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Vol. 36 / Issue 7 / July 2018
Senator: Trump Tariffs May Drive Off Alabama’s Auto Jobs
NY Body Shop Sues Insurance Company, Adjusters on Behalf of Clients
by Brad Harper, Montgomery Advertiser
by Stacey Phillips
Alabama Sen. Doug Jones said a proposal by President Donald Trump to place a 25 percent tariff on imported cars, trucks and auto parts could cause automotive plant workers to lose their jobs, especially in Alabama. “I can’t just sit by while the president’s, I believe, shortsighted proposals threaten (jobs) in Alabama,” Jones said. “The proposal is going to hurt Alabama, plain and simple.” In a letter sent June 7 to U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Jones joined Sen. Lamar Alexan-
Democrat Doug Jones won a special election for Senate in December, beating polarizing Republican nominee Roy Moore. Credit: Mickey Welsh, Advertiser See Trump Tariffs, Page 24
ASA National Announces Changes for ASA Midwest ASA National announced changes to its regional affiliate ASA-Midwest. ASA-Midwest, which is comprised of six states (Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Arkansas and Oklahoma), will be restructured. Arkansas and Oklahoma will no longer be part of ASA Midwest. In addition, ASA-Midwest’s members will realize a reduction in their annual dues. The reduced administrative expense and a shift to a more virtual environment of meetings and member services is one of the many benefits resulting from these changes which will be effective October 1, 2018.
ASA National will announce a new executive director for ASAMidwest in the coming weeks. Dan Risley, ASA President stated, “The changes will allow us to better serve a broader base of members in these states and hopefully garner an increase in participation as we move to a more virtual means to communicate regularly amongst the board of directors, staff and membership.” Recent legislation in these areas surrounding safety inspection programs is a great example of the need for increased communication and
State Consumer Insurance Company, Inc., IANet Corporation and insurBarry’s Auto Body is part of an on- ance adjusters Gabe Deri, Louis going lawsuit filed on behalf of five Simo and Basit Irfan. of its customers for “violating genBarry’s Auto Body, co-owned eral business law §349 by engaging by Barry Crupi, Jr. and his sister in unfair claims practices.” Michele, alleges that Tri-State provided only partial payment for the damage claims of customers’ vehicles to repair them back to their pre-accident condition as obligated under an insurance policy and New York State law. The body shop is suing for a total of approximately Barry Crupi, Jr. and his sister Michele are co-owners $500,000, which includes of the body shop legal fees and treble (triple) The Staten Island, NY-based damages. Prior to the repairs, Tri-State body shop originally filed the lawsuit in July of 2017 in the Supreme Court provided Barry’s Body Shop estiof the State of New York against TriSee Body Shop Sues, Page 20
Body Shop Owner Sues Lynn, MA, for Trying to Shut Down His Business by Thomas Grillo, The Daily Item
The owner of an auto body and mechanical shop on Willow Street in Lynn, MA, has filed suit against the city for shutting down his business.
See ASA Midwest, Page 6
105 Willow Street Lynn, MA. Credit: Owen O’Rourke
In the four-page complaint, Josue Amaya, owner of Josue Auto Body Shop and Mechanic Inc., alleges the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) erred in May when they denied his company a permit to add auto body work to the repair shop services they offer. But the panel argued the shop
hasn’t repaired cars for more than two years, so the license to operate had been discontinued. Auto repair facilities are not allowed to be in use in the downtown area and do not fit the city’s vision for a rejuvenated arts district. James Lamanna, the city’s attorney, said several members of the ZBA had driven by the site and not seen any activity there for 20 years. “That suggests the business has not been operating,” he said. But Amaya’s attorney, Sam Vitali, argues it’s been an auto repair shop since the 1920s. He said his client was simply seeking approval to add auto body work to the menu of services offered. “My client went from seeking something they didn’t have to losing something they did have,” Vitali See Lynn, MA, Zoning, Page 6
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JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
CONTENTS
COLUMNISTS Attanasio - IL Body Shop Owner Creates Cajun Sauce, Uses as Marketing Tool . . . . . 52 Attanasio - Shop Owner Creates Podcast to Connect With Shop Owners, Managers . . . . 38 Ledoux - The 1940s – Part 1 - An End, a Beginning and a Birthday . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Phillips - CA Body Shop’s Business Model Focuses on Heavier Collision Repair Work. . . 32 Phillips - PDR Experts Share Opportunities for Paintless Dent Repair in Collision Repair . . . 26 Sisk - ASA Partners With Bosch for 5th, Final Webinar: Recalibrating Driver Assistance Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Sisk - YANG 2018 Leadership Conference Is Highest Rated Yet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Yoswick - 5 Years Ago, Shop Wanted to Choose Parts Systems Rather Than Face Insurer Mandates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Yoswick - Certification, Legislation Related to Non-OEM Parts Get Spotlighted at Convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 NATIONAL 3M, CREF Announce 3M Hire Our Heroes Fundraiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 ABAT Hosts Successful 2nd Annual Skeet Shoot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Americans Are Increasingly Afraid of Autonomous Cars, Study Finds . . . . . . . . . . . 4 AMi Honors Class of 2018 at ASA Annual Business Meeting & Conference . . . . . . . . . 64 ASA Announces New 2018 Board of Directors. . 64 ASA National Announces Changes for ASA Midwest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Authors of ‘The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops’ Announce Audio Version . . . . . 64 Auto Care Association Communities Award 2018 Leadership 2.0 Scholarship . . . . . . . . 54 Auto Care Association Hosts Successful Trade Mission to Costa Rica . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 BASF Names Micro Auto Paint & Supplies
its Distributor of the Year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Beverly Rook-Twibell Acknowledged With 2018 WIN Cornerstone Award . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Body Shop Owner Sues Lynn, MA, for Trying to Shut Down His Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Caliber Collision Collects 4.3 Million Meals to Feed Kids This Summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Car-O-Liner Joins I-Car’s Sustaining Partner Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 CCC, CREF Announce Winners of Annual Scholarship. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Congressional Steps to Dismantle Federal Insurance Office Continue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Families File Keyless System Lawsuits After Carbon Monoxide Deaths . . . . . . . . . . 66 GM, Jaguar Land Rover Approve Car-O-Liner Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 HDDA Releases Web Resource Center . . . . . . . 62 How Will Autonomous Cars Impact Cities?. . . . 57 How Your Shop’s Compliance Score Can Save You Money, Bring You More Work. . . . . . . . . 46 Insurance Hearing on Autonomous Vehicles’ Data Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Mazda, CCC Work Together To Address Vehicle Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Mike Anderson Presents 4th Webinar, Continues To Explore Nissan’s Website . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Mitchell Issues Second Quarter 2018 Industry Trends Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Most Influential Women Celebrated at WIN 2018 Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Mother Goose Visits Mike’s Auto Body in San Ramon, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 MSO Symposium Announces Advisory Board for 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 NABC, CREF Announce Winners of Chuck Sulkala NABC Appreciation Scholarship. . . . 60 Napa Collision Center Holds Grand Opening for New Location in LA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 New CREF, Service King Grant Announced. . . . 60 NICB Releases Data on Animal-Related Insurance Losses, 91% Involve Deer . . . . . . 26 NY Body Shop Sues Insurance Company, Adjusters on Behalf of Clients . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Register for Trade Mission to Chile . . . . . . . . . 65 Rescue Equipment Manufacturers Join NABC to Expand First Responder Program . . . . . . 58 Scott’s Collision’s New Owners To Continue Offering Quality Repairs, Service in Paris, TX . . 8 Spanesi Americas, Certified Collision Group Agree to Strategic Partnership. . . . . . . . . . . 18 Tesla To Open Its Own Body Shops, Could Offer Same-Day Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Tesla-Approved Body Shop Highlights Model 3 Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Uber’s Self-Driving Vehicles Rely on Humans to Brake in Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 USHFS Discusses AVs’ Impact on Insurance . . 66 VeriFacts Automotive Opens Collision Technology Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 WAC Launches 2018 Awards Season . . . . . . . 66 WAC Moves Forward With New Officers, Future Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Why Choosing a Technical School Makes Sense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Wife & Husband Team Creates Amazing Vehicles at Cool Hand Customs . . . . . . . . . . 22 WIN Elects New Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
CCC Information Services Inc. (CCC) announced a collaboration with Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) on vehicle safety, creating a method to identify recalled vehicles and help notify affected vehicle owners so that necessary, safety-related repairs can be made. MNAO is ensuring that its Takata airbag recall data is uploaded to the CCC ONE® Platform, which alerts collision repair providers when a vehicle is part of a participating manufacturer recall. If an open recall is detected, collision repairers are encouraged to inform the vehicle owner and supply a printed copy of the manufacturer’s recall notification. Mazda dealerships then perform all recall repairs for free. Collision repairers across the country use the CCC ONE platform to write millions of estimates annually.
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
REGIONAL Auto Body Shops Deal With Influx Following Hail in Burkburnett, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Auto Care Association Joins Coalition for Accurate Product Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Body Shops Work Overtime to Fix Cars Damaged by Hail in Lubbock, TX . . . . . . . . . . 6 Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in LA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Hunter Engineering Becomes Corporate Member of SCRS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Jury Hears TX Body Shop Worker’s Testimony in Fatal Hit-and-Run Trial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Maylan Newton Teaches ASA-CO About Good Leadership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Owner of Justin’s Collision Center Paints Walker for Young Girl in TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Regional Association Event Announcements: July 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Safelite Group Acquires Richardson Auto Glass . 68 Service King Opens Doors to 38th DFW, TX, Repair Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 TX Auto Body Students Presented With Scholarships, Tool Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Waco, TX, Auto Collision Students Receive Recognitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Mazda, CCC Work Together To Address Vehicle Safety
By utilizing the CCC solution, MNAO has been able to identify those vehicles and vehicle owners affected by the Takata airbag recall since implementing the system in March 2018. “Vehicle and driver safety is our top priority,” said Robert Davis, senior vice president of special assignments for MNAO. “In the event a recall situation arises, we want to move fast, notifying drivers through as many channels as possible. The recall solution offered by CCC gives us another avenue to reach drivers of affected vehicles who may not be aware of a potential recall or whose vehicles have not yet been repaired. With so many collision repairers in the U.S. using the CCC solution every day, we found that CCC is an ideal partner for this important initiative.”
Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Contributing Writers: John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr, Stacey Phillips, Victoria Antonelli, Gary Ledoux Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Sean Hartman, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Digital Marketing Manager: Bill Pierce Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia Graphic Designer: Michelle Lucas Online and Web Content Editor: Rochelle Beckel Accounting Manager: Heather Priddy Editorial/Sales Assistant: Randi Scholtes
Serving Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, Arkansas, Colorado, Arizona, Utah 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. ©2018 Adamantine Media LLC.
Ancira Volkswagen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Audi South Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . 63 AutobodyLaw.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 AutoNation Chevrolet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 AutoNation Chrysler-Dodge-JeepRam NRH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 AutoNation Chrysler-Jeep-DodgeRam of North Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Axalta Coating Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Berge Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Big Mike Naughton Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . 69 Bob Howard PDC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Car-Part.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Chapman Chevrolet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Chevyland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Christopher’s Dodge World . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Christopher’s Mitsubishi . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Classic BMW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Courtesy Chevrolet-Isuzu. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Covert-Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram. . . . . . 10 Dallas Dodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 DeBeer Refinish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Dent Magic Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Diamond Standard Parts, LLC . . . . . . . . . 49 Don Carlton Auto Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 ECS Automotive Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Emich Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Emich Volkswagen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 EMS Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Equalizer Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 FI TIM SRL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Finnegan Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge . . . . . . . . . 2 Fisher Acura . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Fisher Honda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Flatirons Subaru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9, 43 Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . 59 GM Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . 67 Greeley Subaru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
GYS Welding USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . 66 Ken Garff Mopar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Kia Motors Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . 55 Larry H. Miller Chrysler-Jeep-DodgeRam/Sandy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Launch Tech USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . . . . 68 Mercedes-Benz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 34-35 Mercedes-Benz of Littleton . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Mirka USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Mitsubishi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . 60 MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . 37 NACE-Automechanika Trade Show . . . . . 25 North Freeway Hyundai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 O’Reilly Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Original One Parts™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Part of the Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Peak Kia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Polyvance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 PPG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 6 Prestige Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Ray Huffines Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Reliable Automotive Equipment . . . . . . . . 23 Rickenbaugh Volvo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Robaina Industries, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 SATA Dan-Am Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Schmelz Countryside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 South Pointe Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge . . . . . . 16 Spanesi Americas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Subaru of Little Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . 65 Symach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Toyota of Laredo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Toyota Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . 64 Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Wedge Clamp Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Young Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Autobody News Box 1516, Carlsbad, CA 92018 (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com editor@autobodynews.com
autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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Insurance Hearing on Autonomous Vehicles Data Access by Brittney Kohler, CitiesSpeak
On May 23, the House Financial Services Committee held a hearing on the impact of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on the future of insurance. In light of the Senate’s American Vision for Safer Transportation through Advancement of Revolutionary Technologies Act (AV START Act), this hearing brings another critical perspective on AVs. For cities, the hearing yielded two crucial takeaways on the issue’s policy future. First, data access is not guaranteed in the AV START Act for the car owner or even the insurer, yet insurers are required by law to price by risk, making it critical to insurance companies. Second, the insurance sector expects shifts in how cars are insured and new risk models in order to evolve with AV technology. Chairman Sean Duffy (R-WI) presided over a panel of witnesses who are directly involved in the growth of AV technology and its impacts on insurance. The panel was made up of David Carlson, a U.S.
manufacturing and automotive practice leader at Marsh and McLennan; Ryan Gammelgard, counsel to the public policy resource group at State Farm; Sam Geraci, the vice president of strategy for American Family Mutual Insurance Company; Ian Adams, assistant vice president at the R Street Institute; and Jack Gillis from the Consumer Federation of America. The panel was teed up to answer important questions about the safe and effective rollout of AVs and what this new technology might change. Panel members expressed that data—in particular, crash data—will be necessary in order to do their jobs and provide an accurate risk-based assessment of the vehicles for their policies. Gammelgard spoke of the importance of data for the insurance industry, for “by law [they] match price to risk” and if they are not given access to the data they “might not be able to do so.” Adams echoed this concern, stating that “insurers will need to be able to access data related to autonomous See House AV Act, Page 17
Americans Are Increasingly Afraid of Autonomous Cars, Study Finds by Lee DeVito, Detroit Metro Times
A new report from AAA found that an increasing number of Americans do not, for one, welcome our autonomous vehicle overlords. The study follows a spate of high-profile accidents involving autonomous technology, including an autonomous Uber vehicle that killed
The Tesla Model S following its recovery from the crash scene near Williston, FL. Credit: National Transportation Safety Board, Wikimedia Creative Commons
a pedestrian in Tempe, AZ, earlier this year—the first reported fatal crash involving a self-driving vehicle and a pedestrian in the country. According to AAA’s report, nearly three-quarters (73 percent) of American drivers say they would be too afraid to ride in a fully self-
Uber’s Self-Driving Vehicles Rely on Humans to Brake in Emergencies
cle behavior.” Additionally, the safety system is not designed to alert the veA preliminary government report on hicle’s operator. The San Francisco-based techthe March fatal crash involving an Uber self-driving test vehicle and a nology company confirmed this findpedestrian in Tempe, AZ, showed ing. The test vehicle involved in the that the vehicle’s manufacturer-installed automatic emergency braking incident, a modified 2017 Volvo XC90, was operating with its selfsystem was disabled at the time. driving system in computer control mode and had a vehicle safety operator inside it when the accident occurred. While the Volvo was factory-equipped with a collision avoidance function, in addition to functions for detecting driver alertness and road sign information, all advanced driver assistance functions were disabled when it The report by the National Transportation Safety Board was put into computer control (NTSB) found that Uber does not enable the automatic mode. braking feature while its test vehicles are under computer On the night of March control to “reduce the potential for erratic vehicle 18, the vehicle and its safety behavior.” Credit: NTSB/Wikimedia operator were traveling at The report by the National Trans- 43 mph. A pedestrian wearing dark portation Safety Board (NTSB) found clothes stepped into the roadway, that Uber does not enable the auto- about 360 feet south of the crosswalk. matic braking feature while its test ve- While the pedestrian was pushing a hicles are under computer control to bicycle, it did not have any safety re“reduce the potential for erratic vehi- flectors. by Michaela Kwoka-Coleman, Auto Rental News
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JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
driving vehicle—an increase from 63 percent in 2017. And nearly twothirds (63 percent) report they would actually feel less safe sharing the road with a self-driving vehicle while walking or riding a bike. Perhaps surprising, the study found that millennials—that supposedly tech-savvy, smartphoneaddicted and automobile-hating cohort—are the generation most distrustful of the new technology, with the percentage of millennial drivers who report being too afraid to ride in a fully self-driving vehicle increasing from 49 percent to 64 percent since 2017. In 2016, Gov. Rick Snyder signed a package of bills into law that allowed for autonomous vehicles to share the roads with drivers in Michigan, among the most permissive of autonomous technology in the nation. Detroit’s Big Three automakers are all at work developing vehicles with autonomous technology. We thank Detroit Metro Times for reprint permission.
steering wheel less than a second before impact and began braking less than a second after impact. “The vehicle operator said in an NTSB interview that she had been monitoring the self-driving interface and that while her personal and business phones were in the vehicle, neither were in use until after the crash,” the report says. Since the NTSB report is preliminary, it does not contain any probable cause for the accident. After the initial accident, Uber indefinitely halted all self-driving vehicle testing across the country. On Uber self-driving system data playback from May 23, Uber revealed to its Arizona the fatal March 18 crash of an Uber test vehicle employees that it will be shuttering shows when, at 1.3 seconds before impact, the its autonomous vehicle test program system determined emergency braking was in the state, following mounting pubneeded to mitigate a collision. The yellow lic pressure. bands depict meters ahead of the vehicle, the In an email, an Uber executive orange lines show the center of mapped travel told employees that the company will lanes, the purple area shows the path of the be focusing on testing vehicles in vehicle and the green line depicts the center Pittsburg and San Francisco, but in a of that path. Credit: NTSB “much more limited way.” Currently, Uber does not have report says, in part. “At 1.3 seconds before impact, the self-driving system the approval of the California Dedetermined that emergency braking partment of Motor Vehicles to test its autonomous cars in the state. was needed to mitigate a collision.” We thank Auto Rental News for Data from the Volvo shows that the safety operator engaged with the reprint permission. “As the vehicle and pedestrian paths converged, the self-driving system software classified the pedestrian as an unknown object, as a vehicle, and then as a bicycle with varying expectations of future travel path,” the
autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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Body Shops Work Overtime to Fix Cars Damaged by Hail in Lubbock, TX by Amanda Ruiz, KCBD 11
More than 50 vehicles were brought in to Collision King with hail damage during the beginning of the week of May 21 in Lubbock, TX. The cleanup from the weekend of May 19 was still ongoing at that time, with the next round of severe weather expected May 22.
Credit: KCBD
Hail ranging from the size of a pea to the size of softballs left many residents with dents, cracked windshields and even holes in their vehicles. Repair shops now have their hands full and don’t expect it to slow down any time soon. “It can take an hour to just fix one dent, depending on how big the damages are,” Chris Lee of ColliContinued from Cover
ASA Midwest
representation. “One example of the need for increased activity is that state vehicle safety inspections are continually under attack at a state level. Our goal is to strengthen our foothold at the state level as we believe legislation will be introduced again in the coming year,” said Bob Redding, ASA Washington D.C. representative. “We look forward to working with the other associations in these states to better support the collision and mechanical repair industries.” Shop owners in Oklahoma or Arkansas who are interested in participating and assisting with the formation of a state association can contact Tony Molla, ASA Vice President, by email at tonym@asashop.org. “We recognize the need for a strong state association in these areas and we are committed to making that a reality. State associations are the building blocks and founda6
sion King said. “Not all hail is the same size.” Lee works on hail-damaged cars by using paintless dent repair. They use a pointed tool to lightly tap the dents out one by one, inch by inch. This process can take hours, depending on how badly the vehicle is damaged. “It’s tedious and it’s very detailed-oriented,” Lee said. “Patience is key when you are doing this kind of work because you can mess up and cause more damage than is already there.” Once the vehicle is brought in, it is inspected for damage, with some cars so damaged that they can be in the shop for months—all as a result of one hail storm. “It’s not impossible for a 30-to40-minute storm to one year later have roofers still be replacing roofs and car shops still be repairing vehicles,” said Steven Tisdale, owner of Collision King. “That much influx of business in a town causes a lot of moving parts and a lot of people.” We thank KCBD 11 for reprint permission.
tion of ASA,” said Roy Schnepper, ASA Chairman. If you would like additional information regarding the structural changes of ASA Midwest or have any other questions, please contact ASA President Dan Risley by email at danr@asashop.org. The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind dedicated to and governed by independent automotive service and collision repair professionals. ASA serves an international membership base that includes numerous state affiliate and chapter groups. ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. To take advantage of the many benefits of membership in ASA, please visit ASAshop.org or call (817) 5142900, ext. 2. For additional information about ASA, including past news releases, go to www.ASAshop.org, or visit ASA’s legislative website at Taking TheHill.com.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
ABAT Hosts Successful 2nd Annual Skeet Shoot
“We saw returnees as well as new faces,” she said. “Shops played On Saturday, May 19, the Auto Body with vendors and colleagues alike. Association of Texas (ABAT) hosted This year’s winners were all new its Second Annual Skeet Shoot at compared to last year, and we gave Elm Fork Shooting Sports in Dallas, away some really great prizes. A food truck provided lunch and everyTX. According to ABAT Executive one hung out after the skeet shoot to Director Jill Tuggle, “The event went mingle. It was great to see some new really well. We learned from last year, folks there since it confirms that we are generating interest in the association.” The day prior to the event, ABAT hosted a training session featuring three presentations. 300 Advantage discussed hail readiness planning for shops, Phoenix Solutions preNearly 60 collision repair professionals attended ABAT’s sented “What’s Driving Second Annual Skeet Shoot on May 19 Poor Collision Repair so this year went more smoothly. Experiences” and AAMS provided Everyone relaxed and enjoyed them- an OSHA update, pointing out selves. We were much more organ- things shops should be doing to ized and we had around 60 attendees avoid a potential citation in the instance they are subjected to an inthis year.” The association held the event to spection. provide an opportunity for members to network and socialize. Everyone For more information about ABAT seemed to enjoy the time together, and its upcoming events, visit www .abat.us. Tuggle reported. by Chasidy Rae Sisk
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Scott’s Collision’s New Owners To Continue Offering Quality Repairs, Service in Paris, TX by Trent Reed, The Paris News
Scott’s Collision in Paris, TX, is under new management. New owners David and Sara Norris plan to keep providing the same service that Scott and Kristi Hearne did. Sara said, as the new owners of Scott’s Collision, they are happy to be back in Paris with their family. “We recently purchased Scott’s Collision in December of 2017, right before the birth of our fourth son,” she said. “The opportunity to buy Scott’s Collision happened last fall by chance over a night of pizza and conversation with Scott and Kristi Hearne.” Sara said they expect the business to continue growing. They also plan to update equipment and provide continued education and training for their employees. “We are providing the same quality service that the community has come to expect from Scott’s Collision,” she said. “Scott and Kristi built a strong, solid business based on quality repair and compassionate service, and it’s our goal to continue that.” She said their main goal was to
get back to Paris to raise their four boys in a small-town community close to her parents, Dr. Keith and Janet Green. “Since taking over the business, we have continued to provide quality repairs and excellent customer service while working with all insurance companies,” Sara said. “Along with us, you’ll still be taken care of by the same great staff that has been with Scott’s Collision for years.” She said they began re-investing in the company with additional equipment and training to stay ahead of today’s high-tech vehicles. The staff has not changed since the purchase of the business. She said they have the same body techs and painters who worked for Scott and Kristi. “We’re also excited to continue in the footsteps of Scott and Kristi with their involvement in the community [by] supporting organizations such as Dylan’s Drivers, The Boys & Girls Club and The Children’s Advocacy Center, just to name a few,” she said. Sara said her husband, David, has been involved in the collision industry for 18 years, most recently at Park Place Mercedes Bodywerks. She
Service King Opens Doors to 38th DFW, TX, Repair Center
Service King Collision Repair Centers® recently announced the opening of its 38th Dallas-Fort Worth location.
The brand-new 20,000-squarefoot facility is located along the rapidly growing Highway 380 corridor at 27710 E. University Dr. in Little Elm, TX. With the announcement, Service King continues its long-term strategic growth initiative as the organization now operates a total network of 338 collision repair centers in 24 states across the U.S. “This is another exciting step forward in Service King’s mission
to be the collision repair operator of choice for our customers and valued business partners,” said Jason Peel, Service King Vice President of Operations. “The DFW community has been our home for more than 40 years, and we look forward to the added convenience this new location brings to our longtime customers in Little Elm and the surrounding areas.” Service King has provided trusted, high-quality collision repair service backed by a written lifetime warranty to customers in the DFW market since 1976. The company offers free estimates at each location and also offers the convenience of live online repair status tracking. Meanwhile, the company has been recognized as one of DFW’s Best Places to Work for 15 straight years by the Dallas Business Journal.
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said David managed the Fort Worth location. “Prior to purchasing Scott’s Collision, he worked for Park Place Mercedes, Sewell Cadillac, Collision Central and owned his own body shop, Modern Autobody,” Sara said. “David has always had a love for cars. He grew up helping his dad work on cars and building hot rods. In fact, he still has his dad’s 1970 Plymouth 340 Duster.” She said having an accident can be stressful, and they want their customers to know the customer comes first. “Scott’s Collision always has their best interest in mind,” Sara said. “We know the safety of our customers’ families are in these repairs, and we take that very seriously. Scott’s Collision will continue to offer the high-quality repairs with compassionate service. Remember, Scott’s Collision is the best decision after your collision.” Scott’s Collision is at 2260 N.E. Loop 286 and can be contacted at 903-785-2524. We thank The Paris News for reprint permission.
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in LA
The Boyd Group Inc. recently announced the May 18, 2018 opening of a collision repair center in Alexandria, LA.
The center was previously operated as Kyle’s Collision Center and is located near the busy highways Route 167 and Interstate 49 and about 90 miles north of Gerber’s collision repair center in Lafayette. “We are very pleased to be establishing a presence in central Louisiana and continuing the 34year service record of this location,” said Tim O’Day, President and COO of the Boyd Group. “We look forward to expanding our services to Alexandria, introducing our high quality brand to new customers and better assisting our insurance partners.”
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TX Auto Body Students Presented With Scholarships, Tool Grants by Amanda Sotelo, TSTC Staff, Valley Morning Star
For the first time, every Texas State Technical College Auto Collision and Management Technology student in Harlingen who applied for a scholarship or tool grant from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) Education Foundation and 3M were selected as recipients. A total of four auto collision and management technology students received a Sears Vo-Tech Tool Grant, a 3M Hire Our Heroes Tool Grant or a Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG) Foundation scholarship. “These scholarships and grants are awarded every year and we encourage as many of our students who are interested to apply,” said Joseph Cantu, TSTC auto collision and management instructor. “And this year’s selection is especially exciting for us because everyone who applied received something.” Auto collision and management student Adrian Escamilla was awarded a $5,000 scholarship to be used for tuition, room and board, books, tools or safety equipment, made possible by the PPG Founda-
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tion, which supports the I-CAR Collision Repair Education Foundation. “I applied about three months ago and since I hadn’t heard anything, I had written off the scholarship,” said Escamilla. “So I was totally shocked to learn that I had been awarded the money.”
Escamilla said this is not only a load off of his shoulders, but also his mother’s, who helps him pay for college, because he has to pay out of pocket. “This money is a big help for my mom and me, and a step toward making my dreams come true,” said Escamilla. Once Escamilla graduates with
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
his associate degree next semester, he said he wants to work to gain experience and eventually open his own body shop. Christopher Valdez, a United States Army veteran, received a 3M Hire Our Heroes Tool Grant valued at $4,500 and focused on helping veterans who are interested in pursuing a new career in the auto body industry. He will receive an initial $1,500 in tools as a student and the additional $3,000 after he graduates this summer with his certificate and finds employment in the industry. “These awards were not expected; it’s exciting news to get the help I need to purchase the tools that are required if I want to be successful,” said Valdez. The husband and father of two served in the Army for 15 years and completed four tours in Iraq. When he was medically discharged in February 2017, he enrolled at TSTC to work at realizing his dream of owning a golf cart business. “As a soldier for so long, it’s
hard returning to civilian life, but TSTC and its instructors have been so supportive and motivating,” said Valdez. “And now these grants are a good sign for my future and a financial relief for my family and me.” 3M Sales Representative for South Texas Fernando de la Garza also presented Valdez with a flag designed by Chip Foose, American automobile designer and star of the reality television series “Overhaulin’.” A Sears Vo-Tech Tool Grant for a Sears tool kit valued at $150 was also awarded to Escamilla and Valdez, in addition to Daniel Gaitan and Benjamin Soto. All men agree that they are thankful and owe a lot to the I-CAR Education Foundation, 3M, PPG and Sears for selecting them for scholarships and grants that will make a difference in their education and careers. For more information on Auto Collision and Management Technology in Harlingen and Waco, TX, visit tstc.edu. We thank Valley Morning Star for reprint permission.
Continued from Cover
Lynn, MA, Zoning
told The Item. “As a result of the Zoning Board’s erroneous decision, my clients have been put out of business and were recently cited by the city for unlawfully operating their auto repair shop.” Vitali is asking the court to rescind the decision and order the ZBA to hold a new public hearing on the application for an auto body shop in an existing auto mechanic facility. A court date has not been scheduled. We thank The Daily Item for reprint permission.
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Auto Body Shops Deal With Influx Following Hail in Burkburnett, TX
to replace a roof skin, you have to take the headliner down, airbags and pull the front and back windshield Auto body shops will be busy into off,” said Robertson. summer as they work to fix dented Robertson also added to cars in Burkburnett and Electra, TX. not side-step your insurance John’s Paint & Body already has companies so the process around 50 claims and expects that can go more smoothly and number to continue to rise. quickly for everyone. However, shop owner John “It’s best for them to Robertson warns to watch who you contact their insurance trust to fix your car. companies because we get With a slow severe weather seaoverwhelmed with all the son this spring, hail damage repair people coming in for esticompanies in Texas look for big hail mates and then a lot of inevents so they can come in and fix the Dents in a truck after hail fell May 19 in Electra, TX surance companies won’t dents on cars. Some of these compaThese companies do not stick take our estimates. They write their nies use wrong methods. around. Once they are gone, own estimate,” Robertson said. they will not be there to fix something they did not do We thank News Channel 6 Now for reprint permission. correctly. Robertson has been doing auto body work since 1981 in Burkburnett and said paintless dent repair LIKE US works for some dents, but more conventional ways are ON Auto body shops fix damaged cars after hail storm needed too. “With a lot of these : “A lot of paintless dent repair cars that I’ve seen this morning and companies drill holes in your hood yesterday, we’re having to replace bracing and doors. You don’t want roof skins and hoods. When you have by Zach Holder, News Channel 6 Now
that. There are crush zones in your hood and the drilling can mess with that where your airbag doesn’t deploy right,” said Robertson.
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Waco, TX, Auto Collision Students Receive Recognitions
Four students in the auto collision and nology - refinishing specialization. After having received a scholarmanagement technology program at Texas State Technical College have ship and tools last year, Corujo said been nationally honored for their ac- he did not think he had a chance of being recognized this year. ademic work. “It takes the financial burden off Three students—Hector Corujo of Killeen, Anderson Merchant of me to buy tools,” Corujo said. “Last College Station and Justin Romero of year I was able to buy a paint suit, Waco—are military veterans who re- safety glasses and other items.” Corujo moved as a ceived 3M Hire Our Heroes teenager from Puerto Rico tool grants valued at $4,500 to Florida, where he gradueach. Romero also received a ated from high school. The $2,000 scholarship from the Killeen resident spent 14 3M Hire Our Heroes program. years in the U.S. Army and A fourth student, Jannifer worked as a light-wheel veStimmel of Marlin, received a hicle mechanic. His Army PPG Foundation automotive stint included three tours of refinishing scholarship. Hector Corujo duty in Iraq. All of the students will Merchant, 26, is studying for an receive the Sears Votech tool grant, which includes an industry-size tool Associate of Applied Science degree in auto collision and management box. The recognitions are sponsored technology - refinishing specializaby the 3M Automotive Aftermarket tion. He said he has enjoyed working Division and the Collision Repair Ed- with the instructors and using his hands in the program’s labs. ucation Foundation. He said the tool grant will help Corujo, 34, is working toward an advanced technical certifi- him progress in his interest to do clascate in auto collision refinishing after sic car restoration after graduation. “It is going to be a huge help,” having graduated in December with an Associate of Applied Science degree Merchant said. “When I came here, I in auto collision and management tech- was essentially living off the GI Bill.
Maylan Newton Teaches ASA-CO About Good Leadership by Chasidy Rae Sisk
On May 7, ASA-CO hosted “What is Good Leadership,” another course in the association’s 2017/2018 Professional Business Series.
The event took place at the Kenz & Leslie BG Training Center in Wheat Ridge, CO, and featured Maylan Newton of ESi and his team’s discussion on becoming a good leader and avoiding the wrong moves. According to ASA-CO Executive Director Julie Massaro, “The event went really well with
ESi discussing what makes a great leader and how to develop your staff. We had a great turnout that far exceeded my expectations, and attendees really got a lot out of the seminar.” The association held the training session in order to provide the educational opportunities necessary to help members build their businesses. Massaro said, “It’s important for the association to offer timely cutting-edge training classes in order to improve the attendees’ businesses and [expand] their staff’s skills.” Next on the agenda, ASA-CO will host Telephone Skills – Dealing with Upset Customers on June 5, followed by Managing Time, Technicians and Productivity on June 12. For more information, visit www .asacolorado.org.
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I did not have many tools.” Merchant said his goal is to use what he has learned to do a complete restoration of a 1952 Chevy dually. “Right now it’s in the rust stage,” he said. “I’ve always had an affinity for 1960 and earlier cars.”
(l to r) Jannifer Stimmel and Justin Romero
Merchant graduated in 2010 from Huntsville High School. Two years later, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and was an optics technician. Romero, 25, is working on an advanced technical certificate in advanced collision refinishing and already has an Associate of Applied Science degree in auto collision and management technology - refinishing specialization. He said he was appreciative of the scholarship and the tools he will receive. “It will help out in the future,”
Romero said. “Tools are hard to build up, mainly because they are so expensive.” Romero grew up in Erie, CO, and was a petroleum supply specialist in the U.S. Army Reserve for two years. Stimmel, 33, received a $5,000 scholarship that she said will help her continue her education. After graduation, she wants to go into restoration and paint her 1973 Volkswagen bus. “My previous degrees ate up my funding to where I was not sure I would be here in the fall,” she said. “I love it here.” Stimmel worked in health care for 12 years before deciding to shift to the auto collision field. “The human body is not far from a vehicle,” she said. “We are machines like we work on.” Stimmel graduated in 2003 from Marlin High School and is an alumna of Texas Woman’s University. “Growing up, I always spent time out in the shop with my father,” she said. “I decided I didn’t want to be cooped up in an office.” The four students are scheduled to graduate in December. For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.
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Mother Goose Visits Mike’s Auto Body in San Ramon, CA by Ed Attanasio
With her little ones in tow, Mother Goose made a tour of Mike’s Auto Body in San Ramon, CA. She made certain that the work was of the highest quality and checked out their cycle time. Canadian geese are well-known for sticking around
northern California year-round because they love the great weather and respect top-notch collision repair. Mike’s Auto Body has been repairing cars to their pre-accident condition since 1972. Mike Rose and his family have built Mike’s Auto Body into a 16-shop organization with locations in Concord, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, Richmond, Fairfield, Napa, San Ramon, Fremont, Vallejo and now in Alameda.
Owner of Justin’s Collision Center Paints Walker for Young Girl in TX by Katy McQuillan, Stephenville Empire-Tribune
Local resident Justin McCann, owner of Justin’s Collision Center in Stephenville, TX, recently volunteered to paint a walker used daily
Justin McCann painted 2-year-old Addie King’s walker in pink at his collision center for free. Photo courtesy of Katie King
by 2-year-old Addie King, who suffers from cerebral palsy, after her mother, Katie King, made a Facebook post seeking someone to jazz
CCC, CREF Announce Winners of Annual Scholarship
The Collision Repair Education Foundation and CCC Information Services Inc., (CCC) are proud to announce three exceptional students as winners of the CCC Michael Salvatore Memorial Student Repair Technician Scholarship.
The CCC scholarship program has been in place since 2006 and awards scholarships to students currently enrolled in a repair program and who have demonstrated superior academic achievement. The 2018 CCC Michael Salvatore Memorial Student Repair Technician Scholarship recipients will each receive a $3,000 scholarship. This year’s recipients are: • Cayden Bailey (Utah Valley University, Orem, UT) • Kirtis Woolfolk (Kennedy King College, Chicago, IL) 14
• Monaque D. Hoover (Kennedy King College, Chicago, IL) “Congratulations to this year’s recipients for their academic accomplishments and commitment to excellence in collision repair,” said Mary Jo Prigge, President, Service Operations, CCC. “More than ever, education and training are needed to keep pace with the rapid advancements of technology and evolving business practices within our industry. We’re proud to support the next generation of collision repairers as they work to prepare for a rewarding career in the automotive industry.” For additional information about CCC visit www.cccis.com. Industry members interested in working together with the Collision Repair Education Foundation in supporting secondary and post-secondary collision repair students, instructors, and their school programs should contact Director of Development, Brandon Eckenrode at 847.463.5244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@ed-foundation.org.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
up her daughter’s walker. Addie needs a walker for dayto-day use, so the Kings had to make a trip to the Metroplex to get the only walker that was available, which was yellow in color. At a doctor’s appointment in Plano, the Kings saw a family that had the same walker, but in a different color. King immediately asked how the family found a pink walker and the family said an auto shop painted it for them. King knew she couldn’t leave the walker with an auto body shop for several days because the walker is the only way Addie can get around. After King posted on the Facebook page, McCann responded almost immediately. “It took him a few hours. I don’t think people understand that medical equipment has a million bolts and screws,” King said. “It was awesome because the shop had the availability. (McCann) had the correct tools to finish the whole project. He worked on the walker all day. By the evening he messaged me saying it was drying and that the walker would be ready by the next day.” McCann had never taken on a
project like King’s walker before, but decided helping the family was the right thing to do. “I had the supplies to do it,” McCann said. “I made her a custom pearl pink color. We took the walker apart. She just wanted it painted, but to do it right, you must take it apart. It was on Memorial Day when they brought the walker over. I put it all back together and they brought Addie back when it was finished the next day.” The Kings never want anyone’s pity. “This is who she is, and we are going to accept it,” King said. “She’s going to go on and do great things. The walker helps her so she can go anywhere and do anything.” We thank Stephenville Empire-Tribune for reprint permission.
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Hunter Engineering Becomes Corporate Member of SCRS
Hunter Engineering Company (Hunter) has joined the ranks of Corporate Member of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), increasing its support of the association’s work for collision repairers by upgrading from a Company Membership. The relationship between Hunter and SCRS first formed in collaborating to raise awareness and understanding over the increasing complexities of postalignment calibration processes on modern day vehicles. “Addressing new technology in vehicles, especially vehicles with enhanced safety systems like ADAS, can be a challenge for the industry,” shared Kaleb Silver, senior product manager for Hunter Engineering Company. “Proper wheel alignment and its place in the repair process, especially in regards to ADAS, is an area where we see a lot of room to help the industry through the exchange of information.”
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Jury Hears TX Body Shop Worker’s Testimony in Fatal Hit-and-Run Trial
Monte Carlo driving away from the scene. A Crime Line tip led officers to Testimony began June 5 for the trial an auto body repair shop where they of a 38-year-old body shop worker met Acosta’s father, Tony Acosta, accused of killing a man in a March who worked there with his son. LPD Sgt. Emilio Hernandez 2015 hit-and-run collision in East told jurors Tony Acosta Lubbock, TX. told them he knew they Anthony Acosta Jr., were looking for his son, who is out on bond, was whom he said needed time charged with failure to to surrender himself to postop and render aid inlice. He said Acosta told volving a death, a secondhim his son heard from degree felony that carries friends that a picture of a punishment of two to 20 years in prison. However, Anthony Acosta Jr. his vehicle was aired on the local news, so he hid Acosta is eligible for prohis vehicle in the backyard of a resbation. Jurors were selected June 5 in idence in the 1700 block of 28th the 137th District Court to hear the Street. Hernandez said Acosta led potrial. Lubbock police arrested Acosta lice to the home, where they found on March 11, 2015, three days after the suspected vehicle in the backan officer responded to the intersec- yard. Tony Acosta in court denied tion of 32nd Street and Avenue G, where they found 50-year-old Rey- Hernandez’s statements to police, naldo Rincon lying in the roadway. saying he went with the officer beHe was pronounced dead at the cause they threatened to arrest him. Acosta said he has worked as an scene. Police obtained a video from auto body worker all his life and his a nearby convenience store that son followed in his footsteps. LPD Det. Mike McGowan showed a dark-colored Chevrolet by Gabriel Monte, A-J Media/Lubbock AvalancheJournal
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
told jurors the vehicle’s hood on the driver’s side appeared to have been repaired with auto body repair putty and spray painted. The hood of the vehicle was brought into the courtroom and McGowan pointed to where the paint still had a matte appearance. Prosecutors also presented jurors with pictures of the vehicle in which McGowan found hair strands and tissue he believed possibly came from Rincon. The trial resumed June 6. We thank A-J Media/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal for reprint permission.
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Continued from Page 4
House AV Act
vehicle operation if they hope to create products that meaningfully reflect risk.” Gammelgard added that while data “is critical for liability determinations,” it is also “important [to the public] in determining the safety and reliability of technology.” Geraci also noted that “regulated review and validation of rates and coverage requires insurers to provide state insurance regulators with extensive levels of actuarially valid data on crashes [and] their frequency and severity,” which might prove impossible without access to the crash data in AVs. Geraci continued that there has been widespread data collection on human drivers and their accidents, and it should be the same for AVs now. The data that insurers want is just the crash data, and would “not include private data or confidential business [proprietary] data,” Geraci said. Currently in the AV START Act, there is no requirement that data of any kind from AVs will be shared, even for crash data. Gillis pointed out
that in the AV START Act—which would expand testing in order to get the technology into commercial use more quickly—”accident data is not being made available to the public, including insurers.” Without such data, the insurers will be “left to guess [the levels of risk] or rely on the companies’ safety claims” added Gillis. Gammelgard noted that “any attempt to include data access provisions [has been] met with great resistance.” Gillis went on to say that it could be the role of the federal government to “ensure that crash data is made publicly available.” Both Geraci and Gammelgard were supportive of the Inhofe amendment to the AV START Act that would create a Data Access Coalition to set up recommendations for a potential future data access structure. However, it would take two years to make recommendations even while AVs would continue to be put on the roads. Representative Brad Sherman (D-CA) asked the panel what steps are being taken to assess the safety of AVs before they are put on the road since they are “not required to submit safety as-
sessment letters to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,” to which Geraci answered that the “[data is needed] to understand safety performance.” Rep. Sherman seemed open to the idea of the federal government having a role in ensuring that data, saying that “maybe Congress ought to help with requirements that you get that data.” The second major takeaway from the hearing centered on the shifting landscape of the insurance market itself in response to AVs entering and taking over the automotive scene. Gammelgard said that higher and higher levels of automation on the road “will necessitate changes in the types of policies offered” by insurance companies, particularly as vehicle ownership shifts from the individual to corporate level. David Carlson said that as the technologies advance, the “liability pendulum will shift from personal auto to commercial product liability.” This means that companies will likely buy insurance policies on a fleet basis. Carlson said that “fleet coverages are likely to become admitted coverages subject to greater underwrit-
ing and rating security.” Such a shift from personal to commercial insurance begs the question of what individuals will do to protect themselves from risk. Some, such as Gammelgard, see personal mobility coverage rising— policies that “insure the person on every step of their day.” As the hearing showed, AVs stand to revolutionize the transportation industry and the insurance guidelines for it. This technology could bring mobility to those who are traditionally restricted, such as the older Americans and those who have disabilities. The experts at the hearing showed that part of a responsible rollout would address data sharing from AVs, and specifically, continuing to make safety data available to the public and insurance companies so that they can make accurate risk-based assessments. Congress still could include a more certain answer on data access in the AV START Act, and cities along with the insurance industry should be watching what this means for the future of our roads. We thank CitiesSpeak for reprint permission.
autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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Napa Collision Center Holds Grand Opening for New Location in LA
customers. “The place is really, really nice Napa Collision Center of Bastrop, and we definitely worked hard for LA, recently expanded its business it,” said Erica. “We hope it will to a new location. On Tuesday, June make [us busier] and bring in more people.” 12, it held its grand opening. The grand opening included hamNapa Collision Center, owned by Thomas and Erica Drinkwine, burgers and hot dogs for the guests and performs both collision and mechan- hoppers for the children to play in. There was also a ribbon cutting. Many people from the community, as well as the Drinkwines’ family, came to the opening. Morehouse Chamber of Commerce Director Dorothy Ford started the ribbon cutting ceremony by saying how proud she Thomas and Erica Drinkwine, along with their daighter, was of Napa Collision cut the ribbon as family, community members, employees Center and that she was and Mayor Cotton look on. Credit: Brittany Wilson grateful they decided to ical repairs. It has been in the parish locate their business in Morehouse for six years, but the couple decided parish. Employee Mike Fudge spoke a to expand their business and purfew words, saying how appreciative chase a new building. The new building, which is he was of Thomas and Erica and that 25,000 square feet, includes a spacious they are good people. Several other people spoke, inlobby, offices and a large garage area for car repair work. The Drinkwines cluding Bastrop Mayor Henry Cotare very excited about their new lo- ton and Morehouse Parish Sheriff cation and hope it brings in more Mike Tubbs. They gave their conby Brittany Wilson, Bastrop Daily Enterprise
Spanesi Americas, Certified Collision Group Agree to Strategic Partnership
Spanesi Americas, the makers of OEM approved collision repair equipment, have signed an agreement with Certified Collision Group™(CCG). The agreement calls for Spanesi Americas to be a Preferred Provider of vehicle repair straightening benches, Touch electronic measuring systems, spray booths, prep stations, mixing rooms, welders and vehicle lifts, for CCG and their national collision repair network. “Spanesi Americas provides OEM approved collision repair equipment to businesses across North America in order for them to properly repair damaged customer vehicles,” said Timothy W. Morgan, COO and Managing Director of Spanesi Americas. “CCG provides top-tier independent and MSO shop owners the ability to more successfully compete within the collision repair marketplace. By providing CCG’s network OEM approved collision repair equipment, we support CCG’s mission to provide the tools necessary to efficiently repair vehi18
cles back to OEM standards. It’s exciting to build partnerships with organizations focused on achieving growth through streamlined business processes and reinforcing of the employment of proper repair methods.” Bruce Bares, CCG President and CEO stated “Growing into 50 states with solely the industry’s best independent collision repair operators and minds requires us to partner with industry-leading firms, like Spanesi. We are excited about, and certainly appreciative of, the CCGSpanesi partnership ... as we continue to grow, working with the team at Spanesi is important to meeting best-in-class CCG Affiliate and strategic partner needs.” CCG Affiliates will have access to facility design services, training, and technical support services for all of Spanesi products. Spanesi and CCG will collaborate together to provide a wide-range of equipment opportunities to their rapidly growing national network of OEM certified collision repair centers.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
gratulations and wished the couple well in business. North Monroe of Bastrop Pastor Kevin Crim offered a prayer of thanks before the cutting. Everyone then gathered for the ribbon cutting
The children had fun playing in the hoppers at the event. Credit: Brittany Wilson
where Thomas and Erica, along with their daughter, did the honors. Afterwards, people were free to visit and enjoy hamburgers, hot dogs and other refreshments. The community members and the Chamber of Commerce are pleased to welcome the Drinkwines to their new location and wish them well in the future of their business. We thank Bastrop Daily Enterprise for reprint permission.
Auto Care Association Joins Coalition for Accurate Product Labels
The Auto Care Association recently announced it has joined the Coalition for Accurate Product Labels, which advocates for meaningful, science-based information about the products consumers buy and use. The Coalition for Accurate Product Labels supports the Accurate Labels Act, introduced to Congress this month by Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Representatives Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR). Additionally, the legislation seeks to establish science-based criteria for all state and local labeling requirements that exceed current federal standards, allow state-mandated product information to be provided through smartphone-enabled “smart labels” and on websites, ensure that covered product information is risk-based and will leave unchanged current federal laws related to allergens, nutrition facts and medicines.
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autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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Continued from Cover
Body Shop Sues
mates for each of the vehicles. According to court documents, “… Tri-State used improper methods for calculating the number of hours required to repair the vehicles, including without limitation, refusing to pay for certain necessary repairs, refusing to allow for items which were recommended by the manufacturer guidelines and/or best practices and refusing to account for the published guidelines that are generally accepted within the automotive insurance repair industry.” The documents also state that “… Tri-State arbitrarily set price caps on the amount it would pay per unit for labor costs to repair the vehicles,” and they were far below the market rate. Barry’s Auto Body alleges in court documents that when preparing the estimates, “Tri-State insisted on using parts that are not Original Equipment Manufacturer parts (nonOEM), even when those parts are known to be of inferior quality to OEM parts and where the use of such non-OEM parts did not meet TriState’s contractual and legal obligations under the applicable policies and under New York State Insurance Law.” Six causes of action are mentioned in the lawsuit. The first is Breach of Contract Against Defendant Tri-State. Barry’s Auto Body alleges that Tri-State did not provide enough funds (a sum of $53,905.67) to adequately restore the vehicles back to their condition prior to the accidents/occurrences. The second cause of action is the Violation of General Business Law §349 Against Tri-State. “…TriState has continually engaged in unfair claims practices… including using inappropriate methods of determining the number of hours of labor, the arbitrary capping of labor rates, arbitrary capping of paint and materials, refusing to pay for body shop materials, and misleading consumers regarding the availability of other repair shops that would put the vehicle to its pre-loss condition for the amount of Tri-State’s estimate,” the lawsuit states. The third cause of action is De20
ceptive Business Practices in Violation of General Business Law §349 against IANet Corp for allegedly acting in “bad faith” and “… changing adjusters’ estimates without inspection, setting arbitrary caps on price of certain tasks and otherwise interfering with the claims process…” according to court documents. The last three causes of action are Tortious Interference With Business Relationship Against each of the adjusters. The lawsuit states that each of the adjusters interfered with the body shop’s contracts with its customers to repair the vehicles for “no legitimate purpose” and “acted maliciously” and with the sole purpose of harming the Plaintiff and its repair contracts. The lawsuit is currently in the discovery phase and the next court date is scheduled for Jan. 9, 2019. Autobody News reached out to Crupi, Jr. to learn more about the lawsuit and the issues collisions repairers should be aware of.
Q: A:
Why did you decide to file this lawsuit?
I filed this lawsuit among others because I will not have my customers, my business or its people pushed around. At Barry’s Auto Body, we believe in saving money where possible, but we will never compromise the quality of our work or the safety of our customers driving these automobiles in order to increase insurance company’s yearly profit margins. Customers always lose when their vehicles are not repaired safely and properly. It puts the passengers at risk and it kills their resale value. I also believe in my heart that it is more important today than ever before for auto body shops, and really any business that deals with insurance companies, to fight for what is right. This bully-like mentality many insurance companies use to suppress labor rates and push around shops into doing improper repairs truly hurts. We also allege this particular lawsuit has misconduct by numerous insurance adjusters and independent insurance adjusters on these claims. With vehicles being more technologically advanced than ever before, improper repairs can throw off airbag timing and cause vehicles’
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
braking systems to malfunction as well. Shops must now have the absolute best equipment to repair these vehicles properly. The days of using cheap machinery to save costs are over because today’s cars are constantly changing and require up-todate equipment. There are also additional steps necessary to repair vehicles properly. These procedures should never be compromised at the vehicle owner’s expense.
What would you like collision repairers to know about the lawsuit and these issues?
Q:
Insurance companies should not tell you how to repair a vehicle or how to run your business. Recent lawsuits have shown that insurance companies are not the ones ultimately responsible for repairing vehicles properly. You, as the auto body shop, are 100 percent responsible for restoring these vehicles SAFELY and PROPERLY every time. You can and may be sued for not doing safe or proper repairs.
A:
Therefore, it is up to you to make sure you are being paid properly to restore these vehicles to their pre-accident condition. I repair every car as if my own son or family member were being put into this vehicle after the repairs are completed, and SO SHOULD YOU. The days of letting insurance companies push our shops around are done. Shops who succumb to the pressures of these insurance companies to “cut corners” or repair vehicles unsafely or improperly will always be in jeopardy of going out of business by a lawsuit for improper repairs or not having the finances available to run their businesses properly. In the beginning, it may feel that as a small business shop owner, you are David taking on Goliath. You may feel scared to death—like you have no way out in sight. If you are serious about being in this business for the long-term, it is important to do the research and push through all these fears for yourself, your employees, your customers and for what is right. Messages to Tri-State Consumer Insurance Company were not returned.
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Wife & Husband Team Creates Amazing Vehicles at Cool Hand Customs by Ed Attanasio
He’s known for his ability to make anything out of nothing. His fabrication and welding skills are remark-
EJ and Amy Fitzgerald are the co-owners of Cool Hand Customs in Middleton, WI, and recently celebrated their company’s 10th anniversary
able. He’s an artist who works in a wide range of mediums and she is someone who isn’t afraid to do whatever it takes to restore a car and make it look spectacular.
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EJ and Amy Fitzgerald, the coowners of Cool Hand Customs in Middleton, WI, recently celebrated their company’s 10th anniversary. It hasn’t been an easy ride, but by working hard and leveraging their stellar reputation, this couple is now firing on all cylinders and garnering rave reviews from their sponsors and satisfied clients. A mega-talented duo, the couple fell into car restoration after working in construction remodeling homes for many years. When the economy imploded in 2008, Amy and EJ— with a 3-year old at home—decided to take out a loan and start Cool Hand Customs. “We borrowed $13,000 and started the business in our 400square-foot garage at home,” Amy said. “We decided we might as well take a leap of faith and chase our passions. Back then, we primarily restored and painted motorcycles and did very well because EJ is a talented airbrush artist. He sees the world in 4-D just like our daughter, Jade, does. But I don’t, so we play differ-
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
flag that EJ painted on this vehicle is so realistic, it’s remarkable. It got a lot of attention. When we got home, we moved into a 4,000-square-foot facility and now we’re actually growing too big for that space and need to move again.” Cool Hand Customs was chosen as one of 25 golden ticket winners when its truck was chosen at last year’s SEMA Show while on display in the E3 Spark The shop’s orange 1941 Dodge pickup was invited to participate in the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Challenge InvitaPlugs Booth and then intional and featured at the Las Vegas Speedway during last vited to participate in the year’s SEMA OPTIMA Ultimate Street went on to building cars and it just Car Challenge Invitational. Their orange 1941 Dodge pickup was feakind of worked out.” Six months after opening its tured at the Las Vegas Speedway as doors, Cool Hand Customs went to part of the festivities. “It was a lot of fun and we were its first SEMA Show with a large extended cab Dualie they painted for a so excited when we got the opportuclient. Things have gotten better for nity to participate in the OUSCI and really show that the SEMA vehicle the company ever since. “We realized right then that could perform on the street and in this is where we wanted and de- road courses,” Amy said. “Now we served to be, so we really stepped can’t wait to participate in more auto up our game and took it to the next cross and road rally events. It was a level,” Amy said. “The American real honor to be considered as one of ent roles within the company and complement each other very well. I have always been a huge car buff and he is a motorcycle guy, so we started by working on motorcycles and then
the best 25 street-worthy show cars at SEMA and it really provided us with a lot of momentum from this event.” Ten years after their first involvement in SEMA, Amy is playing an integral role within the organization and proud of it. She currently sits on the ARMO/Automotive Restoration Market Organization Council and on the ETTN/Emerging Trends and Technology Network Cross Council Sub Committee and is also part of the SEMA Scholarship Committee to review applications to award SEMA scholarships. “When I was sitting at that first banquet, it really hit me: ‘Wow, we have arrived,’” Amy said. “Now I sit on two SEMA councils and am on one committee and want to be as involved as I possibly can because I love this industry so much. If I can give back in any way, I want to do it.” Amy also participated in a few all-women builds, including a 1969 AMX and recently a 1957 pickup with Bogi’s Garage. Bogi’s Garage is a shop owned and operated by Bogi Lateiner, host of Velocity’s
“All Girls Garage.” “Ninety women working on these types of projects is so inspiring and really empowering,” she said. “The teamwork and talent that goes into these vehicle builds is something I want to do as much as I possibly can.” As her husband’s “second hands” Amy loves what they create and never tires of the frenetic pace and hard work involved. “We really work well together and the work is exciting every day,” she said. “I lead on wiring, interior design and installation, and EJ leads when it comes to the airbrushing, welding and metal fabrication work. Together we fabricate, install and build the mechanicals, body work, paint, assembly, etc., and produce ‘drivers’ that our customers are proud to display and drive across country if they want. We are a twoperson shop with no employees, so it is just us each day working together. Sure, we do butt heads now and then, but we both live and breathe this work and enjoy it tremendously. It’s not all roses and fun, especially when deadlines are approaching,
and some days we work 16 hours straight. We’re really blessed because we’re equally driven to succeed at this business and take pride in our work.” With a workload of roughly five cars annually and other smaller jobs like occasional motorcycle builds and painting, miscellaneous painting projects and repairs on customs and classics along the way, Cool Hand Customs is currently working on its third SEMA vehicle. Amy has seen more and more women get involved in the show and is excited to see the evolution firsthand. “When we went to our first SEMA 10 years ago, there were literally no lines for the ladies’ bathroom, but it’s no longer the case,” she said. “More women are participating, and not just on the marketing side of the industry. They want to be hands-on and we love to network, rely on each other and support each other. Participating in these all-female builds is a great way to achieve that. We’re so fortunate to be doing what we do and it’s become a huge part of our lives, so we would not trade this for anything else!”
GM, Jaguar Land Rover Approve Car-O-Liner Vacuum Systems
Car-O-Liner, a leading global manufacturer of collision repair equipment to the automotive aftermarket, announced today that General Motors and Jaguar Land Rover have both approved CarO-Liner vacuum products for use in their collision centers. General Motors will incorporate Car-O-Liner’s complete line of CleanPrep Vacuum systems for their aluminum repair center, as well as their body shop, collision and refinishing service. Jaguar Land Rover has added Car-O-Liner’s CleanPrep Wet Mix Immersion Vacuum system. “As dust travels through the building, it can create corrosion, contamination, potential fire hazards and costly reworks,” said Mark Weinmann, OEM Account Manager, Car-O-Liner. “Our vacuum systems are built to military and commercial aerospace specifications to safely and efficiently extract dust from any shop.”
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Continued from Cover
Trump Tariffs
der, R-TN, in urging the administration to reconsider the plan. The administration has targeted allies, including Canada and Mexico, in trying to reduce a trade deficit it considers a national security issue. “We can assure you that reducing the size of our state’s automotive manufacturing base will not bolster our nation’s security,” the letter states. In a media call June 7, Jones called the claim of national security concerns “mystifying.” “We’re now looking at imposing tariffs on allies who are not cheating,” he said. “They’re not doing anything wrong … It really seems to be a lot of political messaging leading up to the midterms.” The automotive industry employed nearly 40,000 people in Alabama last year, most of them working as part of a supply-and-assembly chain for foreign automakers such as Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz. In January, Toyota and Honda announced a joint plant near Huntsville
that will employ another 4,000, and in early June Hyundai announced a $388 million expansion of its Montgomery plant. The Montgomery Advertiser reported more than a year ago that import tariffs could endanger those jobs at Alabama plants. Automotive parts and components work their way through a complex web of interdependent plants throughout North America and may cross borders as many as eight times before being installed at assembly plants in the U.S., Canada or Mexico, according to a study by the nonprofit Center for Automotive Research. Tariffs would escalate the price of each border crossing and put enormous pressure on companies to cut costs, potentially breaking down the entire supply chain. CAR analyst Bernard Swiecki said last year that foreign automakers such as the ones in Alabama already have plants elsewhere and can simply move production overseas if the price gets too high. The CAR study found that a 35 percent import tariff on light vehicles
and parts from Mexico alone would cost at least 31,000 American jobs. That doesn’t include retaliatory tariffs and doesn’t approach the broader scope of the Trump administration’s current proposal. Canada is Alabama’s largest export market, largely because of the cars made here. Jones said he’s been in touch with all of the state’s auto manufacturers and “they’re very concerned” about the auto tariff proposal. That plan and a recent tariff on imported steel and aluminum has spawned dire warnings from a bipartisan mix of business leaders and politicians, who fear a growing trade war. Sen. Bob Corker, R-TN, cosponsored a bill with seven other Republicans and four Democrats that would give Congress the power to approve or reject new tariffs. We thank Montgomery Advertiser for reprint permission.
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its doors in 1948 as a re-chrome bumper business, followed by expansion into automotive paint. Hicks attributes the long-run success to his Micro-BASF team that works together to constantly improve service to customers. Micro is a second-time winner of the BASF Distributor of the Year award. The ColorSource Elite Diamond Award was also presented to distributors with three years of consecutive growth: • A&F Paint & Supply • Capital Paint & Refinish LLC • Colortone Automotive Paint • Southeast PBE • Motorcar Colors • James Hess LTD • West Penn Laco, Inc. ColorSource is a network of BASF single-line distributors dedicated to offering innovative BASF products backed by the highest levels of customer service. To learn more about becoming a ColorSource distributor, please contact Shefali Cromer a: Shefali.cromer@basf.com.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
Car-O-Liner recently announced that it has joined I-CAR’s Sustaining Partner™ program. I-CAR Sustaining Partners provide financial support to help contain the cost of vital training
for collision repair businesses. Funding also helps to ensure new entrants to the industry through career and technical schools, are not prevented that entry, because of the cost of training. Companies that join I-CAR as a Sustaining Partner, support the belief that trained and informed technicians and repairers keep the motoring public safer. I-CAR allows collision repair technicians to receive I-CAR credit for Car-O-Liner Academy courses, at no additional cost to them. That credit can be applied immediately and put towards their shop’s Gold Class and their individual Platinum designations.
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BASF Names Micro Auto Paint & Supplies its Distributor of the Year
Micro Auto Paint & Supplies (Micro) won the BASF Automotive Refinish 2017 Distributor of the Year award at the annual ColorSource conference. Approximately 135 single-line distribution partners attended the conference in Scottsdale, AZ. “Micro has been a critically important BASF partner in the Midwest for over 30 years,” said Denise Kingstrom, Distribution Director, Automotive Refinish at BASF. “In 2017, they went above and beyond to grow with BASF and support us in getting our bestin-class products into new markets, while maintaining our Customers First strategy with new and existing customers.” “We have a great team with BASF, and ColorSource allows us dedicated Business Development Specialists and Technical Service reps, which gives us an extra edge over our competition.” said Howard Hicks, Micro CEO. The four-generation, familyrun distributor recently celebrated its 70th year in business, opening
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Tips for Busy Body Shops with Stacey Phillips
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications, and is co-author of “The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops.” She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
PDR Experts Share Opportunities for Paintless Dent Repair in Collision Repair Over the next five to 10 years, more shops are going to rely on paintless dent repair (PDR) and it’s going to be a “must-do” to compete, according to Ryan Hampton, co-owner of The 300 Advantage. “PDR has always been like a young stepbrother to the collision industry,” he said. “The more PDR companies separate themselves in the industry, the more technicians are reaching out for education and trying to prepare themselves for the growing trends and technology, such as scanning and electric vehicles, that have been taking off over the last several years.” Ryan Hampton, Bill Park and Tony Frasher, owners of The 300 Advantage, discussed PDR during a Guild 21 podcast sponsored monthly by VeriFacts Automotive. It was part two of a three-part podcast series on repair versus replace. The previous month, Kurt Lammon, president of Polyvance, and Scott McKernan, president of #1 Vinyl & Leather Repair, talked about plastic repair and interior parts. In the third podcast, Bryan Robaina, president of Robaina Direct, will discuss dent repairs on outer sheet metal and aluminum panels. “We see a big opportunity for innovation in the industry,” said Park. “Like Guild 21, we believe in smart repairs—fixing it right the first time.” The business partners began looking at opportunities available in PDR methodology, bringing it to a broader market and building a business around it. That led them to establish The 300 Advantage, a Colorado-based company that has businesses in catastrophic hail management, accident and hail repair, Cat-Hail Insurance claims management and a platform technology firm to support the various entities and the market at large. This includes Smart Claims Services, Axiom Accident & Hail Repair and PDR Mobile Solutions/PDR Boss. “The vision of the 300 group is to create a variety of businesses within the automotive smart repair industry
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worldwide,” said Park. During the Guild 21 podcast, George Avery, Avery Consulting LLC, led a discussion with Hampton, Park and Frasher about PDR repair, covering hail damage applications, what can be repaired using PDR, technician skills and estimating in relation to PDR.
used to pull the dents out in inaccessible areas where rods can’t reach. Frasher said the use of PDR is more standardized when it comes to hail repair versus collision repair. “It’s very rare you have an insurance adjuster with a PDR background,” he said. “On the hail side, an adjuster can go out and adjust a claim easily. They can see a panel has so many dents on it.” Regarding new PDR tooling, Frasher said glue pulling has really advanced. “Technicians are getting PDR techniques allow technicians opportunities to minimize better at it. The more they the number of steps necessary to perform a quality repair practice with it, the faster PDR is known as an affordable they get,” he said. and quick method of removing dents He added that glue can move a from the body of a vehicle without lot of metal very quickly compared disturbing the finish, which elimi- to a normal dent rod. nates the need for repainting the reWhen estimating for hail dampaired area. Generally used for hail damage, PDR can also be utilized for a wide variety of minor repairs on both aluminum and steel panels. If there is paint damage, experts say that PDR might not be a good alternative; however, some technicians can use conventional paint and body methods, which is referred to as “push to paint.” For example, this method can be used on a hail-damaged roof, so it doesn’t need to be replaced. Avery said PDR techniques provide technicians opportunities to minimize the number of steps necessary to perform a quality repair, which is in the best interest of the vehicle and the consumer. “PDR as a first option will become the method of choice over time,” said Park. “Innovation and demand for speed will drive this. By using PDR, technicians are able to reduce the severity of damage at the dent level and potentially eliminate blend panels, which are huge cost savings.” PDR technicians often use metal rods to push dents from the body panel’s underside. Glue-pulling tools that use a specialized tab can also be
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
age, a PDR matrix is used, which is a guide that outlines the vehicle’s panels. Park said although the matrix can add a lot of value, he cautions repairers about the unintended consequences around being too stringent within the matrix. “I think the matrix can lead an adjuster or somebody in the field to replace panels much faster than they necessarily need to,” he said. “I think there should be more awareness of doing the right thing for the car and understanding that sometimes you might have to look outside of the matrix.” Hampton agreed. Overall, he said to step back from the matrix and do what is best for the car. “Any time you can save the liability and the integrity of the vehicle, I think it’s always a smart decision to look at that first,” he said. For those planning to do PDR
autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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work, Frasher stressed the importance of being familiar with corrosion protection and recommended keeping a can nearby while doing a repair. Hampton said as far as scanning goes, any car that has been taken apart during the PDR process should have a pre- and post-scan. “Industry-wide, we know everyone doesn’t do it, but it should really be done,” he said. The Hotbox is a relatively new technology used for PDR that allows technicians to pull dents from the top side of the panel. This eliminates damaging the back side of the panel and larger dents can often be pulled faster. “When the dents get larger, it’s 100 percent about technique,” said Frasher. “There are a few specialty tools, but more than anything it’s about understanding the old-school metal techniques.” He said that is a main difference between hail and collision. “With hail, for the most part, you are never on a dent for more than a couple of minutes,” he said. “However, for larger dents, it takes time
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and focus.” In addition to using PDR for hail damage, body shops are now incorporating PDR into repairs. Avery said to use critical thinking to determine if it’s the right thing to do for the repair. Some shops are finding there are savings in doing what is called “push to repair.” One advantage is the opportunity to push out the majority of a dent and not disturb the paint. As a result, the repaired area is minimized, which can avoid paint match issues and the expense of blending into adjacent panels. “There are top savings in push to repair,” said Frasher. If you have a large dent in the middle of a quarter panel, for example, and you’re welding pins on, then the entire repair zone grows. If it can be shrunk with glue pulling, then he said time and money can be saved. “That’s one of the things that I feel is probably going to grow, but it’s difficult for an adjuster walking up to the car,” said Frasher. “He doesn’t know what the capability is going
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
to be for any specific shop to know if it is a viable option.” Currently a bottleneck in shops, he said as PDR becomes more widely used, adjusters will be able to write up the estimate using PDR up front. When hiring technicians, Avery asked the presenters how to best find a quality technician who can do PDR since they are often hard to locate and there is no certification offered. “It’s a new industry,” said Hampton. “Although it has been around for 30-plus years, that’s still relatively new when you take into consideration that the trade itself is extremely artisan. The guys who can work on the big damage are extremely rare.” He said there is no easy answer to finding an in-house or sublet technician and recommended talking to others in the industry, watching YouTube videos, researching on social media and checking online reviews. “Body shops have some of the best eyes in the industry,” said Hampton. “They know what to look for, and you just have to do your
homework.” When estimating collision work related to PDR, Hampton said if the collision damage is minor, PDR can be used. However, if the damage is more complex, most adjusters would write the estimate as a conventional repair unless the shop has a technician familiar with PDR and the technology needed. “There is a common sense factor that comes in,” he said. “It’s no different than body work and determining how many hours it will take to fix a quarter panel.” Currently, the technicians doing PDR on big dents are targeting the end customer and many times the work isn’t going through insurance. For example, if it is an $800–$900 repair, some feel it’s not worth it to file a claim because it will probably increase insurance rates. “The majority of those types of repairs are not done in shops today because of that reason,” said Hampton. “As more and more of those repairs get done and more people on all sides understand what can be done, I think that will change.”
Tesla-Approved Body Shop Highlights Model 3 Repair by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati
Tesla-certified body shop Autocraft Bodywerks based out of Austin, TX, showcased just how much work goes into repairing and restoring a damaged Tesla Model 3 in a time-lapse video posted to YouTube. As seen in the video, workers of the body shop spent several days replacing the Model 3’s rear-quarter body panel that was damaged in an accident. According to Autocraft Bodywerks, the process of restoring a damaged Tesla back to showroom condition takes specialized training in aluminum welding and adhesive and mechanical joining technology used in the construction of Tesla vehicles. These skillsets were highlighted in the company’s documentation of its recent Model 3 repair project, where the shop’s workers could be seen taking deliberate care in fitting, setting and painting a new body panel. Tesla’s Model S and Model X are made almost entirely of aluminum. While aluminum has several advantages over steel, such as lighter weight, stellar absorption of energy during collisions and higher corrosion resistance, the material is also
notoriously difficult to work with. Thus, Tesla requires factory training and specialized equipment before a body shop can be certified for repairs and restoration. Repair costs for the company’s vehicles are expensive as well. A Model S owner from the Tesla Motors Club forum, for example, stated that a minor damage on his
vehicle’s rear passenger door was quoted $4,422 by a certified body shop. A picture of the damage can be viewed below. It’s not just costly repairs that are giving Tesla owners difficulties, either. Tesla owners have also dealt with long wait times for their vehicles’ repair work to be completed, especially if body panels need to be replaced. Johnny, a Model S owner, for one, described his painful “repair nightmare” story in Teslarati’s forum,
stating that he had to wait months as the repair shop waited for parts to arrive from Tesla’s factory. Repairing Tesla vehicles are set to improve soon, however. During Tesla’s 2018 Annual Shareholder Meeting, Elon Musk discussed the expansion of Tesla Service Centers and authorized body shops. Musk also stated that the company is in the process of creating Tesla body shop repair locations, which are expected to be ready by the end of June in several key locations across the United States. “We’re rapidly expanding service centers. Year over year, probably see a doubling of service center capacity for Tesla. We’re making major progress on the body shop front. This is quite a big deal. We’re creating Tesla body shop repair locations. We should have by the end of the month at least the top 10 metro areas in the U.S. being able to be serviced by a Tesla body shop. This will be a dramatic improvement in the cost and time of body repair,” Musk said. This is not all, however, as Musk also noted that eventually, Tesla owners could soon experience the convenience of having same-day
body repair services. According to Musk, owners could expect an improvement in the time it takes approved body shops to repair vehicles. “In fact, we think we might be able to do for a lot of them same-day body repair. It’s definitely possible. I think we want to aim for maybe some number of body repair to be sameday. Whereas if we go to a third party, best case is about a week, and some cases, it’s several weeks. We’re basically just taking our biggest service centers, adding an annex for body repair and pre-stocking the parts, so you don’t have to wait for the parts to come from the factory,” Musk said. Tesla’s 2018 Annual Shareholder Meeting proved to be highly successful for the electric car and energy company. During the meeting, Musk and Tesla’s executives related several pieces of good news to shareholders, from upcoming free trials on Autopilot to the growth of Tesla Energy and positive updates on the Model 3 production line. To view video visit: https:// www.teslarati.com/tesla-approvedbody-shop-model-3-repair-video/ We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.
autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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ACURA TEXAS
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Autonation Acura League City
800-749-6227 713-371-4700 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 CarranzaB1@autonation.com
David McDavid Acura Austin
800-575-3553 512-401-5976 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 mkratky@mcdavid.com
David McDavid Acura Plano
972-964-6044 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 dgrajczyk@mcdavid.com
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JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
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D
Please contact these dealers for your Honda or Acura Genuine parts needs. TEXAS
TEXAS
LOUISIANA
COLORADO
McDavid Honda Irving
Rusty Wallis Honda
Superior Honda
Ir ving
Dallas
Har vey
Greeley
800-492-4464 972-790-6003
877-466-3272 214-328-3891
800-943-4227 504-368-5687
Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6 srichardson@mcdavid.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 darryldotsy@rustywallis.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-5:30 parts@superiorhonda.net
888-903-1101 970-506-2795 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-7; Sat 8-4:30 parts@hondaofgreeley.com
Honda of San Marcos
Wholesale Parts Direct
Walker Honda
Mile High Honda
Aus tin
Alexandria
Denver
800-234-4441 512-458-2910
318-448-8255 318-445-6677
800-548-4730 303-369-7800
Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6 sales@wholesalepartsdirect.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 hondaparts@walkerautomotive.com
Dept. Hours: M-S 7-6 lhoover@autotree.net
San Marcos
866-392-1313 512-392-1313 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 9-5 csmith@hondasanmarcos.com
Howdy Honda
OKLAHOMA
NEW MEXICO
Garcia Honda
Austin
Don Carlton Honda
877-941-6513 512-443-4300
Tulsa
Albuquerque
800-722-2379 918-622-9670
800-677-6632 505-260-5002
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-3 partsmgr@howdyhonda.com
Kelly Grimsley Honda Odessa
844-453-5594 432-334-6632 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-12 april@kellygrimsley.com
Russell & Smith Honda
Dept. Hours: M-Sat 7-6 hondaparts@doncarlton.com
Fowler Honda Nor man
866-369-5376 405-573-5719 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-9; Sat 8-4 parts@fowlerhonda.com
Houston
Fenton Honda of Ardmore
800-833-0180 713-663-4266
Ardmore
580-226-1000
Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 7-4 ggregory@russellsmith.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 7:30-2 travis.pierce@fentonmotors.com
TEXAS
LOUISIANA
Honda of Greeley
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8:30-5 Jscott@garciacars.com ARIZONA
Chapman Honda Tucson
800-461-6744 520-202-5770 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4 carlkeefe@chapmantucson.com
Earnhardt Honda Avondale
800-350-6537 623-463-4380 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-9; Sat 7-6 gluna@earnhardt.com
COLORADO
UTAH
Mac Churchill Acura
Acura of Baton Rouge
Pikes Peak Acura
F o r t Wo r t h
Baton R o u g e
C o l o ra d o S p r i n g s
Salt Lake City
888-824-9634 817-806-0571
866-733-2861 225-756-6166
800-456-9568 719-955-1715
800-234-0875 801-323-0492
Dept. Hours: M-F 6-7; Sat 8-5 jguin@macchurchill.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 dlavigne@acurabr.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4 joe_benson@pikespeakacura.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 rick@jodywilkinson.com
Sterling McCall Acura
Walker Acura
Houston
Meta i r i e
713-596-2337 713-596-2338
800-359-8555 504-465-8555
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-7; Sat 7:30-4 jlambert@sterlingmccallacura.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-2 parts@walkeracura.com
OKLAHOMA
Don Carlton Acura of Tulsa Tu l s a
888-550-7278 918-664-2300 Dept. Hours: M-Sat 7-6 acuraparts@doncarlton.com
COLORADO
Jody Wilkinson Acura
Mike Hale Acura
ARIZONA
Acura of Peoria Peoria
866-347-4507 623-792-2559 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7-5 dcavanaugh@vtaig.com
Murray
800-292-4595 801-263-0202 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 7:30-5 pgoold@mikehale.com
Mile High Acura Denver
800-548-4730 303-369-7800 Dept. Hours: M-S 7-6 lhoover@autotree.net
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Shop Strategies with Stacey Phillips
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications, and is co-author of “The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops.” She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
CA Body Shop’s Business Model Focuses on Heavier Collision Repair Work Earlier this year, industry veteran David Caulfield opened Fix Auto Anaheim North in Anaheim, CA, using an innovative business model. Caulfield has been in the collision repair industry since 1975, working every aspect of the trade from the bottom up. In 1988, he opened his first body shop in Orange County, CA—East Hills Auto Collision—which eventually grew to include three locations and became part of the Fix Auto franchise. Last year, Caulfield sold his interest in the business and opened Fix Auto Anaheim North, a 23,500square-foot facility that focuses on heavier collision repair work. Caulfield recently shared information with Autobody News about the processes he uses at Fix Auto Anaheim North—his specialized collision services facility—and his advice to collision repairers looking to
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set themselves apart and be more profitable.
What prompted you to open Fix Auto Anaheim North and how have you differentiated your business?
Q:
After working in the industry for nearly 43 years, I really wanted to focus on things that I felt needed assistance in the industry where there were some trouble spots. I decided to open Fix Auto Anaheim North to focus on reducing the risk and liability associated with heavier collision claims. I feel it will help reduce severity costs through parts price discounts and creative estimating and offer a more objective way to look at how a vehicle is repaired today versus the way our predecessors may have written an estimate on a car.
A:
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
and spending a few more minutes to match the colors, we’re finding that eight out of 10 of those that used to be blended in the past are reduced to two. Another example is PDR (paintless dent repair). It has always been viewed that if the dent is small enough, we’ll PDR it. However, when we have a five- to six-hour dent where the paint isn’t damaged, we’ll PDR those as well. This saves the insurance company and conThe customer care area at Fix Auto Anaheim North sumer a lot of money. match the color. The practice of Can you tell us about the speblending panels increases severity, cialized process you use at the cycle time and the unwarranted removal of parts, yet to set yourself up shop and the benefits? for an additional buffing process. Our system is different than This is costly to the shop, the insurer a traditional body shop. Typand unnecessarily invasive to the vehicle. Using technology correctly ically, when a vehicle comes into For example, a lot of metalliccolored panels are estimated with the assumption a blend is required to
Q: A:
the shop, a technician is responsible for the car key-to-key including a teardown, disassembly, reassembly, framework, mechanical, body, etc. In our model, we have a technician assigned to each one of those skill sets. When a vehicle comes into our facility, a team will disassemble the car, then it will go to the next phase on the assembly line to the next technician and on through completion. Using this process, which is now part of our SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), we’ve been able to reduce cycle times by as much as 65–70 percent. That’s pretty significant. Our record right now on an average claim of $3,900 is 3.8 days. We’re not saying that we’re better than other shops as far as somebody fixing a dent or welding. Our equipment is brand new and we’re using the latest technology in order to stay compliant with the manufacturers’ recommendations like other companies would have. What sets us apart is the way we do it and the order we do it in. We don’t burden one technician to be responsible for the entire repair. Instead, we’ve invested in specific
skills for each of our technicians. For example, we have disassembly, reassembly, mechanical, structural and frame, cutting, fitting and welding and metalsmithing departments. In most shops, when someone fixes a dent, they call that person a body man, but the person who fixes a dent or works the metal in our shop has a department called metalsmithing. That way, he or she takes
get that car out and correct in the shortest period of time with the least invasive repair.
How has your background helped you institute the model used in the shop?
Q:
My background gave me the ability to understand what the next move needed to be. During part of my career, I worked in production shops where there were more disciplined practices and the assembly line was in use. Cars would move pretty seamlessly through a shop, resulting in a one- or two-day repair. I decided to implement that methodology into the collision repair system and found it has been working The repair plant area at the 23,500-square-foot facility out pretty well. an objective view of the vehicle and makes decisions based on what the What did it entail to build a task is. If there is a large dent, it isn’t shop that focuses on heavier attacked with a grinder. The tech is collision? really studying it to make sure that it can be kept as small as possible and It took many years of experimake the best moves as possible to ence and a lot of planning as
A:
Q: A:
far as the layout of the facility and to set up a consistent production line. With our model, a vehicle has no choice but to drive straight into the shop. Then it goes on to a track system and the car slides into its proper stalls. It helps you stay disciplined on the order of things. We also built a team that understands the importance of perfecting one skill instead of multiple skills in order to meet the goals of the company. If you are a frame person, you are a specialist and expert in structural and frame. If you are in the welding department, you are an expert in cutting, fitting and welding and that’s your job; you don’t need to worry about any of the other skill sets in the facility. We just require you just do that job correctly and pass it off to the next person, so they have success. We also have removed many of the traditional burdens a technician faces that cause loss of focus on the repair. Typically, body shop technicians are paid on commission. We are salary-based and pay hourly. Whether our employees fix a car or not, they are paid. Our model relies on having See Business Model, Page 42
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National Associations with Chasidy Rae Sisk
Chasidy Rae Sisk is a freelance technical writer from Wilmington, Delaware, who writes on a variety of fields and subjects, and grew up in a family of NASCAR fans. She can be contacted at crsisk@chasidyraesisk.com.
ASA Partners With Bosch for 5th, Final Webinar: Recalibrating Driver Assistance Systems On Wednesday, May 16, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) partnered with Bosch for the fifth and final webinar of their series on scanning: “Recalibrating Driver Assistance Systems: The Road to Repairing Autonomous Vehicles – Collision Avoidance System Recalibration.” ASA Vice President Tony Molla began the webinar by welcoming attendees and thanking Bosch’s Doc Watson and Pat Pierce for their patience throughout the series. He reminded attendees that the webinar would focus on key procedures for
both collision and mechanical repair and that the tips provided also apply to other brands of scan tools. Before starting the training video, Watson shared, “As a representative for Bosch, we’re happy to have as many attendees as we do today. This is a big topic in our industry, and whether you’re in collision [or] mechanical repair, it applies to all of us.” The video began by looking at the ADAS systems being used today and defining a long list of enhanced features and technology that are integrated into modern vehicles. Bosch’s stance on scanning aligns with most OEMs’ position statements that support pre- and post-scans of vehicles to help identify potential collision and non-collision related DTCs. It also supports reporting all DTCs to the vehicle owner and the insurance company. Discussing adaptive lighting systems that could have several sensors located in many different areas of the vehicle, Watson shared common locations and how to determine when calibration is necessary. He also discussed common locations for blind spot sensors that monitor the location of other vehicles that the driver cannot see. Calibration of this feature often includes removal of the sensor as well as removal of the bumper 36
cover to avoid damaging the mounting location. Regarding forward radar sensors, it is important to monitor the forward distance of objects in front of the vehicle and to control the following distance because systems use this data when calibration is required. Park assist sensors—ultrasonic sensors located in the front and rear bumper covers—monitor the distance between the vehicles and other objects, and calibration or aiming may need to be done after removal of the bumper cover, removal of the sensor or an impact on or near the sensor. Calibration of a steering angle sensor may be needed after airbag deployment, structural repairs or a wheel alignment. This is important because the steering angle sensor controls the lane keep assist, blind spot detection and adaptive lighting. Watson continued to discuss the use of and when calibration is needed on the following: adaptive lighting systems (after suspension or structural repairs, headlight replacement or windshield replacement), blind spot sensors (removal of the sensor, removal of the bumper cover or damage to mounting locations) and forward radar sensors (after replacement of a forward radar sensor but possibly after removal of front bumper/grille, after front structural repairs, or after removal and installation of the forward radar unit). Utilizing multiple cameras to provide a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, the 360 degree camera view requires calibration of all the cameras after the replacement of any of the cameras. However, some OEMs may also require calibration when a side mirror, bumper cover or door is removed. Forward-facing cameras almost always require a calibration or aiming procedure after replacement, but aiming may also be required after removal of the windshield, rearview mirror or the camera itself. “When vehicle repairs containing ADAS integration is done, there is a danger of misalignment, which can have a significant effect on the efficient functioning of the system,”
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
Watson said. “If the camera or sensors are out by even a few millimeters, it can mean the difference between a vehicle avoiding a collision or not. Dynamic ADAS calibration is carried out with the use of a hand-held device plugged directly into the car. Often, the vehicle manufacturer will stipulate specific parameters for calibration of their dynamic ADAS. Static ADAS calibration is carried out in a workshop environment on a level surface. This form of calibration requires specialized equipment. Each car manufacturer requires different calibration settings for their static ADAS.” Looking at the camera system, Watson demonstrated that the light reflecting off an object in front of a lens passes through the lens and is collected at a focal point before it passes to a charge coupled device (CCD), which then collects the light and sends
it to a capacitor which, in turn, sends it to the amplifier where it is converted to voltage. The voltage is then sent to the controller for calculation. The controller will use multiple recordings over a given time period to calculate distance and identify deviation from normal conditions based on location, speed and distance using an algorithm. Watson used several illustrations and clips to demonstrate how this works, stressing “The whole idea of ADAS systems is to help avoid accidents. The system tries to aid the driver to prevent accidents.” The webinar concluded with demonstrations of camera calibrations for several makes and models, focused on reasons to carry out the calibration, what conditions must be met before calibration, how to calibrate the camera and what types of test drives are necessary after caliSee ASA Partners, Page 41
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Social Media for Shops
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
with Ed Attanasio
Shop Owner Creates Podcast to Connect With Shop Owners, Managers Ron Perretta has owned and operated Professionals Auto Body with two locations in Altoona and Dunkinsville, PA, since 1979. He also owns Global Business Consultants, which advises collision repairers; Media One, which performs marketing and advertising services for body shops; a mechanical shop; a glass company; and a towing business. He started his shop at age 19 and is always looking for new ways to expand and diversify his businesses.
Q: A:
Why do you have so many irons in the fire?
I have been talking to shops about that for the past 20 years and I always tell them that all shops should diversify, only because when things in one business can lag, having several working in conjunction to keep revenue coming in will help them during those lean times.
Q: A:
You recently created Body Shop Pioneers?
Yes, it’s a Facebook page and we also do a podcast with the same name. We reach out to shops around the country that have made a difference in the collision repair industry and/or are trying to do so. With our podcast, we interview top people in the industry and discuss some of their achievements and how they’ve impacted the business. We talk about their roles; the whole concept is to get their messages out there so that shops all over the country can understand that they’re not the only ones who are going through the same hurdles that we have all encountered. We also try to make the point that by sitting on the sidelines, changes will not occur. When they start looking at what their peers in the industry are
doing, it will hopefully motivate them to help create these changes that we badly need in this industry. We also have another podcast that we produce called the Professionals Auto Body Community podcast that we use to communicate community messages. We have interviewed local law enforcement and people with other meaningful causes in the communities where we do business, and it’s been a valuable tool in that regard.
If you want to participate in Body Shop Pioneers, you have to qualify and it’s a fairly exclusive group. Is that correct?
Q:
Yes, you have to be either a body shop owner or a manager. We don’t accept technicians, painters, front office people or vendors, because we want to feature topics and subjects that apply directly to what owners and managers are interested in. It’s a small exclusive group right now, but it’s still a young project and we’re expecting it to grow rather quickly. It’s not going to be huge, but we expect it to grow significantly within the next one to two years. On our Professionals Auto Body Facebook page, for example, we’re currently approaching 15,000 people who like us and are active on the page. We have a pretty big base with consumers in our markets and the Body Shop Pioneers page [will grow in] the same way. In fact, just this week I had to decline 40 people who wanted to join Body Shop Pioneers because they’re not owners or managers. So it is already growing in popularity, but we have to keep it exclusive.
A:
Q:
So you have major names in the collision repair industry
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JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
on your podcast and the members send you questions to ask them in advance?
That’s right. Next week we will have shop owner Ray Gunder on our show, a well-known name in the industry, and recently we had Gina Petrarca, an attorney whose father owns a shop in Rhode Island who is heavy in collision-related state legislation and a major player in the state. We will also have April Hernandez Stevens on our show soon. She is a body shop owner in Atlanta, GA, who won a large lawsuit a few years ago against State Farm.
A:
Q: A:
Why did you name it Body Shop Pioneers?
Because we want it to cater to those shops that want to be independent from their DRPs, the way
we do it here at Professionals. Years ago, we dropped all of our DRPs because we decided that we didn’t want to compromise our quality anymore. We want other shops to know that they can be independent and don’t have to deal with the multiple obstacles that are often created by the insurance programs. I was a trainer for 17 years traveling all over the country for PPG, and out of the thousands of shops I met with, not one ever said that they enjoyed their DRPs. We want them to know that they have options and don’t have to be bullied around. If they don’t want to be run by a third-party, it’s possible and those that have shed their DRPs are what we call Body Shop Pioneers. Some shops don’t think they have choices, but we want them to know that they can. That’s why we feature truly independent shops on our Facebook page and podcast.
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Historical Snapshot with John Yoswick
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, 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.
5 Years Ago, Shop Wanted to Choose Parts Systems Rather Than Face Insurer Mandates 20 Years Ago in the Collision Repair Industry (July 1998) I was recently told of a body shop doing more than $5 million in gross sales per year. It sounds like an impressive operation until you consider that this shop, heavy into direct repair programs (DRPs), has only a 4 percent profit margin. For all that’s involved in maintaining an auto body business—the customer-employee-insurance headaches, enormous outlays for tools, help and training, building and property payments, etc.—such a meager profit is an insult to business intelligence. With most shops today making less than 5 percent profit (and that margin is steadily dropping) repairers who are also good businessmen are rare.
In 1998, Washington shop owner Dick Strom was a regular columnist in a number of industry trade publications, often espousing the view that DRPs would benefit insurers far more than shops or consumers
I’m reminded of the true story of several scientists who were dropped off in a remote region of Africa to make scientific reports. After going months with no human contact and with their food supplies depleted, they eventually discovered a patch of berries that look quite similar to an edible variety back home. In the following weeks, gorging themselves on these berries, they slowly became weaker and weaker until each man died. Analysis of the berries after the men’s bodies were found showed that they had absolutely no food value. These men, confident that they were well-nourished while waiting out their rescue, actually were being weakened 40
and starved to death so slowly that they didn’t realize their mistake until it was too late. I have to wonder about the great number of shops clamoring for pieces of the DRP berry pie. Why is it so hard for otherwise intelligent men and women to see the trap and the coming malnutrition and starvation that insurers will eventually bring upon us when DRPs have saturated the industry? Body shops, now contentedly stuffed overfull with DRP berries, will eventually realize they’re starving to death, though by that time, they’ll be powerless to resist. All the work in the world, if it is of no profit, is still profitless. – from an editorial by Dick Strom, at the time a shop owner in Washington state, published in The Golden Eagle. According to the shop’s website, Strom sold the business to his sons in 2010, and it “continues to thrive as a non-DRP shop” with 14 employees.
15 Years Ago in the Collision Repair Industry (July 2003) Third-party “desk auditors” faced some critics and tough questions during a panel discussion at the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) held in Hollywood, FL, in late July. Representatives of three companies that offer insurers remote reviews of repair estimates discussed their companies’ histories, employee training and auditing practices. The three were asked, for example, whether they are compensated for their work based upon the amount by which they are able to reduce a shop’s estimate. “We are compensated on a perfile basis, whether there are savings or not,” said John Gizzio of American Computer Estimating (ACE), a Pennsylvania-based desk review company that audits more than 10,000 claims each month. “We do not take part of the savings. And we do ... charge if there are no savings. We are compensated for every job that we do.” Mike Price of the Georgiabased, 30-employee Audit Services,
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
Inc., also said his firm is paid on a perclaim, per-assignment basis. Mike Saliba, vice president of ComSearch’s Ready Review desk auditing service, said his company’s compensation is “based on a number of things, but savings is not one of them.” Gizzio said that some of the savings they offer insurers is not just in reduction in the bottom line of repair estimates, but in reductions in cycle time, rental costs and direct expenses such as field adjusters. All three of the companies say they are not using electronic systems that automatically flag certain items on estimates for review. Rather, the reviewer enters the estimate into the company’s chosen estimating system and checks it against the profile established by their insurer client. While those “profiles” cover such things as non-OEM and salvage parts use, all three of the companies say they do
not change “judgment” repair times. “We do not adjust or change judgment items,” Price said. “We apply our client’s guidelines... When it comes to a judgment item, obviously we haven’t seen the damage.” The other two companies represented on the panel concurred, and although the three represent a majority of the desk audit market, nearly every shop owner at CIC raised their hand when asked if they had had judgment times changed as part of desk audits. “There are other companies that do this work,” Gizzio said. “We’re not representing them, just our own companies here today ... If you put down a five-hour repair, you get a five-hour repair.” Price said he recommended that if a remote auditor changed judgment times, the shop should call the insurer involved.
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– As reported in Autobody News. 10 Years Ago in the Collision Repair Industry (July 2008) The Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG) has surpassed one of its first milestones by processing more than 500 inquiries in just over six months of operation. If the value of inquiries remains consistent, the first two quarters of the year indicate that the DEG will likely process more than 1,000 inquiries by the end of year on. “Collision estimating data customers clearly turn to the DEG as their partner for submitting their firsthand-concerns to the information providers,” said DEG Joint Operating Committee Member Nick Kostakis. – As reported in Collision Repair Industry INSIGHT. The DEG website (www.DEGweb.org) has now processed more than 8,600 inquiries. 5 Years Ago in the Collision Repair Industry (July 2013) At the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) held in Boston, some participants questioned why the CIC Parts Committee had not addressed certain
issues related to electronic parts procurement systems. The committee is working to produce a matrix that it hopes will indicate differences in features and other aspects of the various systems.
In 2013, California shop owner Randy Stabler said shops should be allowed to choose which electronic parts sourcing / ordering systems are used based on features, rather than insurer mandates
But California shop owner Randy Stabler said understanding those differences won’t matter if shops are being required to use a particular system. “Let the people who want to make a parts procurement engine build the best tool, and let the mar-
ketplace decide which one is the best, rather than being forced,” Stabler said. Aaron Schulenburg of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) agreed. “For more than a year now, this committee has been asked, at least by individuals of this body, for a very serious discussion about the entry-tomarket (of the systems),” he said. “It keeps being avoided, frankly. I think we really need to have that before we just ask how they work.” CIC Chairman George Avery said the committee should continue its work on the matrix, but acknowledged that “it seems like we jumped ahead,” and that “it’s prudent that we facilitate the discussion that I think is being asked for.” – As reported in CRASH Network (www.CrashNetwork.com), July 29, 2013.
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Continued from Page 36
ASA Partners
bration. Bosch calibration coverage includes FCA, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Toyota and Subaru, but the company is continuing to increase its coverage to include all makes and models requiring forward-facing cameras for dynamic and/or static calibration. Preceding Bosch’s question-andanswer session, Watson concluded by thanking those who attended the series. “We hope we have accomplished our goal of increasing your understanding of ADAS, its impact on the industry and how it impacts repairs and diagnostic procedures,” Watson said. “Our intent was to introduce and provide information and resources to support your understanding and interest in diagnosing and repairing systems, and we look forward to providing additional training sessions in the near future.” All five Bosch webinars are available online for ASA members. For more information about the association, visit www.asashop.org.
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Caliber Collision Collects 4.3 Million Meals to Feed Kids This Summer
Caliber Collision teammates nationwide rallied valued customers, business partners and local communities to collect a record 4.3 million meals for their recently completed 7th Annual Rhythm Restoration Food Drive to feed at-risk children over the summer months.
Cash and food items collected from Caliber’s Rhythm Restoration Food Drive will help 53 regional food banks replenish and stock their pantries over the summer months, when demand is highest, for families with children who do not have access to school lunches. According to Feeding America, of the 22 million children who receive free and reduced-price lunches during the school year, only 4 million continue to receive subsidized meals over the summer months.
Continued from Page 33
Business Model
technicians available in real time for any vehicle that comes their way. That’s the investment we made.
Q: A:
What has your experience been like with Fix Auto?
Each Fix Auto is independently owned and operated. I’ve found that Fix Auto is a supporter of innovation. They are always encouraging the individual franchisees to raise the bar on whatever they do. I regularly attend Fix Auto meetings. I think that anytime shops can get together, the owners can collaborate on what’s working for them and what’s not. Something new always seems to come out of that. What is your advice to shops preparing for the future and being innovative?
Q:
If you’re tired of sitting at the table, wondering how you can best cure diminishing profits, in-
A:
Mitchell Issues Second Quarter 2018 Industry Trends Report
Mitchell, a leading provider of technology, connectivity and information solutions to the Property & Casualty (P&C) claims and Collision Repair industries, today released its Industry Trends Report(ITR) for the second quarter of 2018. The report includes a deep dive into how data analytics are now embedded into most levels of insurance organizations, presenting both challenges and opportunities. In this edition of the Industry Trends Report, Mitchell executives provide views on the most recent industry developments. Debbie Day, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Auto Physical Damage, delves into how advanced safety technologies can simplify the claims and collision repair processes, and how they also support better outcomes for the insured. In this quarter’s Auto Physical Damage edition, Ryan Mandell, Director of Claims Performance at Mitchell, explains how data analyt-
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ics have permeated most levels of insurance companies, creating new opportunities and challenges. One of these is making data accessible to stakeholders who have little experience in the field of data science, so their organizations can achieve the greatest value from both data and human resources. Insurers can take several steps to foster a culture that maximizes the effectiveness of data analytics at all levels. Mandell explains that insurers must “beware the interpretation gap trap. Even though the people working on a particular question may not be insurance analytics experts, it is still essential to understand the source of data and the methodology used to produce them.” The latest report is packed full of key industry insights and useful information, including extensive collision repair and total loss data, rental data for repairable vehicles, and an in-depth look at the Canadian collision summary report.
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creased cycle times and the increased risks associated with today’s vehicles, you really need to know the make-up of what you are bringing into your facility.
vehicles, the shop was designed and built to repair vehicles that were those 15 out of 100 cars that average about $5,500 a claim and have structural and/or welding and/or mechanical work needed related to the collision. About 90 percent of our work is DRP-related. We opened February 5 of this year and we brought in $90,000 our first month and $151,000 our second. Our goal is to repair about six of these heavier collision claims per day. When you separate the heavier collision out of the Eddie Ruacho, a structural specialist, spot welds a vehicle mix of both heavy and light with a new replacement panel in the “cutting, fitting and repairs, there is a very proswelding” department perous business model to be After studying this for many had for both types. The larger repairs years, I believe that 15 out of 100 ve- can be done in five to seven days comhicles will require structural work, pared to the 20 or more that it currently welding or heavy mechanical. Once takes the industry today, and the lighter those cars are identified, they will hits in zero to three days; deeper diseventually end up in a specialized counts can be offered to both the inshop like ours and there’s an enor- surer and consumer. mous amount of profitability available and more seamless throughput. www.autobodynews.com Although we receive a variety of
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National Associations with Chasidy Rae Sisk
Chasidy Rae Sisk is a freelance technical writer from Wilmington, Delaware, who writes on a variety of fields and subjects, and grew up in a family of NASCAR fans. She can be contacted at crsisk@chasidyraesisk.com.
YANG 2018 Leadership Conference Is Highest Rated Yet The Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) hosted its 2018 Leadership Conference at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, GA, on May 11– 12 in conjunction with the Auto Care Association’s Spring Leadership Days.
According to YANG Liaison and ACA Manager of Government Affairs David Pinkham, “The event went incredibly well. It was our most well-attended and highestrated Leadership Conference to date. We wanted to ramp up the content this year and provide an effective balance of industry education and professional development, both of which were accomplished.” “Auto Care staff and the YANG Advisory Council were in agreement that this event blew our expectations
paced day and a day of engaging speakers with content that would be relevant to any young, driven professional. The networking opportunities also provided attendees a chance to make connections and talk about their experiences in the industry. “The Auto Care Association prides itself on being able to bring professionals from across all sectors together to network and conduct important business. YANG’s events, especially the YANG Leadership Conference, are a great example of not only being able to bring people together, but putting them in a position to learn from one another and broaden their view of the industry.
Scott LeProhon of Genuine Parts Company presented “How to be a Leader.”
The vast majority of Leadership Conference attendees we surveyed found the event to be both enjoyable and worth their while.” The conference began on May 11 at 1 p.m. with a Welcome Address, followed by a keynote presentation ti-
conference attendees. After a networking break, Ryan Jenkins discussed “Next Generation Leadership: Keys to Working Across a Multi-Generational Workforce” before the conference concluded with “How To Be a Leader,” presented by Scott LeProhon, executive vice president of Global Procurement for Genuine Parts Company. “The purpose of the YANG’s 2018 Leadership Conference attracted many Leadership Conference was attendees who rated this year’s event the best to date to offer quality leadership “Future Trends: The Next Big Indus- training and networking to the auto try Issues.” After a brief networking care industry’s top under [age]-40 break, attendees participated in a performers, and we feel we met the Communicating with Influence work- goal,” Pinkham said. “YANG hopes shop. The day ended with an ACPAC to build off this year’s success and host a conference next year that surReception and dinner. Saturday’s sessions began with a passes this one. We’ve officially Rapid Fire Session and Round Table raised the bar so the pressure is on to Discussions, which were led by five keep the content fresh and exciting.” discussed “Our Industry: A Year in Review.” Afterward, Jim Dykstra, CEO of Dytech Auto Group, covered
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How Your Shop’s Compliance Score Can Save You Money, Bring You More Work by Autobody News Staff
Did you realize that the benefits of a good compliance credit score can help you in many ways, including having a better chance for vendor credit, increased negotiating power, lower worker’s comp rates, better employee retention, an absence of EPA/OSHA audits and fines and— get this—better insurance premiums? It’s true. Owning and operating a body shop is becoming more and more expensive every day as salaries increase, training and equipment become costlier than ever and cars become more technologically sophisticated and complex. Even if you haven’t filed any insurance claims, insurance premiums still go up, and it becomes a never-ending cycle that can seriously affect your bottom line. There are so many things to spend your hardearned money on, and shop insurance isn’t likely at the top of that list. But fear not, because there are several things that you can proactively pursue on a consistent basis that can help you improve the chances that your insurance increases won’t outpace your ability to run your business. One of those extremely important factors is your compliance credit score, which you can get free of charge from a data analytics company called Recs Lock at www.fg2.us. Every shop in the country has one and is constantly being monitored by a wide range of companies, including the car manufacturers and insurance companies. George Avery worked for State Farm as an internal consultant for 31 years and was the chairman for the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) for two years. He is a highly respected public spokesperson for the collision repair industry that makes presentations at a large number of industry conferences, including the upcoming Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) Symposium in Tampa, FL, Sept. 17–19. He has extensive knowledge from both sides of the industry—insurance companies and collision repairers—because he grew up in the body shop world before working for State Farm. Avery sees multiple benefits for shops that can stay compliant and knows that insurers will value it 46
on many levels. “This data is now in the cloud and available to so many more entities, that all of a sudden repair facilities are being judged more carefully for the way they fix cars and the way they comply with literally every aspect of their business,” Avery said.”It’s being monitored in a completely different way now and insurance companies are more discerning and only consider shops that have better numbers in these areas. It’s for the benefit of the insurance industry, the collision repairers and ultimately the consumer as well. Insurers want to know that they’re working with the best shops in their portfolio, and this data can make that happen.” So, here are some ways to save money on your insurance premiums and protect yourself from having to dig deeply into your pockets as rates rise. First, preserve your permit history by maintaining a strong regulatory compliance record. Your regulatory history is highly important to keeping your insurance premiums in check, so avoiding violations is significant. Things can happen, so if you do get a violation, minimizing the impact is vital. The old days of getting the help of a safety consultant to minimize the severity of a violation are long gone, so avoiding them altogether in the first place is more vital than ever. Another method to achieve this is to protect your credit as well, because it also directly correlates to your insurance rates. Insurance companies all over the country are now assigning risk scores to their current and potential customers based on things such as your years in business, permit history and credit scores. Insurance companies strongly believe that shops with poor credit scores will likely be less detailed with their regulatory documentation, so it’s all connected. In some states, this is not allowed, but many do, so consistently paying your bills on time is imperative to saving money on your insurance premiums. Stay on top of your compliance all the time to avoid creating a poor track record that can seriously damage your insurance premiums. Getting cited or fined for any violation can cause your score to plummet, just like if you miss a mortgage or car
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
payment in the real credit world. Designate someone who is experienced and who you can trust to keep you in total compliance all the time and rely on them to keep your operation safe. You can have a pristine record, but one misstep along the way can put you in a bad spot rather quickly. Establishing a comprehensive written safety plan is also an ideal way to avoid problems down the road and will make your shop likely to be rewarded by insurance companies as a result. You would be surprised by how many top-notch shops don’t have a written safety manual. Insurance companies are obviously extremely interested in reducing risk, so when they know that a shop has a plan that is carefully documented and adhered to, they will often reward it with lower insurance premiums. In the end, running a compliant business that follows the rules will pay off on many levels. If you get great scores from your DRPs and have an outstanding Consumer Service Index, that is a great start. Shops that do the right things and are thor-
ough in every area of compliance logically don’t get fined and stay out of trouble. So, preserving your permit history is an important way to keep your shop’s insurance premiums in check. Some lose track of their permitting because they’re busy fixing cars and providing exemplary customer service, but that is a mistake that can seriously impact you in many ways. Overall, if you implement these measures you may not significantly reduce your shop insurance premiums in a huge way, but collectively they can save you on your insurance overtime. If the funds are going into anyone’s pocket, why shouldn’t it be yours? Why give it to your insurer instead as opposed to buying that new piece of equipment that can help you repair cars better and more efficiently or give your better techs a bonus for their excellent work? Establishing and working hard to establish a good compliance score can enable you to save money and bring you new business along the way, so yes indeed—regulatory compliance really does matter!
In Reverse with Gary Ledoux
Gary Ledoux is an industry veteran with 48 years’ experience in the automotive and OEM collision parts industry. His column appears exclusively in Autobody News. He can be reached at YesterWreck@yahoo.com
The 1940s – Part 1 - An End, a Beginning and a Birthday The 1940s marked the end of the Great Depression as America was thrust into WWII. It was a time of great uncertainty. Several years of global war would bring about cultural, economic, political and social change that had never before been seen in the U.S. and around the world—not the least of which would be dramatic changes in the American automotive industry in general and the collision repair industry in particular. In fact, many collision industry leaders and long-standing collision industry suppliers agree that the post-war period beginning in 1945 marked the birth of what we know today as the modern automotive collision repair industry. Interestingly, in December 1941, just before America’s entry into the war and in the face of lingering difficult economic times, new car production hit a peak in the U.S. A financial
analyst employed by State Farm insurance estimated there were 30,000,000 cars on America’s roads, and less than half carried adequate insurance. Subsequently, State Farm agents were selling record numbers of new auto insurance policies. Every week, records were broken. It seemed like there would be no end to the ravenous selling of auto insurance policies. And then all hell broke loose on a Sunday morning in Hawaii, on a U.S. Navy base that few Americans were aware of. The war years were marked by shortages of just about everything, including tires and gasoline. In 1942, civilian car production was curtailed so that factories could turn out war materials. Auto travel and just about everything associated with it were brought to a standstill. Car dealers had to survive on service and parts sales. Auto parts jobbers were selling fewer parts
and less paint and body supplies, so some turned to other items to generate a profit, including lawn mowers and bicycles. Many companies now associated with the collision industry did their part to the war effort. DuPont, longknown for its superior gunpowder, contributed 4.5 billion pounds of explosives for the war effort. SherwinWilliams was ready to help the cause with a newly constructed $37 million facility and a workforce of 6,000. The company made more than 10 million ammunition shells, several million aerial bombs and anti-tank mines. The U.S. was building ships—which needed paint—and Sherwin-Williams was ready. More than 400,000 pounds of Sherwin-Williams paint was applied to the USS Iowa. The war accelerated the development and production of special aviation and industrial coating that would later fit peacetime applica-
tions. More than 2,700 SherwinWilliams employees served in the US Armed Forces. Sadly, 25 never returned home. Industrial color designers who had spent the 1930s trying to figure out what color car would sell best were relegated to designing camouflage patterns. Despite the death of new automobiles and severe slump in vehicle miles traveled, automotive technology continued to plow forward. The decade of the ‘40s saw such automotive innovations as automatic transmissions, safety-rim wheels, two-speed electric windshield wipers, electro-hydraulic power windows and seats, disc brakes and some unit-body construction. Car design was influenced by aviation and the air war over Europe and the Pacific theater. The once-boxy auto design was becoming sleeker and more stylish—adding new challenges to their See The 1940s, Page 54
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Industry Insight with John Yoswick
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, 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.
Certification, Legislation Related to Non-OEM Parts Get Spotlighted at Convention Speakers representing insurers and will be well-positioned for the funon-OEM parts manufacturers, dis- ture,” he said. “I think those [that] tributors and certifiers offered a vari- are not, those who are just saying, ety of perspectives from the podium ‘I’m just going to … do what I’ve alat the recent Automotive Body Parts ways done,’ at some point the [car Association (ABPA) annual conven- population] that they’ll have availtion. able to repair is going to shrink.” Patrick Burnett, who leads maReturning to the subject of certerial damage operations for Nation- tification, Bob Frayer of NSF Inwide Insurance, told non-OEM parts ternational said his organization is industry representatives at the event launching certification of non-OEM that alternative parts played radiator supports. He also a significant role in the alurged the aftermarket parts most 700,000 estimates for industry to ensure that nonthe insurer’s auto claims last OEM parts such as bumper year. covers allow for the proper “I won’t get into exact functioning of proximity numbers, but I will tell you sensors and rearview camalmost half of the part dollars eras. Bob Frayer that we wrote came from al“It’s one thing to design ternative parts,” Burnett said. a bumper cover that fits the vehicle. He said that as a financial organ- It’s another thing to design a bumper ization, the cost of those parts is im- cover that allows for the proper inportant. stallation of the proximity sensor, “But I’m almost more interested and making sure that proximity senin quality and how quickly you can sor works properly,” Frayer said. get that part where it needs to go and “It’s something that NSF is working how you work with repair facilities very hard to make sure happens.” and others to facilitate a good, solid He said 21 parts distributors repair,” he said. “For crash parts, we have earned NSF certification themlook for NSF- or CAPA-certified selves, a program NSF developed, parts, and NSF-certified distributors Frayer said, in part to ensure distribto deliver those crash parts. To us utors are actually delivering certithat’s very important. It’s important fied parts when shops order certified to know the quality of what’s going parts. on our estimates and what may be “That seems like a very comdelivered to those repair facilities as mon sense way of running a busithose parts go onto vehicles.” ness, but I can tell you in fact that’s Burnett was asked about his not the way business is always being view of the outlook for body shops. done,” Frayer said. “Many times, He said driver safety and assistance certified parts are ordered and that’s technology will continue to make re- not what’s delivered to the repair pairs more complex. shop. I think it was important for us “It’s going to change who’s able to recognize that, and make sure that to repair that car, who should be re- what’s ordered is what gets delivpairing that car,” he said. “It will ered. When a certified part gets orchange the make-up of the repair in- dered and a non-certified part gets dustry; I’m very confident of that.” delivered, I think that hurts all of us He acknowledged it will be in this room.” tough for smaller collision repair opAs he did at the ABPA confererations to keep up. ence a year earlier, Frayer worked to “The larger shops that are com- explain the difference between a mitted to the equipment, the training NSF-certified part and one bearing [and] the certification path and that the “NSF Registered Part” label. As have the money [and] the capital out- part of the full certification process, lay that it takes to make that happen Frayer said, NSF conducts audits of
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JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
the parts’ manufacturing facilities; these products … but at the end of that doesn’t happen for “NSF Regis- the day, what the market is saying is tered” parts. Certification also in- we don’t have an appetite for certifivolves “in-market testing of the cation.” State and federal legislation reproducts being sold,”—not so with parts that are only registered. With lated to non-OEM parts was also on the agenda at the ABPA those parts, he said, NSF convention. A bill introonly validates “that the deduced in Iowa, for example, sign is the same as the OEM would prohibit insurers part and that it worked propfrom requiring a shop to use erly on the vehicle.” a specific parts vendor or Mirrors are among the procurement process, or parts commonly being “regfrom requiring the use of istered” rather than “certiRay Colas non-OEM crash parts for fied.” “We’re doing this because for the repair of a vehicle 5 years old or certain part types, this is what the newer. Ray Colas, director of govmarket is asking for,” Frayer said, ernment affairs for LKQ Corporanot indicating whether by “mar- tion, told those at the ABPA ket” he was speaking of parts man- convention that the bill was introufacturers or parts buyers as not duced by a lawmaker who represents interested in the presumably more a district in which an LKQ facility is expensive certification process. “I located. Colas said that previously would love to be able to certify all See Spotlighted at Convention, Page 53
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Why Choosing a Technical School Makes Sense by Bill DeYoung, St. Pete Catalyst
America’s education system isn’t exactly a well-oiled machine, on any level. According to the Federal Reserve, more than $1.4 trillion in student loan debt remains outstanding—over $600 billion more than the sum total of our national credit card debt. Higher education, of course, has never been cheap—and there are strong indicators that specialized course programs, training academies and technical schools can focus American students toward lucrative careers in ways that the traditional four-year public colleges don’t. Or can’t.
Credit: Pinellas Technical College
In all-important STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields, 21st century education comes with many options. And they don’t all consume four years— or longer—and cost the nest egg. Carl Lavender, who manages the Office of Workforce Innovation at Pinellas Technical College, has heard all sides of the argument. “People say, ‘Hold on now, they’ll pay that student loan money back,’” Lavender explained. “Well, they haven’t found enough jobs to pay back those lump sums. “The smart household knows when the child isn’t a four-year college child: ‘But my child needs to work, so let me give him or her something they can do right now.’ And that’s why technical colleges are incredibly important right now.” It’s not your grandfather’s technical school any more, turning out aspiring beauticians and auto mechanics. Between its campuses in St. Petersburg and Clearwater, FL, PTC offers intensive courses—most take 50
a year or less—in computer systems and information technology, network support services, coding, pharmacy tech, web development, medical coding, record transcribing and administration, surgical technology and other crucial STEM-related careers. These are in-demand careers. “Between our two technical college campuses, we have 4,224 students enrolled,” Pinellas County School Superintendent Dr. Michael Grego said at an education roundtable in April. “We see 87 percent of these students graduate, and then we see 93 percent of our graduates placed into employment.” The cost of the PTC education is considerably less than a four-year university tuition. And the school’s success rate in industrial courses (welding, HVAC, electricity, automotive service technology, etc.) is impressive. “It’s a smart conversation to discuss technical colleges as a forward-thinking workforce development plan,” Lavender said. “And there is this whole national movement regarding the craftsmen-slash-tradespeople that are retiring, and the need for prepared young people to step into those roles based upon the demand for the trades, of course, but also because the four-year degree isn’t the only path to take to self-defining work.” Twenty-eight percent of PTC students enroll with full college degrees— even Masters and higher—eager to change or expand their experience. “For those who’ve been working for a long time and are sick of the rat race—hey, go back to school, pick up certification in a trade and try a new career,” Lavender offered. New construction, building maintenance and the repair of homes and offices are expected to drive demand for plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. During his April talk, Grego also praised PTC’s medical assistance programs. “PTC’s pharmacy technician and dental assisting graduates have placement rates above 98 percent,” he said. “We have more job calls than grad-
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
uates. “There’s a huge demand for those who follow the allied health career path. Hospitals need these folks to be on staff and full-time. There are 70 million Boomers in America, and we’re approaching the time in our lives when we may have a prescription or two in our house … “So you’re talking about a boom industry. Go to your local pharmacy and look behind that counter. To that end, our college produces pharmacy technicians who are absolutely necessary to hospitals, clinics and medical offices. Absolutely necessary.” Established at PTC just a year ago, the Office of Workforce Innovation exists to plug students directly into the local workforce—filling one skills gap at a time. “We help graduate people and help find them jobs,” Lavender explained. “We help get people certified to work in industry, and we help industry keep their workforce educated and connected.” More and more, the country’s technical schools—so much more
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than less-expensive alternatives to “real” colleges—are turning out skilled, viable, competitive members of the contemporary American workforce. “It’s a whole different conversation now,” Lavender pointed out. “What’s happening now is that the sociology major can’t find work: ‘Had I gone to school and gotten certified in welding, or in dot net computer programming, I’d be doing a whole lot better right now with my income.’ “So, to that person who might still say ‘Oh, the trade college? Too bad’ – no, I don’t think so. These are necessary jobs that make life better for people.” We thank St. Pete Catalyst for reprint permission.
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Day Job/Night Job with Ed Attanasio
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
IL Body Shop Owner Creates Cajun Sauce, Uses as Marketing Tool Dave Dunn is not just a shop owner. He is also a marketing guru, the owner of a training center and the founder of Gator Sauce, a culinary creation that he uses as a marketing tool that has people throughout Illinois salivating and pouring it on everything from gumbo all the way to scrambled eggs.
Dave Dunn, the owner of Dave’s Auto Body in Galesburg, IL, developed a product called Gator Sauce to attract customers and create a brand people will remember
In addition to having been the owner and operator of Dave’s Auto Body in Galesburg, IL, for the past 42 years, Dunn also owns Masters Educational Services, a consulting and market managing firm that teaches people how to increase their work output and market their businesses. He is 63, but will work indefinitely, he said, because he still loves the business and is always looking for new ways to make it even more exciting, including developing products like Gator Sauce. Dunn dropped out of high school at age 16 and opened his own shop in Knoxville, IL, after working as a general manager at a car dealership for two and a half years. “Working there was a great experience because I received a lot of mentoring and was exposed to new cars and coaching,” he said. “But then the place burned down, and that’s when I opened Dave’s Auto Body.” By doing the important things right, Dunn was able to step away from his business in less than a 52
decade. “At age 30, I was semi-retired and playing a lot of golf,” he said. “Several articles appeared in local publications telling my story and people began calling me. They wanted to know how I was able to succeed while other owners were in their 60s and working 70 hours a week. That’s when I starting a consulting company that I did for 10 years.” At age 40, he established Masters School of Auto Body Management. People would come to him rather than him traveling to them as a consultant. “It took off like gangbusters and we’ve been doing it ever since,” Dunn said. “We now have our corporate headquarters here in Galesburg and we have students from all over the country. Now we teach management, leadership and marketing and have instructed more than 6,000 students within the last 22 years. We feature a basic four-day class and also have a wide range of other skills-based classes for things such as sales estimating, production management and marketing that are more specialized and average two to three days for both the dealership world, the independent body shop world and other industries as well.”
visit a body shop or get into an accident to go to one. So, how can a shop build an ongoing relationship with the consumer and give them a reason to actually enter the facility? Dunn is a strong believer in what’s known as the “purple cow effect,” he said. “If you drive by a bunch of black and white cows, that isn’t remarkable, but if you see a purple one, you’re likely to pull over and take a picture of it,” he said. “It makes a huge impression. Our Gator Sauce is our purple cow because people don’t expect a body shop to have a sauce and it is definitely an attention-getter.” The sauce is purchased and relabeled through a company in Louisiana called Cajun Chef Sauces and is popular at local restaurants. The cost of providing it free to the public is approximately $20,000 annually, distrib-
uting 5,000 bottles of the product every year. Some shop owners must think Dunn is crazy, but it’s a marketing tool that has paid for itself many times over, he said. Dunn’s sauce is now a big deal and has become a cult favorite throughout the county, he said. “The Gator brand has led to other things within the Galesburg area under the group name of Gator Events,” he said. “It was developed to increase community involvement and has led to charitable events, including a benefit run and chef challenges where they create different recipes using the sauce. A few years ago, we did a Dave’s Gator Sauce Challenge where we closed a street here in the shopping district of Galesburg and turned it into a big street fair [that] 5,000 people attended. “I joke about a lot of my marketing efforts and say that the best things
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Dunn realized long ago that the collision repair business is based on need rather than choice. Nobody wakes up in the morning yearning to
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
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I’ve done involve giving things away,” he said. “I have a registered trademark on something called Detail for Life, where we detail our customers’ cars four times a year after we fix them. We detail 500 cars every month out of our detailing shop in a town of roughly 30,000 people and many of them are paid customers.” Dave’s Auto Body does $5.5 million in sales every year out of a small town, which is unusual. He credits much of it to his unique marketing concepts, including one that involves a palm tree outside his shop. “It’s like the purple cow idea because palm trees don’t grow in Galesburg, but we have one here,” he said. “In California or Florida, that would obviously not be anything unusual, but here it’s an attention-getter and people want photos taken with it all the time.”
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bringing the state representative in for a facility tour had helped raise his understanding of the issue, something Colas reminded the lawmaker about.
got themselves into,” Colas said. “We had to educate them. It’s always good if we educate these members before somebody else does.” (In an op-ed piece published in a Rhode Island newspaper in June after the convention, ABPA Executive Director Ed Salamy voiced opposition to proposed legislation in
“‘In all honesty,’ he told us, ‘I completely forgot about that,’” Colas said, noting that the lawmaker still has some concerns but said he would “remove the bill from consideration.” Colas had similar assessments of lawmakers sponsoring bills in Illinois that would require the use of OEM repair specifications and procedures when estimating repairs and prohibit the use of non-OEM parts without the customer’s consent in writing. “They did not realize what they
that state that would expand the state’s ban on the use of non-OEM parts to include vehicles up to 48 months old—from the current 30month ban. Calling the legislation anti-competitive, Salamy warned consumers that, “Put simply, these bills would take away your choice about how to repair your vehicle.”) Sources say that during a portion of the ABPA convention closed to the media, a former U.S. Senator expressed optimism about the prospects for the “PARTS Act,” pro-
Continued from Page 48
Spotlighted at Convention
“They did not realize what they got themselves into, we had to educate them. It’s always good if we educate these members before somebody else does.” — Ray Colas
posed federal legislation that would slash the time that automakers can use design patents to prevent other companies from producing replacement crash parts from 14 years to just 30 months. Mark Pryor, a former Senator from Arkansas who is now a partner with a legal and lobbying firm in Washington, D.C. that is representing the “Quality Parts Coalition,” said that group is pressing for a vote on the bill by a U.S. House committee before the mid-term elections in November. But the legislation faces some big hurdles to overcome before this Congress ends. Even if passed by the committee, the bill would still need to be scheduled for a vote in the House, and there’s been no action on the Senate version of the legislation. Two of the bills’ four primary sponsors (Republicans Sen. Orrin Hatch of Utah and Rep. Darrell Issa of California) have announced their retirement from Congress this year, and most D.C. observers aren’t predicting a flurry of legislative activity in the final six months of the 115th Congress.
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Continued from Page 47
The 1940s
repair. Way before the 2015 Ford F150 truck was introduced with a “high strength, military-grade, aluminumalloy” body, the Boeing Aircraft Company designed an automobile slated for post-war production in 1943. Its design, not surprisingly, was heavily influenced by aircraft design, with a 75HP rear engine and an all-aluminum body. It never reached production, but its development underscores the fact that using something other than steel for car bodies is not an entirely new idea. In fact, Ford introduced the first “plastic” car in 1941. The “plastic” was 70 percent cellulose derived from hemp, sisal and wheat straw with a resin binder made from soybeans, wheat, cotton and a few other “proprietary” materials. The car material was supposedly lighter than steel and could withstand 10 times the impact. (This sounds like today’s high strength steel!) Henry Ford was truly a man ahead of his time. The 1940s also saw improvement in automotive refinish technology. Paint booth fires in the 1930s led to improved paint booths of the 1940s being made of cement blocks or metal—non-flammable materials.
Lights were also placed in housings to keep them out of the path of atomized paint. Doors were put on the front of the booth to create a drivein structure and keep overspray from permeating the shop and every other car in the shop. The first modern spray booths were born. The 1940s also saw the introduction of better overspray, capturing media filters made with treated paper. This also marked the natal beginnings of specialty auto body repair tools, metallic paints, improvements in custom paint mixing and production at the shop and jobber level and early estimating guides, which included parts. Perhaps most important to the coalescence of the collision repair industry was the early formation of the auto body and auto repair associations and the early newsletters that they sent out to their members during the 1940s. Some of these led to the development of today’s trade magazines. In 1940, the Independent Garage Owners of California became one of the earliest associations dedicated to the independent garage owner. The organization catered to both mechanical and collision shops. At the time, the line between these two very different businesses was still quite blurred, but would soon be better defined. On Oct. 3, 1945, civilian car production resumed with new designs and
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member—the opportunity to participate in one of the most highly regarded leadership development programs available to the auto care industry’s next generation of leaders. The scholarships were presented by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, which is fully funded by auto care industry donations. The foundation provides support for educational programs advancing the auto care industry. To learn more about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation and its mission, or to make a donation to the foundation, please visit www.uofafoundation.com. For more information about the Import Vehicle Community, visit www.autocare.org/import-vehicle -community. For more information about YANG, visit www.auto care.org/yang.
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new technology. Car makers worked frantically to keep pace with new demand. Multi-car families soon became commonplace, adding to the aggregate miles traveled and commensurate accidents. Body shops and auto repair businesses were sprouting up on every corner. Hundreds of thousands of GIs were returning from the war. Some returned to their prior jobs. But many, having joined the service right out of high school, were looking for work. With the influx of new cars and increased availability of gasoline and tires, and given the rather crude state of automotive technology and ease of repair, many ex-GIs went into the mechanical or body repair business. The U.S. government even helped by providing “How-To” books on starting a car repair business. There was nothing about an early (and for several years later) body shop that could be called “professional.” Technicians were untrained (except possibly those who were trained to repair military vehicles during the war), the shops were a mess, there were no standards on how to repair the cars, no standards on how to estimate the dam-
age and nobody catered to the customer. There was very little overhead at the time. Not having to pay for estimators, office staff, tooling, equipment, computer program subscriptions, etc. led to high net profits. One might compare it to the “Wild West” days of the collision industry. Shop owners made up the business rules as they went along. The shop owner provided repair estimates---sometimes verbally, sometimes on a piece of scrap paper. The collision industry, in its formative years, had no business model to pattern itself after, so everyone bumbled along as best they could. Fortunately, the 1940s was also the time when collision industry leaders began to emerge. Between them, a few collision industry associations and some industry periodicals—which were quite localized at first, and then went regional and then national—the industry finally began to form and take shape. The war in Europe ended in May 1945. On August 14, 1945, hostilities in the Pacific theater ceased and the war was over. So it is safe to say that the modern collision repair industry was born in the summer of 1945.
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Mike Anderson Presents 4th Webinar, Continues To Explore Nissan’s Website by Chasidy Rae Sisk
On Thursday, May 24, Mike Anderson of Collision Advice presented the fourth webinar in his Learn to Research, Research to Learn series. This webinar was the first-ever second installation on an OEM’s website and focused on “Using Nissan/INFINITI Technology.” He was joined by Nissan/INFINITI’s Mark Zoba, Danny Uhis, Sarah Hicks, Sara Balog and Justin Miller. The webinar was created by Collision Advice in collaboration with Nissan/INFINITI, but Anderson also thanked CIECA for its contributions to the industry. Anderson explained that he decided to host these webinars because his annual Who Pays for What surveys, conducted in conjunction with the Crash Network, led him to determine that shops are not researching OEM repair procedures 100 percent of the time as they should be. As a result of this finding, Collision Advice will be hosting a webinar with a different OEM each month to raise awareness of the resources each OEM offers to research repair procedures. Anderson plans to guide attendees on a step-by-step tour of each specific OEM’s website, including logging in, areas of the website and how to improve search results. He will also demonstrate how to research some common procedures needed by collision repairers, explore the differences between an OEM scan tool and aftermarket scan tool and investigate OEM parts information and support tools. Anderson reiterated that there are two paid sites, nissan-techinfo.com and infiniti-techinfo.com, and that many documents on the site are only available through Internet Explorer and require the most recent version of Adobe Reader. He repeated information from last month’s webinar regarding how to access the site, what access costs and how to search the website effectively. (Details about this preliminary information can be found at https://autobodynews.com/index .php/industry-news/item/15365-mikeanderson-s-3rd-webinar-discussesnissan-infiniti-technology.html.) The past webinar focused on the service manual, so during this webi56
nar Anderson turned to the other tabs on the website, beginning with the owner’s manual. He pointed out that Nissan specifies that the manual may be updated from time to time to provide the most accurate information currently available. “If I really want to make sure I’m fixing a vehicle properly, I probably want to be cautious about using any third-party OEM repair procedure software because you don’t know if they have the latest and greatest,” he said. “But I know by going to Nissan or Infiniti’s website, I’ll always have the latest and greatest of information. Nissan has a lot of great information just in the owner’s manual about safe and proper repairs.” Anderson resumed pointing out valuable information in the owner’s manual and noted that pretensioners cannot be used after activation. “When a consumer looks for a body shop, they are looking for trust, empathy and direction,” he said. “A great way to gain the customer’s trust when they come into my body shop is to pull up a copy of the owner’s manual, showing them that Nissan says pretensioners cannot be used after activation, and asking if they were wearing their seat belt.” The navigation system section of the owner’s manual provides an overview on how the navigation system works from an owner’s perspective, but there is still valuable information for collision repairers to understand how the system works and be certain they are running the correct tests. Anderson also briefly discussed the quick reference guide, which repairers would rarely use unless the customer came back with an issue and needed help remembering how a comfort feature functions. There’s very limited information in the towing guide, but there are some precautions on transporting a vehicle that could be beneficial to share with whoever tows the vehicle. Moving on to the service and maintenance guide, Anderson pulled up the 2018 GTR guide to demonstrate. “I found this section very helpful, especially if you are repairing a GTR,” he said. “It is not uncommon for owners of a GTR to take their vehicle to the ‘track’ as it is a high-per-
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
formance vehicle. Nissan has some very specific items to inspect before and after a driving event. If a GTR ends up in your shop, it is critical we have a conversation with the vehicle owner about some of these inspections!” Anderson praised Nissan for its promotion of its certified shop throughout the manuals located on the website, touting them as the professionals best equipped to repair their vehicles. The service and maintenance guide also directly addresses the importance of using original OEM parts. Under additional maintenance items, Nissan provides very specific instructions about the tire and wheel reference marks, making it imperative to inspect these marks after an accident to see if the tire slipped. Looking at the warranty information booklet, Anderson suggested this could be valuable to point out to the vehicle owner. Exploring the material, he identified that “this warranty does not cover damage, failures or corrosion resulting from or caused
by installation of non-Nissan-approved accessories or components” and recommended shops that feel strongly about using OEM parts thoroughly review this information. Nissan also provides a guide for first responders that can be provided to local first responder departments to ensure they are familiar with these concerns. A diagram in this section identifies high-strength steel through color-coding. The dismantling guide addresses precautions that a technician should take before beginning repairs on any EV or hybrid vehicles, covering equipment and materials needed. Directed toward consumers, the roadside assistance guide provides education on items such as jump starts, flat tires and other roadside assistance. This could be helpful for repairers to use to coach customers with problems remotely. Anderson provided overviews of the body builder’s guide and training materials and explored a Tech Talk magazine article to demonstrate the importance of scanning.
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“Ladies and gentlemen, that’s why we have to use OEM repair procedures and that’s why we have to use the Nissan/INFINITI scan tool,” Anderson stated. “It’s critical that you research OEM repair procedures, no matter which part you are removing.” Having found some additional valuable information in the service manual since last month’s webinar, Anderson looked at using the website as a resource to better understand clips and fasteners used in this manufacturer’s vehicles, windshield glass repair and “damage diagnosis,” which specifies where the crush zones are located. Nissan requires pre- and post-repair scans with an approved scan tool. Under the Purchase Tools/Equipment tab, Anderson directed attendees on how they can purchase the Nissan Consult scan tool. The next page will grant users access to nissantechmate.com, which also contains guides to various tools and procedures. Sharing some other interesting items he found on the Nissan/INFINITI website, Anderson discussed
rogue liftgate servicing, quarter glass, sandpaper requirements, paint codes, removing bumper covers and radar alignment procedures. Looking at some of the repair procedures specified in Nissan’s position statement on OEM vs. Aftermarket Scan Tools, Anderson asked, “How are you going to do this with an aftermarket scan tool? Sorry, but you can’t; these systems will not perform correctly if you don’t perform this calibration.” Anderson proceeded to answer some of the questions that went unanswered during the first Nissan/INFINITI webinar. Topics included Nissan certification, one-time-useonly parts, blind spot monitor repairs and more. As the webinar drew to a close, Anderson covered the steps to take when unable to find the information being sought: First, exhaust your search of the Service Manual, then submit a question to Ask I-CAR and provide a link. If I-CAR doesn’t know, certified collision centers can email: nnacollisionrepairnetwork@ nissan-usa.com. Shops that are not certified should complete the “Help Make This Service Manual Better”
form on the third page of the Service Manual. Nissan also offers its Identifix Hotline, a complimentary service to help shops identify procedures or help diagnose an issue. The hotline is open Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST at 1-855-828-4018 and is available to the entire industry. Finally, Sara Balog from the Nissan Group of North America shared details and benefits of the Nissan/INFINITI certification program, including preferred part pricing, differentiating your shop, gaining new referral sources, effectively marketing your business, complimentary access to Nissan technical information and qualifying for other OE certifications. Shops can get started by visiting getnissancertified.com, getinfiniti certified.com or getgtrcertified.com. The second Nissan webinar is available free of charge here. https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYJrrD4Tt0&index=4&list=PL1aFHg6 buULn0MyuhG5EkbYfAIyvR qkTG.
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How Will Autonomous Cars Impact Cities?
National League of Cities (NLC), in partnership with the Bloomberg Aspen Initiative on Autonomous Vehicles, recently released a series of interactive future scenarios for autonomous vehicles. These scenarios aim to help cities envision how autonomous technologies can improve life for residents by improving mobility, decreasing isolation and increasing the use of public space. They will also help city leaders anticipate and plan for some of the risks that could include increasing congestion, lost revenue and new safety concerns. More than 100 cities around the world have been mapped on the Global Atlas of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) in Cities as piloting AVs, or have committed to doing so in the near future. Around 40 cities in the U.S. are on that list. The reports touch on the need for legislation to govern the rollout and operation of these new technologies, as well as further research on artificial intelligence, safety precautions and limitations.
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Rescue Equipment Manufacturers Join NABC to Expand First Responder Program
The National Auto Body Council (NABC) recently announced that its First Responder Emergency Extrication (F.R.E.E.™) program is ready to kick into high gear with the addition of rescue tool manufacturers Hurst Jaws of Life and Genesis Rescue Systems providing instructors for NABC member-hosted extrication events nationwide. NABC’s F.R.E.E. program is unique in that it provides first responders with hands-on practice specifically on late model vehicles equipped with today’s new car technology, including lighter weight, high-strength steels, sophisticated electronics and multiple airbag systems. With the resources of Hurst Jaws of life and Genesis Rescue Systems, two of the largest manufacturers of rescue equipment in the U.S., NABC can now offer more opportunities for NABC members to host F.R.E.E. events and provide valuable extrication practice opportunities to hundreds more first responders nationwide. To support the increased demand for F.R.E.E. events, State Farm has committed to providing the majority of the salvage vehicles for the pro-
road. It’s critical that first responders train on new model vehicles that are not always easy to acquire. NABC and the F.R.E.E. Program present an excellent opportunity to do just that.” Shelby Howell, administrator of training, Genesis Rescue Systems, added, “Genesis Rescue Systems focuses on offering and participating in programs that help first responders stay safe and save lives. With a strong focus on research and development along with engineering, we achieve a goal of producing an entire line of equipment that is ergonomically friendly, quick to deploy and easy for rescuers JL Freed Honda hosted two NABC F.R.E.E. events, a to do their job. Assisting morning and afternoon session, to accommodate 80 the National Auto Body Philadelphia-area first responders. Vehicles were Council with their First Reprovided by State Farm with instruction and rescue sponder Emergency Extritools from Hurst Jaws of Life cation (F.R.E.E.) Program to first responders,” said Mike is a good fit for Genesis and a winCanon, director of rescue sales for win for all stakeholders, rescue perHurst Jaws of Life. “These new chal- sonnel [and] even more importantly, lenges include stronger and stronger crash victims.” NABC’s F.R.E.E. program is ofultra high-strength steels, more pressurized airbag cylinders, and more fered to first responders at no charge hybrid and electric vehicles on the as a community service and hosted at gram with additional support from Allstate. Each event typically requires 3–4 vehicles for approximately 40 participating first responders to practice their cutting and extricating skills. “Auto extrication presents increasingly complex rescue challenges
Regional Association Event Announcements: July 2018 by Chasidy Rae Sisk
ASA-MI Plans Golf Outing On July 9, ASA-MI will host its 33rd Annual Golf Outing at the Eagle Eye Golf Course in Bath, MI. The four-person scramble will feature a variety of contests and prizes, including longest putt, hole-in-one contests, straightest drive, closest to the pin and more. For more information about the golf outing, call 517-484-2950 or visit www.golfasa michigan.com. Night at the Ball Park for IGONC’s Triangle Chapter The Triangle Chapter of the Independent Garage Owners of North Carolina (IGONC) will host its annual Night at the Ball Park on July 13. The group will attend a Durham Bulls Game. The $30 tickets include seats in an air-conditioned suite, food provided by IGO Wake unit and plenty of fun. For more information, contact Paul Morrow at morropaul3@aol.com or 919-2712674. ASA-Midwest Is Seeking Courses for 2019 VISION Hi-Tech Training 58
and Expo The VISION Training Committee is seeking course proposals for the 2019 VISION Hi-Tech Training and Expo, to be held Feb. 28 through March 3, 2019 at the Overland Park Convention Center in Kansas City, KS. The group is seeking proposals for management, technical and heavy duty training courses, and the schedule will feature three, six and eight-hour sessions held in classroom, live-car and hands-on settings. The course submission form is available at submissions.visionkc.com. For additional information, contact Sheri Hamilton at 816-413-9800 or sheri@visionkc .com. ASA-AZ to Host Tucson Automotive Roundable ASA-AZ’s Tucson Chapter will host an Automotive Roundtable on July 3, beginning at 6 p.m. The event will be held at the El Corral Restaurant in Tucson, AZ. This event provides an opportunity for members to share challenges and identify solutions with their peers. For more information, visit www .asaaz.org.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
NABC repair shop facilities. The typical F.R.E.E. event consists of a onehour class instruction by rescue equipment experts, followed by three hours of hands-on extricating practice using the latest equipment on late-model vehicles staged to simulate crash scenes. “Since the inception of NABC’s F.R.E.E. program, we have had high demand from our member shops eager to support their local first responder communities,” said George Avery, F.R.E.E. program manager. “The hands-on practice is invaluable to help prevent further injury to the victim or to the first responders themselves. Knowing specifically where and how to efficiently cut and extricate can make the difference in saving precious minutes and lives as well as the safety of the first responders. We are thrilled to have Hurst and Genesis come on board to expand the reach of the F.R.E.E. program.” For more information or to sign up to host a F.R.E.E. event, visit NationalAutoBodyCouncil.org or contact Avery at g.avery@NationalAutoBody Council.org.
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autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
59
MSO Symposium Announces Advisory Board for 2018
The MSO Symposium, an exclusive and preeminent meeting for leadership in the collision repair industry, announced its 2018 Advisory Board following a meeting of industry executives, ASA staff and board members. This year’s Advisory Board members include:
• Bruce Bares, Certified Collision, CEO - Master of Ceremony • Darrell Amberson, LaMettry’s Collision, President of Operations • Chris Abraham, Service King Collision Repair Centers, CEO • Tim Adelmann, ABRA Collision & Glass, President • Scott Benavidez, Mr. B’s Paint & Body Shop Inc., Owner • Paul Gange, Fix Auto, President & CEO • John Harris, John Harris Body Shops • Jim Keller, 1 Collision Network, President • Michael Macaluso, CARSTAR, President • David Mitchell, Car Guys Automotive, CEO • Ron Nagy, Nagy Collision Cen-
ters, President • Tim O’Day, The Boyd Group, President & COO • Vince Romans, The Romans Group, Managing Partner & CEO • Dave Roberts, FOCUS Investment Banking, LLC., Managing Director and Automotive Group Team Leader • Mark Sanders, Caliber Collision Centers, President & COO • Roy Schnepper, Butlers Collision, President • Marcy Tieger, Symphony Advisors, LLC., Managing Director • Russell Thrall III, CollisionWeek, Publisher & Editor-In-Chief • John Walcher, Veritas Advisors, Inc., President • Rick Wood, Cooks Collision, President & co-CEO
The 2018 MSO Symposium will take place during NACE Automechanika on Thursday, August 9, in Atlanta, GA, at the Georgia World Congress Center. This year’s symposium will offer insight on the latest trends and developments in the collision repair industry, as well as discuss unique dialogue revolving around some of
the greatest challenges that large multi-shop organizations face. Attendees will benefit from the program’s knowledgeable speakers, presentations, networking opportunities and diverse panel discussions. The MSO Symposium is the place for executives representing multi-shop operators (MSOs), along with single-location collision repair facilities with annual sales exceeding $3 million, to come together to discuss how these trends will impact their business and the industry. In addition, speakers and panelists will share their experiences and knowledge to provide this prominent sector of the collision repair industry insight as to how they facilitated their business’ growth and overcame obstacles on their path to success. Registration for the MSO Symposium is now open at www.NACE Automechanika.com/mso. The event is also open to property and casualty insurance company executives and OEM representatives. For inquiries, please contact Jennie Lenk at JennieL@MSOSymposium .com, or Brian Nessen at BrianN@ MSOSymposium.com
New CREF, Service King Grant Announced
The Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) and Service King Collision Repair Centers recently announced the recipients of “The Service King Way Grant: In Honor of Mario Malacara”. Malacara was a highly admired and respected 14-year Service King teammate who tragically passed away in December 2016. The Service King Way Grant was created last year in memory of Malacara’s dedicated service, loyalty to the industry and the indelible impact he had on countless people during his career. Sean Huurman, chief human resources officer at Service King Collision Repair Centers, said, “He embodied the values we have at Service King, referred to as The Service King Way.” This year’s recipients of the scholarship include Rysheek Cobb (UTI, Houston, TX), Raymond Nguyen (UTI, Houston, TX), Moises Merlos (Holmes High School, San Antonio, TX) and Julian Martinez (Holmes High School, San Antonio, TX).
NABC, CREF Announce Winners of Chuck Sulkala NABC Appreciation Scholarship
The Collision Repair Education Foundation and the National Auto Body Council (NABC) are proud to announce the recipient of the Chuck Sulkala NABC Appreciation Scholarship. The Sulkala scholarship program honors NABC Founder and longtime Executive Director Chuck Sulkala, who retired earlier this year. Sulkala is also a Trustee Emeriti of the foundation. The 2018 Chuck Sulkala NABC Appreciation Scholarship recipient, Cody Bayless (Washburn Tech, Topeka, KS), will receive a $2,000 scholarship to fund his education in the collision industry. Bayless has participated in numerous activities, including Recycled Rides, SkillsUSA and Toys for Tots. “It is an honor to have the Collision Repair Education Foundation give out the first of what we plan to be an annual scholarship in the name of a family that has given so much to this industry,” said Stacy Bartnik, who is a past chair of both the Foundation Board of Trustees and the National Auto Body Council. “Chuck is one of my mentors and has been an influence 60
on not only my career, but on those of many of us in the industry. This scholarship will help ensure that the Sulkala Family influence continues to help our industry into the future.”
How to donate to the Chuck Sulkala NABC Appreciation Scholarship Individuals and companies who wish to contribute to the Sulkala scholarship fund can: • Donate online on the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) website and select the Sulkala scholarship • Text SULKALA to 91999 • Mail check to CREF at 5125 Trillium Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 • Contact Director of Development Brandon Eckenrode at 847-4635244 Industry members interested in working together with the Collision Repair Education Foundation in supporting secondary and post-secondary collision repair students, instructors and their school programs should contact Eckenrode at 847463-5244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@ ed-foundation .org.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
Genuine Mitsubishi Replacement Crash Parts are close at hand from the following quality dealerships:
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Congressional Steps to Dismantle Federal Insurance Office Continue
The U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Financial Services passed a series of six bills designed to reduce federal regulations. One of the bills, HR 3861, Federal Insurance Office Reform Act of 2017, introduced last year was part of the package approved by a vote of 36-21. The legislation dilutes the authority of the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), which is part of the U.S. Department of Treasury. U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy, R-WI, introduced HR 3861 in 2017. The Automotive Service Association (ASA) supported the creation of the FIO in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. ASA opposes HR 3861. Many assumed that HR 3861 was dead for this session because the recently signed Dodd-Frank Act reform
package did not contain House language that would have eliminated FIO. ASA was successful in protecting FIO during the latest DoddFrank Act reform efforts. The committee’s current action is a similar attempt to curtail FIO’s impact on federal insurance regulation. “We will need collision repairers to stand with us one more time this congressional session to protect a regulatory tool that is structured to help consumers and collision repairers,” said Scott Benavidez, AAM, ASA Collision Operations Committee director from Albuquerque, NM. “Congress was clear in recent weeks that FIO did not need reform, yet we are faced with an additional attempt to dismantle this useful federal agency.”
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Auto Care Association Hosts Successful Trade Mission to Costa Rica
The Auto Care Association hosted a trade mission to Costa Rica on May 21–22 as part of the Market Development Cooperator Program (MDCP) award from the U.S. Department of Commerce. The association received the award to help the automotive industry increase exports to free trade agreement partners in Latin America. Trade missions are business development opportunities to gain first-hand market information and one-on-one meetings with potential clients and partners. The association, in collaboration with the U.S. Commercial Service, has organized trade missions to Peru, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua in the past two years. Trade mission delegates participated in personalized businessto-business matchmaking meetings with foreign industry executives, pre-screened to match companies’ specific business objectives. Delegates also had the opportunity to participate in a country briefing
and networking events. “We have had great success in finding highly motivated individuals and locally established businesses to meet with us face-to-face and discuss acquiring our products,” said Santiago Estrada, international account executive, Warco Products. “This adds more credence by being there, rather than just conference calls and emails. If you want to grow your business or industry outside of your comfort zone, act quickly. Based on our experience, I highly recommend trying your best efforts to do the same by joining the Auto Care Association and participate in their trade mission program.” The Auto Care Association will be hosting a trade mission to Chile on August 21–22, 2018. Qualifying firms are eligible for an offset of the trade mission costs. For details about the Auto Care Association’s trade missions, visit www.autocare.org/trade-missions. For additional event information, contact Carolina Arregoces at carolina.arregoces@autocare.org, or 240-333-1037.
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HDDA Releases Web Resource Center
Heavy Duty (HDDA), the only community that serves the entire heavy duty aftermarket supply chain, announced the release of a new web resource center dedicated to the progress of the development of heavy duty product data standards. Included on standards.hdda.org are updates and highlights of the project status, downloadable information on product data standards, a calendar of product category data collection and a volunteer form to participate in the standards creation. The resource center will serve as an integral part of the standards project, which will include the standardization of product information communication across more than 8,200 key components for 150 heavy duty vehicle systems. This type of standardization will result in accurate part data for a more accurate product selection, lower return rates and increased customer service—all while maintaining manufacturer ownership of their product data.
NICB Releases Data on Animal-Related Insurance Losses, 91% Involve Deer by Lynn Walford, Auto Connected Car News
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) released a study on the number of animal-related insurance losses for the years 2014–2017. The data is gleaned from insurance claims for losses that occurred in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia. A total of 1,740,425 animal-related insurance claims were processed with 1,739,687 of them— 99.9 percent—involving vehicles. The actual number of incidents is likely much higher since many drivers do not choose to carry coverage for that type of event. About 640,000 of those claims specified one of the top five animals involved and over the four-year period, 91 percent of those claims involved deer.
While all animal-related claims went up 6 percent over the four-year period, those that specified a deer
was involved actually declined by 30 percent.
The top five animals involved in vehicle collisions were deer (584,165), raccoons (22,644), dogs (20,610), turkeys (7,289) and coyotes (6,023). The top five states where these incidents occurred were: Pennsylvania (145,728), New York (115,670), Texas (105,036), Wisconsin (81,282) and North Carolina (79,252). The top five cities for these encounters were: San Antonio (3,945), Austin, TX (2,452), New York (2,442), Pittsburgh (2,115) and Rochester, NY (1,929). You can download the complete report here and an infographic here. Animal-related losses are good
reason to make sure that you have adequate insurance and understand your coverage to protect against losses from these and other kinds of damagecausing incidents. The average animal crash claim amounted to about $4,000 in 2016 according to one major insurer. That would have amounted to nearly $1.8 billion in claims in 2016. Anyone with information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle theft can report it anonymously by calling toll-free 800-TEL-NICB (800-835-6422), texting keyword “fraud” to TIP411 (847411) or submitting a form on NICB’s website. Or, download the NICB Fraud Tips app on your iPhone or Android device. We thank Auto Connected Car News for reprint permission.
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Beverly Rook-Twibell Acknowledged With 2018 WIN Cornerstone Award
The Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) holds the contributions of its many volunteers in the highest regard.
2018 WIN Cornerstone Award winner Beverly Rook-Twibell (left) with Petra Schroeder, outgoing WIN Chair
Each year, the WIN Cornerstone Award recognizes the efforts of a board member whose actions and unique contributions demonstrate their commitment to the WIN mission and vision and set an example for others to follow. During the 12th Annual WIN Educational Conference “Racing to Connect,” which was held in Indianapolis, IN, May 7–9, 2018, Beverly Rook-Twibell of Safelite 62
Solutions was recognized as the 2018 recipient of this prestigious award by Petra Schroeder, outgoing WIN Chair. “We are so fortunate that the WIN board has so much talent contributing to our success and completing our goals, so this was a difficult task for the WIN Chair. Bev represents what a true cornerstone is. Always ready and prepared, she provides solid input and feedback,” said Schroeder. “Even with all her business commitments, she makes time to stay involved, active and accountable for WIN, especially with our young people in this industry. She was instrumental in refining processes for the scholarship committee. My admiration goes out to her when I see all the details she handles that make it seamless for the scholarship winners to attend the conference. Congratulations!” To learn more about WIN programs or for information on becoming a member, please visit the WIN website at www.Womens IndustryNetwork.com.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
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COLORADO Larry H. Miller Volkswagen Lakewood 303-205-6260 Fax: 303-205-6291 M-F 7am-6pm; Sat 8am-5pm avigil@lhmauto.com
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autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
63
AMi Honors Class of 2018 at ASA Annual Business Meeting & Conference
ager (AAM), Accredited Master Collision-Repair Estimator (AMCE) and Accredited Master Automotive Managers (AMAM) designations during the ceremony. “It was an honor to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of this group of industry professionals during our graduation ceremony. We are excited to see the growth of AMi reflected in the number of graduates and the diversity of certifi2018 AMi Graduation at ASA Annual Conference cates and professional May 4 at the Walt Disney World designations being awarded,” said Swan & Dolphin Hotel and Resort AMi President Jeff Peevy, AMAM. AMi role-based designations in Orlando, FL. The formal graduation cere- highlight the growing role soft skills mony was part of the Automotive and business management education Service Association’s “Celebration play in the success of today’s autoof Excellence” award ceremony, motive repair business. Students which recognized individuals and focus on multiple core categories of organizations that have made sig- training and professional developnificant contributions to AMi, ASA ment: financial management, sales & and/or the automotive repair indus- marketing, operational management, HR and personnel development, IT try. AMi recognized students earn- management, risk management and ing the Accredited Automotive Man- leadership. The Automotive Management Institute (AMi), the industry’s leading provider of management education for automotive service and collision repair professionals, held its first graduation ceremony of 2018 on
ASA Announces New 2018 Board of Directors
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) announced changes to its Board of Directors following its Annual Business Meeting May 2– 4 at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotel and Resort in Orlando, FL. ASA Chairman Roy Schnepper, AAM, Butler’s Collision, Roseville, MI, who is serving the second year of his two-year term, is looking forward to working with the new leadership team. “As I look at our new leadership, I believe we have a strong team in place to help chart the association’s growth and progress on new initiatives as we move forward,” Schnepper said.
Members of the 2018 Board include: • Chairman: Roy Schnepper, AAM, Butler’s Collision, Roseville, MI • Chairman Elect: Bob Wills, AMAM, owner of Wills Auto Service in Battle Creek, MI, and the immediate past director of ASA’s Mechanical Division Operations Committee • Secretary/Treasurer: Fred Hules, AMAM, owner of Tech 1 Auto in
Peoria, AZ • General Director: Elissa Larremore, owner of CBS 1 Collision, based in Shreveport, LA • General Director: Todd Black, AMAM, owner of Unlimited Service, Bellingham, WA • Mechanical Division Director: Tom Piippo, AMAM, owner of Tri-County Motors, Rudyard, MI • Collision Division Director: Scott Benavidez, AAM, owner of Mr. B’s Paint & Body Shop, Albuquerque, NM • Immediate Past Chairman: Darrell Amberson, AMAM, owner of LaMettry’s Collision, Minneapolis, MN Dan Risley, ASA president/executive director, also serves on the ASA Board of Directors in an ex-officio capacity. Retiring from the ASA Board of Directors is Ed Cushman, AMAM, C&H Auto, Spokane, WA. “ASA wants to thank Ed for his great service and commitment to the Board, to the association and, most of all, to its members, whom he always puts first. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” said Schnepper.
Authors of ‘The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops’ Announce Audio Version
Dave Luehr, the author of “The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops,” announced on May 24 that the audio version of the highly acclaimed industry book will be available for purchase in June 2018. He and his co-author, Stacey Phillips, released the paperback in April 2017 and followed up with a Kindle version later that year. “I felt that the book was very well-received in the collision repair industry, and I could not be happier about that,” said Luehr. “However, understanding that many of those in the industry find it difficult to find the time to read, or just don’t like to read, we felt it necessary to make an audio version available.” Throughout the book, the authors share insightful lessons along with real-world stories of actual collision repairers who have discovered the six secrets that have propelled them to a much higher
AUTOBODY
64
level than their competitors. Stay tuned for more information about the release date of the book and where it can be purchased. To schedule an interview with Luehr, visit: elitebodyshopso lutions.as.me/media. With more than 30 years of expertise developing the profitability and efficiency of collision repair shops, Dave Luehr combines his decades as a body shop owner with his expertise gained at some of America’s leading collision repair organizations as founder of Elite Body Shop Solutions. Stacey Phillips is the owner of Radiant Writing & Communications. She has more than 20 years of experience editing and writing for a wide range of businesses and industries. For more information, email: info@ bodyshopsecrets.com
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JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
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WAC Moves Forward With New Officers, Future Plans by Chasidy Rae Sisk
The members of Women in Automotive and Collision (WAC) met on May 15 at Gateway Motorsports in Madison, IL, to continue the group’s efforts to move the association forward and discuss recent successes. According to WAC President Shelly Jones, “We started the meeting by going over the mission and the introductions with each participant by saying their name, business and time in the industry. There were a lot of great stories shared of growing up in the industry and why this group is important for the industry. Several members have offered to donate dinner when we do not have a corporate dinner sponsor. Dinner for this meeting was donated by Secretary Peggy Vorwald, who shared her industry story with the group. We call this a member spotlight.” WAC discussed plans to create the group’s official website and revealed its new table cloth for industry events. They also talked about recently attended events and which events they plan to attend in the future. Recently, WAC’s Sheena Wagner and Jess Crump set up a
table at the Rockwood Summit High School Biodiesel Car Show, where they talked to attendees about the career opportunities available in the automotive industry. Thanks to Wagner’s efforts as sponsorship coordinator, WAC has been joined by several corporate sponsors, including Cooper Color Inc., American Family Insurance, Sikkens, LKQ Corporation and PPG. The group is grateful to these companies for supporting its mission. In addition to maintaining WAC’s Facebook page, Social Media Manager Tricia Belz is developing a LinkedIn page for the group. During the meeting, WAC also announced that Sarah Young from Original One Parts will fill the role of marketing coordinator for the association. Jones stated, “Sarah has already used her amazing graphic design talents to create forms and handouts for the group to use.” Young shared her take on the meeting as well. “It wasn’t a drag… pun intended!” she said. “As the group gathered at Gateway Motorsports Park, and after some open dialogue intro-
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ductions, there would be small pauses to watch the drag cars do test runs. Everyone is excited to know that we are trying to do something, specifically something that will help drive successful women in the industry and create awareness of opportunities with careers in the industry. It’s crucial for both the sponsors and the association to stay active and aware of each other’s existence. To be able to have support from both aspects helps continue the efforts of bringing more innovation and partnerships within the industry for a better outreach.” For more information, visit WAC’s Facebook group at https://www .facebook.com/groups/wacstl/about.
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AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale Scottsdale (480) 425-2950 (480) 425-2948 Fax Mon.-Fri. 7-6; Sat. 7-4
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The following dealerships are eager to serve your needs. Call your local Subaru collision parts specialist today!
Register for Trade Mission to Chile
The registration deadline is quickly approaching for companies interested in joining the Auto Care Association’s Trade Mission to Chile. The trade mission will take place on August 21–22, 2018, and the deadline to register is July 6. Trade mission participants will enjoy customized one-on-one meetings with prospective partners and customers, hotel accommodations, local transportation, meals, interpreters, market overview briefing and a networking reception. The trade mission is open to all companies in the industry, with qualifying companies eligible to receive a $1,500 offset of the trade mission package cost. Under the United States - Chile Free Trade Agreement (FTA), 100 percent of U.S. consumer and industrial goods exports to the region are no longer subject to tariffs. Previous trade missions to Latin American countries, organized by the Auto Care Association in collaboration with the U.S. Commercial Service, include Guatemala, Peru, Colombia, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica.
ARKANSAS
Subaru of Little Rock Little Rock (888) 690-8030 (501) 725-4375 Fax Mon.-Fri. 7-6; Sat. 7-3 micah@subaruoflr.com www.subaruoflittlerock.com COLORADO
Flatirons Subaru Boulder (303) 443-2919 (303) 442-1342 Fax Mon.-Fri. 7-6; Sat. 8-5
Greeley Subaru Greeley (970) 346-3542 (970) 353-8490 Fax Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:30; Sat. 8-4 cluera@greeleysubaru.com
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autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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VeriFacts Automotive Opens Collision Technology Center
VeriFacts Automotive recently announced the opening of a new technology center located at 3202 Shannon St. in Santa Ana, CA. This investment furthers VeriFacts’ mission to “Fix it Right, Fix it Smart.” VeriFacts expanded its footprint in April to include a vehicle workshop to facilitate the creation and presentation of hands-on collision repair clinics that promote safe and proper repairs. VeriFacts is also committed to studying ways to improve efficiencies that reduce the entire collision repair cycle. VeriFacts is now capable of providing in-house technical repair and equipment demonstrations to collision repairers, insurers and OEMs. VeriFacts is continually striving to discover innovative opportunities and new ways to leverage today’s technology to improve repair outcomes, reduce customer comebacks and elevate customer satisfaction. VeriFacts is developing technology offerings for collision repair that will help make sure every car is repaired correctly. This new technology will allow VeriFacts to better support both its current and future programs.
USHFS Discusses AVs’ Impact on Insurance
The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services’ Subcommittee on House and Insurance recently held a hearing titled “The Impact of Autonomous Vehicles on the Future of Insurance” on Capitol Hill. Witnesses included Ryan D. Gammelgard, State Farm; Sam Geraci, American Family Mutual Insurance Company; Ian Adams, R Street Institute; and Jack Gillis, Consumer Federation of America The hearing focused on the impact new vehicle technologies will have on the insurance industry. Senate Bill 1885, the AV START Act, has stalled in the Senate. U.S. Sen. James Inhofe, R-OK, was successful in attaching an amendment to SB 1885 that requires a federal stakeholder committee, housed at the NHTSA, to review data access and cyber security issues as they relate to autonomous vehicles. If SB 1885 is approved, the HAV Data Access Advisory Committee will report back to Congress on these most important data access and cyber security issues. 66
Families File Keyless System Lawsuits After Carbon Monoxide Deaths by Eric T. Chaffin, The Legal Examiner
In the mid-1990s, keyless ignition systems started to become available in luxury vehicles. Today, they are much more popular and are offered as standard or optional equipment in many models. They’re convenient and easy to use, as the driver can start the car without having to insert a physical key into the ignition. But the lack of a key is also allegedly creating some safety risks. According to recent reports from the New York Times and other media outlets, more than two dozen people have been killed from carbon monoxide poisoning after failing to shut off their vehicles with keyless ignitions. An additional 45 have suffered injuries from carbon monoxide gas. Mom and Son Suffer Symptoms From Carbon Monoxide After Leaving Car Running Keyless entry and ignition systems have no traditional key, but instead have only a push-button to unlock and start the car. The system works by sending an encoded signal to a receiver in the car. This signal then tells the car to unlock or start the engine. The button also needs to be pushed
WAC Launches 2018 Awards Season
Women in Auto Care, a global community of auto care professionals dedicated to advancing women in the auto care industry, recently announced the opening of its 2018 awards season. This year’s award season includes the community’s Women of the Year Awards and the Automotive Communications Awards. Award recipients will be honored on Oct. 30, 2018 at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. The Women of the Year Awards include Auto Care Woman of the Year, Female Shop Owner of the Year and Auto Care Woman of Excellence and are open to women who have made a significant impact in the auto care industry with specific requirements for each individual award. The deadline for entries is August 1, 2018. “If you know someone who has been a driving force in the industry, honor them with a Women of the Year nomination,” said Tammy Tecklenburg, president, Women in Auto Care.
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
to stop the car engine, but this is the step that is sometimes easily missed in everyday life. AJC News reports that a busy Florida mom left her car running in the garage as she hurried to start a conference call. She stated she pushed the button to close the garage door and somehow didn’t remember to push the button to stop the car. The car continued to run, sending carbon dioxide into the home. The mother’s 13month-old son later woke up screaming after midnight, and when she went to pick him up, he went limp in her arms. She got dizzy herself and ran out into the garage, where she saw that the taillights on her car were still on and the engine was still running. Florida Man Found Dead From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning The Times reports that a 75-year-old Florida man drove his Toyota into his garage and went into the house with the wireless key fob, apparently believing the car was shut off. Twentynine hours later he was found dead, a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning. His son later told the Times that his father thought that ‘when he took the key with him when he left the car, the car would be off.’ All of the deaths
associated with carbon monoxide poisoning from keyless systems have been associated with vehicles being left running in a garage. Injuries have included brain damage and death. Without a physical key to actually turn and remove, some users forget to push the button, particularly if the car’s engine is quieter, which is often the case in the newer model vehicles. Several years ago, the Society of Automotive Engineers called for the implementation of alerts into the car to let the driver know the engine was still running. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has proposed a federal regulation to require manufacturers to add these modifications, but nothing has been passed yet. Families File Keyless System Lawsuits Some automakers are voluntarily making the change. Ford’s keyless vehicles will now turn off automatically after 30 minutes of idling if the key fob is not in the vehicle. Meanwhile, families who have suffered injuries or deaths are filing lawsuits against carmakers, claiming the companies knew about the risks and failed to take appropriate action. We thank The Legal Examiner for reprint permission.
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autobodynews.com / JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS
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Most Influential Women Celebrated at WIN 2018 Conference
Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) conference attendees and other distinguished guests celebrated this year’s recipients of the Most Influential Women (MIW) award on May 8 during a ceremony held at the 2018 Educational Conference in Indianapolis, IN. The event provided a glimpse into the MIW program’s history, recognized past recipients of the award and honored the 2018 recipients. The Most Influential Women award is given annually to women in the collision repair industry who exemplify qualities of business and
2018 Most Influential Women honorees
civic leadership, vision and commitment to excellence. The MIW program’s charter aligns with WIN’s mission to “enhance the role of women in the industry.” For 20 years, the award has recognized nearly 90 women for their professional accomplishments and for going beyond requirements of their positions to give back to their communities. This year, guests honored the 2018 winners: Shelly Bickett, Fix Auto USA; Mary Mahoney, Enterprise Holdings, Inc.; Marie Peevy, Automotive Training Coordinators, LLC; and Petra Schroeder, Collisionista. The evening was emceed
3M, CREF Announce 3M Hire Our Heroes Fundraiser
3M Automotive Aftermarket Division, along with the Collision Repair Education Foundation, have launched their 2018 fundraiser to help support programs to attract and support military veterans seeking a career in the collision repair industry.
Since 2013, the 3M Hire Our Heroes program has generated more than $1,065,500 that was used toward scholarships and tool grants for military veterans and their family members pursuing a career in the collision repair industry. This year, donors have two ways to show their support and win: The “Show Your Support” campaign and the 3M Hire Our Heroes 500. Show Your Support Campaign All donations of $200 or more made to the Collision Repair Edu68
cation Foundation, earmarked for the “3M Hire Our Heroes fund” made before August 30, 2018 will receive a full-size 3M Hire Our Heroes Flag designed by Chip Foose and be entered into a drawing for the following prizes:
● 1st Prize- Authentic Racing Helmet, autographed by 40 Cup drivers from the 2017 season, including Dale Earnhardt Jr. and NASCAR legend Richard Petty! ● 2nd Prize- Authentic Racing Helmet, autographed by 40 Cup drivers from the 2016 season, including Carl Edwards, Tony Stewart and Jeff Gordon! ● 3rd Prize- NASCAR® Racing Experience for 4 people at a track near you! ● 4th Prize-NASCAR® Racing Experience for 4 people at a track near you! ● 5th Prize- NASCAR® Racing Experience for 4 people at a track near you! ● 6th Prize- Petty’s Garage Sign Autographed by “the King,” Richard Petty! ● 7th Prize- Patriotic hood designed by Ryan “Ryno” Templeton!
JULY 2018 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com
by 2017 Most Influential Women Renee Ricciotti and Liz Stein. “It was such a pleasure to celebrate with the MIW recipients. They are outstanding women who have made an amazing impact on this industry,” said Cheryl Boswell, cochair of the MIW Committee. “I would like to thank the MIW sponsors who made the celebration possible.” This year’s MIW sponsors are as follows:
• MIW Vision Sponsor: Automotive Color & Supply Corp • MIW Leadership Sponsors: Audatex, a Solera Company; CCC Information Service Inc.; Enterprise Holdings, Inc.; and PPG Industries Inc. • MIW Supporter Sponsors: CSN Collision Centres, DCR Systems, The Doan Group, PPG Industries Inc. and Spanesi
Please join us in congratulating the 2018 Most Influential Women honorees! For MIW award details, criteria and nominations, please visit: https://thewomensindustrynetwork .siteym.com/page/MIW
Safelite Group Acquires Richardson Auto Glass
Safelite® Group, the nation’s leading vehicle glass services company and owner of Safelite® Solutions, has reached an agreement to acquire the assets of Richardson Auto Glass. The transaction was completed on June 4. Richardson Auto Glass was founded in 1992 and grew to be a respected leader in the auto glass industry. The company now serves Dallas, TX, surrounding communities and east into Louisiana. Richardson is being sold to Safelite Group in order to enable its associates and clients to leverage Safelite’s operational systems, distribution network, global purchasing power, insurance and commercial relationships, and contact center operations. “The synergies with our businesses made this acquisition extremely attractive,” said Sean Queen, Richardson Auto Glass’ CEO. “Safelite’s focus on their people, innovation and service, as well as their leadership and outstanding reputation, nicely align with our philosophies.” With Safelite Group, the Richardson Auto Glass team will find a home with a 120year-old parent company, Belron®.
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Tesla To Open Its Own Body Shops, Could Offer Same-Day Repair by Fred Lambert, Electrek
After it was revealed that Tesla owners were experiencing excessive wait times at body shops after being in accidents, Tesla started working on several initiatives to address the
issue, including opening up its own “Tesla body shops.” CEO Elon Musk now says that Tesla is about to open the first of those shops and that they could even potentially offer same-day repairs. Musk made the comment during Tesla’s 2018 shareholder meeting June 5. He said that Tesla should open
its first stores in the top 10 metro areas by the end of June. The CEO expects that it will result in a drastic reduction in cost and time of repair, which has been a problem with Tesla’s current thirdparty repair shop system.
Some Tesla owners had been complaining about repair time after accidents for a long time, but it came back to the forefront of Tesla news last year. It can sometimes take months for repairs to be completed. Tesla placed the fault on its third-party body shops and the body shops are saying that it’s Tesla’s
fault because of delays of parts. Last year, Tesla moved some of its training programs online and looked to certify more equipment in order to offer more options to shops. The automaker said it was “adding 300 body shops to its network.” Despite those initiatives, Tesla owners are still reporting some long wait times with third-party body shops after body damages. Now, Tesla is trying to address the issue with its own body shops, which will also be annexed to Tesla’s existing service centers, and they will pre-stock some parts in order to achieve much faster repair times. Electrek’s Take It’s one of Tesla’s biggest problems and like with most of Tesla’s issues, the automaker’s solution is to go inhouse. I can’t wait to see how it will impact wait times, but if they are indeed stockpiling some of the most popular parts, it should certainly have a major impact. We thank Electrek for reprint permission.
Original Thought #78
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WIN Elects New Board
The Women’s Industry Network’s (WIN®) mission is to support and enhance the role of women in the collision repair industry by promoting education, professional advancement and networking. The following appointments were recently made: Chair, Michelle Sullivan, FinishMaster, Inc.; ViceChair, Jenny Anderson, Enterprise Holdings Inc.; Treasurer, Cheryl Boswell, DCR Systems, LLC; Secretary, Kathy Coffey, AkzoNobel Coatings, Inc.; and Immediate Past Chair, Petra Schroeder, Collisionista. It was also confirmed that the following Board members will continue their service to the organization: Jaclyn Byers, State Farm Insurance; Yen Hoang, UYL Color Supply, Inc.; April Lausch, Faulkner Collision Center; Denise Kingstrom, BASF Corporation; Louisa Martone, Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes; Kathy Mello, TGIF Body Shop, Inc.; Debbie Menz, Axalta Coatings Systems; Nina PedrazaZinna, I-CAR; Marie Peevy, Automotive Training Coordinators, LLC.; and Beverly Rook-Twibell, Safelite Solutions.
• Original BMW Parts & Accessories When you repair a BMW, use the parts that are identical to those used in Series production – and just as reliable. Choose Original BMW Parts and Accessories. Because you can’t repair your reputation.
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