January 2023 West Edition

U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar, D-MN, and Ron Wyden, D-OR, introduced legislation to combat the rise in catalytic converter theft.

The Preventing Auto Recycling Theft (PART) Act would ensure law enforcement can more effectively address these thefts by marking each converter with a traceable identification number and establishing converter theft as a criminal offense.

locate stolen car parts, we will be one step closer in the fight to end catalytic converter theft.”

Catalytic converters are used to reduce the potency of toxic emissions from an internal combustion engine and required for vehicle compliance with the Clean Air Act. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converter thefts rose by more than 325% from 2019 to 2020.

Replacing these parts imposes significant financial costs to vehicle owners, often between $500 to $2,300, and can even result in a total loss to the vehicle.

The PART Act would:

“Throughout the country, we’ve seen an alarming increase in catalytic converter theft. These converters can be easily taken from unattended cars but are difficult and expensive for car owners to replace,” said Klobuchar. “By making catalytic converter theft a criminal offense and ensuring each converter can be easily tracked, our legislation would provide law enforcement officers with the tools and resources they need to crack down on these crimes.”

“The theft of catalytic converters hurts the pocketbooks of working families and small business owners already struggling with rising costs,” said Wyden. “By strengthening local law enforcement’s ability to

Require new vehicles to have a Vehicle Identification number (VIN) stamped onto the converter to allow law enforcement officers to link stolen parts to the vehicle from which they originate

Create a grant program through which entities can stamp VIN numbers onto catalytic converters of existing vehicles

Improve record keeping standards for purchasers of used catalytic converters

Establish enforceability of laws around catalytic converter theft by codifying these crimes as a criminal offense

The bill has received the endorsement of the National Automobile Dealers Association, the American Truck

From Horse-Drawn Carriages To Electric Cars: After 145

Years, Oakland, CA, Auto Repair Shop

By Ricky Rodas The Oaklandside

For decades, Ron Arth’s days began and ended at George V. Arth & Son, his family’s 145-year-old auto repair shop on 10th Street in downtown Oakland, CA. As owner, Arth worked alongside a faithful crew and his trusty assistant of 43 years, Renee Camp

“I have customers who come in and say, ‘I used to come in with my grandpa,’ and I’d say, ‘yeah unfortunately I remember your grandpa,’” Arth joked in a recent interview.

But the end of an era a long era has come for the family-owned auto shop.

On Nov. 29, the national

REGIONAL NEWS

Changes Hands

Ron Arth, middle right, stands next to his father George W. Arth, middle left, and his longtime crew at George V. Arth & Son on 10th St. in downtown Oakland, CA.

Credit: Courtesy of Ron Arth

auto repair company Crash Champions announced its acquisition of Oakland’s oldest and perhaps the nation’s oldest mechanic’s garage. Heidi Foster, senior vice

Fix Network World Launches First

in

Fix Network World proudly announced the approval of the Fix Network Apprenticeship Program (FNAP) in the State of Washington for automotive glass technicians.

The Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council voted unanimously in October at its quarterly meeting to approve the workforce development program. This Registered Apprenticeship is governed by standards outlined under WAC 296-05-009 and covers

REGIONAL NEWS

10 San Diego Veterans, Military Members Receive NABC Recycled Rides 8

California Autobody Association Announces Enterprise as Corporate Sponsor 38

California to Expand Clean Transportation in Underserved Communities 16

Contra Costa College Seeking Automotive Collision Adjunct Professors 40

Crash Champions Acquires 7 Auto Body Shops in Seattle 34

Exotic Auto Body in Southern California Joins 1Collision 19

Fix Network World Launches First Auto Glass Apprenticeship Program

NATIONAL NEWS

3 More Automakers Fulfill Pledge to Make Autobrake Nearly Universal 50

30 Individuals, 21 Businesses Charged in Pennsylvania Title Washing Scheme 51

Americans Will Pay 16% More for Car Insurance by the End of 2023 40

As Luxury Share Grows, New-Vehicle Prices Hit Record High in November 42

Autel Selects Qmerit for Home Chargers 39

AutoNation Expands After-Sales Business with Acquisition of RepairSmith 52

California’s Emissions Plunged Amidst Pandemic Restrictions, but Climate Gains May Not Hold 47

CarMax Reaches Settlement Over Failure to Disclose Vehicle Recalls 48

CIECA Announces Vaultoniq as Member 53

CIECA Welcomes New Member E-Nikio Appraisals 24

Donate to the Jeff Silver Memorial Scholarship 52

Ford CEO Reveals 2 of 3 Ford Dealers Buy into All-Electric Strategy 43

GM Says Its Dealers Have Fixed Over 11,000 Tesla EVs Since 2021 53

Going in Reverse: Dangerous Driving Behaviors Rise 35

in U.S. 1

From Horse-Drawn Carriages to Electric Cars: After 145 Years, Oakland, CA, Auto Repair Shop Changes Hands 1

Many Northwest Drivers Boast Their Driving Skills, Even in Wintry Conditions 6

Payne Appointed to CAWA’s Board of Directors 31

PG&E Customers Invited to Pre-Enroll in EV Charging Pilot Programs to Reduce Their Bills 4

Safelite Group Acquires Genuine Auto Glass 4

COLUMNISTS

Mike Anderson

Are You Itemizing Vehicle Prep Steps Necessary Prior to ADAS Calibrations? 10

Abby Andrews

Future Technology Presents Liability Concerns for Collision Repairers 30

Stacey Phillips

3M™ RepairStack™ Performance Solutions & Additional 3M Products Introduced to Optimize Shop Efficiency and Performance 20

AirPro Diagnostics Releases Updated Self-Guided Version of Auggie DTS at SEMA 2022 34

Award-Winning Female I-CAR Instructor Teaches How to Manage Quality Vehicle Repairs at SEMA 14

Compact WD-40 Precision Pen Debuted at SEMA Show 38

OEConnection’s RepairLogic Platform

Helps Auto Body Shops Find Accurate OEM Information 22

Repairify Introduces New Products, Announces Repairify Institute Training Model 12

Cole Strandberg

Is Collision Repair the Gold Rush 2.0? 36

John Yoswick

Don’t Look for Short-Term End to Fast Growth in Average Collision Repair Invoices 32

How to Get Entry-Level Collision Repair Techs Productive Quickly 18

More Auto Body Shops Being Paid for Diagnostic Test Drives Before Repairs 26

Index of Advertisers

American Chevrolet ��������������������������������� 19

Hertz to Pay $168M to Settle False Rental Car Theft Claims 54

Hunter Engineering Recognized by Vets Group 26

Kaeser Compressors, Inc. Raises $23,000 32

Maaco Recognizes Top-Performing Franchise Owners at 2022 Maaco Convention 46

Most Americans Would Still Prefer ICE Over EV, Regardless of Price 31

MotorTrend Shows on Amazon Freevee 27

NABC Drive Out Distraction Program Encourages Safe Driving This Holiday Season 39

NHTSA Announces Another Takata Air Bag Fatality, Urges Owners to Check for Recalls 52

November Auto Sales Forecasted to Continue Previous 3-Month Trend 48

November New-Car Sales Improve Year-Over-Year 53

Options for ASE Testing and Recertification 52

Ram Transmission Problems Cause 16 Fires, Recall 50

U.S. Senators Introduce Bill to Combat Catalytic Converter Theft Nationwide 1

Zendrive Joins CCC Network 36

Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers 39

Auto Data Labels 13

Axalta Coating Systems ���������������������������� 2

BendPak 9

BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers 42

Car Pros Kia 26

Car Pros Kia Renton 38

Carworx Distribution Inc 23

Chase Chevrolet 11

Citrus Kia-Ford 16

Classifieds 54

Colortone Automotive Paints 6

Corwin Buick-GMC 36

Courtesy Chevrolet San Diego 41

Dynabrade, Inc 56

FH Dailey Chevrolet 19

Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers 35

Future Nissan of Roseville 31

Galpin Motors 25

Garden Grove Kia 18

Glenn E Thomas Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep 15

GM Wholesale Parts Dealers 55

Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers 28-29

Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers 46

Kearny Mesa Subaru-Hyundai ����������������� 27

KECO Body Repair Products 21

Kendall Subaru of Marysville 4

Kia Downtown Los Angeles 24

Kia Motors Wholesale Parts Dealers 44-45

Kia of Carson 31

Kia of Irvine 18

Lithia Honda of Medford 34

Malco 10

Marking Pen Depot ������������������������������������ 8

Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers 51

Mercedes-Benz Wholesale Parts Dealers 51

Michael Hohl Motor Company����������������� 14

MINI Wholesale Parts Dealers 42

MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers 33

Niello Audi ����������������������������������������������� 30

Nissan/Infiniti Wholesale Parts Dealers 49

North American Bancard 17

Novato Chevrolet 19

Porsche Wholesale Parts Dealers 47

Porterville Ford 6

Roseville Kia 32

Sandberg Volvo Cars 26

Santa Monica Audi 11

SATA Dan-Am Company 7

Spanesi Americas 5

Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers 43

The Bay Area Automotive Group 37

Volkswagen Pasadena 22

Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers 40

Volvo Wholesale Parts Dealers 42

PG&E Customers Invited To Pre-Enroll in EV Charging Pilot Programs To Reduce Their Bills

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) on Dec. 6 announced the launch of a pre-enrollment website for customers interested in joining the company’s three upcoming Vehicleto-Everything (V2X) pilot programs.

The new programs will offer customers financial incentives to integrate new bidirectional EV charging technology, which allows a customer’s electric vehicle to become a mobile battery, capable of storing electricity that can be used to provide onsite power or send power back to the grid during periods of peak electricity demand.

As outlined in its first ever Climate Strategy Report, released in June, PG&E aims to support 3 million EVs on the road in its service area by 2030, with goals of more than 2 million of them equipped with vehicle-to-grid capabilities.

PG&E will test the technologies in a variety of settings, including homes, businesses and with local PG&E microgrids in select high wildfire-risk areas. PG&E is anticipating enrolling approximately 1,000 customers with eligible electric vehicles and bidirectional charging stations in the residential pilot, 200 customers in the commercial pilot, and 200 customers in the microgrid pilot.

Pre-enrollment allows PG&E customers to express interest in participating, determine eligibility and reserve a rebate and an opportunity to fully enroll in the programs in 2023 as more vehicles and other required equipment become more widely available.

“Bidirectional EV charging is a

game-changer for both the energy and transportation sectors. These pilot programs will help determine how to maximize the cost-effectiveness of bidirectional charging technology in providing a variety of customer and grid benefits,” said Aaron August, PG&E’s vice president of utility partnerships and innovation.

V2X Pilot Program Incentives

Customer benefits of PG&E’s V2X pilots include leveraging the EV battery as a backup power source and using the EV battery to earn money and offset energy usage through participation in demand response and other managed charging programs, which ultimately help reduce customer bills, integrate renewable energy and support the grid.

Each of the new pilot programs offer specific financial incentives for participating customers and additional benefits for those in disadvantaged and priority communities as identified in California Assembly Bill 841. The upfront incentives for the V2X Pilots along with the performance-based incentives and enrollment in the Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP) can provide additional savings to help offset the costs of purchasing and installing a bidirectional EV charger.

Incentives include:

V2X Residential

* Up to $2,500 upfront ($3,000 for customers in disadvantaged communities)

* Up to $2,175 additional for providing stored energy to the grid

Safelite® Group, a nationwide vehicle glass services and recalibration company and owner of Safelite AutoGlass®, announced Oct. 11 an agreement to acquire the assets of Genuine Auto Glass in Seattle, WA.

The transaction was completed Oct. 7.

“We’re pleased to welcome Genuine Auto Glass associates to the Safelite family,” said Renee Cacchillo, president and CEO of Safelite Group. “Over the last two decades, they have built a strong and impressive reputation for providing outstanding customer service. Their mission and values nicely align with ours, making this acquisition an excellent addition to our business.”

Safelite is known for its

excellence with vehicle glass repair, replacement and recalibration services.

“It’s an exciting time as we continue to expand our reach and provide the quality service our customers expect,” said Cacchillo. “We look forward to leveraging the skills our new team members bring and making them feel right at home.”

Genuine Auto Glass will leverage Safelite’s excellent operational systems, advanced safety system recalibration expertise, world-class distribution network, global purchasing power and strong insurance and commercial relationships.

Source: Safelite Group

in times of high demand through auto-enrollment in the ELRP demand response program

V2X Commercial

* Up to $2,500 upfront ($3,000 for customers in disadvantaged communities) for installing a 3-phase bidirectional charger less than 50 kW

o Up to $3,625 additional for providing stored energy to the grid in times of high demand through auto-enrollment in the ELRP demand response program

* Up to $4,500 upfront ($5,000 for customers in disadvantaged communities) for installing a 3-phase bidirectional charger greater than or equal to 50 kW

o Up to $3,625 additional for providing stored energy to the grid in times of high demand through auto-enrollment in the ELRP demand response program

V2X Microgrids

* Up to $3,750 for providing stored energy to the grid in times of high demand through auto-enrollment in the ELRP demand response program

* Can stack incentives with V2X Residential or Commercial

Approved by the California Public

Utilities Commission in May, the new programs are separate and in addition to PG&E’s collaborations announced last March with both General Motors and Ford Motor Company, and will help to inform the Department of Energy Memorandum of Understanding that PG&E and a collaboration of industry, government and labor leaders signed in April focused on accelerating V2X technologies.

Support for EV Adoption

More than 420,000 EVs—one in six in the country—are registered in PG&E’s service area of Northern and Central California, where customers are often early adopters of new clean energy technologies.

PG&E has played an active role in reducing customers’ barriers to EV adoption through charging infrastructure programs, rebates and special EV rates for both residential and business customers that help make charging simpler and more affordable.

PG&E also offers tools to help customers understand costs when adopting an EV. To learn more about PG&E’s EV offerings, visit pge.com/ev.

Source: PG&E

As winter quickly approaches and the Northwest prepares for temperatures to drop, one negative aspect to a “white Christmas” is the lasting, dangerous icy conditions on the road.

men claiming they’re a more skilled driver than others, while only 36% of women said the same. In Seattle, men are even more confident in their driving ability, with 65% claiming they’re a better driver than others, while only 36% of women answered the same.

Across both Seattle and Portland, few (3%) admit there’s room for improvement in their driving ability.

The newest poll by PEMCO Mutual Insurance revealed many Seattle and Portland residents boast they’re a more skillful driver than most in both normal and wintry conditions.

According to the poll data, 50% of Seattleites and 47% of Portlanders claim they are a more skilled driver than their peers.

This high confidence is even more common among men than women, with 57% of Portland

Though it seems traffic in the Pacific Northwest slows to a grinding halt when winter brings snow and ice to the roads, nearly half (44%) of all respondents still boast their driving superiority in winter conditions. In Portland, 55% of men believe they are more capable drivers in the snow than their peers, while only 35% of women claim the same. The gender disparity increases when looking at Seattle with 60% of men believing they are better drivers in winter conditions than their peers, while only 27% of women believe the same.

“We were surprised to see that so many people were extremely

confident in their driving, especially in icy conditions,” said PEMCO spokesperson Allison Leep . “PEMCO’s focus is always the safety of everyone in our community. Especially when the roads are paved in snow and ice, we recommend that everyone slows down and does their best to drive safely and defensively.

Even if you’re comfortable driving in the snow, the car next to you may not be.”

With such confidence in their driving skills, it stands to reason that individuals trust themselves the most when it comes to commuting in winter conditions. When asked how Pacific Northwesterners prefer to get around in the snow, about two-thirds of respondents said they are most inclined to drive themselves.

ALLISON LEEP PEMCO SPOKESPERSON

The poll also explored why drivers think so highly of their winter driving skills. Given the Pacific Northwest’s typically mild winters compared to other parts of the country, most locals have limited windows to practice driving in the snow. Yet, when asked why respondents truly believe themselves to be better drivers in icy conditions, about three-quarters claim they’ve spent time driving in the same or worse conditions in other wintry regions across the country.

Source: PEMCO Mutual Insurance

“PEMCO’s focus is always the safety of everyone in our community. Especially when the roads are paved in snow and ice, we recommend that everyone slows down and does their best to drive safely and defensively. Even if you’re comfortable driving in the snow, the car next to you may not be.”

Recently, 10 deserving veterans and military members and their families were honored at the Armed Services YMCA in San Diego, CA, and presented with National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides® vehicles.

All the cars were donated by USAA and were refurbished by collision repair partners Service King/Crash Champions, which repaired five of the vehicles; Certified Collision Group affiliates Auto Body of Escondido, Auto Body of Murrieta and Auto Body of San Marcos; Caliber Collision; and Fix Auto USA.

The presentation was part of USAA’s 100th anniversary celebration, through which it will gift 100 NABC Recycled Rides vehicles to military families across the country, including Nashville, Seattle, Chesapeake, Savannah, Charlotte, Colorado Springs, Denver, Phoenix, Tampa, San Diego and finally San Antonio later this year.

“USAA was proud to celebrate our 100th anniversary in San Diego at the Armed Service YMCA and present vehicles to 10 deserving military families to provide them the gift of reliable transportation in commemoration of USAA’s 100th anniversary,” said Adm. John Bird,

senior vice president, military affairs, USAA. “Our commitment is to serve our military members, and we are proud to help these service men and women with the gift of reliable transportation to help them along their journey. Thank you to our many partners for making this possible.”

For 100 years, USAA’s mission has served active-duty service members, veterans and their families. Recipients have been nominated by nonprofit organizations to receive a NABC Recycled Ride. With the partnership of the NABC, a nonprofit committed to serving their communities, and many in the collision repair industry, vehicles are repaired and donated to those identified as in need of reliable transportation.

The recipients included:

USMC Staff Sgt. Timothy Riddle received a 2018 Nissan Pathfinder repaired by Service King/Crash Champions

USMC Lance Cpl. Kelly Bimenyimana was presented a 2017 Jeep Cherokee refurbished by Service King/Crash Champions

USMC Cpl. Jorge Cuahutencos was gifted a 2018 Toyota CH-R restored by Service King/Crash

Champions

U.S. Navy Logistics Spc. Seaman Lucio Quintero received a 2017 Chevrolet Colorado refurbished by Service King/Crash Champions

USMC Sgt. Angelo Padilla was presented a 2020 Subaru Outback repaired by Service King/Crash Champions

USMC veteran Lance Cpl. Jorge Ortiz received a 2017 GMC Sierra refurbished by Auto Body of Escondido

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Camille Islas was gifted a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe repaired by Auto Body of San Marcos

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jacaranda Harvey received a 2019 Mazda CX-5 Touring restored by Auto Body of Escondido

U.S. Navy Airman Abigail Garcia was presented a 2020 Jeep Cherokee refurbished by Fix Auto USA

USMC Lance Cpl. Zachary Huffman received a 2018 Nissan Altima repaired by Caliber Collision

The NABC shared its gratefulness for USAA’s tremendous commitment to giving back to military members.

“It is exciting to join our member USAA in their 100th anniversary celebration, and grateful to all of

our members Crash Champions, Fix Auto USA, Caliber Collision and Glass, and Auto Body San Marcos, Escondido and Murrieta, all Certified Collision Group affiliates, which refurbished all of today’s beautiful vehicles,” said Ben Clymer Jr., NABC board member. “We are proud to meet these military members and their families and hear their stories. We are indebted to their service to our country and are committed to helping them continue their path to independence and success with the gift of reliable transportation.”

Additional partners in the presentation included 1.800.Charity. Cars, Enterprise, Axalta, Longhouse Inventory Solutions and SafeLite, among others.

NABC Recycled Rides is a unique program in which businesses representing all facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides program in 2007, members of the NABC have donated more than 3,000 vehicles valued at some $42 million.

Source: NABC

Collision repair shops are obviously seeing more and more vehicles coming in for repairs that include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and that means more and more vehicles are requiring calibrations of those systems as part of the repair.

There are a lot of great resources out there for determining which vehicles have systems that will need to be calibrated. I-CAR, for example, offers a free online search tool to find OEM calibration requirements, available at rts.i-car.com/oemcalibration-requirements-search. html.

Pull up the requirements for 2022 Acura MDX, for example, and the site shows what’s required related to the adaptive cruise control, collision warning, blind spot detection and about 10 other vehicle systems— there’s also a link at the top of the search results to a detailed page explaining how to use the requirements search.

But what I want to focus on here

are some of the things often required by the automaker to be done—by your shop or by whatever sublet vendor you are using—to the vehicle prior to the calibration. There’s also “stall prep” work that must be done, but I’m focusing here on steps related to the vehicle itself.

This vehicle prep required for accurate calibration may include such items as verifying the fuel level in the vehicle, and adding fuel if necessary to meet the necessary conditions. It can include verifying the tire pressure, and the levels of other vehicle fluids in the vehicle like coolant or oil or washer fluid. It can include verifying the trunk doesn’t have any excess contents adding weight or “ballast.” You may have to check the back of the front seats to make sure there’s nothing in the seat pocket. An alignment is often a required step prior to calibrations.

When I’m working with estimators or repair planners, I always teach them to itemize these operations aside from the calibration line entry itself. Why?

Mike Anderson — From the Desk of Mike Anderson

Because there are variables. You may have two similar vehicles each requiring the same calibration, but one has the full fuel tank needed, while the other has only a half tank of gas, requiring an added step.

Speaking of which, let me tell you about an experience one collision repairer recently told me about when

I think it’s going to become more important that shops ask vehicle owners to bring their vehicle in full of fuel whenever possible, explaining it’s necessary for proper calibrations. This is something that always should have been done in order to do a proper suspension alignment, but now it’s just as critical—or perhaps more so— for calibrations. And if you do need to add fuel, contact the customer ahead of time to avoid the type of situation this shop found itself in.

MIKE ANDERSON COLLISION ADVICE

I was visiting the shop. The shop had added fuel to a vehicle because the calibration required a full tank of gas, but the vehicle had come into the shop with only a half-full tank.

After the customer picked up the repaired vehicle, he asked if the shop had added gas. The shop explained it was required as part of the calibration. The customer then asked what type was added. It turned out it wasn’t the type the customer used. He made such a stink about it, the shop had to drain the fuel and replace the fuel filters just to make the customer happy.

So the bottom line is estimates and invoices that include a calibration should also include lines items for whatever vehicle prep was required. Make sure you’re researching those requirements in the OEM information, and then make sure it’s being done properly. Don’t try to cheat it.

There are some OEMs that may say if you have a half-tank of gas, you can offset it by adding a set amount of weight added to the vehicle. But if the OEM doesn’t call that out, you need to make sure it has a full tank of gas.

The other thing: If you sublet your calibrations, you want to make sure these vehicle prep steps are done, either by your shop, if practical, before it goes to the sublet vendor, or by that sublet vendor. You may want to ask that sublet vendor to provide photos or other documentation that the necessary vehicle prep was done.

Dealers (ATD), the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA), the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA), the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA), the National Salvage Vehicle Reporting Program (NSVRP), NTEA — The Association for the Work Truck Industry, the American Car Rental Association (ACRA), the NAFA Fleet Management Association, the National Consumers League (NCL), the National Private Truck Council and the Truck Renting and Leasing Association (TRALA).

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, R-IN, leads companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“Dealers across Minnesota thank Sen. Klobuchar for introducing this

common-sense bill to curb catalytic converter theft. The current patchwork of state laws combined with the lack of traceability has made catalytic converter theft an easy way for criminals to make quick cash,” said Scott Lambert, president of the Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association. “The PART Act will give teeth to law enforcement by making converters traceable to their original vehicle and by establishing federal criminal penalties for this theft.”

As a former prosecutor, Klobuchar has led efforts to prevent automobilerelated crimes. In April, she convened a roundtable with Minnesota law enforcement leaders to discuss ways to crack down on violent carjacking crimes. The same month, she urged the U.S. Department of Justice  to prioritize resources for state and local law enforcement to address increases in carjackings.

Source: Office of U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar

“So when I’m working with estimators or repair planners, I always teach them to itemize these operations aside from the calibration line entry itself.”

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

As automotive technology advances, Repairify, a portfolio company of Kinderhook Industries, LLC, says no collision repairer needs to be left behind. As a result, the Repairify team is working to develop products and services that simplify automotive maintenance and repair for customers.

During the SEMA and AAPEX shows held in November in Las Vegas, NV, Repairify showcased its offerings, including the asTech Mini, the asTech Connect, the asTech Duo All-In-One diagnostic solution, and the asTech Rules Engine.

85% to 86% of the car parc because it uses J2534 protocol.”

J2534 is an interface standard designed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Paired with the asTech mobile app, Hollingsworth said the asTech Mini delivers the functionality of thousands of OEM scan tools in a pocket-sized device.

“It’s like having hundreds of certified technicians and over 1,000 OEM tools right in the palm of your hand,” said Maurice Tuff, chief marketing officer and global head of tools for Repairify.

With the asTech Mini, users can access asTech’s patented remote OEM diagnostics and 400+ certified technicians, perform local OEMcompatible quick scans, read and clear codes, access all scan reports in the asTech mobile app and know that Repairify’s certified warranty backs the scans.

Hollingsworth said with the addition of the asTech Mini, the company now has “…a tool offering that we can truly call a good, better and best” referring to the asTech Mini, the asTech Connect and the asTech All-In-One, respectively.

sublet repair professionals, providing more control over how quickly the repairs can be completed, and automating invoicing and payment processes, according to a company press release.

The Repairify Institute

On Nov. 3, Repairify unveiled its plan to launch the Repairify Institute in 2023. The training institute is a comprehensive technical training program for automotive professionals to ensure service readiness.

The company said it is the automotive service industry’s first education organization to use a revolutionary course development process called adaptive learning, which focuses on understanding each individual’s knowledge level to adjust its teaching based on the learner’s strengths and opportunities for improvement. Through the institute, students can work at their own pace via several planned academies to achieve certifications or to expand their learning on several automotive topics.

known as Centers of Excellence, will serve as examination and certification hubs for students, featuring a variety of spaces to optimize learning, including classrooms, spaces to proctor oral examinations and a shop space where students will demonstrate their abilities to perform their learned skills. These facilities will be strategically located so students can easily travel to a regional location. The first Center of Excellence is slated to open near Dallas in early 2023.

Repairify Institute will create multiple certification opportunities with specific academies and curriculums based on various automotive service segments. Automotive Training Group, a technical training company recently acquired by Repairify, will add advanced mechanical training to the program. The Repairify Institute is partnering with many leading product and service providers across the mechanical and collision industries to further expand training and curriculum offerings in the future.

Patented Rules Engine

The company also announced the creation of a technical training program offered by the newly created Repairify Institute.

The Repairify booth at the SEMA Show was set up to demonstrate the lifecycle of a vehicle and showcase the company’s solutions during every step of the repair process. Repairify also demonstrated its ADAS identification and calibration capabilities at the ADAS Showcase section at the SEMA Show and exhibited at the AAPEX Show as part of Joe’s Garage.

asTech® Mini

The week before the SEMA Show, Repairify announced a new tool available for order in 2023, the asTech® Mini device. The compact, comprehensive Bluetoothenabled OBD2 scanning solution was built for OEM and OEMcompatible diagnostics. asTech, part of the Repairify family of companies, classifies OEM-compatible tools as those that the company has tested and found to perform equally as well as OEM tools.

“The asTech Mini is a lighter scan tool, which can remotely connect with an OE tool or one of our OEM-compatible tools,” said Cris Hollingsworth, president of Repairify Global Holdings, Inc. “It covers about

Repair OnDemand

Repairify also introduced a twosided sublet repair marketplace called Repair OnDemand, which connects sublet repair professionals with companies that have vehicles in need of repair, such as fleet owners, auction operators, dealerships and independent repair facilities.

Repair OnDemand combines the software, technology and people from AutoMobile Technologies (AMT), Mobile Tech RX, One Guard Inspections and BlueDriver, all part of the Repairify family, to bring clients together with its network of more than 16,000 sublet repair professionals.

“Our clients are companies that typically have hundreds or thousands of vehicles in need of inspection, cosmetic body work, minor mechanical repairs and maintenance, or key replacement,” said Tony Rimas, president of Repairify’s Repair OnDemand business. “Our marketplace already has become an invaluable resource in a relatively short amount of time.”

Repair OnDemand was created to help automotive fleet owners, auction operators, dealerships and independent repairers improve repair and reconditioning operations before, during and after the repair. It does this by speeding the time required to find

Additional program features will include a mentorship support program that tracks the progress of learned new skills and a Proof of Skill concept that ensures every student can demonstrate mastery of the skills they’ve learned to perform safe and proper repairs.

“The Repairify Institute is the embodiment of the Repairify mission to help automotive repair professionals in their quest to simplify complex repairs,” explained Hollingsworth. “Not only are we enabling this mission with our patented technology, but we also are building curriculum and courses that help technicians achieve and maintain certification in their desired areas of expertise.”

Hollingsworth said the institute will help repairers gain additional competencies, fine-tune their existing competencies and become certified.

The institute’s physical locations,

Another recent addition is asTech’s patented diagnostic Rules Engine, which identifies vehicles based on the VIN and recommends the best scan tool for the job.

“It is an AI technician helper,” said Hollingsworth. “That means every single vehicle gets scanned the exact same way.”

He said technicians are critical in the process but must work off of OEM diagnostic data and service information to perform safe and accurate repairs.

“This creates a consistent process every single time with customization and optionality as to which tool to use,” he added.

The enhanced asTech solution reduces key-to-key times, consolidates work in one place by enabling calibrations and OEM-level programming and helps keep shops in compliance with their direct repair insurance partners to achieve higher reimbursement rates, according to a company press release.

“Every single time, you now have a record of the documentation,” said Hollingsworth. “We’re trying to help shops cross the credibility gap between documenting the work they did and the carrier feeling comfortable paying for it. We’re getting great feedback from both sides.”

For more information, visit www. repairify.com.

Repairify team members at SEMA 2022 included, left to right, Dan Young, Elizabeth Gonzales, Nikki Vanderschaaff, Phil Peace, Jonathan Chatagnier, Cris Hollingsworth and Michael Severyn

The asTech Duo All-In-One diagnostic solution

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

Jaime Shewbridge, an instructor for the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), recently shared her industry knowledge at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV.

Over three days, she taught technicians how to best manage quality vehicle repairs as part of the I-CAR credited course, “Coordinate the Repair Process.”

Shewbridge is the first woman to receive three of I-CAR’s highest honors, including the Founder’s Ring Award in 2003, the Lon Baudoux Instructor of the Year Award in 2020 for the Northwest Region and the Johnny Dickerson Welding Award the following year.

“My fiancé, Patrick, and I share a blended family of eight daughters,” said Shewbridge. “To be able to tell them that I am the first female to win these awards was one of my proudest moments.”

Growing up in Maryland, Shewbridge always planned to work in the computer science field. Instead, she was hired to assist at a collision repair shop office while in high school and found she really enjoyed it. Over the next five years, she was promoted to customer service representative (CSR), parts person, assistant body shop manager and then general manager.

years. Meanwhile, she attended every training class she could.

She became an I-CAR instructor in 1999 and, after a break, returned in 2013. The following year, she was named I-CAR Maryland state chairman. Currently, Shewbridge teaches welding and hands-on skills development in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Delaware.

“The best part of being an instructor for me is seeing that the student noticed something different

workforce, Shewbridge has been the SkillsUSA Baltimore regional chairperson for collision repair and automotive refinishing since 2014 and the Maryland SkillsUSA chairperson for collision repair since 2015.

Her daughter, Caite, is a two-time gold award recipient for Maryland in automotive refinishing and estimating and assists with the competition.

“Without industry involvement, the competition can’t work,” she noted. “Our state collision repair, automotive refinishing, and estimating competitions are completely selffunded.”

In addition to the core base of people who support SkillsUSA each year, Shewbridge is looking for additional donors to supply paint, tools, measuring systems, pulse welders, computer estimating systems and vehicles.

She is also demonstrating her support of vocational school training by working with the Maryland Department of Education chair this year to coordinate an in-service day for collision repair instructors.

can reach out to when it is time to place their students.

“We hope to bring in new technology and equipment, as well as what training is out there they can use in their daily classes.”

Shewbridge encourages the industry to find ways to get involved and help it grow.

“It was amazing to me how the techs could take something that was destroyed and put it back together,” said Shewbridge. “Even at 46, I am still amazed at the unbelievable talent body techs and painters have.”

While working at the shop, Shewbridge realized there was a lot of information she didn’t know.

“I learned quickly that I better understand what I am looking at when I go into a shop, especially being female,” she recalled. “In the late ‘90s and early 2000s, there were not as many females in our industry.”

In 1998, she was recruited by an insurance company and worked as an appraiser, inspector, supervisor and team manager over the next 24

or learned something new,” said Shewbridge. “Helping technicians elevate the quality of repairs allows them to provide for their families and create a safer repair. Even if just one person survives a subsequent loss, it makes it all worth it.”

In addition to her role at I-CAR, Shewbridge is a post-secondary adjunct faculty instructor for Prince George’s Community College’s collision repair program in Maryland. She also serves as an equipment trainer for Capital Collision Equipment, a Chief distributor based out of that same state.

Early on, Shewbridge said she realized the importance of continuous learning. “It’s easy to think you have an adequate knowledge base and become satisfied,” said Shewbridge. “I learned that if I was comfortable, I wasn’t learning.”

She attributes her success to having a very supportive family, as well as those she has met and encouraged her to keep learning and being uncomfortable.

“I am grateful to this industry, which has provided for my family and me for over 30 years now,” she said. “So many people have taken time to encourage me, challenge me, teach me, and in the beginning, take a chance that a young female could make it in this industry. This industry needs people, and if you want to be successful in any area of this industry, you can. Just stay uncomfortable.”

As a proponent for a skilled

The event allows educators to meet area recruiters for MSOs and local shop owners. It also helps increase the number of contacts they

“We have schools that need equipment, materials, vehicles to work on, industry people to help with mock interviews or just come in to talk to students and give new perspectives on the industry and explain what a great living working in this industry can provide,” she said. “It

Jaime Shewbrige is the first woman to have received three of I-CAR’s highest honors

Over three days at SEMA, Jaime Shewbridge taught technicians how to best manage quality vehicle repairs

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Nov. 18 lifted up two major actions to advance the state’s groundbreaking efforts to get more clean cars, trucks and buses on the road through expanded vehicle purchase incentives and clean transportation infrastructure, especially in underserved areas, to make the transition to electric vehicles more accessible and affordable than ever.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) on Nov. 17 approved a $2.6 billion investment plan to support a wide range of ZEV projects, with 70% of the funds directed to disadvantaged and low-income communities---the state’s largest-ever investment in the equitable expansion of clean transportation. Support for lowincome consumers includes up to $19,500 for those who have an older car to scrap.

Also Nov. 17, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) adopted a $1 billion transportation electrification program to fund ZEV charging infrastructure, with additional incentives for projects in hard-to-reach communities.

Fix Network World

training at Speedy Glass centers in Washington and Oregon.

FNAP will be the first automotive glass apprenticeship of its kind in the U.S. The program’s goal is to elevate the quality of automotive technicians being trained in the glass industry by offering an effective and efficient pathway to certification in auto glass repair and replacement services. The program aims to attract a diverse and inclusive workforce and create job opportunities for individuals seeking a career in skilled trades.

“The automotive glass industry in North America represents an incredible opportunity for individuals seeking a rewarding and longlasting career,” said Steve Leal, president and CEO, Fix Network World. “As vehicles become more technologically complex, we will need trained and certified technicians who can provide quality repair services based on recognized safety standards. The Fix Network Apprenticeship Program aims to train technicians who can provide

“California is leading the world in the zero-emission vehicle revolution while taking action to ensure that those most burdened by air pollution share in the benefits,” said Newsom. “These bold investments to provide cost-saving incentives and expand access to ZEV charging infrastructure in all our communities bring us that much closer to making our clean transportation future a reality in California.”

These investments are funded in part by the historic $10 billion ZEV package advanced by Newsom and the Legislature as a key component of the multi-year $54 billion California Climate Commitment.

CARB’s $2.6 billion investment plan includes funding for a variety of projects and makes important program changes:

$2.2 billion for clean trucks, buses and off-road equipment: This includes more than $2 billion for zero-emission trucks and buses and off-road equipment including school buses, transit buses and drayage trucks; $33 million for financing for small truck fleets transitioning to cleaner technologies; and $135 million for demonstration and pilot

this elevated standard of care.”

Workers will benefit from 2,000 hours of paid, comprehensive on-the-job training under the supervision of journeyperson-level auto glass technicians. The program also includes paid supplementary classroom-based, online and distance learning components, training seminars and industry conferences.

Each apprentice will receive instruction and training on auto glass replacement, ADAS calibration, windshield repair process, safe glass installation practices, auto glass tools and technologies, troubleshooting and diagnostics, and cost estimate preparation. To graduate, apprentices must pass the certified technician standardized test as specified by the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC).

Interested individuals can apply year-round through the Fix Network online recruitment platform. Applications will be reviewed by a committee.

To learn more about apprenticeship opportunities and qualifications, visit www.speedyglass.com/careers.

Source: Fix Network World

UPDATED DAILY www.autobodynews.com

projects, including commercial harbor craft.

$381 million for clean transportation equity projects: This includes $326 million for vehicle purchase incentives and $55 million for clean mobility investments.

Support for low-income consumers looking to purchase an electric car: Up to $15,000 in incentives for new electric vehicles without having to scrap an older vehicle and up to $19,500 for those who have an older car to scrap--an increase of $3,000 from current incentive levels.

Streamlines and aligns programs: Simplifies income eligibility tiers to at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level and offers $2,000 prepaid electric vehicle charge cards for low-income consumers.

Small fleet support: Introduces tiered voucher amounts to increase support for small fleets while encouraging early adoption of zero-emission technologies and large-scale deployments of zeroemission trucks in disadvantaged communities.

Support for commercial harbor craft: Dedicates $60 million for

cleaner commercial harbor craft.

The CPUC’s $1 billion transportation electrification program provides a unified policydriven funding structure for utility transportation electrification efforts statewide through 2030, and prioritizes investments in charging infrastructure for low-income, tribal and underserved utility customers.

The program will direct 70% of funding to charging for mediumand heavy-duty vehicles, which are responsible for a disproportionate share of air pollutants from the transportation sector, and will offer rebates for customer side electric vehicle infrastructure investments. Higher rebates will be available for projects in underserved, disadvantaged and tribal communities to ensure charging infrastructure reaches these hardto-reach communities.

Electric vehicles are one of California’s top exports and the state is home to 43 ZEV-related manufacturers. ZEVs comprise 18% of all new vehicles sold in California.

Source: Office of Gov. Gavin Newsom

By John Yoswick Autobody News

At the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) in Las Vegas in November, Jim Guthrie of the Car Crafters chain of collision shops in New Mexico discussed the success his company was having with quickly getting entrylevel apprentices basic skills they put to use working within the shop while their training continues.

“It’s a way they can earn while they learn,” Guthrie said.

curriculum was created after talking to the industry about what would help someone entering the trade “feel immediately of value in your shop.”

It focuses on five core skills: assembly, disassembly, small dent repair, plastic repair and prep for refinishing.

Goroff said it is the start of a broader I-CAR initiative to provide a solution for those looking to attract, mentor, train and retain technicians, and will include both mentorship and apprenticeship guides that take into account how younger potential technicians want to learn.

“A lot of the folks who thrive in collision repair really are not book learners,” Goroff said during the discussion at CIC. “They’re not video learners. They want to do, as well as either read or watch something, before they’ve learned it.

a school’s ability to ensure that once a student shows up in a shop, their transition from learning to working is much, much smoother.”

When Guthrie, current chairman of I-CAR’s board of directors, was asked how a shop could get started training entry-level technicians as he’s doing in his business, he suggested calling Goroff.

Another panelist, Brandon Eckenrode of the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), said just as I-CAR’s program to help shops get entry-level employees quickly trained in five skills, the value of that approach needs to reach the high school and college collision repair training programs as well.

CREF can help shops get on the advisory board of a local school, Eckenrode said, to talk to instructors and students so they know “what skillsets they’re looking for as an employer that will make [students] more productive as an entry-level employee, as opposed to the detrain and retrain that we’ve heard many people have to do because of whatever education they might be getting inside their school.”

Guthrie’s company is using the Entry-Level Technician Learning and Development Guide developed by I-CAR. Dara Goroff of I-CAR said the

“The mentorship and apprenticeship guides will truly help somebody learn something and put hands to wrench, put hands to metal, and actually do something,” Goroff continued. “Which builds the skill of the learner, builds their confidence in what they’re doing, and makes them feel a sense of pride, which goes directly to a shop’s ability to retain that individual in the career, or

“Her program is awesome,” Guthrie said. “It will teach you a very simple theoretical skill, and then you can go right into the shop and become productive.”

School Involvement Key for Collision Repair Industry

While schools are often required as part of accreditation to provide students with at least an introduction to a wide variety of skills, they also need to understand “when you come in on day one to work in my company, here are the things that we would love for you to be able to do, as opposed to that mile-wide, inch-deep learning philosophy,” Eckenrode said.

He said CREF is also helping connect schools with shops willing to save their parts so

Brandon Eckenrode of CREF said shops need to communicate to schools what entry-level skills they want in students coming out of the program

students have current model parts to practice on.

“We also hear time and time again that [shops] need to go talk with the administration, the deans, the principals, so that they know there’s this industry out there that’s waiting for their students [and] there’s great earning potential there,” Eckenrode said.

CREF represented the industry at the American School Counselor Conference this past summer, he said, and counselors told him, “We get it. We need to embrace technical education more.” So CREF is working to create resources those counselors can use “when they’re talking with a student, so they can showcase this as a viable option for them, and what the different opportunities are.”

Preview of Next CIC

CIC will next meet—as its newlyadopted slogan states, to “Connect. Influence. Collaborate.”—on Jan. 19 in Palm Springs, CA.

Among the speakers will be an attorney discussing what shops need to understand about protecting customers’ personal data. It’s a topic that’s been a focus of a CIC committee for some time as it digs into the issue of a shop’s estimate data somehow resulting in an entry on vehicle history reports.

Award-Winning

will take all of us to help train and keep the next generation of technicians— the future of our industry.”

With the great need for technicians, Shewbridge said most people don’t consider women when they think of the collision repair process.

“We need to change that,” she said. “If we truly want to bring new people into this industry, we need to start calling elementary and middle schools and asking them to participate in career days.”

She recommends shops get the word out early and often that the automotive industry is a great career.

“We need to encourage them earlier to look at a skilled trade as a viable career path where they can thrive and create a life they are proud of,” she added.

1Collision is pleased to announce the addition of Exotic Auto Body, located in Inglewood, CA.

Opened eight years ago, the body shop prides itself on providing exceptional customer service and always putting customers’ best interests in mind when repairing their vehicles.

Exotic Auto Body joined 1Collision after learning about the company’s focus and affiliated locations.

“We feel like the 1Collision staff have the same ethics and goals as we do,” said Gary Naymon from Exotic Auto Body. “They want to help independent shops grow and expand while making sure customers are getting their repairs done correctly.”

“We welcome Gary Naymon and the team at Exotic Auto Body to 1Collision,” said John Keller, 1Collision’s director of business operations. “We look forward to supporting their initiatives and helping them stay up to date with the latest trends to meet their customers’ needs.”Exotic

Auto Body focuses on OEM certifications to give customers peace of mind knowing their vehicles are repaired to the auto manufacturers’ specifications.

As an I-CAR Gold Class facility, Naymon said it appealed to his team to be part of a group of shops that are I-CAR and OEM certified and have similar expectations of how repairs should be done.

“It is great to be part of a network where everyone has the same goals and wants to grow together,” said Naymon.

The Exotic Auto Body teams hopes to expand and learn from other partner shops to be more efficient and stay up to date with the latest trends to provide customers a more streamlined experience.

“We believe 1Collision can help independent shops like ours stand out from the competition by providing the same support MSOs get while still providing quality repairs,” said Naymon.

Source: 1Collision

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

From teardown to refinishing, 3M has touchpoints across the collision repair process. During the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV, the company took attendees on a journey through its products and solutions, created to help enable a profitable body shop of the future.

Part of this journey included the launch of 3M™ RepairStack™ Performance Solutions in the U.S. following 18 months of beta testing. The new connected platform was created to assist shop owners and collision repair general managers with information relating to shop performance, invoicing and material usage.

“Combining hardware and software to optimize shop efficiency and performance for shop owners and collision repair general managers, 3M™ RepairStack™ Performance Solutions is 3M’s digital backbone for the automotive aftermarket,” according to a 3M press release.

Many collision repair shops are facing challenges, including a reduction in gross profits due to labor shortages, increased complexity of repairs, decreasing parts discounts and increased replacement work. As a result, 3M explained, shop owners must grapple with a lack of visibility and a clear understanding of shop performance while experiencing increasingly tight margins in a complex repair environment.

By introducing 3M™ RepairStack™ Performance Solutions, 3M said it is pioneering an era of connected body shops to help businesses unlock opportunities for profit, efficiency and growth.

“Operational efficiency inside a shop is critical for long-term business and customer success,” said Dave Gunderson, president, 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. “That operational efficiency is what we’re striving to simplify with 3M™ RepairStack™ Performance Solutions. In an increasingly digital landscape, this customized, connected solution provides the fast clarity and transparency needed to drive optimal value from materials and labor.”

3M™ RepairStack™ Performance Solutions features hardware that houses all 3M allied materials. As an integrated and automated platform, 3M shared its three key benefits: an inventory management system ensuring materials needed for

safe and reliable repairs are always available, a streamlined blueprinting and billing process, and real-time insight into business performance.

The software tracks material usage by technician, shop, repair order and more, while enabling automated re-ordering of products based on inventory stock levels and direct connection to preferred distributors. 3M explained shop owners can easily manage their materials by maintaining a consistent inventory while at the same time reducing waste and emergency orders.

“Better managed inventories empower technician training and increased technician performance and satisfaction, allowing hands-on work to remain with the vehicles,” according to a 3M press release.

“Since the beginning of this project, it has been fun working hand-in-hand with the customer to build this tool,” said 3M Automotive Aftermarket Specialist  Ryan Fuller during the SEMA Show. “The feedback we’ve received is overwhelming, including runner up in the SEMA Best New Product Awards for collision repair and refinish product.”

and polishes from 3M was created to help technicians achieve sleek, consistent results.

Typically associated with detailing, but redesigned for the collision repair industry, 3M™ Perfect-It™ Random Orbital Polishing System can help eliminate swirl marks and other defects common with traditional rotary tools.

“It’s very easy to use… and is safe for a body shop,” said Rafael LedesmaRivera, 3M senior application expertregional and country AAD, during the SEMA Show. “Everything stays cleaner and swirl marks are a thing of the past.”

“Every technician wants their final finish to look as if the car had never been touched,” said Jenny Thill, global marketing manager at 3M. “The polishing tool is easy to use along with our liquids and pads that make up the complete system.”

3M™ Performance Spray Gun

As paint prices increase and body shops experience continued cost pressure, 3M said material savings are key to successful business operations. Introduced in 2021, the lightweight 3M™ Performance Spray Gun allows painters to mix less paint and receive the same or better coverage. 3M said the spray gun’s transfer efficiency offers up to 26% less material waste than leading metal spray guns.

3M engineers spent more than 10 years designing and developing the product to ensure it would deliver superior performance in paint application and process improvements. It was created to deliver top-of-the-line performance with revolutionary technology for faster cleanup, changeovers and cycle times.

market, according to a company press release. Since then, 3M said customers reported this transfer efficiency presented paint material cost savings with less paint needed to produce the same or better results.

“Paint is nearly as expensive as the painter, and shop owners can’t afford to waste either one,” said Corey Munn, global paint applications segment director, 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. “We’ve worked with leading shops, paint companies and painters around the world to develop a solution that achieves comparable or better results with less material.”

3M Cubitron II net abrasives

The 3M booth also showcased 3M Cubitron II net abrasives, introduced in 2021. The net abrasives use 3M’s patented precision-shaped grain material, which the company said allows the solution to cut twice as fast and last twice as long as other net abrasives families. In addition,

He noted participating shops have shared the software is helping them keep a good hold on their materials, reducing the on-hand quantity and ensuring they always have the products needed to keep production going.

3M™ Perfect-It™ Random Orbital Polishing System

3M announced it is launching a new paint refinishing system in early 2023, the 3M™ Perfect-It™ Random Orbital Polishing System, which won a SEMA Global Media Award at this year’s show. 3M said the goal of any paint finishing process is to restore panels to their proper state—free of defects with a high-quality finish. The professional grade set of tools, pads

“The first thing that anyone notices is how lightweight it is,” said Brady Haislet, a 3M application engineer who was a product developer for the gun. “Having a lightweight spray gun is the key to usability, ease of maintenance, clean up and cycle time; with replaceable itemizing heads, it delivers on productivity.”

Before it launched, the 3M™ Performance Spray Gun was tested for transfer efficiency compared to other leading HVLP traditional metal spray guns at the Fraunhofer Institute of Technology, a third-party research organization. The 3M™ Performance Spray Gun was measured to have the highest transfer efficiency of 78% versus any other leading HVLP traditional metal spray gun in the

have been shown to capture more than 97% of the dust created when sanding in a shop

it has been shown to capture more than 97% of the dust created when sanding in a shop.

“In the United States, we’re really starting to see a shift in people wanting a cleaner environment,” said David Woods, 3M global business development manager for commercial vehicle and marine, during SEMA. “With the technician shortage, it’s hard to keep good employees, and if you are putting them in a dirty environment, they typically find somewhere cleaner to go.”

For more information, visit www.3m.com/3M/en_US/collisionrepair-us.

David Woods, 3M global business development manager for commercial vehicle and marine, said 3M Cubitron II net abrasives, introduced in 2021,

Brady Haislet, a 3M application engineer, said the lightweight 3M™ Performance Spray Gun’s transfer efficiency offers up to 26% less material waste than leading metal spray guns

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

About four years ago, a small group at OEConnection (OEC) set out to drive safety, trust and transparency into vehicle repair. The result was the creation of RepairLogic, a repair planning platform designed to help shops find accurate OEM repair information quickly and efficiently.

During a Guild 21 webinar this past fall, Tanya Sweetland, general manager, Advanced Repair Technologies Division, and Pat Blech, director of Collision Products, shared information about RepairLogic, a new product that formally launched in September.

Blech also discussed OEC’s new product for the collision repair industry at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV.

Q:Why was RepairLogic created for the collision industry?

Sweetland: While vehicles are becoming more complex, there is more to do and fewer skilled professionals to do it. According to information from Collision Advice, only 20% of vehicles are fixed according to the OEM repair procedures. Our goal was to create a tool to raise that percentage to 80% or more.

We recognized that you can’t tell a shop how to do business. At the same time, we want customers to get what they expect and know their car is safe to drive.

Over many months, we collected feedback from the industry on documenting and defining key terms in collision repair. We talk about a “documented safe and proper repair” but what do those words mean? We set out to define them.

A documented safe and proper repair is the action of fixing a vehicle in accordance with the OEM’s expected standard of safety and delivered at the repairer’s stated level of quality, scope, timeline, expense and efficiency.

We gathered information to find the common reasons why OEM research isn’t performed and why it takes so long. Technicians shared various reasons, such as they already know the repair, it’s a hassle to learn the sites, they can’t remember the password, someone else locked the record or they are too busy to spend the time they don’t get paid for.

We also found that repair teams were missing about 40% of one-timeuse parts because of the enormous

number of notations in millions of pages. Many types of repairs are skipped because of the perception that it will take a long time to check the OEM procedures. It’s like searching for a needle in a haystack. If shops must go to two or three resources for a typical repair, they spend a lot of time just navigating different tools.

We stepped back to determine how we could make a difference and remove some obstacles to help shops better access and utilize OEM repair information. The team wanted to design a digital planning tool with direct data from the OEM that had open collaboration and could be documented and shared.

Q:What type of field studies were conducted?

Blech: We tested and measured key components from our initial hypothesis to help better understand and validate the problems we were solving.

We utilized information from three OEMs, covered 50+ locations and worked with more than 100 participating users and on hundreds of different types of repairs.

To ensure we understood the needs and challenges of all shop segments, we reached out to MSOs, certified repair networks, independent facilities and franchise and dealer body shops.

Q:What were the learnings?

Blech: We saw first-hand the time and complexity it takes to research vehicle repairs. For facilities with mature repair planning processes in place, it could take well over an hour to pull information and create an initial blueprint. On average, there were over 30 different documents or procedures being pulled. If you assume three to four pages per procedure, that equals more than 100 pages of information that need to be researched.

Once you pull information, whether it’s 20 pages or 100, what do you do with it? How do you share documentation with those who need it? We found shops were printing it and putting it on the windshield for the technician; some were emailing it to insurance carriers. Sometimes, the information wasn’t shared at all with the key stakeholder simply due to the large file sizes. It seemed like there were a lot of challenges that came with sharing information, and we saw an opportunity to help.

Two themes that came out of this

were efficiency and collaboration. We wanted to remove barriers and create transparency for all the individuals who need the information to support the repair. Being more transparent and making collaboration more accessible was something that resonated with the people we spoke to.

Q: What sets RepairLogic apart from other products?

Blech: RepairLogic is a digital repair planning platform that hits three areas: discovering critical information directly from the OEM, sharing it and maintaining a digital record of the information used on the repair. We don’t compare ourselves to other products, but rather speak with the industry to identify and solve unmet needs.

A good example is when our user base indicated the importance and challenge of maintaining a copy of the exact version of a procedure as it existed when the repair was completed. This was necessary so that the shop manager can prove that the repair was completed based on the information that was available at the time of repair. This feedback directly informed the implementation of our versioning feature in RepairLogic.

Overall, the response has been very favorable. Repairers are excited about the attention directed at their shops’ needs. Everything in the product is directly based on a shop problem.

Many of the individuals on our team are former body shop owners, managers and estimators who understand how a shop utilizes information. They help us categorize and digitize it, so we can bring it to life in the software. They also

OEC team members at the 2022 SEMA Show included, left to right, Pat Blech, Tom Durkin, Austin Bell, Laney Holloway and Farzam Afshar

president of Crash Champions, told The Oaklandside the entire existing George V. Arth & Son staff is staying on and said loyal customers will still be able to get the service they’re accustomed to.

“Arth & Son, with the reputation that they have and the family-oriented culture that they have, it’s a no-brainer [decision],” Foster said. “They have the same values and morals and drive that we do, so it aligns perfectly.”

Two things that will change are the shop’s facade Crash Champions’ red and black logo will replace Arth & Son’s light blue sign and Ron Arth will no longer be there.

Arth’s official last day was Nov. 18, though he helped out the following week in an unofficial capacity.

“I’m going to miss my customers and I’m going to miss my employees,” Arth said. “A customer had heard we sold the shop, came in and asked if it was true, then got emotional. It’s nice having customers that care about you and your business that much, and I care about them in return.”

The Arth family, however, leaves the auto repair industry with no regrets. Arth said the business wasn’t struggling but he grew tired of adjusting to new auto trends and vehicle technology.

“We were doing fine financially but I mentally need some rest because running a business is tiring,” he said. Arth also felt his family’s business is in good hands with Crash Champions. “It was critical that we found a good partner that would be able to take care of the customers the way we took care of them in the past.”

Auto industry insiders have noted that while the number of vehicles in the U.S is rising, the number of auto repair shops is

dwindling. Newer car models are also becoming increasingly computerized and smaller shops are struggling to adapt. This decline has been happening for years and larger companies like Crash Champions are in better standing financially to handle the industry’s fast changing nature.

Owner Matt Ebert founded his company as Lenox Auto Body in 1999 in New Lenox, IL. The company rebranded in 2014 as Crash Champions, expanded throughout the Chicago market, and made its first outof-state acquisition in Columbus, OH.

In 2020, the company rapidly began purchasing auto repair shops throughout the U.S and now has more than 580 locations. George V. Arth & Son is one of numerous acquisitions the company has made in Northern California.

“There are a group of large shops that have the revenue to be able to invest in the technology needed for these advanced vehicle systems that are in the cars,” Arth said. “The manufacturers come up with the cars and our industry is always left with trying to figure out how to fix them.”

Arth, who turned 64 in December, worked almost every position at his family’s auto repair shop. “When I was 15, I was the janitor,” he remembered with a laugh. “I then worked on some cars, went to college and would come in and work on the books, then I worked on the management end of things.”

Arth eventually took over the shop from his father, George W. Arth Jr., who took over from his father, George W. Arth Sr., who took over from his father, George V. Arth

“I had a brother who worked with me and he was also George W. Arth,” Ron said.

Arth’s great grandfather, George V. Arth, was a German immigrant who came to Oakland in the 1870s

CIECA Welcomes New Member E-Nikio Appraisals

E-Nikio Appraisals, LLC has joined CIECA as a corporate member. Established in 2022, the company employs 19 appraisers and specializes in collision repair operations/repair plans, insurance claims, diminished value, fair market valuations and pre-purchase inspections.

Bill Vallely, founder and CEO of E-Nikio Appraisals, said the company is forward thinking and prides itself on providing services that address current industry challenges. Most staff are based in New York; however, there is representation across the U.S. All appraisers are licensed in states

requiring a license to practice negotiation. Vallely and his partners, Steve Baktidy and Nelson Baez, have extensive collision repair and insurance experience that spans more than 50 years combined and hold certifications in Tesla, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Land Rover and many other OEMs.

Vallely learned about CIECA through industry colleagues. “Being active in the industry, you tend to align with organizations that have the same objectives,” said Vallely, who is also the CEO of the Collision Training Institute and an I-CAR Platinum instructor.

Source: CIECA

from Alsace-Lorraine, France. At that time, the region was controlled by the German Empire after it was annexed during the Franco-Prussian war. German Catholic immigrants settled in what is now geographically called East Oakland in the Dimond and Fruitvale neighborhoods.

A blacksmith, the eldest Arth purchased a small business called the Oakland Carriage company in 1877 and made his living repairing horse drawn carriages.

“My great grandfather didn’t like the first cars when they came out because they backfired a lot and would scare the horses,” Arth said. The eldest of George V. Arth’s son, George D. Arth, eventually opened an auto repair shop, a car dealership and an insurance agency until finally focusing on just running the shop.

George V. Arth & Son operated on Madison St. & 11th St. from 1949 until 1963, when it moved to its current location on 10th St. across from Oakland Museum.

“One of my grandfather’s poker buddies was on the planning commission and they changed the street in front of our shop right by the museum into a two-way street for one block, and they did that as a favor to my grandpa,” Arth said.

The Arth family might have benefitted from that decision but

later ended up on the city’s less favorable side.

“When my dad bought this building, which used to be a post office garage, the city of Oakland didn’t want a garage there because they were building the Oakland Museum,” Arth said. “They made my dad plant all these trees in front of the shop and then he had to paint the building a cream white coloring. Their intent was to hide the shop as best as possible.”

The city-owned trees are still there today, their roots protruding out of the cracked pavement.

George V. Arth & Son has survived more than just overgrown trees and city bureaucrats. The shop outlasted the 1918 flu pandemic, two World Wars, Oakland’s economic decline from the 1950s through 1980s, the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the 2007-2009 Great Recession, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Because we went through so many hard times as everybody did, we knew that things could happen that you couldn’t control so we always kept that in mind,” Arth said. “We ran a business knowing that anything could happen, including an earthquake or a pandemic, so we never depleted our reserves with the understanding that things could be good now but it won’t always be that way.”

More Auto Body Shops Being Paid For Diagnostic Test Drives Before Repairs

By John Yoswick Autobody News

While test driving a vehicle after repairs has long been a fairly standard practice—even before some ADAS calibrations made it a requirement—more auto body shops are billing for the time spent on this procedure, and the number of shops recognizing the need to perform a diagnostic test drive some vehicle prior to repairs is also growing.

and testing of the seat belt,” said industry trainer and consultant Mike Anderson of Collision Advice, who conducts the “Who Pays” surveys in conjunction with CRASH Network. “This should be done in advance of the repair plan to avoid supplements and delays.”

A pre-repair test drive, Anderson said, can help a shop spot potential suspension or drivability problems; check the function of autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control and other ADAS features; and ensure

a “not-included” labor operation. That’s nearly tripled since 2015, when just 13% of shops said they were regularly paid for the labor time the test drive required.

Administrative Fees for Total Losses More Common

The survey also found the percentage of shops regularly being paid an administrative fee to process

Those were among the findings of one of the quarterly “Who Pays for What?” surveys in 2022.

“We have found some OEMs require you to perform a test drive at certain speeds and braking conditions as part of the inspection

Engineering Recognized by Vets Group

On Nov. 22, Hunter Engineering was certified as a Veteran-Owned Business by the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC).

NVBDC is the original veteranowned business certification organization formed to identify and certify veteran-owned companies of all sizes. The council ensures valid and complete documentation exists for veteran status, ownership and operational control.

Beginning in 1946 with World War II veteran and founder Lee Hunter Jr. and continuing through today with Vietnam War veteran and chairman Stephen F. Brauer, Hunter Engineering has been veteran-owned for its entire 76-year history.

Hunter Engineering is among the largest veteran-owned businesses in St. Louis, MO. More than 1,000 Hunter employees design and build equipment in the U.S. at four manufacturing facilities in Missouri and Mississippi. Hunter products are sold worldwide in 130 countries. For more information, visit www. hunter.com.

Source: Hunter Engineering

set conditions on the vehicle are met prior to pre-repair scanning.

A “Who Pays” survey this past year found about 34% of shops said they are paid “always” or “most of the time” by the eight largest insurers when they bill for the post-repair test drive,

Fewer shops—just 22%—who bill for a pre-repair “test drive for diagnostics” procedure currently are paid “always” or “most of the time,” but that’s twice the percentage that said that was true back in 2017.

Despite that change, and the increasing importance of performing a test drive prior to repairs, about seven in 10 shops acknowledge they have never billed for the procedure, a percentage virtually unchanged from five years ago.

total losses has increased for seven consecutive years.

When the “Who Pays” surveys began in 2015, only 46% of shops said they were paid “always” or “most of the time” when they billed insurers a fee for processing total loss vehicles, and nearly one in three (30%) never negotiated with an insurer for such a fee. In 2022, the survey found 74% of shops that negotiate for administrative fees say they are regularly reimbursed by the

A “Who Pays” survey found almost one in four shops said they are paid “always” or “most of the time” by the largest national insurers when they bill for the labor to perform a prerepair “test drive for diagnostics.”

More than three in five shops use some type of invoicing system for such items as clips and fasteners, and more than half of those said it accounts for an average of $50 or more in revenue per repair

Hunter

eight largest insurers. Only 14% have still never attempted to charge a fee.

“The steps involved in processing a total loss are more involved today than they were years ago,” Anderson said. “We now see shops itemizing for procedures such as a thorough tear-down, OEM research time, parts cart storage and other expenses that are absolutely something shops should be reimbursed for, unless they negotiated to perform these services for free as part of a direct repair agreement.”

regarding the best way to be reimbursed for these expenses from a legal perspective,” Anderson said.

He also said insurers are increasingly determining if a vehicle is likely a total loss at the first notice of loss, meaning fewer of those vehicles even make it into a shop.

Use of Invoicing Systems

The “Who Pays” surveys ask about more than just labor procedures. Nearly two-thirds of shops (64%), for example, now say they use some kind of invoicing system to track and bill for shop supplies used during a repair, such as clips and fasteners, seam-sealer, weld-through primer or other items. That’s up from 41% in 2017.

RepairLogic Platform

provide personalized training to ensure success.

Sweetland: Our goal is to get the information into the hands of the person and team fixing the car. We need to meet body shops where they are and help them perform safe and proper repairs according to their standard operating procedures so they can get people back in their cars safely.

Q:What are the company’s

MotorTrend Shows on Amazon Freevee

MotorTrend Group announced Dec. 13 expanded distribution of the brand’s robust automotive TV programming with new availability on Amazon Freevee. This will allow millions of new viewers access to MotorTrend’s premium TV content without a paid subscription.

Fans are able to access the allnew MotorTrend FAST TV channel on Freevee starting Dec. 13. Simply download the Freevee app to start watching.

plans?

The difference in reimbursement frequency among the top eight insurers is not major. State Farm, now the most frequent payer, is regularly reimbursing 78% of the shops that negotiate to be paid for it—up from 37% in 2015—while 69% of shops say GEICO, the least likely to pay the administrative fee, does so, up from just 49% in 2015.

“Charging an ‘administrative fee’ is not legal in every state, so there has been some industry discussion

More than half of those shops (53%) said the invoicing system adds at least $50 of additional revenue per repair, and more than one in five (22%) said their invoice is boosted by $100 or more thanks to accurately tracking and billing for shop supplies with these systems.

Shops can visit www. crashnetwork.com/whopays to take the January “Who Pays” survey, which focuses on not-included refinish labor procedures, or to download results of prior surveys.

Blech: We currently have several different manufacturers’ repair information included in RepairLogic, totaling about half of the vehicles on the road. In 2023, we plan to expand our coverage to over 80% of makes and models.

We are also partnering directly with manufacturers to help leverage RepairLogic to benefit their certified repair network programs. We are very excited to continue working with the industry to help vehicle owners get the high-quality repair they deserve!

For more information, visit go.oeconnection.com/repairlogic.

Amazon Freevee, formerly known as IMDb TV, is a streaming video service with thousands of premium movies and TV shows, including Originals and FAST channels, available anytime, for free. The free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channel, MotorTrend FAST TV, streams MotorTrend’s most popular shows in the U.S and Canada, such as “Roadkill,” “Bitchin’ Rides” and “Texas Metal,” online without a subscription.

MotorTrend FAST TV is currently also available on platforms including Samsung TV Plus and Xumo. More FAST providers will be announced soon.

Visit www.MotorTrend.com/FASTTV for more information.

Source: MotorTrend Group

“The steps involved in processing a total loss are more involved today than they were years ago.”

MIKE ANDERSON COLLISION ADVICE

Please

Barber Honda

Bakersfield 661-396-4235

Dept Hours: M-F 8-5:30 bestchoice@barberhonda com

Capitol Honda

San Jose

408-445-4412

Dept Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30-6; Sun 8-5 sbettencourt@penskeautomotive com

Concord Honda Concord 925-825-8016

Dept Hours: M-F 8-6 kevin valenzuela@concordhonda com

Galpin Honda

Mission Hills

800-GO GALPIN 818-778-2005

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-2 mteeman@galpin com

Honda of El Cajon El Cajon 619-440-5851

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7-5 parts@hondaofelcajon com

Honda of Hollywood Hollywood 800-371-3719 323-466-3205

Dept Hours: M-F 8-6 parts@hondaofhollywood com

Honda of Pasadena Pasadena 800-433-0676 626-683-5880

Dept Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-4

Honda of the Desert Cathedral City 760-770-0828

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7-5 mpartridge@honda111 com

Keyes Honda Van Nuys 818-756-6549

Dept Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-5 malvarez@keyeshonda com

Larry Hopkins Honda Sunnyvale 408-720-0221 408-736-2608

Dept� Hours: M-Sat 8-5 parts1@hopkinsdirect com

Metro Honda Montclair 800-446-5697 909-625-8960

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 7:30-4 wholesaleparts@metrohonda�com

Ocean Honda Santa Cruz 831-464-1800

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4:30 mickw@oceanhondasantacruz�com

Pacific Honda San Diego 858-565-9402 jgardiner@pacifichonda com

San Francisco Honda San Francisco 415-913-5125

Dept Hours: M-F 8-5 partsws@sfhonda com

Scott Robinson Honda Torrance 310-371-8320

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6:30; Sat 7-5 mluna@scottrobinson com

Selma Honda Selma 800-717-3562 559-891-5111

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-4:30 hondapartsmgr@selmaautomall com

Larry H. Miller Honda Boise 888-941-2218 208-947-6060

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5

Hinshaw’s Honda Auburn 253-288-1069

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-4:30 rickb@hinshaws com

McCurley Integrity Honda Richland 800-456-6257 509-547-7924

Dept Hours: M-F 8-5:30; Sat 8-4 hondaparts@mccurley net

South Tacoma Honda Tacoma 888-497-2410 253-474-7541

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 bgregory@southtacomahonda com

ACURA

CALIFORNIA

Acura of Concord

Concord 925-680-4233

Dept Hours: Mon-Sat 7-6 keith�whisten@cacargroup�com

Acura of Fremont

Fremont 888-435-0504 510-431-2560

Dept Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-5 mike ohare@acuraoffremont com

Acura of Pleasanton

Pleasanton 888-985-6342 925-251-7126

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-6 mitch cash@hendrickauto com

AutoNation Acura

Torrance 310-784-8664 310-539-3636

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 alvaradow1@autonation com

Bakersfield Acura

Bakersfield 661-381-2600

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 bakersfieldacuraservice@yahoo com

Marin Acura

Corte Madera 800-77-Acura 415-927-5350

Dept Hours: M-F 8-5:30; Sat 8-4 parts@marinacura com

Metro Acura Montclair

800-446-5697 909-625-8960

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 wholesaleparts@metrohonda com

Acura of Honolulu

Honolulu 866-931-9086 808-942-4557

Dept Hours: M-F 8-5; Sat 8-4 Johara@lithia com Tokuda@lithia com RayleenGarcia@lithia�com

Hinshaw’s Acura

Fife

253-926-3331

Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5 johnny@hinshaws�com

autobodynews.com

By Abby Andrews Autobody News

As technology increases in new vehicles, so too does the risk of liability for collision repairers, but steps can be taken to mitigate it.

That was the focal point of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ Repairer Driven Education session, “Protecting Your Business Against Liability Exposure from Evolving Technology,” held Nov. 1 during the 2022 SEMA Show.

The panel featured David Willett, co-founder and chief underwriting officer for SPARK Underwriters; Shaughn Kennedy, co-founder and senior underwriter for SPARK; Tracy Lewis, owner of Richie’s Collision Center in Mississippi and president of the Gulf States Collision Association; and Jason Mundy, owner of Mundy’s Collision Center near Atlanta, GA.

When Mundy and Lewis were asked separately about their top concerns as a body shop owner, Kennedy said, there was a lot of overlap.

ADAS and Personal Identifying Information

One of their shared concerns was possibly being liable for damages caused by a sublet vendor performing recalibration services on a car’s ADAS features—either because the work was not done properly, causing an accident, or a customer’s personal identifying information was extracted from the infotainment center.

“You always have to worry about did they do it right, and how do I know,” Kennedy said.

“We put a lot of trust in people we send cars out to,” he continued. “From an insurer standpoint: qualify vendors to mitigate your risk, make sure they have liability insurance. If they don’t, it’s gonna go on your insurance. Your liability insurance is the primary when you sublet work out.”

Willett said it is becoming important for repairers to track vendors’ insurance.

“It can run out, or their policy can change, be lowered or altered,” he said.

Lewis said it is worth considering doing ADAS recalibrations in house, which can both protect a shop from liability issues if a third party does not perform them correctly and save money.

Mundy pointed out collision repairers need to at least know recalibration procedures, even if they’re not performing them themselves, so they can ask third

parties if they did it correctly.

Kennedy said it is important for shops to delete customers’ information from total loss vehicles.

“Total losses used to mean just getting remotes and paperwork out of the car,” Lewis said. “Now, when you plug your phone in, it downloads

is too great for what you’re going to earn on that job.”

Kennedy said he has handled claims in which an EV caught fire on a rollback because it wasn’t in a safe state.

Willett added batteries are still one of the top three sources of fire in the collision repair industry--even with an ICE car.

Throughput

Lewis said her shop has enjoyed a lot of success with its mobile estimating service, which it only advertises on the side of the van it brings to customers.

“Elderly customers don’t know how to download their insurance company app [to submit claim pictures], so we go to them,” she said. “If nothing else, we capture that customer.”

Mundy said AI-generated estimates still have their issues.

Mundy also said delays for more advanced parts, like anything with a microchip or sensor, are making the cycle time take longer.

Lewis said one of her customers had a 2022 Toyota Camry that needed a rear distance sensor. The part was delayed indefinitely; the customer ran out of rental coverage and wound up trading the car as-is to a local dealer. It was another six months before the sensor arrived.

Willett said an insurance company not paying a shop to do something doesn’t mean it doesn’t have to do it to properly repair a vehicle.

“The agent insuring you should be able to help you explain that to the bill payer,” Willett said. “You’re on the hook for your work.”

Mundy said as a non-DRP shop owner, he explains to the customer up front when they might have to pay a little more to cover something the insurance company refuses to pay for.

information and stores it—even in rental cars.”

Lewis said repairers can charge an hour of labor to delete data, following the vehicle’s particular OEM procedure.

OEM Procedures

The panel recommended shops research every repair, as OEM procedures can change so frequently—even within the same model year.

Mundy suggested time-stamping pre-repair research, in case the procedure changes after the repair is complete.

“I’ve had to examine shops’ work on a lot of claims,” Kennedy said. “ALLDATA can change from five years ago. There’s no way to prove [it was the correct procedure when you performed it] if you don’t document every repair procedure.”

EVs

Mundy said every manufacturer his shop repairs has an EV platform. To get ready, he said his shop is set up to mitigate fire in the paint booth and office, and will purchase new equipment as needed.

“I don’t really have any fears,” he said. “We will just have to be prepared for them as they come our direction.”

Willett said EV manufacturers have individualized requirements on how to move their vehicles.

“I recommend if you have towing [services], stay away from EVs at this point, unless you’ve really got it nailed,” Willett said. “The exposure

“A $1,200 estimate through the app can turn into a $12,000 job [after teardown],” Mundy said. “That makes it take longer. You gotta reconcile it, wait on that to come back.”

www.autobodynews.com

Pictured, left to right, are David Willett of SPARK Underwriters, Jason Mundy of Mundy’s Collision Center in Georgia, Tracy Lewis of Richie’s Collision Center in Mississippi and president of the Gulf States Collision Association, and Shaughn Kennedy of SPARK Underwriters

By Brad Anderson CarScoops

A study from Australian insurance comparison site Compare the Market has revealed Americans still favor ICE-powered vehicles over electric vehicles, while consumers in Australia and Canada prefer EVs.

The study started by asking consumers whether they’d prefer to own an ICE vehicle or an electric vehicle at the same price. No less than 53% of Americans said they would prefer a traditional vehicle compared to 34% who would prefer an EV. The rest had no preference either way.

This contrasts with Australia, where 50.8% said they would prefer an EV, and Canada, where 51.4% of respondents said they would prefer an EV.

Of those Americans who would prefer to own an EV, 18to 24-years-olds were the most likely to opt for an EV, with 43% preferring them over ICEs. By comparison, upwards of 70% of

people aged between 55 and 64 would prefer an ICE.

There are a few key reasons why many consumers in the U.S. are not yet convinced by electric vehicles, the study reveals. For example, 56.4% of respondents said the main barrier to entry was battery life and replacement costs. The purchase price was also an issue for 54.4%, driving range was a concern for 50.9% and charging times concerned 50.5%.

Interestingly, Americans are more likely to favor an EV if they are spending big. Compare the Market found there are twice as many people who would spend more than $65,000 on an EV than those who would spend the same amount on a traditional vehicle.

Importantly, 32.5% of Americans would only be willing to spend a maximum of $25,000 on an electric vehicle, meaning there is not a single EV currently accessible to them within their budget. A further 20.9% also wouldn’t be willing to spend more than $34,999 on an EV.

Payne Appointed To CAWA’s Board of Directors

Rob Payne of the Automotive Parts Associates has been appointed to CAWA’s Board of Directors.

“I am excited to announce that Rob Payne of the Automotive Parts Associates is joining the CAWA Board of Directors,” said Michael Rukov, chair of the Board of Directors. “I look forward to Rob’s participation and contributions to CAWA in assisting the association in achieving its goals as an effective and valuable automotive care industry organization.”

Payne is director of product for Automotive Parts Associates (APA), with more than 25 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket. In his position at APA, he is responsible for the management of supplier relationships and overall product strategy. He is also actively involved in marketing, datawarehousing and strategic

planning.

Prior to joining APA in July 2021, he was the category manager for brakes at GPC/ NAPA headquarters in Atlanta, GA, where he led the NAPA brake team product strategy, advertising and marketing efforts over a two-year period.

The majority of his career was spent at O’Reilly Auto Parts, beginning in 1997 starting as a delivery driver. Payne was later a parts specialist and he joined the O’Reilly headquarters in 1999 with the Inventory Control Department in various roles. In 2007 was promoted to product manager overseeing undercar categories such as chassis, ride control and power steering.

Payne and his wife, Rachal, currently live in the Atlanta area and enjoy traveling and spending time with family.

Source: CAWA

By John Yoswick Autobody News

One trend not expected to end in 2023: the rapid rise in average repair costs.

That was among the messages Bart Mazurek of CCC Intelligent Solutions shared during the MSO Symposium in November in Las Vegas.

“If we look at 2018, the average repair cost was about $3,000,” said Mazurek, vice president of consulting services for CCC. “Now we’re looking at just north of $4,000. And given inflationary trends, I anticipate that number being around $4,400 or $4,500 [in 2023].”

He cited among the causes the rise in the average number of parts being replaced per repair job.

“In just a two-year span, we’ve gone from 10.5 parts to almost 12.5 parts,” he said. “And those two additional parts are driving four additional hours of labor.”

He noted a bumper for a 1996 Honda Accord consisted of about 11 components, but the current model Accord bumper includes more than 20. More of those parts, such as ADAS sensors, are not repairable and are available only through the automakers.

He said the OEM share of average parts costs had been “rather steady for years,” but in 2022, it “really jumped up because the OEMs are the only ones that can supply those additional two parts per job.”

CCC’s data seems to indicate the increase in the average repair order isn’t being dramatically impacted by a significant increase in shop labor rates.

“Labor rates have only gone up $1 this year compared to last year,” Mazurek said, noting he was speaking only of work processed through insurer direct repair programs (DRPs). “It’s continuing to rise, but it’s

Kaeser Compressors, Inc.’s Compressor for a Cure raised more than $20,000 for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Kaeser auctioned off a one-of-akind M59PE portable unit, calling it the “Compressor for a Cure.”

The auction began on National Mammogram Day, Oct. 21, and concluded Oct. 31 with 25 bids raising $21,700, which will be added to individual employee donations for a total of $23,120. Kaeser will donate 100% of the proceeds.

a slow process.”

He shared a graph indicating the growth in the national average labor rate has lagged below the consumer price index (CPI) for “motor vehicle maintenance and repair in U.S. cities” since late 2018, but the difference has become increasingly stark in 2022,

in

“I think that has to do with repair facilities reevaluating DRPs based on the current market and their goals,” Mazurek said. “And they decided to reduce the number of DRP programs to better align with their goals.”

Continued Decline in ‘Hours Per Day’

The downward trend in labor hours produced per repair day that has been occurring since 2017 also continued in 2022, Mazurek said. Looking at second quarter data over six years, shops were producing about 3.5 labor hours per day on drivable vehicles until 2020; that fell to 2.8 hours per day in 2020, and fell again, to 2.3 hours per day in 2022. That’s a 34% decline.

cars start to finish. He doesn’t expect those factors to diminish before mid-2023 at the earliest.

Mazurek also said he has “a hypothesis that I can’t prove yet” that when shop backlogs of work were two weeks or less, “the

with that CPI growth far outpacing increases in labor rates.

Shops Have Fewer DRPs

The slow growth in DRP labor rates could be contributing to another trend Mazurek reported: Shops have fewer DRP agreements on average than they have in the past. Across all business models—singlelocation, dealership and MSOs— shops averaged 4.6 DRPs in 2022, according to CCC data, down from an average of 5.2 in 2021, more than an 11% decline.

Breaking it down by shop type, dealership collision shops fell from 6.3 DRPs to 5.8; regional MSOs fell more than 6% to an average of 5.6 per shop; and independent shops dropped from 3.1 to 2.8 DRPs on average—more than a 9% decline.

But the trend among the national MSOs is even more stark. They averaged 12.3 DRPs per location in 2020, but that’s fallen two years in a row to reach an average of 10.2 in 2022, down 17% over two years.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, with approximately 2.3 million women diagnosed in 2021. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in American women, and tragically, incidence rates are on the rise.

For more information on how to contribute to breast cancer research, visit bcrf.org. For more information on Kaeser’s efforts, visit us.kaeser. com/goyellowbegreen.

Source: Kaeser Compressors, Inc.

There was even a bit steeper decline—about 38%—for nondrivable vehicles, down to 1.8 hours per day in 2022 from between 2.8 and 3 hours per day in 2017 through 2020.

Mazurek said some of that decline could be because of overloaded shops having to spend more time shuffling cars around, because of backlogs and part delays, rather than a technician working steadily on one or two

competitive nature of technicians, working next to his or her peer, wants the next car,” seeing the potential end of the line of that work.

“But if you have five or six or seven weeks of vehicles stacked endlessly, it’s effectively guaranteed work forever,” Mazurek said. “So there’s no real rush. I’d love to be able to prove that, but I feel strongly that there’s this lack of urgency overall amongst technicians.”

Bart Mazurek of CCC Intelligent Solutions said collision repairs are requiring two more parts on average, adding four hours of labor on average

“In just a two-year span, we’ve gone from 10.5 parts to almost 12.5 parts. And those two additional parts are driving four additional hours of labor.”

BART MAZUREK VICE PRESIDENT OF CONSULTING SERVICES, CCC INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

After launching Auggie at last year’s SEMA Show, AirPro Diagnostics introduced an updated version of their ADAS calibration tool at SEMA 2022, the Self-Guided Auggie DTS (Digital Target System).

The Auggie is a patented, fully autonomous wireless digital targeting tool that uses machine vision to present static Forward-Facing Camera (FFC) targets for customers to perform calibrations according to OEM specifications.

“The Self-Guided Auggie DTS takes the place of having to do all of the setup with physical targets,” explained Lonnie Margol, CEO of AirPro Diagnostics. “The new release is basically the same device, but users can now control Auggie on their own and use any ADAS calibration capable scan tool.”

The previous version of the device required shops to use an AirPro Diagnostics scan tool and remote technicians. The updated version allows the device to be operated by the user and will work with any ADAS-capable scan tool and a free smartphone interface. All setup

specifications and instructions are displayed on the Auggie, allowing users complete control of their static FFC calibrations.

“The calibration game has now changed,” said Josh McFarlin, executive vice president of AirPro Diagnostics. “We listened to our customers and now they can use their

“It takes all of the environmental conditions out of the equation,” he said. “Shops don’t need a 30-by-60[foot] footprint, controlled lighting and other complex requirements.”

Margol said the Auggie also enables body shops to keep calibrations in-house rather than having to sublet the work.

“The worst thing is to send a vehicle out and then you’ve lost control of the process,” he noted.

“It’s remarkable to me how many collision repair shops aren’t doing calibrations when the OEMs now require them after any structural repairs,” said McFarlin. “They are either sending it to a dealer, or worse, they aren’t doing it.”

By not doing a calibration inhouse, McFarlin said shops are losing control of their cycle time and the associated revenue.

About four years ago, AirPro envisioned developing a solution for static calibrations.

“The manual method seemed so archaic,” said Margol. “Not a shop in the world is built with a level floor and has non-reflective paint on it.”

As a result, they set out to look for a better solution. A calibration bay was built at one of their customer’s collision repair shops and the team began experimenting with how to best digitize the targets.

When the Auggie was invented, the main goal was to ensure it was mobile so calibrations could be performed virtually anywhere. Margol said this was especially helpful for the glass industry to be able to calibrate vehicles in the field.

Crash Champions, LLC, on Dec. 8 announced it expanded its presence in the Seattle market through the strategic acquisitions of 1st Class Auto Body and Seattle Automotive.

1st Class Auto Body operates five locations across the Seattle metro area, while Seattle Automotive serves customers at two local repair centers.

Crash Champions now provides Seattle motorists with high-quality collision repair service at 23 locations across the metro area, and 28 total repair centers across the Evergreen State. Local customers also benefit from a lifetime warranty backing all repair work valid at any of Crash Champions’ more than

own scan tool, fully independent of AirPro, to perform FFC calibrations.”

With ADAS FFC calibrations becoming increasingly more complex over the last decade, McFarlin said the Auggie can save technicians time, increase efficiency in the shop and help perform a safe repair.

“It helps reduce cycle time incredibly because the whole process takes less than eight minutes,” said Margol.

The company provides step-bystep directions to operate the Auggie and a help button connects to AirPro brand specialists for immediate support.

Since then, the tool has evolved to meet the needs of the industry. There have been multiple updates and two impactful releases of the software. “It’s such a thrill that this project has really come to life,” said Margol.

“A lot of shops already have a solution for a diagnostic tool and weren’t looking to make a change,” said McFarlin. “The Auggie is now an option for them.”

For more information, visit airprodiagnostics.com.

580 repair centers in 35 states across the U.S.

“Seattle Automotive and 1st Class will make strong additions to our growing footprint in Washington, and I am pleased to welcome both to the Crash Champions team,” said Matt Ebert, founder and CEO of Crash Champions. “These organizations have established themselves as leading providers of premier collision repair in the region, thanks to a passion for excellence and quality workmanship. We look forward to expanding Crash Champions’ service for our Seattle customers while providing an industry-leading culture for our team members.”

Source: Crash Champions

At the SEMA Show, Lonnie Margol, left, and Josh McFarlin, right, shared information about AirPro Diagnostics’ updated version of the company’s ADAS calibration tool, the Self-Guided Auggie DTS (Digital Target System)

By Andrew Gross AAA

A new report finds unsafe driving behaviors, including speeding, redlight running, drowsy driving and driving impaired on cannabis or alcohol, rose from 2020 to 2021.

pandemic in 2020, traffic fatalities have risen. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated 42,915 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes last year, a 10.5% increase from the 38,824 fatalities in 2020.

According to NHTSA, dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, alcohol impairment and non-use of seatbelts account for a considerable proportion of the increased fatalities. Accordingly, AAA urges drivers to keep everyone safe on the roads and warns motorists against falling back into dangerous driving habits.

risky behaviors that they know are dangerous and would meet with disapproval from friends or family. For example:

Texting While Driving

92% think it’s very or extremely dangerous 96% think someone important to them would disapprove 26% admitted to doing it in the last 30 days

Aggressive

The most alarming increase was among drivers admitting to getting behind the wheel after drinking enough that they felt they were over the legal limit—an increase of nearly 24%.

According to new survey data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, this is a reversal in the steady declines in these dangerous driving behaviors in the three years from 2018 through 2020.

Since the start of the COVID-19

“The reversal in the frequency of U.S. drivers engaging in risky driving behavior is disturbing. While drivers acknowledge that certain activities behind the wheel—like speeding and driving impaired—are not safe, many still engage in these activities anyway,” said Dr. David Yang, executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. “We must be aware of the serious consequences of dangerous driving behaviors and change course.”

As in previous years, drivers reported too often engaging in

Driving

88% think it’s very or extremely dangerous 96% think someone important to them would disapprove 23% admitted to doing it in the last 30 days

“The privilege of driving comes with great responsibility, which some motorists are not taking seriously,” said Jake Nelson, AAA’s director of traffic safety advocacy and research. “Fortunately, we know

them how it’s done safely. Together we can move closer to zero traffic deaths.”

AAA recommends these safety tips to keep in mind.

Out of sight, out of mind. Stow your smartphone away, turn it to airplane mode, or activate call/text blocking features like Apple’s Do Not Disturb.

Slow down. Drivers tend to overestimate the time saved by speeding. Speed kills and isn’t worth the cost.

Stay alert. Stop driving if you become sleepy because you can fall asleep anytime. Fatigue impacts reaction time, judgment and vision.

Drive sober. If you consume marijuana or alcohol, then don’t drive. If you are taking potentially impairing prescription medications, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist how best to stay safe AND healthy behind the wheel.

Buckle your seat belt for every ride. It does not matter where in the

Is Collision Repair the Gold Rush 2.0?

I recently had a friend in the collision industry describe today’s collision repair marketplace as a “gold rush.” I think that is a brilliant analogy—leaving aside the mid-1800’s California Gold Rush’s famous lack of gold.

Make no mistake: this gold rush in collision repair has plenty of treasure, but you’ll have to be aggressive in getting your share. Smart, institutional money continues to pour into the industry, furthering the trend of consolidation at a rapid pace. New, well-financed entrants to the marketplace are popping up seemingly every day, each with a slightly different spin on their visions.

One thing that is evolving, however, is the investment required to be a player in the future of collision repair. As automotive technology evolves, equipment and training requirements for collision repairers are increasing at a rapid pace. The days of the “mom-and-pop” collision repair shops are dwindling.

The multi-shop operators (MSOs), both national and regional, have discovered the magic of scale that smaller operations just won’t be able to achieve. While the mom-andpop collision centers are declining in number and the MSOs continue to flourish, where is the biggest opportunity for those less funded?

In the immediate collision arena, it seems specialists—specifically, specialists who operate within particularly profitable niches—are set up for success in the short, mid and long term. Collision repair providers within the heavy-duty trucking,

agricultural equipment and exotic vehicle spaces, for example, seem to represent an opportunity for unusually high profit margins and long-term sustainability.

While these businesses typically differ from the profile of those sought after by the current consolidators, their profit potential opens the investor pool significantly. In particularly profitable cases, even one-store niche operations could be of interest to private equity and other investors.

One must wonder when consolidation within that world will begin on a larger scale and who will be the ones to take advantage. The niche collision world is one space I’m keeping a close watch over.

Stepping slightly outside the immediate collision repair industry, here’s another thought. In the California Gold Rush, it wasn’t the gold diggers who hit the jackpot; it was the suppliers. If you sold shovels or gold pans or lumber or food in that day, you likely struck it rich.

Using the example of the California Gold Rush, could businesses that sell products and services to collision centers end up being significant beneficiaries? Consider me bullish.

Money, from an institutional investment standpoint, tends to trickle down. In the case of the collision industry, consolidation and institutional investment began pouring into collision centers first. Second, the money came to the paint jobbers. More recently, private equity has made its way into the equipment

Zendrive Joins CCC Network

CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc., announced Zendrive is the newest mobility risk intelligence provider to join the CCC network. Insurance customers of the two companies will be able to seamlessly connect smartphone-centric crash detection data with CCC’s claims management solutions, helping to improve and speed claims outcomes.

CCC works with more than 300 U.S. auto insurers, including 18 of the top 20 carriers, powering better claims experiences for millions of drivers annually. CCC will ingest Zendrive’s crash data via its CCC Cloud and derive elements including

point of impact, direction of force and other pertinent telematics data that will accelerate and enhance its services. Participating customers can then leverage that data through CCC’s software-driven workflows, creating more straight-through experiences for drivers and insurers.

The CCC Cloud connects a network of 30,000 companies across the P&C insurance economy, including auto insurers, collision repairers, car manufacturers, parts suppliers, lenders, telematics data providers and more.

Source: CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc.

world. Where will it go next?

In terms of market opportunity, collision repair equipment and service providers seem to have significant runway available to them, especially if they can break in with some of the national MSOs. There are pain points throughout the shop, and offering a solution to alleviate just one or two of those pain points can create quite the opportunity at scale.

Loop in other service providers such as Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) calibrators, collisionspecific alignment providers, automotive glass companies, paintless dent repair (PDR) services and many others, there is a whole ecosystem living—and thriving—on the “scraps” of the collision repair industry.

Will consolidation hit these markets as hard as it has hit those upstream? Time will tell, but my educated guess is that yes, massive consolidation is coming. And it is coming soon.

Take a look at M&A activity in other

“non-sexy” service businesses, such as landscaping, electricians, HVAC companies and others, and you’ll see these companies are highly sought after by investors.

So how can you take advantage of the rapidly evolving opportunities within the greater collision repair landscape? If you’re in the game already, it comes down to this: grow or go. If you’re not willing to make the investment to grow your business, the M&A market remains hot and exit opportunities abound.

If you are determined to stay the course, find your niche and double down. Approach what you do with the aggressiveness of an operator, the mind of an investor and an eye toward the future.

If you’re on the sidelines or have additional capacity, put some thought into it. Where is the market being underserved? Can I do it better than it’s currently being done?

If that answer is yes, taking the leap could be the key to striking gold.

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

When most people think of the WD40 Brand, what typically comes to mind is the company’s iconic blue and yellow can with a red top that contains the Original WD-40 Formula, a staple in most body shops across the country.

During the 2022 SEMA Show, the company debuted the WD-40 Precision Pen, which contains the same multi-use formula but in a compact size. The new product is expected to be released in early 2023.

“This is an innovation on our Original WD-40 Formula,” said Dan Anderson, director of innovation at WD-40 Company. “What makes it unique is that it allows for a lot of control and precision wherever you need the product.”

“We’re proud to equip technicians and builders with what they need to get the job done right and take things to the next level,” added Greg Kershaw, director of brand engagement and experience at WD40 Company.

The company said the product is a result of feedback from end users and reflects the same spirit

of perseverance, innovation and tenacity for solving tough challenges that led the brand to introduce the original formula nearly 70 years ago.

“There’s a good amount of product in there and it’s great for all the things that the Original WD-40 Formula is known for, such as getting squeaks out, lubricating moving parts, protecting against rust and corrosion,

SEMA Show

you only get the formula where you need it and the amount you need.”

Another benefit is the pen’s portability. Due to its small size, Anderson said it can be stored in a toolbox, glove compartment, pocket and/or toolbelt.

The new product will be available in all the same places WD-40 Brand products are sold.

During the SEMA Show, WD-40 Brand gave away 2,000 limitededition prototypes of the WD-40 Precision Pen with seven-time Pro4 champion Kyle LeDuc’s signature and a photo of his custom race truck. Those who received a pen with a golden cap were given a special edition Carhartt hat featuring LeDuc.

SEMA Show attendees also had the opportunity to view the WD40 Specialist line, which includes lubricants, penetrants, greases, contact cleaners and degreasers and rust-management solutions.

“The Original WD-40 Formula does most everything,” said Anderson. “However, when you have serious problems and need a specific solution, we have the WD-40 Specialist line.”

This includes a Silicone option for surfaces such as rubber, plastic and vinyl, White Lithium Grease for metalto-metal applications, and Contact Cleaner for electric parts. “Especially with the rise of electric vehicles, there are a lot more uses for that,” said Anderson.

loosening rust and displacing moisture,” said Anderson.

He said the pen is easy to use and store, ideal for tight spaces and small projects.

“The compact size is meant for times when technicians want to get the product exactly in a certain area,” he explained. “This is great because

California Autobody Association Announces Enterprise As Corporate Sponsor

More than 60 years ago, Enterprise founder Jack Taylor established his rental business in neighborhoods, while so many competitors were focusing on airport rentals.

Over the last six decades, Enterprise has evolved the replacement vehicle rental business to get customers back on the road as seamlessly as possible.

Enterprise continues to work very closely with its partners across the insurance and collision industries to increase collaboration and optimize the customer experience when a vehicle rental or replacement is needed after a car accident or during vehicle repair.

What began with a small fleet of cars in 1957 has expanded to a network of mobility solutions and a fleet of more than 2.1 million vehicles serving customers in more than 90 countries and territories around the world.

While much has changed over the years, Enterprise continues to be guided by Jack’s simple business philosophy: “Take care of your customers and your employees first, and the rest will follow.”

Enterprise is proud to support the California Autobody Association and its mission to help its members produce quality repairs for consumers.

Source: CAA

The WD-40 Brand team said they were thrilled to showcase their partnership with LeDuc at this year’s SEMA Show. “Partnerships with pros like LeDuc and others in the motorsport and bike world exemplify the brand’s longstanding mission of helping pros take things to the next level,” the company said.

LeDuc’s custom-built 4-wheel drive, 900-horsepower race truck was displayed at the WD-40 Brand booth. It featured a new look for the SEMA Show that included a custom chrome livery.

In total, WD-40 Brand offers more than 30 products and each is designed to solve a specific problem.

Many of the new products are shared with WD-40 Company’s PRO Board for evaluation. “When we need feedback on something we can reach out to them,” said Anderson. “We’ll send them samples and they will try things out and provide feedback.”

For more information about WD40 products, visit www.wd40.com.

For more information on the Specialist line, visit www.wd40.com/ specialist.

Dan Anderson and Zeb Brown showcased the WD-40 Specialist Line of products

Autel Selects Qmerit For Home Chargers

Autel Energy, a leading developer of residential and commercial EV charging solutions, has partnered with Qmerit, a nationwide network of certified EV charger installers, to provide customers with a seamless, stress-free home charger installation.

Qmerit offers a network of company-owned contractors, independent certified solutions partners and certified installers skilled in system implementation and integration.

Via Autel’s website Autelenergy. com, MaxiCharger customers can initiate the installation process with questions directed to gauge a customer’s home electrical status and installation needs. Qmerit uses that information to match the customer with the best installer. Qmerit’s network of certified electricians have installed more than 260,000 EV home chargers and covers more than 2,600 locations in North America.

The MaxiCharger can charge EVs up to nine times faster than a standard outlet.

Source: Autel Energy

NABC Drive Out Distraction Program Encourages Safe Driving This Holiday Season

NABC members have the opportunity to save lives by driving public awareness about one of the leading causes of traffic collisions today—distracted driving.

more than 2,800 people were killed and an estimated 400,000 were injured in crashes involving a distracted driver.

Those of us in the collision industry know all too well the physical and emotional impact from car accidents. That is why NABC members are in the unique position of taking the leadership role in local communities across the country to educate and urge drivers of all ages eliminate distracted driving.

vehicle controls

Reducing cell phone distractions by setting devices to “do not disturb”

Eliminating in-car interruptions by securing pets, buckling in children and reminding passengers not to distract the driver with inappropriate behavior

NABC members can share the NABC Drive Out Distraction program with their customers and local audiences with a robust tool kit that includes:

From GPS to cell phones, entertainment screens, rowdy passengers and more, just one quick glance from the road can results in a dented fender, a damaged bumper or worse.

The National Safety Council reports cell phone use while driving leads to 1.6 million crashes each year. One out of every four car accidents in the U.S. is caused by texting and driving. According to the NHTSA, in the U.S. in 2018,

How the NABC is Helping

The new NABC Drive Out Distraction program is helping educate drivers and their passengers about reducing the dangers of distracted driving with a national campaign that focuses on:

Preparing for the road trip by downloading directions, checking weather and traffic conditions, setting the radio station and familiarizing yourself with the

Custom-branded counter card with tips for setting devices to “do not disturb” and call to action to take the NABC® “Drive Out Distraction” challenge

Custom-branded web page on NationalAutoBodyCouncil. org with tips for eliminating distracted driving to share via social media, shop web site and email

Digital graphics to use on social media and shop lobby televisions

Source: NABC

CALIFORNIA

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Audi

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Circle Audi Long Beach 562.597.4892 562.343.5088 Fax M-F 7:30am-5pm wholesale@circleaudi.com www.circleaudi.com

Santa Monica Audi Santa Monica 310.481.8216 310.393.6982 Fax M-F 7:30am-5pm wholesale@santamonicaaudi.com www.santamonicaaudi.com

WASHINGTON

Audi Seattle Seattle 206.634.8200 206.547.1581 Fax M-F 7am-6pm parts@uvwaudi.com www.audiseattle.com

a nationwide network of distribution centers to help ensure non-stocked parts are delivered the next day.

The average American driver will pay nearly $1,900 for car insurance in 2023, as insurance rates continue to rise across the country, according to the Insurify 2022 Auto Insurance Trends Report: 2022 in Review and What’s Ahead for 2023.

By the end of 2023, Americans will pay 16% more for car insurance than they did at the beginning of this year. Auto insurance rates increased by 9% throughout 2022 and will likely rise another 7% in 2023, with the average American spending $1,895 on auto insurance by year’s end.

Insurify’s report leverages more than 69 million car insurance rates from car insurance applications across the U.S. The final installment of a two-part series on car insurance trends in America, it forecasts insurance prices for 2023, details where costs rose the most in 2022, and surveys drivers on how their rates are changing and how they’re trying to save.

Coverage in 2022 cost the average driver $1,777 per year, a 9% increase from 2021 and a

whopping 21% increase from 2020. Oregon, Maryland and Virginia saw the greatest price increases, with premiums rising by more than 25% in all three states.

California, meanwhile, saw car insurance prices fall 15% in 2022, in part due to an ongoing moratorium on rate increases

contributed to rate increases in 2022 will continue to be in play for American drivers in 2023,” said  Snejina Zacharia, Insurify’s CEO and founder. “Our annual data reflects the state of the insurance industry, and our new report projects that higher driving rates, more severe accidents, inflation’s impact on vehicle repairs and medical costs, and the potentially increased frequency of wildfires and hurricanes will continue to be the key factors contributing to rate increases next year.”

Key Findings from the Report

since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some insurance providers and experts, however, argue that the moratorium is also limiting insurance availability in the state, according to Insurance Journal.

“Many of the factors that

Contra Costa College Seeking Automotive Collision Adjunct Professors

Contra Costa College in San Pablo, CA, is seeking people for its collision engineering program who recognize the critical role of community colleges, who have ability and enthusiasm for the collision repair industry and a commitment to achieving equitable academic success for the 50,000+ students attending its five beautiful colleges and centers.

Part-time instructors are needed for one or more of the following courses:

Introduction to Automotive Collision Repair Technology (lab and lecture)

Introduction to Painting and Refinishing Technology (lab and

lecture)

Introduction to Damage Report Writing, Automotive Steering and Suspension Systems and Headlamp Aiming, Advanced Automotive Collision Repair, Advanced Automotive Painting and Refinishing, Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning

The collision repair program at Contra Costa College is structured around I-CAR PDP-EE curriculum. Instructors must possess I-CAR certifications for the classes they are going to teach.

For more information, visit https://www.4cdcareers.net/ postings/9259

Source: CAA

The rising costs of vehicle repair and medical expenses, higher driving and accident rates, and the potential for more frequent natural disasters due to climate change are the biggest reasons costs will rise throughout 2023, according to Insurify’s panel of insurance experts.

Nearly half (47%) of drivers reported at least one increase

in their auto insurance rates in 2022, and 19%—nearly one in five drivers—even reported their rates increasing multiple times this year.

Drivers were half as likely to consider purchasing a hybrid or electric vehicle in November as they were in July. However, in November, more drivers considered switching their insurance provider and even dropping their coverage altogether than in July, despite the serious legal and financial risks of driving without insurance.

With prices potentially rising throughout 2023, Insurify’s panel of insurance experts offered advice for drivers looking to save on their car insurance premiums.

Finding a vehicle that matches your budget is key for  Dan Roccato, MBA, clinical professor of finance at the University of San Diego School of Business.

“Boring is better when it comes to saving money on auto insurance,” Roccato said. “Your heart wants a new convertible, but your wallet is happier with an older sedan.”

Source: Insurify

New-vehicle inventory levels are improving, but prices remain elevated. According to data released Dec. 12 by Kelley Blue Book, a Cox Automotive company, the average transaction price (ATP) for a new vehicle in the U.S. in November hit a new record high of $48,681.

November prices rose 0.9% ($422) month over month from October and were up 4.4% ($2,250) from year-earlier levels.

According to Kelley Blue Book calculations, new-vehicle ATPs have been higher than the average manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), also known as the sticker price, since July 2021. Sales volumes in November were up year over year by more than 11%, but down from October. The elevated prices and high loan rates are likely putting downward pressure on sales.

“The transaction data from November clearly indicates that prices are showing no signs of coming down as we head into the holiday season,” said Rebecca Rydzewski, research manager of economic and industry insights for Cox Automotive. “The mix of available vehicles still favors more expensive models and higher trim levels. In fact, average MSRP

has increased more than average ATP year over year, indicating automakers are still building a richer mix of expensive models and fewer value vehicles.”

According to Cox Automotive estimates, new-vehicle inventory is steadily improving, though some brands have a noticeably larger supply than others.

“Incentives overall are still very low, but consumers who are flexible on make and model may be able to find a good deal at year-end sales events,” added Rydzewski.

Average Prices for Luxury Cars Increase More than $400 in November, Hit Record

Strong luxury vehicle sales have been a primary reason for overall elevated new-vehicle prices. Luxury vehicle share remains historically high, increasing to 18.2% of total sales in November from 17.8% in October. The high share of luxury sales helps to push the overall industry ATP higher. In November 2019, the luxury share of the U.S. market was 16.1%.

In November 2022, the average luxury buyer paid $67,050 for a new vehicle---a record high and up $405 from October. Buyers continue to pay more than MSRP for new

luxury vehicles, although prices are trending closer to or below sticker prices in some luxury segments.

Porsche and Land Rover showed the most price strength in the luxury market, transacting between 2% to 6.4% over sticker price last month.

Luxury brands Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Lincoln and Volvo showed the least price strength, selling 1% or more below MSRP in November.

Average Non-Luxury Car Prices Increase to Record High

The average price paid for a new non-luxury vehicle in November was $44,584—also a record and higher by $330 month over month. The previous record high was recorded in August. On average, car shoppers in the non-luxury segment paid $410 above sticker price, a slight increase from October.

Most non-luxury brands had stable pricing or declines in November. Honda and Kia showed the most price strength in the nonluxury market, transacting between 6% to 8% over sticker price in November. Meanwhile, Buick showed the least price strength, selling 2% or more below MSRP in November.

Electric Vehicle Prices Increased in November and Remained Up Compared to One Year Ago

The average price paid for a new EV increased in November by $1,172 (up 2%) compared to October and was up by 9% compared to a year ago in November 2021. The average new EV price was $65,041, according to Kelley Blue Book estimates, well above the industry average and aligning more with luxury prices versus mainstream prices.

Auto Incentives Offered by Manufacturers Remain at Historically Low Level

Incentives remained stable in November 2022 at 2.2% of the average transaction price. In November 2021, incentives averaged 4.1% of ATP. In November 2019, before the pandemic and when inventory was plentiful, the average incentive package was 10.6% of ATP, according to Kelley Blue Book estimates.

Luxury cars had the highest incentives in November at 4.8% of ATP. Meanwhile, vans, minivans and luxury full-size SUVs had the lowest incentives, all less than 1% of ATP.

Source: Kelley Blue Book

Ford CEO Reveals 2 of 3 Ford Dealers Buy Into All-Electric Strategy

By Phoebe Wall Howard Detroit Free Press

Ford Motor Co. has secured commitments from two of every three dealers who plan to go all-in on selling electric vehicles, CEO Jim Farley revealed during an interview Dec. 5.

Of the estimated 3,000 Ford dealers in the U.S., 1,920 have enrolled in the voluntary Model e Program for the initial 2024 to 2026 period, the company confirmed to the Free Press.

Customers shopping for electric vehicles will soon see signage that identifies dealers as Model e Certified Elite or Model e Certified. This is significant because it also tells the public the location of fast chargers needed to “fuel up” electric vehicles.

Of those that enrolled:

• 1,659 chose to be Certified Elite with full sales and service capability

• 261 chose to be Certified with full service capability, limited sales and a lower investment cost.

$1.2 million to install the charging infrastructure to achieve the special certification status. If dealers don’t have charging stations, they can’t service the electric vehicles. A second period of certification will take place in 2027, after Ford has begun releasing its new electric vehicle lineup.

The dollar figures provided were exceptionally conservative, the company has said.

The Model e Certified dealer will have one DC fast-charger starting Jan. 1, 2024, for public use, with two plugs. These dealerships will provide repair and get a limited supply of electric vehicles to sell. The Model e Certified Elite dealer will have two DC fast-chargers for public use and provide full service with access to a full inventory for customer purchase.

“We’re betting on the dealers,” Farley told reporters in September. “We’re not going to direct (them). But we need to specialize. … The main message I have for the dealers, which I’ve never said before, because I never

He and members of his executive team met with reporters between dealer meetings at The Bellagio in Las Vegas, immediately after breaking the news to many of its dealers in the U.S.

Dealers who declined to enroll for 2024 to 2026 will have another opportunity to enroll in 2025.

Super Duty trucks, which have internal combustion engines (ICE), continue to be a key revenue source for Ford. The ICE Age will remain for years to come, even as the industry evolves, Farley has said.

Alabama Goes Electric

Eddie Stivers, president of Stivers Ford, AL, told the Free Press on Dec. 5 that both his dealerships in Birmingham and Montgomery have committed to Certified Elite status because the state is enthusiastically embracing electric vehicles.

“Birmingham is one of the fastest growing EV registration cities,” he said, and the company is building an enormous new dealership facility. In Montgomery, the company primarily serves government and other fleet clients.

When asked about dealers in New York and Illinois that have filed lawsuits challenging the way the

company is unrolling its electric strategy, Stivers said he couldn’t speak to specifics.

“I didn’t find the Ford process to have any pressure associated with it,” he said, as someone who sells 10 different brands.

No other company has worked with its dealers as intensely as Ford, Stivers said. “Communication was second to none. They even went around and engaged, I think, 400 dealers. That’s 15% of the dealer body. I’m just really pleased Ford has been so deliberate about how they’re going to market ... It’s going to be a direct benefit to our consumers.”

He said his third-generation business has more than 400 employees, and being on “this journey” is a time of change for all. He said the investment is well above Ford’s minimum infrastructure requirements, which still fall below Ford’s cost estimate and come in below $500,000.

“We are very excited about electrification. We’ve decided to build out our infrastructure at an exponentially higher level than Ford has requested of us,” Stivers said, still waiting to learn electric utility costs.

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Santa Cruz Subaru

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SO. CALIFORNIA NO. CALIFORNIA The following dealerships are eager to serve your needs. Call your local Subaru collision parts specialist today!

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Elk Grove

Subaru

Elk Grove

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Eastside Subaru Kirkland

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Maaco concluded the celebration of its 50th anniversary at the 2022 Maaco Convention, held at the beautiful Omni La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, CA, with awards and recognition for outstanding performance, leadership and operational excellence.

The 2022 Maaco Convention ran from Nov. 15–18. Over the course of the four days, franchise partners, valued vendors and members of the corporate support team were able to gather to mingle, learn from one another and celebrate 50 years of business.

The week ended with the highlight of the event, the awards gala. The stunning night recognized topperforming franchise owners and Maaco centers for their outstanding achievements during the past year.

“It’s an honor to recognize our hardworking Maaco franchise family for their outstanding accomplishments because we know how much they’re putting into their businesses each and every day,” said Chris Dawson, paint and collision president for Driven Brands. “These franchisees are a tremendous example of the success that is possible as a Maaco owner and serve as an inspiration to their peers.”

Maaco Cup Award

Steve and Angela Locke, owners of Maaco Marietta, GA, are this year’s Maaco Cup winners.

Each year Maaco recognizes a franchise owner who exemplifies operational excellence, awarding the coveted Maaco Cup as the “Best of the Best.”

The Maaco Cup winner represents not only high sales achievement but excellence in production and overall performance. The Lockes took over an existing store in 2010 and started with no cars on the lot their first day. They have been committed to the Maaco operating system ever since.

Always reaching for new levels of excellence, always going the extra mile for their customers, they have grown their business with a good mix of retail, collision and fleet work.

“This was very humbling and unexpected,” said Steve Locke. “This award is really recognition for my whole team, as you are only as good as your people, and I am blessed to have a good team backing me up. I have always approached this business with a fearless attitude, a commitment to succeed, and my personal faith that it would work.”

2022 Maaco Award Winners

The following franchisees were

recognized for their outstanding performance, leadership and operational excellence as top performers in their perspective categories.

MSO of the Year Award: Phil Collins, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia multi-store owner

This recognition celebrates a multishop owner who has embraced the operating system and is excelling in all areas of the business. Collins has been a part of the Maaco family for almost three decades. Throughout that, he has always leaned on the fundamentals of the business, maintaining consistency in his production year after year.

Collins was integral in establishing the Maaco presence in the Carolinas and he’s built a strong reputation for the brand with almost 20 locations in the region. His growth is a testament to the benefit of staying rooted in Maaco’s founding values.

Rookie of the Year Award Resale: Israel Muriel, Maaco Lauderhill, FL

The rookie of the year award celebrates owners who are new to the system but embraced the Maaco model to their advantage. Having served in the U.S. Marine Corps, Muriel has applied those core values of honor, courage and commitment to build a thriving facility, nearing $2.5M in sales.

Rookie of the Year Award New Unit: Dave Martin, Maaco Tyler, TX Martin exemplified exceptional performance in his first year as a new owner. Martin comes from the tax industry, with no experience in automotive painting, yet his focus on the customer experience and leveraging the Maaco playbook to train his team has helped his business get off to an amazing start. In addition, he is working hard to build a legacy for his family, with his daughter Ashley and son-in-law Freddy closely engaged in the business.

Terry Taylor Award: Peter Flannigan, Maaco Airdrie, AB

The Terry Taylor award is to honor a Maaco owner who exhibits the same selfless qualities of its namesake. Flannigan has a longstanding reputation for giving back to his community. Whether it’s going the extra mile on the paint job of a classic car, pitching in with a community effort to help someone in need, or making generous donations to local charities, this owner goes above and beyond. He’s also an engaged franchisee both as an Advisory

Council member and a supportive colleague.

Top Sales Growth: Michael Vahdat, Maaco East Brunswick, NJ

Vahdat  has been with Maaco since 2018, taking over an existing facility, and is on track to have the shop’s best year ever in its nearly 18-year history, thanks to his keen focus on  operational performance and ensuring he employs a dedicated team. He is actively engaged in the wider Maaco family, participating in regional events, attending the spring operations events and always looking to learn from his peers.

Top Sales and Car Count: Ron Raio, Maaco Delran, NJ

Achieving both highest sales and the highest car count, Raio and his team have been with Maaco since the ‘80s and continue to invest in the future of their business as they work through the build-out of their newest facility, which has become a multigenerational business.

Regional Cup Award Winners

Maaco also recognizes those franchisees regionally who achieve outstanding performance in car

excellence with Regional Cup Awards.

The Mirante Family, Maaco Edmonton, AB

David and Marie Hamilton, Maaco Sunnyvale, CA

Kurt Seifert Jr., Maaco Ferndale, MI

The Wilks Family, Maaco Gainesville, FL

Rob Taylor, Maaco Lancaster, PA

These award winners are recognized for their extraordinary contributions to the Maaco system and are representative of the highest standards of a Maaco franchisee. They embody the core values of customer satisfaction and commitment to upholding the Maaco brand promise.

In a special fund-raising raffle, franchise owner Mike Phillips was the lucky winner of a classic Maaco blue 1972 Chevy Camaro, which commemorated the year that Maaco was founded.

Visit Maaco.com for more information.

Source: Maaco

California’s greenhouse gas emissions fell a remarkable 8.7% in 2020 amidst pandemic-induced economic disruptions and travel restrictions.

But while the significant drop in emissions has helped the state make progress toward its 2030 climate targets, it masks a rise in pollution from in-state power generation, as stubbornly-slow renewable energy growth threatens California’s transition to carbon neutrality.

At the same time, a drop in emissions from the transportation sector for the third-consecutive year could signal a breakthrough in the state’s largest source of climate pollution, if pandemic-era shifts towards hybrid work remain and electric vehicle adoption continues to rise.

That’s the finding of the 14th annual California Green Innovation Index, released Dec. 14 by the nonpartisan nonprofit Next 10 and prepared by Beacon Economics.

The report’s analysis of the latest available emissions data found that while transportation-sector, commercial-sector and industrialsector emissions dropped in 2020, emissions from in-state electricity and agriculture increased.

“Despite the significant 2020 emissions drop, a closer look at the data from this year’s Index suggests California still faces challenges,” said F. Noel Perry, businessman and founder of Next 10. “The increase in in-state power generation pollution is worrisome. Not only is this pollution hurting the health of those living close to these facilities, this is the sector that overarching decarbonization depends on. We’ll need to see a significant increase in clean energy generation at least 8% per year in the coming years, to power homes, vehicles and industry.”

The report also analyzed the economic and jobs returns on investment from four of California’s signature climate and clean energy programs, and found a cumulative $2.76 billion investment in these programs generated $5.35 billion in economic output and created 8,521 jobs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The findings should inform California’s budget priorities, as the state pursues strategies to fend off a potential looming recession.

“California’s return on climate investments has been striking,” said Patrick Adler, research manager at Beacon Economics. “The state has

shown that it can create jobs and strong economic growth while also helping to cut the pollution that is driving climate change and adversely impacting communities across California.

“The increase in in-state power generation pollution is worrisome. Not only is this pollution hurting the health of those living close to these facilities, this is the sector that overarching decarbonization depends on. We’ll need to see a significant increase in clean energy generation at least 8% per year in the coming years, to power homes, vehicles and industry.”

and supply chain challenges, sales data from 2021 paint a more encouraging picture. Electric vehicle sales shot up 79% in 2021 compared to 2020, and battery electric vehicles reached 9.5% of new vehicle registration in 2021, up from the previous peak of 6.2% in 2020.

The increase in electric vehicle ownership in rural areas showed the most encouraging signs of growth, increasing by an impressive 57.1% in 2021 compared to 2019. Roughly half of the growth in electric vehicles across the state of California in 2021 took place in rural areas compared to 2019. Promising electric vehicle growth is likely to continue in coming years, as California tracks towards achieving a landmark regulation adopted this year that will phase out the sale of gasoline cars by 2035.

The Index’s encouraging data on electric vehicle sales contrasts sharply with its findings on public transit ridership, which plunged a stunning 52% in 2020. More concerningly, ridership fell an additional 3% in 2021 even after pandemic restrictions began to lift and some people started returning to the office.

Transportation Emissions Dropped for Third Consecutive Year

The Index found transportation sector emissions California’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions plunged by a staggering 16.1% in 2020, amidst pandemicinduced travel restrictions and a shift to working from home.

The remarkable decrease was driven by a 19.8% reduction in emissions from light-duty passenger cars, a 18.5% decrease from SUVs and light-duty trucks, a 12.2% emissions decrease from off-road vehicles, and a 7.4% emissions decrease from heavy-duty trucks

“Due to the pandemic, the emissions drop from California’s transportation sector in 2020 was remarkable. This is the third straight year that we’ve seen a decline in pollution from the state’s largest and most stubborn source of emissions. The encouraging trends in this year’s Index on EV adoption and charging build-out show that EVs are reaching new, lower-income consumers and folks in rural areas,” noted Perry. “But to make continual progress in the transportation sector, we need structural changes to how we move around our cities and towns, and we urgently need to address the looming public transit crisis.”

While electric vehicle sales of all classes fell 16.5% from 2019 to 2020 due to pandemic-related uncertainty

The findings suggest the pandemic could push California deeper into its historical trend of individual car ownership, despite the climate impacts. After a steady decline since the peak in 2018, the vehicle ownership rate rose to 78.4 per 100 persons in 2021, up from 74.7 in 2020.

Key findings include:

Transportation-sector emissions accounted for 37.9% of California’s total emissions in 2020, down from 41.2% in 2019.

Consumer preferences continued to shift towards pickup trucks, minivans and SUVS in 2021, as the light truck sales (+16.6%) more than doubled the sale of cars (+7.1%).

Natural gas-powered vehicle registrations fell 23.2% in 2021, while registrations of electric vehicles increased by 34%, compared to 2020.

While sales of battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen vehicles increased significantly in 2021, they still only accounted for 2.8% of all registered on-road vehicles in California in 2021, up from 2.2% in 2020.

Source: Next 10

— F. NOEL PERRY BUSINESSMAN AND FOUNDER OF NEXT 10

CarMax Reaches Settlement Over Failure To Disclose Vehicle Recalls

A multistate coalition of 35 attorneys general on Dec. 1 secured $1 million from CarMax for failing to disclose open safety recalls on their used vehicles to consumers before sales.

CarMax did not provide consumers with information about safety recalls on critical vehicle

make a purchase.

A multistate investigation found CarMax, a nationwide used car dealer, misled consumers by failing to disclose needed repairs on vehicles with open safety recalls. CarMax classified those vehicles as “safe” despite there being open

to protect consumers. Customers of used car dealerships will now be able to access information about any open safety recalls for any vehicles available for purchase.

Under the agreement, CarMax is required to provide digital links for vehicles advertised online and QR codes for vehicles available on their lots which will allow consumers to access this information as they shop.

In addition, CarMax will present customers with documentation on any open safety recalls and obtain their signature to confirm proper disclosure before presenting the with any sales paperwork.

The company will pay $1 million in penalties, of which about $54,000 will go to New York.

New Yorkers and ensure that consumers are aware of any safety recall before they start driving. As attorney general, I will continue to ensure that companies that bypass the law are held to account and that New Yorkers are protected.”

CarMax will continue to use the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration’s vehicle identification number tool to provide important safety information, including open recalls, to consumers.

parts, such as brakes and fuel pumps, before selling vehicles.

The agreement will set a new industry standard for used car dealers to disclose open safety recalls to customers before they

recalls for parts, including airbags and other critical safety features.

The agreement requires CarMax to stop these improper practices and changes overall industry standards in the used car market

“When someone buys a car, they need to know that it will keep them safe,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James, part of the multistate coalition. “CarMax put New Yorkers at risk by allowing drivers to get on the road without warning them that their newly purchased vehicles had open safety recalls. This agreement will protect

November Auto Sales Forecasted To Continue Previous 3-Month Trend

With volume for the month projected at 1.122 million units, November U.S. auto sales are estimated to translate to an estimated sales pace of 14.1 million units (seasonally adjusted annual rate: SAAR).

This would represent a sustained improvement from the May through September period but will reflect a decline from October’s 14.9 millionunit pace, according to S&P Global Mobility analysis.

The daily selling rate metric in November—approximately 44,0000 to 45,000 per day—would be inline with levels since September.

Translation: From a non-seasonally adjusted volume standpoint, auto sales continue to plug along at a steady pace.

“Sales should continue to improve, given the expected sustained, but mild, advancement in overall production and inventory levels,” said Chris Hopson, principal analyst at S&P Global Mobility. “However, we also continue to monitor for signals of faster-thanexpected growth in inventory. Currently, there are no clear signs; inventories have advanced as anticipated. But any indication of

faster than projected growth in the overall stock of new vehicles could mean that auto consumers are feeling the pressure of the current economic headwinds and retreating from the market.”

As a result, October’s SAAR boost

The top eight EV markets in the U.S. are all in coastal states and represent 50.5% of total EV registrations so far in 2022, through August. The greater Los Angeles and San Francisco metropolitan areas alone account for nearly onethird of total share of the U.S. EV market. Meanwhile the Heartland states’ market share of EV sales is barely half of what they contribute to overall vehicle registrations.

Joining New York’s attorney general in the agreement are the attorneys general of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

Source: Office of New York Attorney General Letitia James

is likely to be an anomaly compared to the remainder of the year, Hopson said, adding there are expectations of volatility in the monthly results starting in early 2023.

Market share of battery-electric vehicles is expected to reach 5.9% in November. However, outside of the large coastal cities, retail registrations of EVs have yet to take hold, according to analysis from S&P Global Mobility.

“BEV market share control on the two coasts is attributed to their higher mix of early adopters compared to buyers in middle America,” said Tom Libby, associate director of Loyalty Solutions and Industry Analysis at S&P Global Mobility. “Their demographic profile is more in sync with the traditional BEV buyer than the middleAmerican profile.”

But Libby sees potential for EV acceptance in top heartland markets: “More acceptance and much broader consumer awareness is resulting in a natural progression of adoption from the coasts to the Heartland.”

Supporting the EV advancement, product reveals surrounding the

Los Angeles Auto Show in midNovember continue to reflect the OEM focus.

According to Stephanie Brinley, associate director of AutoIntelligence at S&P Global Mobility, “As auto shows at their best highlight what people will be driving in coming years, the reveals during the Los Angeles Auto Show reflect the continuing push toward electric and electrified vehicles.”

Of note, Fiat announced it will bring a version of the European 500 EV to the U.S. starting in early 2024, reviving the 500e nameplate.

Toyota’s reveal of the 2023 Prius hybrid included a Prime trim that will double the hatchback’s EVonly range, while the automaker also showed a rendering of the bZ (“Beyond Zero”) electric-vehicle concept, previewing a forthcoming compact SUV.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese entrant VinFast showed U.S.-trim versions of two EV crossover additions to its lineup, bringing its potential U.S. offerings to four.

Source: S&P Global Mobility

Credit: Shutterstock

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More Automakers Fulfill Pledge To Make Autobrake

Three more automakers have fulfilled a voluntary pledge to equip nearly all the light vehicles they produce for the U.S. market with automatic emergency braking (AEB).

Mitsubishi, Nissan/Infiniti and Stellantis installed AEB on more than 95% of the vehicles they produced between Sept. 1, 2021, and Aug. 31, 2022, joining 12 automakers that fulfilled the voluntary commitment in previous years. Stellantis, which equipped only 43% of its vehicles with AEB in 2021, made the most progress.

“With Stellantis dramatically boosting the percentage of vehicles it equips with AEB, there’s been another big jump in the number of affordable cars and SUVs with this important safety feature,” IIHS President David Harkey said. “General Motors and Porsche also made substantial progress toward the goal.”

A total of 20 manufacturers joined the 2016 commitment brokered by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). They pledged to equip at least 95% of their light-duty cars and trucks with the crash avoidance technology by the production year that just began on Sept. 1, 2022. Light-duty vehicles are those with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less.

So far, Audi, BMW, Ford/Lincoln, Honda/Acura, Hyundai/Genesis, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan/Infiniti, Stellantis, Subaru, Tesla, Toyota/Lexus, Volkswagen and Volvo have crossed the finish line early.

Honda/Acura, which crossed the finish line last year, dipped below the threshold due to supply chain issues, installing AEB on 93% of the vehicles it produced for the U.S. market during this reporting period. Once an automaker reaches the 95% mark, they aren’t required to continue filing reports, and neither BMW nor Tesla submitted data this time around.

Kia narrowly missed the cut this reporting period, increasing the percentage of its vehicles with AEB to 94% this reporting period from 89% last year.

General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover and Porsche also made substantial progress, equipping around three-quarters of their lightduty vehicles with AEB, up from around 60% last year. Maserati’s numbers were essentially flat, with 71% equipped in the latest reporting period.

no longer effectively differentiates among systems, the Institute is dropping that test from the criteria for its TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards next year and investigating whether it needs to be replaced with a new one to drive further improvements.

Meanwhile, a nighttime test of

Along with the pledge to equip light-duty vehicles with AEB, automakers committed to installing the technology on vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,50110,000 pounds on a slightly longer timeline, by the production year that begins Sept. 1, 2025.

Five automakers reported producing vehicles in that range for the U.S. market in the most recent year. Among them, Nissan reported all were equipped with AEB, Ford 76% and Stellantis 34%. MercedesBenz reported none of its heavier vehicles were equipped with AEB, and General Motors did not report a percentage of equipped vehicles in this weight class.

The deadline for light-duty vehicles with manual transmissions is the production year that begins Sept. 1, 2024.

“The overwhelming number of vehicles produced with this critical safety technology means that consumers will receive safety benefits even if they aren’t actively shopping for them,” said  Jennifer Stockburger, director of operations at Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center. “Additional capabilities that many of these systems also provide, such as pedestrian detection and the ability to function at highway speeds, have the potential to save even more lives.”

To fulfill their commitment, manufacturers must attest the AEB system on their vehicles meets certain performance standards. The forward collision warning feature must meet a subset of NHTSA’s current 5-Star Safety Ratings program requirements on the timing of driver alerts. The AEB must earn at least an advanced rating in the IIHS vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention evaluation. To earn that rating, the system must slow the vehicle by at least 10 mph in either the 12 or 25 mph test or 5 mph in both of the tests.

Most manufacturers’ standard systems earn a superior rating in the IIHS test, and many can also detect and avoid pedestrians. Because the vehicle-to-vehicle evaluation

pedestrian AEB is being added to the requirements, as research has shown most pedestrian detection systems don’t work well in the dark when fatal pedestrian crashes are most common.

IIHS expects the voluntary commitment to prevent 42,000 crashes and 20,000 injuries by 2025. The estimate is based on IIHS research that found front crash prevention systems with both forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking cut rear-end crashes by half.

Source: IIHS

Ram Transmission Problems Cause 16 Fires, Recall

By David A. Wood CarComplaints.com

Ram transmission problems have caused a recall of more than 265,000 trucks following 16 reports of fires caused by leaking transmission fluid.

The recalled 2020-2023 Ram 2500 and 2020-2022 Ram 3500 trucks are equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines and 68RFE transmissions.

Fiat Chrysler says the transmission can have a problem with pressure and heat that builds up inside the 68RFE transmission, causing transmission fluid to leak from the dipstick tube.

The Ram truck fires occurred once transmission fluid leaked onto hot ignition sources in the engine compartments.

FCA opened an internal investigation in June due to a trend of engine compartment fires in 2020-2023 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks. Engineers checked witness statements, fire patterns and other information to confirm the fire trend.

Chrysler determined the affected Ram trucks were built between September 2019 and November 2022.

In addition to the 16 Ram truck fires, FCA has received several warranty claims and one report of a minor injury.

However, Chrysler asserts there are no reports of fatalities related to the transmission problems or fires.

Chrysler says the only prior warning of a problem a Ram owner may have is an illuminated warning light.

The Ram transmission fluid leak and fire recall also includes more than 17,000 trucks in Canada.

To date, Chrysler doesn’t know how dealers will repair the Ram transmission problems, but the automaker will mail Ram transmission fluid leak recall letters Dec. 30.

Ram truck owners with questions should call FCA at 800-853-1403 and ask about transmission fluid leak recall number ZA3.

Criminal charges were announced Dec. 9 in Pennsylvania against 30 individuals and 21 businesses for “title washing” and for re-titling stolen vehicles in Lebanon, Lehigh and Philadelphia counties.

The title washing fraud was designed to bypass rigid requirements for reconstructed titles in states such as New Jersey and New York. The re-titling of these stolen vehicles was intended to make those vehicles look legitimate for resale or export.

applications to PennDOT as well as removing and changing the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) attached to each vehicle to bypass police detection of stolen vehicles. These arrests are following sweeping arrests earlier this year as tied to related criminal rings in northeastern Pennsylvania.

The charges were announced by Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro

halt to it.”

• Jefferson Loor-Valet

The participants in these criminal networks are alleged to have purchased totaled vehicles that they then falsified inspection information for and submitted fraudulent title

“The defendants used their positions and knowledge of PennDOT requirements to defraud state and federal authorities and put unsuspecting drivers at risk,” said Shapiro. “Vehicles that have been totaled must not only be repaired but also undergo an enhanced safety inspection to ensure they are safe. The defendants instead allowed hundreds of heavilydamaged vehicles onto the roadways in Pennsylvania, and around the country without even looking at them. They gamed the system and put consumers at risk to rack up millions of dollars in illegal profits. This was widespread criminal

As part of this scheme, the enhanced vehicle safety inspectors listed did not complete the necessary inspections that were required in order to make a totaled vehicle road worthy again and instead only completed the paperwork required. Many vehicles that they claimed to have been inspected at their shops never actually entered Pennsylvania. Under further investigation, it was found that several of the vehicles had been stolen from other states.

“I congratulate Attorney General Shapiro and his staff on this investigation and the resulting arrests,” said Lehigh County District Attorney James Martin . “I commend and thank Chief Deputy District Attorney David Mussel , and all of the Lehigh County Auto Theft Task Force, for the roles that they played in this successful investigation in Lehigh County.”

The 30 individual defendants were charged, in varying degrees, with: Corrupt Organizations, Forgery, Washing Vehicle Titles, Deceptive Business Practices, Tampering with Public Records, False Application for Certificate of Title, Altered, Forged, or Counterfeit Documents, and Insurance Fraud, among other charges. Charges against the 21 businesses include, in varying degrees, Washing Vehicle Titles, Deceptive Business Practices, Tampering with Public Records, Altered, Forged, or Counterfeit Documents, and False Application for Certificate of Title.

The defendants are as follows:

• Roberto Gomez-Gomez

• Nora D. Rodriguez

• Jimmy Rodriguez-Cosme

• Jessica L. Engelke

• Ahmed Lopez-Roman

• Aristeds Aquino

• Jean C. Aquino-Belen

• Rafael Santiago-Pacheco

• Juana Belen-Valdez

• Juana Belen-De Evangelista

• Osiris M. Fernandez-Gonzalez

• Edgar Collado

• Mohammad Alkurdi

• Mohamed Kerdi

• Albert Luciano-Rodriguez

• Edward Saldivar

• Adelaida Mirelis Mendoza

• Eulid Urena-Recio

• Linda M. Sandoval MartinezHerrera

• Margarete Rose Almashaqbeh

• Charlie Jiminan

• Beaki Antonia Perez

• Somary Ibeth Otanez-DeLoor

• Indalecia Vazquez

• Maria Pineda

• Angel Mendez

• David Morrison

• Oleg Zelenko

• Igor A. Dratch

The 21 businesses charged are as follows:

• Mendoza Auto Sale, Inc.

• G & G Auto Body and Auto Salvage

• Carla Matia, LLC

• Abby Auto

• Saldivar Group, Inc.

• JM Auto Sales, Inc.

• Jessica Auto and Multiservices

• Wilfredo Auto Repair

• Emma Auto Tags and Multiservices, Inc.

• Docuservices

• A2Z Auto Sales

• Charo Auto Sales

• AMCO Motor Sales

• MP Notary and Tags, Inc.

• J & J Car and Truck Sales, LLC

• PA Tag and Title

• Perfect Touch Auto Repair & Sales

• Santos Auto Gallery

• Grig LLC

• Newroad Motors LLC

• Amatti Auto Sales LLC

“The arrests effectuated today emphasize our commitment to investigate any type of fraud associated with motor vehicles, titling, and affiliated records,” said Pennsylvania State Police Captain James Cuttitta, Special Investigations Division, Bureau of Criminal Investigation. “These crimes victimize unsuspecting, law-abiding citizens of Pennsylvania and beyond when they purchase these vehicles, only to learn later the vehicles have significant defects. The Pennsylvania State Police will continue to work with all District Attorney’s Offices, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the National Insurance Crime Bureau, and other partners to conduct additional investigations and hold those responsible accountable.”

This case is being prosecuted by Chief Deputy Attorney General Robert LaBar, Deputy Attorney General Richard Bradbury, and Lehigh County’s Chief Deputy District Attorney David Mussel. All charges discussed are accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Consumers who believe that they may have been a victim of the practices of any of the above dealerships, vehicle inspectors, or tag agents, or have information about this or other forms of vehicle or title fraud should reach out to the Office of Attorney General by emailing the Insurance Fraud Section at titlefraud@attorneygeneral.gov.

NHTSA Announces Another Takata Air Bag Fatality, Urges Owners To Check For Recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is urgently calling on all vehicle owners to check now for open Takata recalls on their vehicles, after confirming another Takata rupture fatality.

If it does, make an appointment to get your free repair as soon as possible,” said NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson. “If this air bag ruptures in a crash, it could kill you or someone you love, or leave them with critical, life-altering injuries. Every day that passes when you don’t get a recalled air bag replaced puts you and your family at greater risk of injury or death.”

at higher risk, as the age of the air bag is one of the contributing factors.

How to Check for Recalls

Use NHTSA’s Recalls Lookup Tool at www.nhtsa.gov/ recalls to check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for any open safety recalls, including the urgent Takata recall.

If your vehicle does have a safety recall, call your automaker’s local dealer to schedule the free recall repair.

One person died in a crash in a 2002 Honda Accord where the Takata driver’s side air bag inflator ruptured.

This brings the total number of confirmed fatalities due to Takata inflator rupture to 23, with four fatalities confirmed in 2022.

“Whatever you’re doing, stop now and check to see if your vehicle has a Takata air bag recall.

Options For ASE Testing and Recertification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) now offers three ways for service professionals to take certification or recertification tests.

ASE in-person testing is available throughout the year and is conducted days, nights and weekends at more than 450 secured, proctored Prometric test centers.

Those with unexpired automobile certifications (A1-A9) can use the ASE renewal app for recertification, making it easy to extend the expiration date of their ASE certifications without having to take time off or go to a secure test center for testing.

ASE now offers ProProctor remote testing as an online recertification solution for all ASE recertifications tests, excluding L1 and L2 tests.

To learn more, visit ASE.com, click on register and sign in. Once logged in, users can next click on “orders” and then “store” where they can find the tests they want to take, add those tests to the cart, check out and registration is complete.

Source: ASE

NHTSA is urging all vehicle owners to immediately check to see if their vehicle has an open Takata air bag recall.

If it does, owners need to contact their dealership to schedule a free repair as soon as possible and follow any warnings from the vehicle manufacturer.

Even minor crashes can result in exploding air bags that can kill or produce life-altering, gruesome injuries. Older model year vehicles put their occupants

Sign up at NHTSA.gov/ Alerts to be notified by email if your vehicle is affected by a future recall.

If you think your vehicle may have a safety defect that isn’t part of a current recall, contact NHTSA. Contact NHTSA online or by calling the agency’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time. For more information, visit NHTSA.gov/ Recalls.

Source: NHTSA

Donate To the Jeff Silver Memorial Scholarship

As the collision industry mourned the passing of Jeff Silver, who was instrumental in creating both I-CAR and the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), his family immediately recognized the best way to honor his memory and continue his long-lasting legacy on the industry he loved: by creating the Jeff Silver Memorial Scholarship. “Jeff was passionate about helping collision school programs and their students, which is why he had an active role in establishing the Collision Repair Education Foundation back in 1991,” said Jeanne Silver, his wife and soulmate of 36 years.

Anyone considering a year-end, tax-deductible charitable gift is invited to consider helping to honor Jeff’s memory by contributing to his memorial scholarship fund. Simply visit CREF’s online donation page, and select the “Jeff Silver Memorial Scholarship” designation for your donation. Scholarship applications will open in January, and the inaugural Jeff Silver Memorial Scholarship will be awarded in 2023.

Source: CREF

AutoNation Expands After-Sales Business With Acquisition of RepairSmith

AutoNation, Inc., America’s largest automotive retailer, on Dec. 12 announced it entered into an agreement to acquire RepairSmith for $190 million.

RepairSmith is a full-service mobile solution for automotive repair and maintenance, headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, with a significant operational footprint in the southern and western U.S.

“AutoNation has embarked on a strategy to be the nation’s most comprehensive provider of transportation solutions, meeting the mobility needs of today’s and tomorrow’s customer through a broad, connected range of products and services that are clearly focused on providing our Customers and their households a comprehensive, unique suite of transportation solutions,” said Mike Manley, AutoNation’s CEO.

“AutoNation already has more than 12 million customers who

have shopped with us, a number that grows every day, and by providing an expansion of our group’s capabilities, we not only begin to truly leverage our scale, but most importantly offer an expanded range of products and services that will increase both customer loyalty and deepen our share of our customers’ household related mobility spend,” Manley said.

“Earlier this year, we added captive financing capabilities and initiated the development of mobility solutions to expand our customer offerings. RepairSmith is the next step in our plan,” Manley said. “It expands AutoNation’s ability to penetrate the extensive after-sales service market and conveniently respond to our customers’ needs by broadening the reach of our existing after-sales network.”

The acquisition of RepairSmith will provide AutoNation’s aftersales business with another channel to provide service to

its existing customer base and introduce additional vehicle owners who have purchased vehicles outside the AutoNation dealer network.

“Although roughly 80% of vehicles sold by AutoNation receive annual service at franchised dealerships during the first three years of ownership, the percentage falls off dramatically in subsequent years,” Manley said.

“RepairSmith offers customers the convenience of services and repairs at their home, workplace or on-site for fleet vehicles. AutoNation will also utilize RepairSmith as a resource for reconditioning and internal services to increase our speed to frontline readiness and expedite vehicle delivery to customers.”

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Source: AutoNation, Inc.

November New-Car Sales Improve Year-Over-Year

Automakers on Dec. 1 began releasing sales data from November, reporting strong performances compared to November 2021.

Kia

Kia America announced best-ever November sales of 56,703 units, an 8% increase over the previous November sales record set in 2016, and a 25.1% improvement yearover-year.

For the second consecutive month, sales were led by the Sportage family of SUVs, which were up 144% over the same period a year ago. Sales of Kia’s electrified models---which have posted double or triple-digit gains in the past five months---also contributed to the record-breaking performance with a 133% year-over-year increase.

Hyundai

Hyundai Motor America reported total November sales of 63,305 units, a 43% increase compared with November 2021.

Hyundai set total records in November for Elantra HEV, Santa Fe, Santa Fe HEV, Tucson, Tucson HEV,

CIECA Announces

Vaultoniq As Member

Vaultoniq has joined CIECA as a corporate member. Founded by Tom Zoebelein in 2022, Vaultoniq is a sister company to Stratosphere Studio and Capture the Keys. “Vaultoniq software is a management system built for body shops to help eliminate the communication breakdown between customers, insurers and employees,” explained Zoebelein. “It centralizes all customer and insurer communication and stores data, estimates, photos, invoices, OEM procedures, measurements, scans, authorizations and more in each customer record.” The software also uses an AI-powered Siri or Google function. Zoebelein has been involved with additional businesses in the collision repair industry since 2011, including the National Auto Body Council (NABC). He worked with CIECA over a decade ago and helped coordinate videos for the organization. With the launch of his new company, Zoebelein said he is looking forward to being involved with CIECA and having Vaultoniq software communicate with the industry management systems.

Source: CIECA

Kona EV and Santa Cruz. Hyundai fleet sales remained at 1.4% of total volume for the year.

Hyundai’s retail sales of 56,592 units represented a 28% year-overyear increase from November 2021. This was a record November retail sales month led by Elantra HEV (+733%), Kona EV (+113%), Venue (+57%), Santa Cruz (+44%), Santa Fe HEV (+43%), Tucson (+33%) and Tucson HEV (+18%). Hyundai eco-friendly vehicle sales of 7,550 represented 13% of retail and a 39% year-over-year increase.

Mazda

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) reported total November sales of 26,906 vehicles, an increase of 30.6% compared to November 2021.

Year-to-date sales totaled 267,616 vehicles; a decrease of 14.6% compared to the same time last year.

With 25 selling days in November, compared to 24 the year prior, the company posted an increase of 25.4% on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.

CPO sales totaled 4,344 vehicles

in November, an increase of 13% compared to November 2021.

Sales Highlights

* Second best-ever November total sales with 26,906 vehicles sold.

* Best-ever November sales of CX-30 with 4,457 vehicles sold.

* Best-ever November sales of CX-9 with 4,025 vehicles sold.

Honda

American Honda November sales totaled nearly 80,000 units.

Honda crossovers led the way with all-new CR-V sales of almost 20,000 units and all-new HR-V over 9,000 units, logging its best month since June.

The all-new Pilot goes on sale in December and is already generating strong pre-sale activity.

Accord topped 13,700 units and Accord Hybrid posted its eighth monthly record in 2022, topping 3,300 units.

The North American Car of the Year finalist Acura Integra again topped 2,200 units and led the premium gateway segment in 2022 sales after just six months on the market.

Acura sales were led by MDX, which overcame inventory issues to reach sales of more than 4,000 units.

Subaru

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) reported 50,138 vehicle sales for November 2022, a 51.7% increase compared with November 2021 (33,045). The automaker also reported year-to-date sales of 499,821, a 6.2% decrease compared with the same period in 2021.

In November, Outback was the top performer by volume with 15,069 sales and a 44.2% increase compared with the same period in 2021. The Forester saw a 147.7% increase compared to November 2021, while the Crosstrek increased by 101% and the Legacy posted a 110.9% increase.

Year to date, the Ascent posted a 5.3% increase, while the BRZ posted an increase of 141.4%. SOA also reported the first sales of the all-electric SUV, the Subaru Solterra, totaling 94 vehicles for the month.

Source: Kia, Hyundai, Mazda, Honda, Subaru

GM Says Its Dealers Have Fixed Over 11,000 Tesla EVs Since 2021

By Stephen Rivers CarScoops

General Motors has a “new business”—servicing Tesla electric vehicles at its dealerships.

Since 2021, GM claimed, its dealers have fixed more than

GM President Mark Reuss dropped that bombshell while talking to investors and analysts. “That’s a growing business for us,” he said before adding, “I gotta say it’s a new business.”

Servicing Tesla vehicles is unexpected but it’s easy to see the benefit for both sides. General Motors gets a stream of revenue it wasn’t planning on, while customers are not having to wait on what can be lengthy turnaround times for service through Tesla itself.

what services GM dealers are performing on Tesla vehicles. CarScoops reached out to GM for more information.

It is also unknown how many vehicles are no longer under warranty with Tesla. In addition, many deeper functions are things only Tesla service centers can affect. But that doesn’t mean this revenue stream isn’t a big win for both sides.

11,000 Tesla EVs across the nation. The business is a growing one, GM said, at a time when Tesla is still fine-tuning its own service model.

During the Detroit carmaker’s Investor Day on Nov. 17 in New York City, General Motors revealed a new source of income: fixing Teslas.

As Barrons rightly pointed out, Tesla doesn’t have a network of dealers. While it does have its own service centers, they aren’t as numerous as GM dealers across the nation. That, in part, may be one reason many Tesla customers have reported long wait times for service appointments.

It’s worth noting Reuss didn’t go into detail about exactly

Having the ability to get service completed in a single day impacts customer satisfaction in a large way. Surely, that’s why Tesla CEO  Elon Musk made a large push towards improving the service experience for customers earlier this year.

Now, with his attention split even further by Twitter, it’ll be interesting to track how much Tesla’s service improves in 2023. Either way, the gap between the two automakers might be shrinking.

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Serving Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming. 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.

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Hertz To Pay $168M To Settle False Rental Car Theft Claims

Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. on Dec. 5 announced the settlement of 364 pending claims brought against the company by customers falsely accused of stealing their rented cars.

The company will pay approximately $168 million by year-end to resolve these disputes, bringing resolution to more than 95% of its pending theft reporting claims.

“As I have said since joining Hertz earlier this year, my intention is to lead a company that puts the customer first. In resolving these claims, we are holding ourselves to that objective,” said Stephen Scherr, CEO of Hertz. “While we will not always be perfect, the professionals at Hertz will continue to work every day to provide best-in-class service to the tens of millions of people we serve each year.

“Moving forward, it is our intention to reshape the future of our company through electrification, shared mobility and a great digital-first customer experience.”

The company believes it will recover a meaningful portion of the settlement amount from its insurance carriers.

Hertz does not expect the resolution of these claims to have a material impact on its capital allocation plans for the balance of 2022 and 2023.

Source: Hertz Global Holdings, Inc.

UPDATED DAILY www.autobodynews.com

No. California

Chase Chevrolet STOCKTON

209-475-6620 209-475-6708 Fax M-F 7am - 5pm Sat 7:30am-4:30pm cesar@chasechevrolet.com

Dublin Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC DUBLIN 925-828-8251 925-829-2941 Fax M-F 7am - 6pm Sat 8am - 4:30pm

FH Dailey GM Parts Center SAN LEANDRO 800-4A-GMPART 510-351-0534 M-F 8 am - 5 pm Sat 8 am - 4 pm parts@fhdailey.com www.fhdailey.com

Michael Stead Cadillac WALNUT CREEK 925-934-5022 925-934-0336 Fax M-F 8 am - 5 pm Sat 8 am - 3 pm steadparts@gmail.com

No. California

American Chevrolet MODESTO

209-491-7810 209-575-2564 Fax M-F 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat 9 am - 2 pm gmparts@americanchevrolet.com www.americanchevrolet.com

So. California

Courtesy Chevrolet SAN DIEGO

800-336-1404 619-297-4023 Fax M-F 7am - 6pm Sat 8am - 5pm www.courtesysandiego.com

Paradise Chevrolet VENTURA 888-5-CHEVY-5 (888-524-3895) 805-642-0134 805-644-7214 Fax M-F 7:30am - 6pm Sat 8am - 3pm

Rydell

Automotive Group

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So. California

Thorson Motor Center

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Nevada Montana

Denny Menholt

Chevrolet BILLINGS 406-896-3111 406-896-3924 Fax M-F 7 am - 6 pm tsoltis@dennymenholt.com

Corwin Buick GMC RENO

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Michael Hohl Motor

Company

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