vehicles 15 years and older must be maintained At the end of 2015, there were approximately 66 million light vehicles at least 15 years old in the U.S. By 2019, the number of cars and light trucks 15 years and older will climb more than 17% (up 11 million) compared to 2015.
Aftermarket Volume Grows Older cars and light trucks use more aftermarket products per-mile than younger light vehicles. Rapid growth of this high-age vehicle group will boost aftermarket product volume, especially with the recent surge in annual miles driven (2015 total mileage rose 3.5%).
Independent Repair Outlets Boosted Fast-growing older vehicles are adding to the repair and maintenance volume of Independent (non-Dealer) outlets, as older vehicles are disproportionately taken to Independent outlets for repair rather than to Vehicle Dealers.
Aftermarket Brands Gain Strength The growth of older vehicles (15 years and up) is positive for aftermarket brands (as opposed to OE brands) for two reasons. First, older vehicles have a disproportionate share of their repair and maintenance performed at Independent (non-Dealer) outlets which generally use aftermarket brands to repair these older vehicles. Second, aftermarket brands are used with much greater frequency than OE brands for older-vehicle repair because owners of these vehicles are generally more cost conscious than consumers with newer model
40 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
cars and light trucks. Aftermarket brands are generally less expensive than OE brands both in the DIFM and DIY markets.
Six Major Takeaways ■ Cars and light trucks 15 years and older will comprise the fastest growing vehicle age group in the U.S. over the next four years. (2016 through 2019).
■ Virtually all the growth in VIO (vehicles in operation) over the next four years will be generated by the oldest vehicles aged 15 years and up.
■ Independent (non-Dealer) outlets will benefit from older vehicle growth, since consumers are much less likely to take them to Dealers for repair (because of higher prices) than they are to take them to Independent (non-Dealer) repair outlets.
■ Owners of older cars and light trucks are more cost conscious about vehicle repair than are owners of latemodel vehicles. This will boost sales of aftermarket (non-OE) brands, which are generally less expensive then OE brands.
■ The growing number of older vehicles on U.S. roads demands that Manufacturers, Distributors, and Retailers maintain inventories of parts for older vehicles over a much longer time than ever before, increasing parts proliferation.
■ Since older vehicles use more aftermarket products per-mile than younger cars and light trucks, growth of vehicles 15 years and older will boost aftermarket product volume.
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New Ideas from Technicians are Backbone of Killer Tools Unique Products by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
With an interest in the collision repair industry and a background in inventing and marketing products, Gerry Trueit began selling tools from shop to shop about 16 years ago. He and his wife, Maggie, and their dog, Ruby, drove a motor home throughout the United States selling an Eagle dent removal machine. After selling nearly 3,000 units, he said they gained a reputation for providing “Killer Tools.” This led Trueit and his team to form Killer Tools and Equipment Corp. “When we developed a tool for putting on door skins pneumatically, we were selling so many we could no longer go on the road and settled down to manufacturing and shipping,” he said. Since incorporating the company in 2002, they have sold more than 30,000 of these tools. Their products come from the ideas of those currently working in the collision repair industry and Trueit said that every tool is unique in its design. “We are very fortunate to be in a unique position by having original tools, thought up by collision technicians and designed and built by us,” said Trueit.
He said collision technicians can be quite hard on their tools so everything has to be rugged. “I want to make sure that our brand is known for quality first and the service to back it up,” said Trueit.
Killer Tools, based in Orangevale, California, has seven employees and offers more than 30 products through mobile jobbers, paint stores and warehouse distributors. The company recently introduced the following four tools for the industry: ART55 Cordless Tool Garage: allows you to store cordless tools in your tool box or on the side of your tool box. Powerful magnets hold unit to any steel surface without falling.
ART88 Corner Pocket: a powder-coated steel peg board attaches to any tool cart to create vertical space for organizing your tools and tapes, etc. Comes with six steel peg holders. ART44X The Painter’s Helper: Heavy duty Truck Mirror Support holds over 10 lbs. Attaches to any steel surface with powerful magnet and exclusive “load extender.” ART81X Heavy Duty 1/2” Impact Support: Quality anodized aluminum support will hold over 10 lbs with exclusive “load extender.” Several of Trueit’s technicians, many who were referred by jobbers or friends, have received royalties for helping to design his products. One technician has earned more than $250,000 over the last 10 years. Trueit said the company decided to reward them with $1,000 each for their part in sharing ideas for any tool they produce. “Collision technicians are independent thinkers and have always had to design something new to complete a task,” said Trueit. “That is why I enjoy this industry. I feel connected.” For more information, contact Gerry Trueit at 800-369-4262 or killer toolsandequipment@gmail.com or visit http://www.killertools.com/.
ETI Hires Rick Matz as Technical Manager
The Equipment and Tool Institute announced Rick Matz joined the organization as the technical manager. Matz will help manage the ETI TEKNET Library, including helping member companies understand the library and the data in it, and also helping to track down information from OEMs that may be missing. Matz will also be responsible for developing and gathering technical information and articles for the institute’s publications, coordinating the meeting activities of vertical groups and the technical committee, representing ETI in its cooperative efforts with other trade associations, and serving as the ETI representative at key SAE and ISO committee meetings that affect tool and equipment design and manufacturing. “Rick will bring us additional technical resources with his extensive background in automotive communications. His recent experience with our expanding telematics space is a big plus for our membership. With Rick’s addition, ETI will be much better outfitted for the challenges ahead,” stated Greg Potter, ETI’s executive manager. For details about ETI, contact Jessie Korosec at 248-6565085 or e-mail: jessiek@etools.org.
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 41
Historical Snapshot
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and 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.
ASA Lobbyists, Allstate Acquires Sterling, Recycled Parts Market Share, Chinese OEMs with John Yoswick
20 years ago in the collision repair industry (May 1996) At the 1996 Automotive Service Association annual convention in Washington, D.C., the association brought together a panel of attorneys to address complex but critical questions, such as if preferred provider networks a violation of antitrust laws. Don Randall, who retired in 1993 as ASA lobbyist and legal counsel, moderated the discussed and reminded ASA members that it is often difficult to provide “black and white” responses on legal issues. “The law is not an exact science,” he said. “It is an ever-evolving, live institution. Randall asked the panel: Do laws allow insurers to establish direct repair programs, or could such relationships be seen as an illegal “tying arrangement,” tying the purchase of a policy to the consumer’s agreement to use certain shops for repair?
“I’m not sure we have an answer to that now,” George Slover, an attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division, said. “All that
David Snyder, an attorney with the American Insurance Association, said he felt the law was more clear on insurance programs. “These types of plans have already been repeatedly challenged in federal and state courts, and repeatedly upheld under the antitrust laws,” Snyder said. – As reported in Collision Expert
15 years ago in the collision repair industry (May 2001) Allstate acquisition of Sterling Collision Centers, a conIn 2006, Don Porter was a national claims consultant with solidator with 39 collision State Farm and a speaker at the Automotive Recyclers repair shops in seven states Association event. He retired from State Farm in 2012, and nine metropolitan areas and in 2014 became CEO of the United Recyclers Group sent shockwaves across the the antitrust statute says about this is industry much like State Farm’s nonone sentence: no contracts, combina- OEM parts verdict. “It will change the industry, one tions or conspiracies in restraint of way or the other,” predicted John Rattrade.”
tan, a multi-shop owner in Dallas, Texas. “If Allstate succeeds, you’ll probably see other consolidators selling out. If they don’t buy or open any more shops, it will answer the question once and for all about insurers owning body shops.” – As reported in Autobody News It’s not clear the question has been answered once and for all, but a 2003 law passed in Texas prohibiting insurers from owner body shops there largely put the brakes on Sterling’s growth as an Allstate subsidiary. Sterling added fewer than two dozen shops in the 13 years it was owned by Allstate, though it did double its sales to about $200 million by 2014 when it was acquired by Service King. Rattan remains CEO of The Body Shop, a 3-shop operation in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. 10 years ago in the collision repair inSee ASA Lobbyists, Page 51
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Turtles, Dolphins, Gators, Oh My! FL Shop Steps Up to Help Non-Profits by Ed Attanasio
Body shops are asked to clear coat and/or paint all the time for charitable causes and many of them are sculptures of animals. This movement began back in 1986 when fiberglass lions were painted in different colors and staged throughout the city of Zurich, Switzerland.
JR Nocera is the owner Supreme Auto Collision in Naples, FL. When asked to clear coat 50 sculptures of Loggerhead sea turtles for a community art project called Turtles on the Town he said yes
Two years later, the lions were replaced by cows. The “CowParade” later became a hugely successful international public art exhibit that has been featured in major cities throughout the world. These sculptures of cows were decorated by local artists, and distributed in public places such as train stations, museums and parks. Since then, cities all over the world have gotten involved in these art projects to protect wildlife and raise money for animal preservation. In almost every case, they feature artwork and designs specific to the local culture, as well as city life and other relevant themes. After each exhibition in each city concludes, the statues are auctioned off and the proceeds donated to charity. From Bears in Berlin to Crabs in Baltimore; Buffaloes in Buffalo, Sharks in San Jose and Cats in the Catskills, these animal sculptures are now in the thousands. So, when a Florida body shop owner was asked to clear coat 50 Loggerhead sea turtles for a good cause, he wasn’t surprised, because he had already painted statues of dolphins, gators and pelicans for other exhibitions. The owner is JR Nocera, and the shop is Supreme Auto Collision in Naples, FL. To say the least, Nocera has never had any problems sticking his head out of his shell and telling the world about his 60,000 sq. ft. shop that takes up an entire city block. So, he
surely wasn’t going to hide in the sand when he was asked to paint 50 turtles gratis for the Turtles on the Town, a public art project and fundraiser on display in Naples and throughout Collier County. Supreme Auto Collision is a onestop shop, with a mechanical repair division, a car detailing department, a trim shop and even a Vespa scooter dealership in addition to being a body shop that fixes 200-300 cars every month while maintaining 13 DRPs. The shop is known for working on high-end vehicles, specifically Bentleys, Audis, BMWs, and Aston-Martins and is aluminum-ready, with its own separate clean room. With 30 employees, including his two nephews, Nocera, 48 is a secondgeneration shop owner with a son (age 10) who will hopefully get into the business one day. “My dad had a shop and we had a lot of mechanics in my family,” Nocera said. “My father still works here at age 73 and my brother Jimmy also works here. I started when I was 16 and quickly I knew that I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. Most kids at age 16 don’t know what they want to do, but I had my path right then and there. I hope my youngest can get into this industry one day, because I know that my daughter isn’t at all interested, which is fine.”
fiberglass-reinforced polyester from an original bronze sculpture, and they stand about five ft. tall. It takes a community of many different people and
All of the turtles will eventually be auctioned off to benefit three local non-profit organizations
organizations contributing different things to make a project of this size happen. Among those contributing were 50 patrons who gave $5,000 each to sponsor a turtle. While many of
these patrons are businesses that have their sponsored turtles on site for the public exhibition, other patrons are individuals and those sculptures are on exhibit at area parks and non-profits. Even though his shop is busy all the time, Nocera took the time to clear coat all of the 50 turtles, with the product donated by Axalta, the paint he uses on every vehicle he repairs. “It lays out real sweet,” Nocera said. “Those artists put so much time into these amazing creations, so we made sure that we did a great job for them. It was a team effort and all of our people stepped up. This is like the fourth time we’ve been asked to do something like this and each time I just can’t say no.” Without compromising his cycle time, Nocera called upon his crew to work a little overtime and get the turtles ready to roll onto the streets of Collier County. “They came out beautifully and we’re happy that we were able to be part of this community effort. I don’t know what they’re going to ask us to paint next–vmaybe manatees? Whatever it is, we’ll be there!”
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The 50 turtles were molded of fiberglassreinforced polyester from an original bronze sculpture, and they stand about five ft. tall
All of the turtles will be auctioned at a gala later this Spring, with proceeds to benefit the three non-profit organizations involved in the exhibition — the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, the Community Foundation of Collier County and the United Arts Council of Collier County. The project began as a way to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the community foundation, but once the project grew, more people swam into the project. The 50 turtles were molded of
44 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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Industry Insight
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and 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.
Anderson Shows NORTHEAST Shops How His “Who Pays for What?” Surveys Can Help with John Yoswick
About 37 percent of shops who bill for “masking the vehicle for priming” say they get paid by insurers for this operation “always” or “most of the time” – yet about an equal percentage of shops say they have never asked to be paid for this not-included operation. That’s one of the survey findings that Mike Anderson told attendees at the NORTHEAST trade show in New Jersey in March that he was most surprised about as he continues to conduct a series of four different “Who Pays for What?” surveys nationally in conjunction with CRASH Network. “Every time you prime, you have to mask, utilizing labor and materials,” Anderson told a packed seminar room at the trade show. “I was very surprised to see so many shops were not even charging for this. Almost 40 percent of shops said, ‘I’ve never even asked for it.’” The seminar was one of the first times Anderson has focused an entire
presentation on his “Who Pays for What?” seminars, which began last year. Each of the four surveys – one is conducted each quarter – ask shops for their billing practices in terms of about two dozen not-included operations. For
cluded on the refinish-related survey that took place in February this year, but the other surveys focus on body labor operations (that survey took place in April), frame and mechanical operations, and aluminum repair and
each procedure, shops are asked to describe how often they are paid, by each of eight insurers, whether it is “always,” “most of the time,” “some of the time,” or “never.” The masking question was in-
shop supplies (the latter two surveys will next take place later this year). Anderson’s seminar at the trade show highlighted some of the results of past surveys, which are available online. (Anyone who takes one of the
surveys automatically receives that survey’s findings for free.) As with masking for priming, for example, Anderson said nearly 40 percent of shops reported being paid always or most of the time to match the original OEM texture of chip/gravel guard. “The three estimating systems all clearly say that when you get paid to do gravel guard, that does not include the additional labor required to match the OEM texture,” Anderson said. “So if your painter has to go out and play with it, and get a spray pattern set-up, etc., that can take a long time, right? That’s not included.” Anderson said this year’s refinishrelated survey specifically asked shops that have never asked to be paid for this process why they haven’t. More than 82 percent said they either were not aware it was a “not-included” operation or just never thought to charge for it. “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m not saying that insurance companies are
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always going to pay you for every single thing,” Anderson said. “But at the end of the day, if you want to get paid more, you have to first ask. It’s a Biblical principle: ‘You have not because you ask not.’” The surveys compare the payment practices among the largest eight auto insurers nationally, and also show how responses vary by region. The survey have continued to draw responses from an average of more 700 shops each time, Anderson said. “It’s one survey response per shop, so that’s 700-plus shops each time, not like some other surveys that might include responses from 10 people from one shop,” Anderson said. He said the surveys ask shops to also report what direct repair program affiliations they have, and the findings have fairly consistently shown that direct repair shops are paid, overall, more frequently for “not-included” estimate items than are non-DRP shops. “I’m not pro-DRP, I’m not antiDRP,” Anderson said, noting that he’s faced some skepticism from those who are surprised that DRP shops appear more likely to be paid for not-included operations. “I’m all about doing a safe and proper repair. Whatever your busi-
ness model is irrelevant to me. But what I can tell you is DRP shops clearly are getting paid for more procedures than non-DRP shops.” He said the aluminum survey asked shops not only about their labor rates for aluminum work but also how much they invested in training, equipment and other costs to become OEMcertified for aluminum. He said some survey respondents said that adding up those numbers made them realize their labor rates were inadequate. “What we realized is that when some people were setting their rates, they were just grabbing some number out of the air without ever having done a financial analysis on it,” Anderson said. He said his overall goal with the surveys is to raise awareness of operations shops may be doing but aren’t charging for. He said he hopes over time have the surveys find that the percentage of shops billing and being paid for the procedures increase. But he acknowledged that awareness is only part of the issue; the second-half of his presentation at the NORTHEAST show focused on how shops can successfully negotiate for whatever procedures from the surveys
they are regularly doing. “I mean this in love. I’m not here to make any enemies. I want you to be successful. But honestly, the majority of body shops use the insurance companies as an excuse for their ignorance and lack of knowledge,” Anderson said. ‘They say, ‘The insurance company won’t pay for it,’ when the reality is they didn’t even know they could charge for it.” Anderson recommended that shops start with one or two of the items at a time, focusing on including them on estimates on jobs when the procedure is being done, and being prepared to support why they should be paid for it. He said shops should have documentation from the automakers or paint companies showing the procedure is needed; documentation from the estimating systems showing the procedure is not-included and whether there is a formula for calculating the labor time for it; and an understanding of what the procedure is worth. “You have to figure out what your labor is going to be and any materials you’re going to use,” Anderson said. “I can’t tell you what to charge. But the time you charge should reflect how long it takes the average technician to gather up their tools, equip-
ment and supplies and perform the task in a safe and proper manner, and then return their tools and equipment.” He said shops rarely do the research to gather the documentation they need to confidently make their justification for the charge. Anderson said each of the survey reports includes suggested resources shops can use in this process. “The only thing that matters if you want to get paid for something is what you can prove, substantiate and justify,” Anderson said. “That’s all that matters. Your opinion means absolutely nothing.” Shops interested in being notified about upcoming surveys, or in getting results from previous surveys, can visit: https://www.collisionadvice.com /survey As is generally the case, Anderson’s presentation at the NORTHEAST trade show won him new fans in the industry. “I’ve been attending these seminars for over 50 years, and this is the single-most compelling session I’ve ever attended,” Mike Porcelli of Central Avenue Collision in Glendale, N.Y., told Anderson during the question-and-answer session.
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National Group Joins Fight to Save Dallas Car Repair Shop by Ken Kalthoff, NBCDFW.com
A Washington-based Libertarian group is standing alongside the owner of a Dallas auto repair shop as he fights a city hall effort to close his business April 7. Hinga Automotive has been open in the 3500 block of Ross Avenue for 30 years and owner Hinga Mbogo wants to stay in business. “I’m doing what I love doing and I’m supporting my family,” he said. “I have four guys that work for me and they have families that rely on their income.” Dallas zoning laws removed auto repair as an allowed land use on Ross Avenue in 2005 in a city push to clean up the street leading into downtown. Instead of the many car repair shops and sales lots, city leaders wanted to encourage new residential development and businesses to support new residents. Neighborhood City Councilman Philip Kingston said Mbogo has already received two extensions on a 2010 deadline to close his auto repair business. Kingston said the last extension came after Mbogo promised neighbors he would already be gone by now.
“And so to me the most salient point to me is that Mr. Mbogo made a deal that he has now backed out of,” Kingston said. Border Officers Find $1.6M in Meth Hidden in Tires
month voted against Mbogo request to stay in business. Now, the Washington, D.C. based Libertarian group Institute for Justice has launched a petition drive on the businessman’s behalf. The petition had more than 60,000 signatures Tuesday, more than 1,500 from Dallas. “What’s happening here is he’s effectively forced to sell his business to a private developer and that’s not a legitimate government business,” said Garrett Atherton with Institute for Justice. “I would love to live next to an auto repair shop like this. It’s a good asset to have in the neighborhood,” he said. Atherton said the group The owner of a Dallas auto repair shop fights city hall intends to deliver a printed in an effort to close his business copy of the online petition Large new apartments and town- at Dallas City Hall before the 1 p.m. homes that have been built on Ross city council zoning hearing. A large Avenue the past 10 years make the area crowd of speakers on both sides of more valuable than it was. Kingston the issue are expected at the meetsaid the businessman’s property can ing before a scheduled city council still be used for other purposes. vote on the future of the car repair “I am struggling to see his side shop. of the argument,” Kingston said. Thank you NBC-DFW for reprint The Dallas Plan Commission last permission.
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The Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) announced on April 13 that four new members have been selected to serve on the organization’s board of directors. Joining the board to serve the organization for the upcoming term are: Jenny Anderson, Enterprise Holdings, Inc.; Denise Kingstrom, BASF Corporation; April Lausch, Faulkner Collision Center of Lancaster; and Debbie Menz, Axalta Coatings Systems. The WIN board consists of various industry segments, including collision repair shops, suppliers, consultants, information and training providers and insurance companies. Board members may serve up to three two-year terms, working together to build the organization and foster an environment that encourages the education, recruitment, retention and networking of women in the collision repair industry. New board members will be introduced and officially welcomed at the annual WIN Educational Conference, “Power of the Past, Force of the Future,” being held May 2-4, at the Hilton Tampa Downtown in Tampa, FL. For information, visit www. womensindustrynetwork.com.
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Media and Publicity for Shops Do Vehicle Wraps Make Sense for Your Shop? with Ed Attanasio
You’ve seen them everywhere and the graphics are pretty spectacular. Food trucks, large 16-wheelers, vans of all sizes and cars of every type now have advertising messages that entice viewers. Some people have allowed companies to put their logos on their daily
Body Shop” is the shop’s slogan emblazoned on the car. And in Bluffton, SC the Carriage Shoppe has a wrap on a van that is a real attention-getter, because from a distance the vehicle looks badly damaged. But, when you get a little closer, you can see that it’s just a very deceptive (and creative) wrap. Creative Colors Studio in Burnsville, MN has been creating award-winning vehicle wraps that drive business since 1998, according to the company’s founder Jeff Volino. “We sit down with every client The King of Wraps in San Jose, CA did this wrap that tells and create the image that they a story and uses humor to promote the Waffle Roost in want,” he said. “The graphics northern California and the message have to go drivers and paying them handsomely hand-in-hand or they won’t work. We for doing so and this movement is want to tell a story, instead of just stickgrowing fast. ing your logo on the side of a van.” Body shops all over the country After the staff at Creative Colors have invested in car wraps to push Studio comes up with a design everytheir brands and gain valuable expo- one is happy with and a price they can sure. They’re like moving billboards, all afford, the installation process is fast except you don’t have to rent them and drama-free, Volino said. “Without once you’ve put them on your vehi- damage to the car, we simply adhere cles. So, the real cost is only the initial the wrap to the vehicle quickly. We can investment, but the big question is— even safely cover the glass and windo vehicle wraps pay for themselves dows, allowing individuals inside the over time and do they actually attract customers? It’s all about ongoing branding and continually getting your name out there to the community. If you get vehicle wraps put on your delivery vans, will people see them and flock to your shop? Not likely, but the advertising message on your vans, in conjunction with your other marketing efforts, will eventually Simple, understated vehicle wraps are ideal for businesses make your shop’s name a that want to spread the word without them being too household word. So, when elaborate someone gets into an accident, they will think of you instead of vehicle to see out while those outside are shown your logo or company’s your competitor down the road. Interesting and fun vehicle wraps message. Vehicle wraps can pretty seem to garner the most attention. much meet any budget and we’ve gotten very good at doing effective partial Collision Specialists in McAllen, TX has a car wrap that features its logo vehicle wraps to cut down the cost.” breaking through a wall of concrete. The King of Wraps in San Jose, Offutt Collision Repair in Bellevue, CA is well-known for its high impact NE has a wrap featuring a cute little advertising car wraps. Owner Magno green alien with a spaceship that’s Lopez started creating and installing damaged. “An Out of This World wraps for a wide range of Silicon Val-
50 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
ley companies 13 years ago. “Our motto is maximum impact with tremendous results, Lopez said. “A full wrap commands attention and turns your vehicle into a powerful moving billboard. It doesn’t matter what angle it is viewed from, because peoples’ eyes will always be drawn to it.” If you’re intrigued by the idea of putting vehicle advertising wraps on your delivery fleet or your companies cars, consider the pros and cons first. For $500-$5,000 a car wrap can be as simple and direct or as intricate and involved as you desire, but make sure it’s within your budget and keep your expectations realistic. If you think the wrap will have the phone ringing off the hook within a few weeks, think twice. With any sign or message on your vehicles, there also comes a level of transparency and accountability. Since wraps are a moving advertisement for your business, a bad driver can bring you unwanted attention. And if one of
your vehicles possibly gets into an accident—get ready for some more adverse feedback. The positive aspects of using car wraps for your marketing and advertising are numerous. A vehicle wrap is a far more effective tool than a basic magnetic sign. In fact, most magnetic signs
Some wraps include window wraps, like with this one for Auto Body World in Erie, PA
look cheap, to be honest. In addition, a wrap can convert any vehicle into a billboard. You wouldn’t be allowed to put a sign in front of a restaurant or a store, but if you’re stopped in their parking lot you don’t need a permit or permission to wave your company’s flag. Audi Genuine Parts
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And finally, wraps are removable, so if you change your name for whatever reason, you won’t have to get the vehicle re-painted. Wraps offer flexibility and some shops will change them every 2-3 years, in order to stay fresh while conveying a new message. You can design a wrap to target a specific demographic--such as women, millennials, senior drivers and even young drivers. Some shops use their wraps to convey a safety or community-related message. One shop used their vehicle wraps to communicate anti-texting and other distracted driving warnings to the public and another shop promoted the local schools and Little Leagues through their wraps. But, the bottom line is this—do vehicle wraps ever lead to new customers? The answer from Offutt Collision Repair in Bellevue, NE is an emphatic maybe. “I don’t think anyone has ever come in here and said that a car wrap brought them here,” Carissa Williams explained. “They all work together in a marketing and branding plan, so to track the results is a little difficult to do. But, it’s all about getting the shop’s name out there and for that purpose they do a very good job.”
Continued from Page 42
ASA Lobbyists
dustry (May 2006) Don Porter, a property and casualty claims consultant with State Farm, kicked off the morning session of the Automotive Recyclers Association Mid-Year Business Development Conference outlining his company’s interest in increasing the amount of salvage parts used in repairs—and what he believes individual recyclers and their industry as a whole can do to increase their sales of parts for use in collision repair. Based on his company’s numbers, recycled parts as a percentage of total parts sales has remained stagnant – at between 12 and 13 percent—from 2003 through 2005, while the aftermarket segment is rebounding to reach a similar market share (after declining to a low of 9.2 percent in 2000). Porter said in order to increase the use of recycled parts, an automated approach to sourcing those parts is necessary, to provide immediate availability and condition information and to reduce the number of contacts to individual recyclers by shops and insur-
ers. Convincing shops to use more of the parts, he said, will require helping shops identify “best in class” recyclers that use systems to ensure on-time delivery of the correct part in the described condition. – As reported in Autobody News Spending on recycled parts peaked at just over 14 percent (of total dollars spent on parts) in 2001 according to data from Mitchell International, then has drifted downward back to between 12 and 13 percent, just as it was when Porter spoke at the recycler event. (Non-OEM parts, on the other hand, have increased steadily to a account for more than 16 percent of total parts dollars.) Porter retired from State Farm in 2012, and in 2014 became CEO of the United Recyclers Group.
5 years ago in the collision repair industry (May 2011) Speaking at an industry event, Greg Horn of Mitchell International offered a look at some of the vehicles that Chinese automakers—a number of which have plans to enter the U.S. market— currently produce. Horn said Great Wall Motors is predicting a U.S. launch in 2015, fol-
lowing the model used by Kia some years ago, with sales in several states and entry into the rental fleet. The company will use feedback from that limited launch to make improvements before selling on a broader scale. Horn said the expected low cost of early Chinese vehicles in this country will likely lead to more totals than repaired vehicles. But the success of any of the Chinese automakers here will largely be dependent on their ability to set up the replacement parts infrastructure that is needed, Horn said. Sterling Motors and Daihatsu, he said, failed largely because a lack of parts availability led to repair delays and total losses. “The folks that have the best infrastructure for supporting their brand will be the Chinese brands that survive going forward,” Horn said. – As reported in CRASH Network (www.CrashNetwork.com), May 30, 2011. Despite Great Wall Motors’ optimism five years ago, it has yet to sell a vehicle in the United States. The company has been plagued in recent years with quality issues, recalls and unpopular models, but it remains China’s largest sport utility vehicle maker.
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wholesaleparts@byersauto.com www.byersimports.com
SOUTH DAKOTA Graham Automotive Sioux Falls
888-540-6399
Fax: 605-221-0550
parts@grahamauto.com
WISCONSIN Hall Volkswagen Brookfield
888-420-4255
M-Thu 7:30am-7pm F 7:30am-6pm; Sat 8am-4pm
hallparts@hallcars.com
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 51
Herkules Adds Two New Lifts to BossLifts Line
Herkules Equipment Corporation has two new vehicle lifts. The BossLift VLA06 provides pneumatic lifting power, while the BossLift VLH01 is the low-profile hydraulic lift offered by the vehicle lift line. Previewed at the SEMA Show last November as the T515, the VLA06 leverages the airbag technology of the company’s popular T200 (now VLA03) lift to offer a straight vertical lift with a raised height of up to 29 inches by using two platforms, each 31 inches by 67.5 inches, placed on each side of the quick lube pit. The VLA06 has a lift capacity of 10,000 pounds, and a lowered height of 4.25 inches. The company’s low-profile hydraulic lift for shops, the VLH01, was previewed last spring in prototype form as the T260. Like the VLA03, the VLH01 offers a straight vertical lift with a raised height up to 32 inches on two platforms, each 19.25 inches by 53.5 inches, with a lift capacity of eight thousand pounds (8,000 lbs.) and a lowered height of 4.625 inches. “Leveraging the technology and capabilities of our VLA03 lift, we developed two alternatives that offer similar functionality with the different capabilities our customers find valuable,” said Todd Bacon, Herkules president and CEO.
IPA’s® 12-Button Remote Control for the Super MUTT®
IPA announced its new 12-Button Remote Control that is now available with the Super MUTT® trailer tester line. The #MUT-RM12 12-Function Remote allows complete and comprehensive trailer testing from over 200 ft. away. It also the manually, automatic or remote testing of all electrical circuitry, air brakes, and access ABS codes. The 12-Button Remote mirrors the onboard features of the Super MUTT®. Remote-controlled testing and diagnostics allow the Super MUTT® to guide a technician through 91 critical points of inspection and testing. Testing Mode assesses the trailer’s electrical circuitry to identify wiring problems often missed during routine inspections. If a problem is found (i.e. shorted, crossed, open circuit, or bad ground), the Super MUTT® shifts into Diagnostic / Pulsar® Mode. In the case of a short circuit, Pulsar® Mode will continue to monitor circuit condition, applying current every three seconds for continued circuit testing. Once the short is found and repaired, the Pulsar® feature will restore current to the circuit. For information on the Super MUTT® Deluxe or IPA’s Trailer Tester line, visit www.ipatools.com or call 888-786-7899.
d Family owne d and operate since 1958
Local: 608.884.4436 Fax: 608.884.8215 morrisons@morrisonsauto.com m
Pliogrip™ 5770 Adhesive Recommended by GM
Cunningham Brothers is GM 2015 Supplier of the Year
Cunningham Brothers Auto Parts (Cunningham Brothers) was named a GM Supplier of the Year by General Motors during its 24th annual Supplier of the Year awards ceremony held Thursday, March 10 at Cobo Center in Detroit, MI. GM recognized 110 of its best suppliers from 17 countries that have consistently exceeded GM’s expectations, created outstanding value, or brought new innovations to the company. The announcement represented the most suppliers GM has recognized since debuting the Supplier of the Year event in 1992. This is the first time Cunningham Brothers, based in VA, has received the award. “We are focused on building positive supplier relationships, bringing new, customer-centric innovations to GM, and being the OEM of choice among suppliers,” said Steve Kiefer, GM vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. GM’s 2015 supplier recognition represents a nearly 40 percent increase in the number of suppliers honored compared to 79 recipients in 2014. More than half are repeat winners from 2014.
Pliogrip™ 5770 impact resistant adhesive from Ashland has been recommended to auto body professionals by General Motors (GM) to repair impact-resistant joints in frame rail assemblies, strut tower assemblies, and other body structures that have critical strength requirements. It is one of only three adhesives on the GM recommended list provided to the auto repair industry. Per GM’s guidelines, when an impact-resistant adhesive is removed or damaged, it must always be replaced with an impact-resistant adhesive. If another adhesive is substituted, the vehicle is not considered “returned to pre-accident condition,” which may compromise safety and its ability to be driven. Pliogrip™ 5770 adhesive can be used to meet the repair standard. The adhesive can be used to bond replacement body panels such as strut towers, frame rails, rocker panels, and body side and rear end panels in place of, or in conjunction with, mechanical means of attachment such as screws or rivets. Professionals should always refer to O.E. replacement procedures for proper attachment methods. Visit www.ashland.com to learn more.
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4475 Merle Hay Road · Des Moines IA 50310 www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 53
Social Media for Shops
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
Women Shop Owners and Female Consumers Get Help from AskPatty.com with Ed Attanasio
When a car needs repairs, it’s likely that tion (NIADA), Car Care Council a woman will be bringing it into your Women’s Board and the Association shop. Those numbers have climbed of Automotive Internet Sales Profesover the years and now the experts sionals. claim that 73% of all automotive repair Celebrating its 10th anniversary customers are female. In 2012, there this year, AskPatty.com was started by were more women than men with driDeVere when she saw a problem and ver’s licenses for the very first time. On began looking for a viable solution. top of that, women have be“There was such a disconcome more savvy consumers nect between qualified and can’t be bamboozled anywomen and automotive busimore with technical terms and nesses such as car dealerindustry speak. ships, service departments In addition, the autoand collision centers, for exmotive repair world now has ample,” DeVere said. “So, more female shop owners, back in 2005 when I was at Jody DeVere techs and estimators than SEMA, I began to formulate established ever, but there is still much a program to help women in AskPatty.com a work to do and that’s why decade ago to help this industry. I knew it had to women as body be built on education, interAskPatty.com was created to help. With its headquarters shop professionals active training and it had to and also as have a certification module.” in Thousand Oaks, CA, Ask consumers of With more women working Patty.com, Inc. aims to revoautomotive repair lutionize the women’s autoin a wide range of other proservices motive retail market by fessions, DeVere knew that educating business owners and repair the auto repair industry needed to professionals to the needs of their catch up. “After talking to literally women customers. thousands of women, I found out that For consumers, the AskPatty.com they were so discouraged by the website is a safe and reliable source for prospects of getting hired in this inexpert automotive advice and research. dustry, that they weren’t even applyFor auto dealers, tire dealers, collision ing. So, we decided to flip the script centers, auto service and repair centers, and become a champion and advocate the AskPatty.com Certified Female for women in these fields. For women Friendly® program is designed to train in the automotive industry, we often and certify automotive retail and servserve as the first point of contact for ice centers including body shops, on those who are seeking the very best in how to attract, sell, retain and increase car sales and service across the United loyalty with women customers. The States and Canada.” idea is that knowledge is empowering The AskPatty.com Certified Feand by doing a better job, more and male Friendly® program enables more women will be able to succeed in women and female-owned businesses to improve their skill sets and ina male-dominated industry. Jody DeVere is the CEO of crease their revenues, DeVere exAskPatty.com and the founder of the plained. “For body shops, we teach organization. She’s anationally-known women professionals about how to expert on social media marketing to enhance their customer service women as well as being a renowned through a series of internet 3.5-hour journalist, car care expert and safety classes. There are 18 different modspokesperson within the automotive ules and all of them are designed industry. Her life’s mission is to pro- specifically for the automotive inmote, mentor and support automotive dustry. It isn’t just testing either, we careers for women and she speaks to also provide training, interactive groups including the American Car teaching and personal coaching. When it comes to succeeding in a Care Council, Mercedes-Benz Corporate, the National Automobile Dealer retail culture—whether it’s a tire Association (NADA), National Inde- store, an aftermarket parts distribupendent Automobile Dealer Associa- tor, car dealership or a large colli-
54 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
sion center—there are many skills that are universal and will work in all these environments.” When women join AskPatty.com, they also get an opportunity to send questions to a panel of female automotive experts, access to a certified female-friendly automotive retailer search database of car dealers, tire dealers, collision centers and service and repair centers, as well asa wide range of educational webinars and other helpful information through the organization’s blog, according to DeVere. The message behind AskPatty.com is that women need to stick together and by doing so, they can revolutionize the consumer experience for female consumers while becoming better owners and employees. “At AskPatty.com, we have a two-pronged mission and a big part of that is helping female consumers to become more informed and savvy about all things automotive,” DeVere
said. “We want them to have a positive experience every time they take their car in for a repair. It’s still a male-dominated industry, but the game is changing, so we need to be as educated as we can as customers as well as owners and managers. In the old days, the men would take the car into the shop, but those roles have now changed and are constantly evolving.” What will AskPatty.com be doing in 10-15 years, when more and more women are in upper management positions with automotive-related businesses? “We’ve created a lot of trust with our members and women in general, by being transparent and proving that we really care about women, as both automotive professionals and consumers. So, I believe that the next decade will be amazing for women in this industry and that’s why we’re looking forward to helping them and enabling them to be even more effective and successful.”
THE RIGHT PARTS For Your Collision Job Visit these Genuine Hyundai Parts Dealers
Indiana
INDY HYUNDAI
Indianapolis 7101 E Washington St.
800-592-5170 317-536-1552 Fax
Ohio
CLASSIC HYUNDAI Mentor 8460 Tyler Blvd.
440-266-6750 440-266-6763 Fax
Mon 8am - 8pm; Tue-Fri 8am - 6pm Sat 8am - 1pm inss.partsmgr@rohrman.com www.indyhyundai.com
Mon-Fri 7am - 6pm; Sat 7am - 3pm gregj@driveclassic.com www.driveclassichyundai.com
LUTHER BLOOMINGTON HYUNDAI
Massillon 3748 Lincoln Way East
Minnesota
Bloomington 4801 American Blvd. West
877-801-0641 952-377-2081 Fax
Mon-Thu 7am - 7pm Fri 7am - 6pm; Sat 7am - 4pm parts@bloomingtonhyundai.com www.bloomingtonhyundai.com
WAIKEM HYUNDAI
800-225-0281
330-478-2800 x 1143 330-478-9957 Fax
Mon, Thu 7:30am - 8pm Tue, Wed, Fri 7:30am - 5:30pm Sat 8am - 4pm webbmcnutt@waikem.com www.waikemhyundai.com
Recap of Mitchell Industry Trends Report: The High Cost of High Tech Mitchell recently released its first quarterly Industry Trends Report of 2016. The focus was on “The High Cost of High Tech.” Author Greg Horn analyzed repair cost inflation rates as reflected by total loss frequency, rising insurance rates and repair order costs. The following is an excerpt from the webinar Q&A. The full recording can be found on www.autobodynews .com.
Do you think crushed metals salvage value can hit rock bottom, and if so, will they rebound? When we talk about the bottom and crushed metal, salvage values are at a 10-year low, about $60 per ton. And that is influenced primarily because of the recession we’re experiencing in China. China was taking a lot of our scrap. That was the biggest market and that is down and it’s really dried up the shipping of crushed metal overseas. If you’re an insurance company, you’re seeing a big decrease in the overall salvage crisis. That’s because the bottom has really dropped out. When key currencies like the Chinese Yuan and Euro rebound against the U.S. Dollar, we will begin to see salvage values rise.
What will Bluetooth keys and a cellphone do to salvage values? Brilliant question. Yeah, I think what will happen is you’re going to have to have some sort of a valet key in order to be fully functional. Because, again, I think what we have is a problem with
The interesting thing is if you look at the 2016 Volvo S60 Inscription, that is actually fully assembled in China now so that is really the first Volvo to come in from China. And the smaller size Buick SUV is now officially coming in the spring of this year, so those are
the Bluetooth app. Again the phone dies or you lose your phone or what have you, there’s going to have to be some sort of fully functional valet key or fully functional fob that you would have to sell with the vehicle.
two of the first Chinese vehicles. The Volvo is here and the Buick is coming in the next few months.
What’s the percentage of total loss vehicles compared to all estimates written? It is right around 16% to 16.5% in the U.S. across all estimates written. And that is increasing as we see a softening of the actual cash value of the vehicles being appraised. Any update on the Chinese vehicles coming here?
Do you anticipate more auto manufacturers will move to highstrength steel similar to what we’ve seen on the Honda Civic? Absolutely. As we are in our first year of the new CAFE standards, 2016 was the standard that passenger cars have to achieve 39 miles per gallon, or the car manufacturer has to pay fines back to the federal government. We’re going to see common, high-volume cars get these types of high-strength steels in them that will definitely add to repair costs overall.
OHIO
SOUTH DAKOTA
Brunswick Subaru
Courtesy Subaru
Direct (330) 460-7080 (330) 460-7082 Fax Mon.-Fri. 8-6; Sat. 8-4 www.brunswickautomart.com
Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:30; Sat. 8-Noon parts@courtesysubaru.com
Brunswick
Toll Free (888) 460-7080
Byers Subaru Columbus
(888) 804-7895
(614) 863-1770 Fax
Mon.-Fri. 8-6; Sat. 8-2 wholesaleparts@byersauto.com www.byersimports.com
Waikem Subaru Massillon
Toll Free (800) 225-0281
The following dealerships are eager to serve your needs. Call your local Subaru collision parts specialist today!
Are Honda Civic rockers high strength steel also? Yes. If you look at the roof and the B pillar, you can see that those are ultrahigh-strength steel. And then you look at where the B pillar goes into the center rocker, which they are not an ultrahigh strength but high-strength steel. So there are some requirements when you come to applying heat to the lower part where the B pillar meets the center rocker. So while the 1,500 MPa hot stand has to be replaced in its entirety, there are straightening and heat application limits on the 550 and 650 MPa steel as well. So it’s going to be a complicated repair. It’s absolutely imperative that a collision repairer refer to Mitchell TechAdvisor to make sure that they’re doing repair in accordance with the Honda technical bulletins. That is a great add on to your RepairCenter or WorkCenter Appraisal system because while you’re in the estimate you don’t have to leave the estimate to get out and look up the repair procedures. You can just right click and refer to the full repair procedures for that piece while you’re in the estimate. See more at: http://www.mitchell .com/news/id/1382#sthash.Onv9Cg2t .dpuf
Direct (330) 478-2800 (330) 639-0140 Fax Mon, Thu 7:30-8 Tue, Wed, Fri 7:30-5:30; Sat. 8-4 dandager@waikem.com www.waikem.com
Rapid City
(800) 658-3054
(605) 342-1178 Fax
MINNESOTA
Luther Bloomington Subaru Bloomington
(800) 451-5078
Direct (952) 887-0600 (952) 881-1787 Fax Mon. 6:30-6; Tue.-Fri. 6:30-9; Sat. 8-4 parts@bloomingtonsubaru.com www.bloomingtonsubaru.com WISCONSIN
Wilde Subaru Waukesha
(800) 903-2434
(262) 544-1913 Fax
Mon.-Thu. 7-7; Fri. 7-5; Sat. 8-4 parts@gowilde.com www.wildesubaru.com
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 55
A Double Standard for Setting and Raising Rates by Richard Valenzuela, CEO, National AutoBody Research
First, a reminder: National AutoBody Research (NABR) is an independent, third-party research, technology and consulting company that provides trusted, objective market-based labor rate data, and whose primary concerns are for the care, safety and welfare of the crashed vehicle consumer. NABR does not have a personal stake in the important issue of setting and raising prices (i.e. premiums or labor rates) for either the insurance or collision repair industry. However, as an independent observer, we see a double standard that exists between insurance companies and collision repairers about when and how much labor rates can be increased. When we say “double standard,” we mean a rule or principle that is applied differently to different groups of people when it should be applied the same. Why are labor rates a concern to NABR? For us, it all comes back to the proper care of the consumer. We believe labor rates are the “lifeblood” of the auto body shop. Without healthy labor rates, collision repairers are less able to generate sufficient profits to reinvest in people, training, equipment and certifications. Limited resources can adversely impact their skill and ability to repair today’s vehicles, which increasingly includes new technology, manufacturing techniques and advanced materials. This in turn may seriously jeopardize consumer care and safety, which is irrefutably unacceptable. Thus, NABR believes that it crucial that collision repairers raise rates when the demands of business conditions and sound economic standards merit the increases in order to maintain a sufficient and necessary profit. However, our research shows that as a group, collision repair rates often have not even kept up with the rate of inflation. At the same time, insurance companies’ premiums have continued to increase. The obvious question is why are insurance premiums rising, while collision repair rates remain relatively stagnant (and in some cases even drop)? With insurance companies routinely charging higher premiums, why do they continually fight against collision repairers raising their rates? We suggest it is because there exists a double standard for raising rates that is followed by many insurance companies. I’ll illustrate this with an example in-
volving Allstate Insurance. From a recent article in the collision industry press, we’ve synthesized Allstate’s standards for raising insurance rates: 1. Raise rates when profit margins aren’t acceptable 2. Raise rates on a market-by-market basis 3. Raise rates for an appropriate and acceptable return to investors 4. Raise rates even when the inflation rate is 0 5. Raise rates quickly when costs increase to recover those costs quickly 6. Raise rates as long as necessary and as justified by market and economic factors Overall, we find these principles to be very logical, acceptable, and consistent with many for-profit corporations. However, the analysis of these six standards begs a question: Why are collision repairers not provided the same prerogative to raise their labor rates by applying the same standards? Here is a clear case that a double standard exists. I will elaborate on a couple of these to further make the point. 1. Allstate raises rates when profit margins aren’t acceptable. Another recent article draws attention to Allstate’s four-part “comprehensive program” to improve margins. Among the areas of emphasis are cost trends causing Allstate to take a harder look at costly auto claims. Given increasing cost trends that Allstate and other insurers are experiencing in auto repairs, the insurer is making a heightened focus on both effectively and efficiently managing claim-loss costs, and leading to an increased denial of claims. Why? Because as is true in any business, as costs increase and rates remain the same, the result is an unacceptable decline in profit margins. Have collision repairers experienced any cost increases and profit erosion over the last several years? Of course! By the insurer’s own logic and behavior, they ought to accept repairers raising rates to earn acceptable, necessary, and sufficient profit margins, but in true double-standard fashion, they often don’t. 2. Allstate raises rates quickly when costs increase to recover those costs quickly. Auto claims displaying higher crash frequency and severity seem to be driving Allstate’s margin woes. “About a year ago, actually, the frequency and severity started to take off,” CEO Tom Wilson said. “… [And] when you have a rapid spike in costs like that, we need to obviously
56 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
recover those costs quickly.” Here lies another Allstate double standard. Has any shop had a cost increase in their paint or materials recently? Of course! So by the insurers’ same logic and behavior, they ought to accept a shop raising their prices to recover these costs quickly and maintain profitability, but again in true double standard fashion, they often don’t. But what profit margins should shops shoot for? What really should be the labor rate for their individual shop? If they experience a five percent increase in expenses, what new labor rates should they charge to keep profits even? What would minimum labor prices be for a shop if they just kept up with inflation over the last 10 years? This is where the Variable Rate System (VRS) comes in. Through the VRS national database of marketbased posted (or retail) labor rates (not discounted rates), key shop characteristics (such as training, equipment and certifications), a collection of pricing tools and exercises, and NABR consulting, shops can get a much better handle on their labor prices to help get paid what they’re worth. Shops that actively use the VRS in their business
are having the most success collecting the right rates for their shop. In the end, the VRS enables a win-win solution for all stakeholders. While it’s not a magic wand or an easy button, the VRS is a compelling, innovative solution to proper pricing in the collision repair industry and light years ahead of the double standard that exists today between insurers and collision repairers. Contact us and see for yourself. Allstate has a proven history of protecting and serving its customers. Allstate’s pricing has been and continues to be determined by risk and costs. We continuously update our pricing so we can make sure customers benefit from the most advanced approaches and as a result, our prices are highly competitive and fair. Allstate provided the following statement, “Allstate has a proven history of protecting and serving its customers. Allstate’s pricing has been and continues to be determined by risk and costs. We continuously update our pricing so we can make sure customers benefit from the most advanced approaches and as a result, our prices are highly competitive and fair.”
The Right Parts. A Perfect Fit.
Order Genuine Mazda Parts from these Parts Specialists in your area
OHIO
Brunswick Mazda Brunswick
Toll Free 888-460-7080 Direct 330-460-7080 Fax 330-460-7082 M-F 8-6; Sat 8-4 www.brunswickautomart.com
WISCONSIN
Hall Mazda Brookfield
888-420-4255 M-Th 7:30-7; F 7:30-6; Sat 8-4 hallparts@hallcars.com
IOWA
Kia of Des Moines
Suburban Kia Troy
Suntrup Kia St. Louis
Des Moines
(248) 341-8052
(800) 727-8496
(515) 309-1412 Fax
chill@suburbancollection.com www.suburbankia.com
M-F 7am-5pm www.suntrupkiasouth.com
Lou Fusz Kia
Kia of Fargo
(515) 727-1815 M-F 7am-6pm Sat 7:30am-4:30pm parts@kiadm.com www.kiadm.com
MICHIGAN Kia of Lansing Lansing
(517) 393-5700 (517) 393-6767 Fax
M-F 7:30am-6pm mattr@lansingisyoung.com www.kiaoflansing.com
Seelye Kia of Holland Holland
(616) 582-1008 (616) 582-1009 Fax
M-F 8am-6pm rbundy@betterseeseelye.com www.seelyekiaholland.com
(248) 519-9660 Fax
MISSOURI St. Louis
(877) 221-4151 (314) 595-4942 Fax
M, W, F 7am-8pm; T, Th 7am-6pm Sat 7:30am-4pm fuszkiaparts@fusz.com www.kia.fusz.com
Napleton’s Mid Rivers Kia St. Peters
(888) 816-9729 (636) 926-0683 Fax
M-F 7am-6pm; Sat 7am-3pm bprinster@napleton.com pschnare@napleton.com www.midriverskia.com
(314) 815-3060 Fax
NO. DAKOTA Fargo
(800) 728-7601 (701) 282-5924 Fax M-F 7am-5:30pm Sat 8am-5pm
OHIO
Montrose Kia
Waikem Kia Massillon
(800) 225-0281 (330) 478-0900 (330) 478-9957 Fax
Mon, Thu 7:30am - 8pm Tue, Wed, Fri 7:30am - 5:30pm Sat 8am - 4pm mmiller@waikem.com www.waikem.com
WISCONSIN
Bergstrom Kia of Appleton Appleton
(920) 993-3000 (920) 749-1588 Fax
(440) 934-5247 Fax
M, Tu, Th, F 7am-6pm; W 7am-8pm; Sat 8am-5pm anoldner@bergstromauto.com www.bergstromkiaappleton.com
VanDevere Kia
(262) 896-1151
(330) 836-4074 Fax
Jeff.krueger@russdarrow.com www.kiaofwaukesha.com
Sheffield
(440) 934-6699 M-F 7:30am-6pm bgordon@gomontrose.com www.montrosekia.com Akron
(330) 836-4064 M-F 7:30am-5:30pm chevyparts@vandevere.com www.vandevere.com
Russ Darrow Kia of Waukesha Waukesha
(262) 896-1188 Fax
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 57
Farmers Insurance Launches All-New Claims Filing to Maximize Ease of Use for Customers Nationwide
Farmers Insurance®, one of the nation’s largest multiline insurer groups, has announced the launch of the company’s all-new Enterprise First Notice of Loss (EFNOL) system to provide customers with a single platform to
for our customers and agents,” said Keith Daly, chief claims officer for Farmers Insurance. “EFNOL reinforces our commitment to investing in new technology to enhance our customer experience and makes it much
more easily capture new loss information and advance the claims process. By accessing EFNOL through Farmers.com, Farmers Personal Lines customers can now report a loss and schedule needed services such as rentals, emergency services, and more. When the loss reporting process concludes, the system delivers a summary of key information, including selected repair facilities, the assigned claims representative’s contact information, and any scheduled services, to the customer’s computer or mobile device. Customers also can work with their local Farmers Insurance agent to access EFNOL together to report a claim. “The new platform is a big win
easier for customers to report a claim and have up-to-the-minute insight into the progress of their settlement.” Designed with customer-ease top-of-mind, the EFNOL platform provides a streamlined process for customers who want to keep their agent involved in the claim process or who are looking for a self-service option through Farmers.com. For Farmers agents, the new platform allows them to easily report a loss, secure pertinent loss details, and help set up services for Farmers customers. For more information about Farmers Insurance, visit Farmers .com, Twitter and Instagram, @We AreFarmers, or Facebook.com/ FarmersInsurance.
Caliber CEO Accepts Prestigious National Award Recognizing Company’s Support of U.S. Military
Steve Grimshaw, CEO of Caliber U.S. Veteran’s Initiative, Heroes On Collision, was one of five leaders rec- The Water, Adaptive Training Founognized with the prestigious America dation, Semper Gratis, and Support First Series (AFS) 5 Star Award for The Enlisted Project (STEP). In addition, Caliber has develtheir corporation’s support of the miloped a collision repair military trainitary. ing program around the Grimshaw accepted the Veteran’s Opportunity To award on behalf of Caliber Work Act, training active Collision at the 2016 AFS duty service members prior Awards Ceremony and Nato separation. tional Security and EcoCaliber is actively nomic Symposium in Dallas, working with the military TX. at Ft. Bragg, North CarAs CEO, Grimshaw olina to recruit and train has spearheaded Caliber Collision’s efforts to sup- Steve Grimshaw, more than 50 active duty CEO of Caliber service members for Calport active military personCollision iber center manager, technel and military veterans across the U.S. through a variety of nician and customer service jobs in philanthropic and employment ini- 2016. Over the course of 2016, Caltiatives. Over the past four years, iber will also be expanding this proCaliber Collision has donated more gram to Ft. Hood and Ft. Bliss in than 80 vehicles, valued at approxi- Texas and Camp Pendleton in Calimate $800,000, through their Recy- fornia. “On behalf of our more than cled Rides program to active service and military veterans across the U.S. 8,800 teammates, we are honored to Caliber also partners with a host of have the opportunity to recognize best-in-class military organizations and give back to the many military serving today’s active service per- heroes who have sacrificed and given sonnel and military veterans includ- of themselves to serve our country,” ing Carry the Load, Allies In Service, said Grimshaw.
Sherwin-Williams Launches New Custom & Restoration Websites Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes recently launched two new websites focused on their color expertise within the custom and restoration market segments, according to a company press release. These websites give the public an inside look at industry partnerships, visuals of color, and application tips designed to improve a technician’s knowledge.
Sherwin-Williams classic “Speed Shapes” that continually rotates to showcase how the color changes as a vehicle travels through different light. This website provides search and customization features that allow users to pinpoint the exact color code desired. To inspire sharing pictures of cars, Sherwin-Williams also created a Killer Paint Job gallery. This gallery allows users to submit pictures and details of their Sherwin-Williams-painted vehicles. They are then showcased on the site and are searchable with the associated color. The second new website launched was an entirely new featured section of the Sherwin-Williams launched a Color Visualizer website sherwin-automotive.com as well as a Custom & Restoration website website. The Custom & The first new website launched Restoration website (http://www was an online Color Visualizer (http: .sherwin-automotive.com/custom //sw-rodandrestocustomcolor.com/). vrestoration/) now features details Following the success of the Rod & about exclusive Sherwin-Williams Restoration Color Collection, which color programs and gives behind-thewas introduced in 2014, Sherwin- scenes insights from their media cenWilliams took the 200+ colors within ter. Within the media center, they the collection and created one of the document step-by-step details of industry’s first color tools, mimicking project vehicles they sponsor as well as blog-like articles answering some the movement of a vehicle. Each color was applied to one of of the most sought after questions. 58 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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Car-O-Liner Group Has New Website Updates
Car-O-Liner Group announced an updated design to their website, www.car-o-liner.com. The group includes Automotive, Commercial Vehicle and Training Solutions. Automotive Solutions for collision repair, branded Car-O-Liner, include frame benches, anchoring and fixturing, 3-D data and digital measuring systems, joining, welding, advanced materials and work management solutions. Commercial Vehicle Solutions for the heavy vehicle industry are branded TruckCam, the largest global supplier to OEM assembly plants, specializing in axle, wheel alignment, lane departure and radar calibration systems. Aftermarket collision repair equipment and wheel alignment are branded Josam. Training Solutions for both automotive and commercial are branded Car-O-Liner Academy. “We are excited to see the expansion of our company into related market segments, strengthening our brand while reinforcing our total solutions in terms of products and customer support around the globe,” said David Scribner, technical director, Americas of Car-OLiner.
SCRS Board of Directors Meeting Held
On April 19, SCRS held an open board meeting in Seattle, Washington. The meeting was open to everyone wishing to learn more about the current state of the association’s activities and pressing industry topics. Attendees were not required to be a member of SCRS to participate. In addition to the regular committee reports, and updates of ongoing work SCRS is engaged in on behalf of its membership, the agenda featured another live education committee presentation led by committee chairman, Kye Yeung. The topic focused on understanding and identifying how energy flows through modern-day vehicles during a collision. Identifying structural misalignments and related damages as a result of energy transfer is a key component to restoring a vehicle to its pre-loss condition and a contributing factor in many post-repair inspections. Immediately following the meeting, SCRS invited active members of the association to cast their votes in the board of directors annual election process. As Autobody News went to press, there were four open board seats. Check autobodynews.com to find out the results.
NHTSA Won’t Consider Takata Impact in Recalls The chief U.S. auto safety agency says it won’t take Takata Corp.’s financial viability into account when it decides whether to expand further the largestever auto safety recall, Bloomberg news has reported. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will focus solely on safety, as it must under U.S. law, the agency said in a statement. NHTSA is reviewing the findings of three investigations into Takata’s airbag ruptures while the recalls are under way, it said. Those probes attempted to determine the root cause of the airbag failures, and the review could be the basis for future decisions related to the recalls. “NHTSA makes recall determinations based on safety, and safety alone,” agency spokesman Bryan Thomas said in the statement. “The agency will take all appropriate actions to make sure airbags in Americans’ vehicles are safe.” Takata’s costs could add up to $24 billion, according to a person familiar with the matter, or four times more than Tokyo-based company’s annual revenue. The figure is about $7 billion more than Jefferies Group LLC estimated in a February report. Takata said in a statement it’s still investigating the root cause and can’t accurately project its final costs.
Takata’s share price has plunged 49 percent this year. Automakers including Honda Motor Co. have recalled more than 19 million vehicles equipped with Takata airbags, the largest automotive safety recall in U.S. history. The airbag inflators can explode, sending shrapnel into the passenger compartment. More than 7.5 million inflators have been replaced, including 5.4 million by Honda, according to the agency. NHTSA has said Takata airbag inflators have caused nine fatalities in the U.S. by rupturing and spraying plastic and metal shards at motorists. The regulator is investigating all Takata inflators that use a chemical propellant that’s been banned from future models and is giving the company until as long as the end of 2019 to determine the root cause of the flaw or prove the inflators are safe. Moisture seeping into Takata’s inflators was determined to be the reason Takata airbags have ruptured by Orbital ATK, a researcher hired by a coalition of automakers that announced its findings last month. Challenges with determining root cause of the rupture issue have held back automakers and the supplier from deciding how the companies will divvy costs.
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www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 59
Auto Body Shop Owner in Texas Restores Vehicle for Car Donation Using OEM Parts by Stacey Phillips
When auto body shop owner Burl Richards presented a set of keys and an SUV to Becky Whiteside, he said it was a great feeling to give back to someone in need. The owner of Burl’s Collision Center in Henderson, Texas, held a con-
Becky Whiteside received a 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor from Burl’s Collision as part of a contest the auto body shop held
test in late 2015 inviting the local community to write a short summary about why they needed a dependable vehicle. One of the managers in his shop had suggested the idea, after hearing about a body shop in Arkansas that had done something similar. “I thought to myself, ‘We have to do this,’” said Richards.
Applicants had the following criteria: they had to be a single mom, have a job or actively searching for one, include a resume and write why they needed the car. Richards received 10 applications and local Lions Club members in Henderson assisted in the decisionmaking process. “It was a hard decision and I wish we could have done this for every one of them,” said Richards. Whiteside, a single mom, was presented with the vehicle in December 2015. The SUV had originally been in a front-end crash. Richards said the insurance company did not want to repair the vehicle or pay the storage fees, and it was deemed totaled. He talked to the insurance company about giving the car away after it was repaired. “They were very surprised and said it was a great thing that we’re doing and sent the title ASAP,” said Richards. Ten of his employees spent about two weeks restoring the 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor. “They really embraced the idea and were excited about doing it,” said Richards. “They worked after-hours as well and just enjoyed the entire process.” Local businesses also showed their
support: ABC Auto Parts donated the radiator, condenser, brakes and other parts; Big Daddy’s donated a navigation system; Custom Tint & Design tinted the windows; English Color Paint & Supply painted the vehicle; Gillman Mitsubishi offered discounted rates on parts; Kilgore Tire Center donated four new tires; and SIG Insurance provided six months of free insurance.
(l to r) Sabrina and Burl Richards of Burl’s Collision Center presented the keys and SUV to Becky Whiteside
Richards, president of the Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT), said they made it a priority to use OEM parts for the vehicle and his vendors were happy to help with pricing. “There was never a thought of using aftermarket parts,” said Richards. “With the quality and fit issues that we see with using aftermarket parts, and the fact that we request OEM every day from insurance companies, I felt it would be hyp-
ocritical to use anything other than OEM. He said that he wanted the recipient of the vehicle to have confidence that it was repaired properly using OEM parts. “I hear insurers tell us all the time that we are greedy because we want to be paid for processes and procedures that are necessary to restore vehicles to their pre-loss conditions,” said Richards. “It’s good to know and they know, it’s not all about making money. We chose OEM parts, we didn’t cut corners, we repaired the vehicle properly, and we spent free time after hours because it would help out a needy family. You can’t put a price on that.” His advice to other shops considering doing something similar is to do it! “Your employees will embrace it and it will give them a great sense of accomplishment. “Your local community will appreciate it as well,” said Richards. After being in business for 18 years, he said the surrounding community is very supportive of his business and the employees every day. “It is a great feeling to share your blessings with others, and I think it is our responsibility to give back to those in need.”
NABR Launches VRS Labor Rate Survey in HI
In March, NABR announced the launch of the Honolulu VRS Labor Rate Survey, sponsored by the Automotive Body & Painting Association of Hawaii (ABPAH). The online survey is free for all Hawaii collision repairers and can be found at https://www.surveymonkey .com/r/hivrssurvey2 The VRS Labor Rate Survey provides collision repairers with an independent, third-party, trusted survey of labor rate data for all of Honolulu County (the island of Oahu). The VRS reports the true, market-based labor rate ranges throughout the area, based on shops’ actual prices, not on an artificially defined single prevailing rate for all shops. “The insurance industry has always reimbursed customers for the ‘prevailing’ or average shop rate,” said Van Takemoto, ABPAH board member and owner of Island Fender in Honolulu. “But with today’s complex vehicles, you need shops that have invested in the equipment and technical training to become certified repairers. These are not average shops, they are best-in-class repair facilities.” “All collision repairers are not alike,” said Sam Valenzuela, president of NABR. “Shops that make
huge investments in training, certifications, and state-of-the-art equipment deserve to get paid accordingly with sufficiently profitable labor rates. The VRS reveals that market prices for high-line collision repair facilities are higher than other facilities that don’t make these investments. In addition, other repairers who aspire to become better trained, certified, and equipped are now more enabled to do so, because the VRS can help them earn the rates and ROI they need to grow and prosper.” Hawaii is the 15th state to launch the VRS Labor Rate Survey, joining other states currently running the VRS Survey including Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Utah. Any collision repair owner or general manager may request a free, no-obligation demo of the VRS, to see firsthand how the system can help them charge and collect sufficiently profitable labor rates and get paid for more not-included procedures. For information, contact Valenzuela at 602-466-1900 / Sam@National AutoBodyResearch.com or visit www .NationalAutoBodyResearch.com.
60 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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ASA Hosts Online Demo of New OEM Resource Center by Chasidy Rae Sisk
On Wednesday, February 17, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) hosted an online demonstration and press conference on a new tools resource, created in conjunction with the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. Donny Seyfer, ASA Chair, conducted the information webinar about the new OEM Resource Center, a project that began several years ago. Recognizing that there is key OEM information that technicians are often unable to find, ASA collaborated with the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which is comprised of 12 automotive manufacturers who collectively represent over 70 percent of all car and truck sales in the US, to compile all important OEM information in one location. Seyfer observed, “There are sites that do similar things, but there’s nothing else exactly like this.” Some information included on the OEM Resource Center addresses scan tool specifics, as well as calibration and programming updates, service information and training materials. According to Seyfer, “Manufacturers have names for things that defy classification so the industry needs an
authoritative position on where to find this information. With so many possible resources, finding the information you need can seem like an art form; though much of the information is free before paying for any kind of subscription, many people don’t know where to find it. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers agreed to assist
with creating a special information portal, but the site was created by techs for techs. It was made to be super simple and easy to navigate.” From the launch page, industry professionals can click links to direct them to the OE’s landing page where they’ve highlighted the most important and useful information. Each OE has its own landing page with links to the most commonly requested information. All links have been tested to ensure they direct professionals to the most current, accurate information.
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During this huge project, ASA also created a scan tool page for each OE which is updated with the “latest and greatest,” Seyfer said. Each scan tool page contains a link to direct users on how to bring the hardware and software and get support. While the information available is the same as what is found on OE websites, since that is where the user is directed, OERepairInfo.com focuses on what each OE does differently. Seyfer eexplained, “We organized it into those key things that can trip up the repair process or discourage a shop from taking on a new car line because they don’t have a direct source to the information they need to become ‘Service Ready,’ our pet industry term coined by Toyota’s Mark Saxonberg.” ASA is looking to add other OEs in the future, but there’s no timeline on that initiative. ASA’s goal was to make this resource “as comprehensive as possible,” Seyfer said. “With this resource, we’re getting the facts straight from the source - the OEs. It is our belief that this resource will cut down the guesswork when it comes to finding accurate, updated information in a timely manner.”
CARSTAR’s Bob Keith Receives I-CAR Award
CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts congratulated Bob Keith for being recognized by I-CAR as the recipient of their annual Founders Award. The award was given based on his dedication and service to ICAR at the recent 2016 I-CAR Volunteer & Instructor Conference held in Orlando, Florida. Keith is a member of the CARSTAR corporate team, serving as senior director-operations training, as well as the owner of four CARSTAR locations. He also has a long history of dedicated service to I-CAR, having held several leadership positions in the organization. “It has been an honor to serve with some of the best minds in the industry who regularly take off their stripes in order to make sure that ICAR meets its vision that every person in the collision repair industry has the information, knowledge and skills required to perform complete, safe and quality repairs for the ultimate benefit of the consumer,” said Keith. “We are fortunate to have someone with Bob’s experience as part of our team,” said Michael Macaluso, president – CARSTAR North America.
Tours Announced for NACE | CARS 2016 in CA
NACE | CARS announced on April 12 details for destination tours during the event this August 9-13 in Anaheim, California. These tours have been organized to give attendees the opportunity to experience historical automotive venues, as well as top regional attractions, at a reduced rate while in town for NACE | CARS. Tour opportunities include: Peterson Automotive Museum – One of the world’s largest automotive museums, featuring over 100 vehicles on display in its 25 galleries with the remaining half of the collection is kept in a “vault,” located on the basement level of the building. The Marconi Automotive Museum – Opened in 1994 by Founder Dick Marconi, the Marconi Museum houses an impressive, $30,000,000 collection of historical, exotic, highperformance and classic cars. Universal Studios Hollywood – Go behind-the-scenes of the world-famous Studio Tour to explore real film sets where Hollywood movies are made. From magical spells to magical creatures, from dark villains to daring heroes, it’s all here at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. The Best of Los Angeles – L.A., Hollywood & Beaches Tour – Get ready to experience a day of fabulous
facts, fun trivia, and famous locations that make L.A. one of the most exciting cities in the world. Famous locations include Downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, The Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, Santa Monica and Venice Beach! Orange County Beaches – From Laguna Beach to Huntington Beach, enjoy an endless array of beach activities, shopping and dining, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Disneyland® Resort Theme Park – An exclusive link to discount tickets will be available after the conclusion of the registration process for NACE | CARS training, education courses, or expo passes. Please note: these specially-priced tickets are intended only for guests participating in NACE | CARS. Only the registered attendee is permitted to purchase tickets from this discounted ticket store link, and they can purchase up to six tickets maximum. We reserve the right to contact the ticket purchaser to request event registration confirmation. For more information, visit www .NACEexpo.com or www.CARSevent .com For information on booking exhibit space or sponsorships, contact Robert Martin at robertm@stonefort group.com or 832-646-0176.
www.autobodynews.com | MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 63
64 MAY 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com