CARS Magazine Jan/Feb 2024

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Woodington Lake Golf Club

Tottenham, Ontario (40 Mins from TO Pearson Airport)

Mark your calendars for the 49th Annual Shad’s R&R Golf Tournament on Thursday, June 13th. All proceeds to Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

START TIME 10:00am SHARP!!

If you would like to become a sponsor or make a donation to SHAD’s R&R For the Kids, please contact one of our board members directly.

Shad’s Board of Directors

Chairman Brad Shaddick brad.shaddick@driv.com

• Kristine Brown KBrown@wakefieldcanada.ca

• Luc Champagne luc.champagne@autosphere.ca

• Andrew Connor aconnor@dormanproducts.com

• Mike Fazackerley mike.fazackerley@matthewscott.com

• Charlie Grant cgrant@gbsales.com

• Patricia Lazzarotto patricia.lazzarotto@firstbrandsgroup.com

• Mark Potts mpotts@driv.com

• Malcolm Sissmore malcolm@sissmore.com

• Scott Stone Scott@promaxauto.com

• Jeff Van de Sande jvandesande@uapinc.com

• Sean Williams swilliams@uniselect.com

• Cameron Young cameron.young@ca.bosch.com

• Jason Yurchak jasony@worldpac.com

Publisher | Peter Bulmer (585) 653-6768 peter@turnkey.media

Managing Editor | Adam Malik (647) 988-3800 adam@turnkey.media

Contributing Writers | Erin Vaughan, Emily Atkins

Creative Director | Samantha Jackson

Video / Audio Engineer | Ashley Mikalauskas, Nicholas Paddison

Sales | Peter Bulmer, (585) 653-6768 peter@turnkey.media

Delon Rashid, (416) 459-0063 delon@turnkey.media

Circulation | Delon Rashid, (416) 459-0063 delon@turnkey.media

Production | Tracy Stone tracy@turnkey.media

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TTHE YEAR OF TECHNOLOGY

his stands to be a year where technology that’s been in place in other sectors can make waves in the auto care industry.

But its inclusion in your shop must be done with care and foresight.

As you flip through the Executive Outlook in this month’s issue, you’ll see industry leaders share their thoughts on what’s important for shops for the year ahead. Many mention the importance of expanding technological capabilities in the shop, using them to maintain a competitive edge and future-proof your business.

For years, other industries have benefitted from implementing new technologies into their operations. The automotive aftermarket has been a little slower. But those who get familiar and learn how these can be successful in their shops may stand out to be the winners in the year ahead.

Take artificial intelligence. When it exploded in usefulness and popularity for many last year, the aftermarket wondered about its application in a repair shop. It’s becoming clear now — AI can be a powerful tool in the technician’s toolbox.

It can help technicians be better at their jobs by helping breakdown complicated procedures in the growing world of vehicle complexity. It can help lower skilled techs who need to get over a hump they just can’t master.

But it can’t replace technicians. “You still need a repairman at the end of that line,” said Scott Brown, industry ambassador with Diagnostic Network during the fall’s MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Aftermarket Technology Conference. “You need someone to do that repair.”

Indeed, these technologies are not tailored for specialized knowledge and can lead techs down the wrong path. “It's not always perfect but it gives them some guidance, even for the A-tech,” Brown added.

Even at the front counter, there’s a use for AI. Shops — and dealer service centres — are implementing an AI or automated service to handle customer calls. This is certainly helpful as talent issues show no sign of slowing down — turning to technology to handle customer calls can be a helpful instrument.

For example, it can help a busy shop direct calls to a booking system or have customers describe their issues to a bot that can transcribe the issue for the service advisor or technician to review before returning the phone call.

But this form of automation leads to the loss of one clear advantage the aftermarket has over dealers: The human touch. Your customers may have a great rapport with you as the owner or the service advisor who’s greeted them ever since they first visited the shop.

President & Managing Partner | Delon Rashid Head of Sales & Managing Partner | Peter Bulmer

Certainly, we live in new times where technology is here to help. But overreliance can hurt. For technicians looking at AI in the bays or advisors looking for help at the desk, emerging technology should be viewed to enhance offerings rather than replace talent or training opportunities. These capabilities are tools, not crutches, for your shop.

Adam Malik Managing Editor, CARS

LETTERS

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THE BIGGEST ISSUE WE’RE FACING

There is not a lack of interest for employment in this industry; however, we do have a technician retention issue. If I personally didn’t have the desire and drive to one day own my own shop well before I even started apprenticing, I would have been quickly looking for a career change like so many others have done in this industry. To attract new people to our industry as technicians we need to give them hope for the future to possibly one day own and operate their own shops. To do this they need to be able to purchase smaller affordable shops. The problem is our industry has demanded that you have to choose either being a technician and work for someone else or be a sole business owner. Our industry no longer believes you can do both. If you can’t do both, then you might as well have an Ivy League business degree rather than wasting 10-15 years towards a technician career. The fact is you can do both, and a seasoned technician can evolve into a shop owner without removing themselves from the bay. I am living proof that slow and steady wins the race and hard work pays off.

Rob Nurse, Bob Nurse Motors

THE NEW SKILLSETS TECHNICIANS WILL NEED

As I read the article it struck me how far the educational system has strayed from the basics. We have always needed critical thinking in the trade. Without a proper foundation (basics), trades have nothing to build on. Principles of operation don’t change; they are applied in a different way. It’s sad to see how the change in focus has affected the quality of graduates and the attitudes towards technical trades resulting in a critical shortage of personnel.

Kim Stankiewicz, Performance Initiative

I agree with Kim. We are here now. Hard to educate when there is no one with skillsets to do so. We need to start at ground zero and teach basics at an early age. I think we need to put the wonderment back into the youth in a hands-on way. Not sure how, but we need to turn the table here and be optimistic.

Tim Leslie, Capital City Acrylic

HOW WELL DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENTS ARE PERFORMING

Most dealerships pay their techs flat rate so productivity will be higher. It is all about getting jobs done faster. Independent shop owners are focused on repeat business and customer

service which dealerships typically do not achieve. This is what wins customer loyalty. How frustrating is it to talk to a person at a dealership? All employees in the service sector at dealerships are incentivized on sales. Is this a key to success? Decide for yourself. Independent shops are still preferred over dealerships for service for many reasons.

Bob Ward, The Auto Guys

IS THERE ENOUGH COLLABORATION TO SOLVE TALENT ISSUES?

Too many Insurance companies still dictating collision shop door rates, and they wonder why there is a lack of techs. What’s worse is we are still letting them do it, even when we can’t keep up with the demand.

Gary Wilson, Wilson Collision & Alignment Center

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO ICE SUPPLIERS IN AN EV WORLD?

The cart has been put light years in front of the horse on this issue. The resources don’t exist to make this switch. The life cycle of manufacturing these vehicles to end of life is a carbon footprint not dissimilar to that of an ICE vehicle, not to mention the amount of forced labour involved with the mining of the materials. The range of electric cars in cold weather is an issue for most of Canada geographically, not just the far north. I personally still believe there is a reckoning coming for these mandates. Politicians are acting like the industry has this all sorted out, when in fact they don’t – but they need to pretend they do to appease the shareholders and to qualify for government subsidies needed keep this unsustainable, dystopian dream alive.

Geoff Walton, Grant Street Garage

HOW MUCH THE TECH SHORTAGE IS COSTING

Just from the numbers quoted here, the solution is obviously straightforward. If the dealerships can earn another $400K-500K a year, put $100K of that directly on top of what the techs already make. Both parties win. The dealers make a lot more money, the techs get a better share and you will have a lot more people entering the trade. There is a big reason why I decided to become self-employed for the last 40+ years of my career. I love the trade, but the employee-employer dynamics have always been out of kilter.

Larry Larratt, Riverbend Automotive

REPORT OUTLINES WIDENING TECHNICIAN GAP

THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET’S labour shortage has doubled from one year to the next and is projected to worsen.

The talent gap doubled from 2021 to 2022, and a new AIA Canada report estimates the industry could be short 4,000 technicians between 2024 and 2028.

“So this shortage does pose problems for the industry and highlights an urgent need for skilled technicians,” said Mauricio Zelaya, partner and national economics leader at business advisory firm EY Canada, who presented the report, Our People, Our Success: Labour Market Challenges

during a webinar in late 2023.

He further noted that the current gap will widen thanks to the rise in electric vehicle adoption. S&P Global Mobility reported that 10 per cent of new vehicle registrations in the third quarter of 2023 were battery electric, with another 3 per cent plug-in hybrids.

“As more and more people adopt electrical vehicles, the auto care industry must adapt to the increased significance of digital and technical skills related to vehicle electrification,” Zelaya said. “So this would require focus on training and upskilling technicians to meet the demands of this changing landscape. And the current shortage of skilled automotive service technicians is likely to be further heightened with the shift away from traditional ICE vehicles and towards EVs.”

The full Labour Market Report is available from AIA Canada for free for members or $199 for non-members.

VAST-AUTO OWNERS SELLING TO O’REILLY

AUTOMOTIVE

O’REILLY AUTOMOTIVE announced that it had acquired Montreal’s Groupe Del Vasto, which operates as Vast-Auto Distribution.

O’Reilly agreed to a stock purchase agreement with shareholders and will acquire all outstanding shares of Groupe Del Vasto and its affiliated entities.

The stock purchase was expected to be completed in January 2024, subject to

READY TO GROW?

customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

It will be O’Reilly’s first foray into Canada. Brad Beckham, O’Reilly co-president, confirmed that the current management team — led by president and CEO Mauro Cifelli — will remain in place

“From their beginning more than 35 years ago, Vast-Auto has built a very successful business by focusing on the same fundamental culture values of hard work and excellent customer service that have also been key to O’Reilly’s success,” said Greg Johnson, O’Reilly’s chief executive officer.

Vast-Auto has a pair of distribution centers and six satellite warehouses as part of its network of 23 company-owned stores and hundreds of strategic independent partners. It provides widespread service that extends to thousands of other independent jobbers and professional customers across Eastern Canada.

“This is a significant milestone and fantastic opportunity for Vast-Auto and will be a catalyst to accelerate our expansion throughout Canada,” Cifelli said. “Our company has always been committed to a strong culture, hard work, and exceptional customer service and these values align perfectly with O’Reilly’s culture. We recognize the unique contributions that each company brings to the table and are excited to become a part of the O’Reilly family.”

Founder and chairman John Del Vasto began his career as a technician and owned a service station and an auto parts store. “Our number one priority was finding the right long-term partner to safeguard the legacy of Vast-Auto,” he said.

LORDCO OPENS SIXTH ALBERTA STORE

THE NEWEST LODRCO Auto Parts store in Alberta opened its doors in the fall in Red Deer.

Lordco now has two locations in each of Edmonton and Calgary, plus one in in Airdrie, just north of Calgary.

Lordco's newest store in Red Deer

Its

“The successive expansions highlight Lordco’s unwavering dedication to delivering top-tier automotive parts and accessories, extending its commitment beyond British Columbia to serve the thriving automotive community in Alberta,” Lordco said in an announcement.

EyeSpy

Are you an automotive service technician located in London, Guelph or Cornwall who is interested in increasing their EV or ADAS expertise?

The Innovation in Automotive Training program can help you achieve just that with FREE training at Conestoga College, Fanshawe College and St. Lawrence College. This training taking place in Winter 2024 will help you get ahead of the curve and develop EV and ADAS repair and maintenance skills.

Have an interesting picture to share?

Send a high-resolution image to adam@turnkey.media

ROTTING RUBBER

Bob Ward of The Auto Guys in St. Thomas, Ontario, sent this one showing sidewall failure caused by dry rot from old rubber.

“The point I wanted to make was the quick lube techs don’t look for stuff like this. You can’t see this with the car over a pit,” he said. “The lube shop completely dropped the ball by not saying anything about the tires to the customer who know nothing about cars. They wanted to sell him a coolant flush. My point with this is these quick lube shops give consumers the feeling their vehicles are safe which is the farthest thing from the truth.”

The new location is located at 6833 66 Street. It automotive products ranging from OEM and aftermarket parts to accessories, tools, and maintenance supplies. It serves both the professional technician and DIY enthusiast in the area.

“We are very excited to be opening a new store in Red Deer, Alberta. We have received a warm welcome and look forward to introducing ourselves to the local community,” said Shaun Wheater, Alberta regional manager for Lordco.

This new location features a truck centre and 2,050 sq-ft. of floor space.

BUYERS RETURN TO DEALERSHIPS

AFTER A DISAPPOINTING end to 2022, Canadian new vehicle sales in 2023 saw a solid rebound.

DesRosiers Automotive Consultants reported sales of 1,664,000 units last year, a 12 per cent increase from the fewer than 1.5 million in 2022.

The increase was thanks to improved vehicle supply,

particularly in the second half of the year. December was a strong month with about 120,000 vehicles sold, 1n 11 per cent increase from the same time in 2022.

That now puts year-over-year growth at 14 straight months with sales up in all provinces, as supply and demand match up. DesRosiers noted that 2023’s fourth quarter “was remarkably robust.” It reported a 17 per cent sales increase and a seasonally adjusted annual rate of near or above 1.8 million units.

DesRosiers credited pent-up demand from the lost sales years between 2020 and 2022. High interest rates and concerns over economic weakness didn’t seem to deter many buyers.

•

•

Stats that put the North American automotive aftermarket into perspective

89%

Most respondents to a survey said they’ve been overcharged or may have been overcharged at one time at their repair shop.

600,000

Hyundai and Kia vehicles were recalled in Canada due to a problem with the anti-lock braking system that can start a fire. More than three million were recalled in the U.S.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

1,664,000

New vehicle sales in Canada rebounded in 2023 from 1.49 units sold the year before. The increase was highest year-over-year since 1997.

DesRosiers Automotive Consultants

$262

Despite an increase of $15 year over year, the average cost to visit an independent shop was less than the dealership, which was up $38 to $432.

39%

Baby Boomers will choose a dealer for repair work over an independent (37%). Gen Z was most likely to choose an independent (35%) first.

2023 MarketWatch Generational Car Care Survey

$58,000

The Ford Mustang GT saw a 41.5% price increase over the last 10 years when adjusted for inflation. It cost $31,000 in 2013.

74%

Most 18- to 20-year-olds reported a stigma with going to a vocational school over attending a traditional four-year university.

Jobber

9.6%

Parts and accessories store employment was up in June compared to the same time last year. Repair and maintenance saw a 5.7% increase.

DesRosiers Automotive Consultants

1,200 km

Toyota says it may be able to make a solid-state battery with a range of 1,200 km (745 miles) that could charge in 10 minutes or less.

A special section dedicated to showcasing automotive trade schools

CLASS ACT

CARS will regularly feature automotive schools across Canada. In this issue, we learn more about Confederation College If you’d like your school featured, reach out to adam@turnkey.media.

Name of school:

City:

Head of program:

Confederation College Thunder Bay, Ontario

Phillip Bailey, program coordinator

Tell us about your school. What do you offer? How many students do you have?

Confederation College's Motive Power Techniques –Automotive certificate program provides students with a comprehensive education in vehicle maintenance and repair, focusing on key system areas like electrical/electronics, fuels, brakes, gear trains, steering and suspension for motor vehicles and light trucks. The curriculum emphasizes practical handson training, supplemented with essential workplace skills including effective communication strategies.

Upon completion, graduates possess the competencies to perform their tasks proficiently, adhere to safety and legal protocols, and maintain professionalism through punctuality and responsible work habits, with the potential to advance into an apprenticeship program.

The college typically has 20 automotive students per intake.

What unique experiences are available to students?

Courses take place in a large on-campus automotive shop. Highlights of the program include a two-week field placement

offering real-world experience in a professional setting, industrystandard course material equipping students for the job market, and a forward-looking approach to technology education.

How are you preparing today’s students to be tomorrow’s automotive service professionals?

The program equips students with the foundational skills in vehicle system maintenance and repair, and includes a two-week field placement for practical, on-the-job training, ensuring graduates are ready for the evolving job market with hands-on experience and knowledge of current and emerging technologies.

Why is this an exciting time to be a student in an automotive trade school?

The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with the integration of advanced technologies such as electric and autonomous vehicles, making it an exciting time for trade school students to be at the forefront of innovation and to have the opportunity to shape the future of transportation.

MOTOR OIL’S NEW FRONTIER

As consumer behaviour evolves, so do their motor oil needs

// By Adam Malik

Canadians are feeling the pinch when it comes to the economy and keeping more money in their pockets rather than spending it.

With many costs rising — led by increasing mortgage rates — Canadians are preferring not to dip into the savings they accumulated over the COVID-19 pandemic.

“So I think we are starting to see some pullback on the consumer side of things,” said Thomas Feltmate, senior economist at TD Bank, at the Canadian Black Book Talk Auto 2023 conference near Toronto. “This is exactly what the Bank of Canada ultimately wants to see. We need to see weaker consumer spending over the next year or so such that we have further disinflationary pressure coming through.”

Watching their dollars is something Lenny Levac, Canadian sales director Canada from Liqui Moly, has noticed.

“Customers do have finances top of mind here in Canada,” he told CARS. “With costs continuing to rise in so many aspects in Canada, we need the most value we can find out of the products we purchase.”

But that also means routine maintenance is being ignored, deferring work and setting themselves up for larger bills down the road. “In the past, most would have gone ahead with the recommended work,” Levac said.

However, oil services have not been ignored. “It's still one of the most important services that can be done to keep your investment in good order,” he added. “With so many of us using our vehicles to go to work, pick up the kids, hockey, soccer, life, we can’t afford to not change the oil. It’s what powers where you go.”

Sean Nguyen, Pennzoil’s technical scientist and automotive lubricant specialist. agreed. “While consumers may be tempted to extend their drain intervals to stretch their buying dollars, we advise against it.”

He notes that premium products can better protect vehicles from larger repair bills down the road.

That makes the relationship between shop and supplier important. Levac encourages their shop partners to continue engaging with them to ensure their needs are being met.

“The relationship between us and our customers and partners is so profound and sustainable that we only need to continue on the right path to be successful,” he said.

Shop owners need to have available synthetic high-mileage oils available for these high-mileage vehicles.”

The relationship is built on trust. Shops rely on suppliers providing them with innovative products to better serve customers as their needs evolve.

“The messaging we have consistently delivered over the years reaffirms our commitment to being a brand our partners can rely on,” Nguyen said.

And if shops don’t know where to look to keep up with what consumer behaviour changes may impact their business, they can turn to their supplier partners.

“We are proactively engaging with automotive technicians and shop owners, offering educational resources, and providing product suggestions to support informed decision-making and meet customer needs,” Nguyen said.

For example, consumers are holding on to their vehicles longer than normal.

“Thus, they are accumulating more miles in these vehicles. Shop owners need to have available synthetic high-mileage oils available for these high-mileage vehicles,” Nguyen said.

SETTING YOUR GOALS FOR THE YEAR

If you haven’t set your goals yet, don’t fret.

But getting started is the first and biggest step

e are well into the first quarter of the year and hopefully everyone is hitting their goals. You have set goals, right?

If not, it’s never too late to sit down and start thinking about where you want this year to go and how you are going to get there. Before my shop opened for the new year, my manager and I sat down to decide what goals we were going to shoot for in a

We first decided what our weekly sales goals would be based on available technician hours, labour mix and parts margin. These three important KPIs are monitored daily to ensure that the business is making the most out of every day and every vehicle. If we sell all our available hours, ensure our labour mix is 50-55 per cent and parts margin is 55-60 per cent, we’ve had a profitable day.

Once we determined the sales goal that we wanted to achieve, our next step was to figure out how we would get there.

First, having happy, engaged clients who believe in maintaining their vehicle are key to making this happen. Our client communication is

Over the years, we have left little gifts for our clients in their vehicles — branded coffee mugs, pens and gift cards to other local businesses. This year, we have decided to partner with a local nut-free bakery, which provides us with chocolate chip cookies. These cookies are placed in the client’s vehicle with a ‘thank you’ sticker, as a small token of our appreciation for the trust they put in us.

Second, we believe that the way to accomplish our goals is by engaging in ongoing training for each member of our team. The technicians

JAMES

"If not, it’s never too late to sit down and start thinking about where you want this year to go and how you are going to get there."

and service advisors use an online training program, which feeds them daily training. This is curated for each person based on their skill level to provide them with guidance in areas where they are weaker. This helps them gain confidence in their roles, which ultimately helps the team accomplish what we’ve set out to achieve.

Our additional training goals will be to find higher-level technician training for our A-techs and high-level management training for my me and my manager.

Last, our leadership goals. The University of Regina offers leadership classes for business owners and their staff, which we will be enrolling in this year. By having our staff to gain this type of knowledge, it will not only help them professionally, but they will develop the skills needed to be leaders in their homes and the communities they live in.

We have also decided that if our staff want to be leaders in their professional roles, we need to include them in our strategic plans for the business in a more structured and organized way. We have staff meetings to talk about sales and operational plans, but we wanted to create the opportunity to build a culture of intention and purpose.

We have started “Kinetic Coffee Talk Tuesday” (we run a four-day workweek, so Tuesday is the beginning of our week), a 15-minute meeting where we talk about our intentions for the week, discuss personal and professional goals and share with the group our “Song of the Week”. This song is chosen by a different team member every week as their personal anthem, which is played at the beginning of the meeting for everyone to listen to (yes, this is as awkward as it sounds, but it's fun-awkward). Their song choice tells us who they are, what they value and how they’re going to show up for the team that week

(We hope a team member never chooses “Unloved” by Jann Arden; we want everyone to feel loved in our shop.)

By setting goals and sharing our wins, we can start the week in a positive upbeat way, allowing us to aim for the same targets and build strong relationships with each other.

You still have lots of time to make your own goals for the year, so if you haven’t sat down and written them out, personal or professional, please take the time to do so and you, too, can start every day with intention.

Erin Vaughan is the owner of Kinetic Auto Service in Regina.

TOGETHER LIKE EMPTY PARKING LOTS AND BURNOUTS.

Some things are just better together. Replacing the ignition coils when you change your spark plugs will help boost performance and efficiency — so you will always get the most out of your engine.

NGK now carries a full line of ignition coils to cover most applications. Visit ngksparkplugs.ca to learn more.

Executive Outlook

Shop Executive Outlook

Here's what industry leaders see happening for repair shops this year

By Adam Malik

Could this be a defining year for auto repair shops? After some interesting times over the last few years, reading between the lines of the thoughts of mechanical repair leaders, the actions shop owners take in 2024 could be the moves that set them up for success or left behind in a world that is stuck in its old ways.

There is much change ahead, these leaders say; to stay stagnant would appear to be an error in judgment. The auto repair market will continue to see alterations in the way consumers behave. As new vehicle prices continue to rise in Canada — to an average transaction price of nearly $53,000, according to DesRosiers Automotive Consultants — how will consumers react?

Some may shy away from driving to avoid vehicle wear and tear. However, more affluent Canadians may be using their vehicles more as they typically have jobs that allow them to work remotely. All data indicate that drivers are getting behind the wheel as often or more than pre-pandemic. The belief is that those working remotely are taking advantage of their ability to work from anywhere and hitting the road for extended weekends, flipping open their laptops in hotel rooms and spare bedrooms to deal with their work by day and enjoy their getaway by night.

That means you’re getting different customers to serve — if more affluent people are driving more, then that’s the clientele you’re more likely to see in your shop.

“It changes how you go to market as a brand or as a retailer,” advised Nathan Shipley, executive director of automotive industry analysis at market research firm Circana at AAPEX in the fall.

So that means offering them services to attract them to your shop. Think of the customer-facing technology you could be offering. To play off a famous quote, shops need to be where their customers are — and that’s online.

As you flip through the next few pages, you’ll read the many thoughts of those who specialize in the auto care sector. They were asked about the opportunities out there for shops, challenges and opportunities.

Talent was noted as a common issue. It remains as a top challenge for shops to overcome.

They touch on the need to future-proof your business and implementing technology in your shop. Owners will have competitors who will choose to not do this — that’s money being left on the table for the forward-thinkers to grab. Consumer expectations have changed and so this industry must adapt along with it. Forcing them to be where you are rather than moving to where they want to be is a strategy that can lead to failure, these leaders warned. It's all about finding that competitive edge.

In alphabetical order, here’s what 10 auto care leaders see taking place in the year ahead.

IN 2024, THERE will be two major factors independent repair shops will need to contend with. Firstly, the normalizing of supply of new vehicles in dealers. This means that the likelihood of people buying a new car will increase, therefore customers repairing older cars may decline. Secondly, the mainstream plug-in hybrid vehicles of the first generation are now coming off emissions warranty so these will come in more often now for repair — not just servicing.

The challenge this year for shops is going to be attracting, retaining and training staff. Although we all are in the same situation from a market perspective, shops that develop a clear sense of vision and direction will be able to build a business that people want to be a part of and remain with.

The biggest opportunity for shops to grow is to capitalize on the work that is left on the table by those shops not investing in the future or admitting the change that is now at our doorstep.

As our industry evolves more quickly than ever before, its time to separate the leaders from those who are not willing to invest in themselves or their business in equal measure.

Organizations who will make meaningful changes in order to create an environment welcoming to women will likely benefit as well.

As our industry evolves more quickly than ever before, its time to separate the leaders from those who are not willing to invest in themselves or their business in equal measure.

THE COMBINATION OF the lingering inflation, high interest rate with labour shortage will be challenging for auto repair shops in order to continue to service their customers while remaining profitable. How to properly price their services to remain competitive while being limited by the on-going staff shortage will likely remain front of mind.

This year will also provide opportunities for auto repair shops who are looking to grow and expand as some business operators seek to retire and sell their operations.

Labour shortage will continue to be the No. 1 challenge for auto repair shops. Business owners and managers looking to attract and retain high performing employees will need to offer competitive compensation that includes benefits and flexibility in a positive working environment that takes into consideration the needs of new Canadians likely to fill these positions.

Organizations who will make meaningful changes in order to create an environment welcoming to women will likely benefit as well.

I believe there will be opportunities for acquisitions for auto repair shops looking for growth as business owners look to retire in an environment that remains challenging.

DIRECTOR | IAC CANADA

PRESIDENT | AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION OF CANADA

GREG AGUILERA

J.F. CHAMPAGNE

THE 2024 FORECAST signifies a shift after a positive run. As the market slowed down in late 2023, repair shop owners faced heightened consumer caution amid rising household debt and economic uncertainties. To foster business growth in 2024, repair shops must comprehensively assess all business practices, emphasizing heightened productivity and fortifying their competitive edge.

While facing the difficulty of increasing operating costs, repair shops should prioritize achieving high levels of operational excellence. Enhancing efficiency, optimizing processes and managing costs becomes crucial in navigating a softer market. This underscores the necessity for streamlined operations, delivering an exceptional customer experience and deploying effective digital strategies to sustain competitiveness in a dynamic market environment.

A robust digital strategy emerges as a linchpin for success in 2024 and beyond. According to AIA Canada, 45% of consumers discover repair shop providers through online searches. Recognizing the expectations of digitally savvy consumers, repair shop owners must invest in a robust digital presence, incorporating e-commerce capabilities, user-friendly interfaces and data-driven marketing approaches to attract and retain customers.

Treat the digital strategy with the same importance as a shop management system. Measuring key performance indicators and using reporting tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console are crucial for monitoring digital KPIs and organic search performance. Proper setup and optimization of these tools are vital. Active collaboration with your digital marketing company can further enhance these reporting tools. Identifying collaborative partners in the industry will aid in navigating the evolving landscape and foster mutual growth in 2024.

Efficiency and profitability will require proper service appointment scheduling systems to be put in place. All too often, repairs are deferred because of over scheduling.

JAMES CHANNER

While facing the difficulty of increasing operating costs, repair shops should prioritize achieving high levels of operational excellence.

THE HIGH INTEREST rates and elevated inflation that we’ve been seeing will have consumers keeping their vehicles longer than they planned.

Many EV models have been around for a decade. I predict shops in the Greater Toronto Area will see more of them in their bays than previous years. In areas where EVs are not as common, the boom will be with their own clients and an increase in the eight- to 10-year-old vehicles that would have traditionally been traded in. Furthermore, in Ontario, the new DriveOn digital vehicle safety and emissions inspection program is rolling out.

Shops will be busy. Efficiency and profitability will require proper service appointment scheduling systems to be put in place. All too often, repairs are deferred because of over-scheduling.

The biggest challenge will be the same one for many years: Staff, from the office to technicians. I would suggest shops create a “hire young and train them” strategy, utilizing all training available through manufacturers, jobbers, associations and government programs.

The biggest opportunity for 2024 is perhaps all of the above. Here is something to think about: Many independent shops have closed in the past five years, Dealers don't have the facilities to service every vehicle they sell and consumers are keeping their vehicles longer. This all adds up to an increase in business.

Shops that have good management systems in place will see sales and profits go up.

CO-FOUNDER, COO | IN MOTION BRANDS INC.

VICE CHAIR | AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET RETAILERS OF ONTARIO (AARO)

BRUCE ECCLES

LIKE 2023, TECHNOLOGY will be the biggest driver of change and we expect it will continue to come at a faster pace. On the customer service side, integrated CRM software, digital vehicle inspections and our ability to leverage big data will allow us to deliver an improved customer experience while growing sales. From advanced driver assistance systems to connected cars and EVs, technology within vehicles and the equipment we use to service them is quickly evolving. We need to be prepared with adequate training to ensure our teams remain knowledgeable, efficient and safe.

Attracting and retaining skilled labor will continue to be key to capitalize on the opportunities in the aftermarket space. Beyond attracting new talent, upskilling or retraining the existing workforce to work on newer vehicles is critical. To tackle it, shops will need to identify the required training, where to obtain it (in person or online) and manage associated costs. Partnering with national part suppliers or working with aftermarket associations can help.

I see two major opportunities to grow aftermarket business this year. One is capitalizing on the aging car count (an average of 12.5 years for cars and light trucks in the US). The longer vehicles are on the road, the longer they require our maintenance and repair services. On the flip side, new car sales are catching up to pre-pandemic levels, but still lag the demand for them. As sales increase, we can gain market share from OEMs by servicing new technology including EVs and everything ADAS presents.

Labour is our biggest expense, but its also where the revenue comes from. It’s a balance to ensure staff compensation is good, but not inhibitive.

CEO | FOUNTAIN TIRE

As sales increase, we can gain market share from OEMs by servicing new technology including EVs and everything ADAS presents.

IT SEEMS THAT the best way to prepare for change is to accept that it is coming. Change is inevitable. Because we never know exactly what it will be or how it will affect us, we must invest in technicians, tools, equipment, software, training, etc. That way, when change hits, we are (hopefully) in a position to tackle it head on.

I think the biggest challenge we face is access to a qualified labour pool. It’s a systemic and lingering challenge. Labour is our biggest expense, but its also where the revenue comes from. It’s a balance to ensure staff compensation is good, but not inhibitive. We are fortunate to have some real good techs, so it is imperative to keep them. We must offer what’s important to our people above and beyond compensation.

As the saying goes, “Don’t count the cars — make the cars count.” We need to look at providing more service/sales to our customers. Techs must look beyond the reason for the customer’s visit. We don’t want to sell our customers something they don’t need or want, but the opposite — we want to point out to them the cost of not maintaining and repairing their vehicle and help them to make informed decisions. Not all shops, ours included, have been good at that but it’s a way to improve sales.

JASON HERLE

2023 SHOP OF THE YEAR | ART TURNEY’S GARAGE

MIKE HOWARD

THE MOST SIGNIFICANT change in automotive repair shops is being seen in technology and customer expectations. The need for digital transformation within ASP locations can no longer be ignored. The need for shop owners to have the required tools to quickly analyze, communicate and manage the operations of their business is paramount.

Also, consumers will continue to have higher expectations with repair shops. Owners will need to adjust their business practices, invest in customer-facing technology and find ways to make it easier for their customers to do business with them.

Two major challenges automotive repair shops will need to overcome in 2024 are the retention of staff and the need for additional training throughout the entire business. Management training, electronic systems and electric vehicle training are very quickly becoming must-haves to adapt and overcome. The required investment in organizational training will not decrease moving forward. Shop owners need to plan accordingly.

The biggest opportunity out there is growth: Gaining market share and future-proofing the business at the same time. Many shop owners still don’t plan for growth each year or do not fully implement growth plans every month. The Canadian automotive aftermarket is rapidly changing due to macro factors including aging demographics and significant changes in technology.

Choosing to future-proof your business with electric vehicle preparedness does not only cater to a fast-growing new customer base but also will allow your business to be ready for sale when you are ready.

ZARAKI KRIEGER

In 2024, our commitment must extend beyond the bottom line; it's about navigating industry trends with adaptability and foresight.

IN THE EVER-CHANGING landscape of the automotive industry, 2024 brings forth a confluence of macro and micro trends that demand a keen understanding and strategic response. Current economic conditions are ever-evolving, prompting a holistic approach to ensure resilience and sustainability. While external factors remain unpredictable, we must remain committed to fortifying operational excellence and elevating the customer experience.

Harnessing the power of data and analytics is pivotal in optimizing our businesses. In a world inundated with information, the focus should be on extracting actionable insights to streamline operations, enhancing efficiency and elevating customer satisfaction. The road ahead is paved with informed decisions and strategic precision to improve our share of wallet.

As the automotive landscape shifts towards electric vehicles, standing at the forefront, we must prepare for the impending impacts. Our proactive strategies involve staying abreast of technological advancements, adapting our service offerings, and aligning our infrastructure to accommodate the evolving needs of the market.

Yet, even with these forward-looking initiatives, we must acknowledge the industry's challenge: A shortage of skilled trade workers. Navigating through this labour scarcity requires innovative workforce strategies, investments in training programs and collaborative efforts to attract and retain talent.

In 2024, our commitment must extend beyond the bottom line; it's about navigating industry trends with adaptability and foresight. Steering through economic currents, harnessing data-driven insights and preparing for the EV revolution, it is a steadfast dedication to operational excellence and talent cultivation that is the critical focus for our network.

WHAT

WILL CHANGE

the most for auto service shops in 2024 is the need for a robust human resources plan to sustain a profitable business focused on customer experience.

Shops will need to retain skilled people in their service bays and complete the transition from having established employees to those from a much younger generation. This awesome younger generation has different values and expectations about their lifestyles. Mastering this transition will be crucial for remaining optimistic about the future growth of business in this industry.

Cost of living has gone way up in most provinces. Trades income levels are climbing fast and your business must be able to afford these increases to remain viable.

On the other side of the equation, businesses must remain diligent with their efforts to attract and retain great customers through their digital efforts and word-of-mouth marketing, as well as by maintaining the appearance of their premises, both inside and out. All these things work together to support a growing confident business and will lend well to maintaining the confidence your customers have in your business.

Have a trusted, knowledgeable and confident relationship with your business. Customers today are facing a challenging moment with EV adoption. Being a trusted company in their corner presents the greatest opportunity for growth. This is the year to really listen to your customers and help them face the next five years knowing they are making the right choices for themselves, no matter what those choices are

Cost of living has gone way up in most provinces. Trades income levels are climbing fast and your business must be able to afford these increases to remain viable.

ARA CHAIRMAN | NATA PRESIDENT, OWNER | THE GARAGE

RONALD TREMBLAY

VICE PRESIDENT | PRIME CARCARE | FIX NETWORK

COSTA HAITAS

PRESIDENT | THE MUFFLERMAN

Shop owners and operators need to ensure that they’re continuously working on delivering best-in-class service to their customers while simultaneously providing a great culture in their shops for their teams.

Build the foundations for business success

WE ARE ENTHUSIASTICALLY looking forward to another year of growth for our shops in 2024. As economic conditions continue to put a strain on the cost of living for many Canadians, our customers continue to turn to our repair centres to assist them in extending the life of their vehicles while keeping them safe on the roads. It’s imperative that shops continue to provide complete inspections of their customers’ vehicles and present them with recommendations on repairs and preventative maintenance services that will keep them safe while avoiding unnecessary costs.

While the need for our services continues to increase, the biggest challenge in our industry is the recruitment and retention of employees. The increased cost of living is also negatively impacting our teams. So shop owners and operators must be running profitable operations to ensure that they can provide their employees with competitive wages.

The biggest opportunity for growth in 2024 will be capitalizing on growing car count through strategic marketing initiatives in your local markets. Shop owners and operators need to ensure that they’re continuously working on delivering best-in-class service to their customers while simultaneously providing a great culture in their shops for their teams. Also, now is the time to start planning and preparing for the future as the landscape of our industry and customer needs are changing.

Interested in improving your auto care shop’s capabilities and skills? With the Mentoring Excellence training, you will learn the foundational knowledge and skills to hire, train, and retain apprentices, ensuring they add value to your business.

Designed for shop owners, managers, and journeypeople, this FREE online training will provide you with techniques and approaches to help your business succeed. Led by College instructors, this four-hour virtual training is scheduled for Winter 2024.

Powered

NOVUS GLASS

PIONEERING EXCELLENCE & EMBRACING THE

EV-LUTION

AS WE FACE A metamorphosis in the automotive repair industry, characterized by technological advancements and regulatory transformations, maintaining a proactive stance is essential for the sustained prosperity of any business. As the prevalence of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, traditional service categories within automotive repair shops are undergoing significant shifts. This transformative period compels repair shops to not only adapt but also proactively diversify their service offerings to align with the evolving needs of the market. Among these adaptations, one strategic addition stands out – the integration of windshield repair and replacement services.

The reduced maintenance costs and simplified mechanical structures associated with EVs pose unique challenges for traditional repair shops accustomed to conventional service categories. “We started to build market statistics for our retail businesses to understand the future impact of EVs on our network business model,” states Zakari Krieger, Vice President of NOVUS Glass Canada. "Of all new vehicle registrations in Q1 of 2023, new zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) comprised of 8.6% of all new vehicle registrations, with battery electric vehicles’ (BEVs) registrations increasing 20.6% over 2022, making up 77.9% of all ZEV registrations, (Stats Canada). Understanding the lag time before these vehicles enter the aftermarket is critical for shop owners as the velocity of change is increasing.”

Connecting these statistics to the electric vehicle market, currently around 18.2% of registered vehicles across Canada fall into the BEV, HEV, and PHEV segment, representing 233,619 units. In 2022, this was 13.5%, for a total of 204,712 units. In one year, based on units, this represents a 14.1% increase in total registrations. Today, if a million-dollar shop relies on 20% of their business from oil change revenue and as a core function of visits per calendar year, the aftermarket needs to be proactive on how to protect this revenue with alternative vehicle services. Krieger adds, “We’ve done the math on the business impact as these vehicles flow into the aftermarket. We are preparing our network for this with our integrated glass and calibration business model through our NOVUS glass banner.

As an integral part of Fix Network, recognized as a global leader in the

"We started to build market statistics for our retail businesses to understand the future impact of EVs on our network business model,”

Zakari Krieger, Vice President of NOVUS Glass Canada

automotive aftermarket industry, NOVUS Glass understands the imperative need for adaptation. This understanding propels NOVUS Glass to offer a compelling solution tailored to the specific needs of automotive repair shop owners in this transformative era.

EMBRACING THE EV-LUTION

With their simplified mechanical structures, EVs not only translate to less wear and tear but also significantly lower maintenance costs for vehicle owners. This shift towards EV dominance is set to revolutionize the traditional automotive service landscape, anticipating a decrease in the average sale for conventional services like oil changes and brake replacements. This transformative trend necessitates a proactive adaptation of service categories by repair shops to remain relevant in the evolving market.

Moreover, the advent of EVs introduces a demand for new repair technologies and specialized training to ensure repair shops remain competitive. As the automotive industry propels towards electric mobility, there is an escalating need for continuous updates in repair processes and equipment, inevitably resulting in heightened operating costs for repair shops striving to keep pace with these technological advancements.

THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS: HOW NOVUS IS PAVING THE WAY FOR TOMORROW'S AUTO REPAIRS

Amidst the profound shifts in the automotive repair industry, windshield repair services stand as a beacon of opportunity, providing a strategic

avenue for repair shops aiming to diversify their service offerings. NOVUS Glass, renowned for its global reputation and unwavering commitment to innovation, has not only positioned itself as an enticing proposition but is actively shaping the future for repair shop owners seeking to lead in industry trends.

Over the last five years, windshield repair services have consistently demonstrated growth, averaging an annual increase of 4.5%. This upward trajectory extends to the replacement market, projecting a robust growth rate of 10.7% annually. These figures underscore the lucrative prospects that NOVUS Glass brings to repair shop owners, providing a significant opportunity for sustained success.

A pivotal addition to this growth is the integration of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) calibrations, which have become a crucial aspect of modern vehicle repair, especially following windshield replacements. Additionally, with OE vehicle specifications changing rapidly, alignment and calibration services together are becoming an increasingly spoken about trend among OEs with updated vehicle repair manuals calling for calibration and alignments together to synergize the vehicle with the ADAS systems. Equipment suppliers including Autel and Hunter have recently launched combined calibration and alignment machines in preparation of these changing OE standards. This change is another key example of how mechanical repair facilities should be cognizant of the opportunity with autoglass and the synergies between the glass and mechanical segments.

Through employing this strategy, mechanical centres taking on a NOVUS Glass franchise discover the incorporation of windshield repair and replacement services not only diversifies their service offerings but unlocks cross-selling opportunities and elevated customer satisfaction. This comprehensive range of services not only enhances the potential for an increased average sale but also contributes significantly to higher customer retention rates.

In essence, NOVUS Glass not only navigates the evolving landscape of auto repairs but actively pioneers new pathways for repair shop owners, ensuring a future characterized by innovation, resilience, and sustained success.

ELEVATING PROFICIENCY THROUGH UNITY: THE POWER OF NOVUS GLASS WITHIN FIX NETWORK

As partners of NOVUS Glass embrace the power of the banner’s network, they unlock a myriad of advantages custom-tailored to elevate their

business’ proficiency. A key highlight is the provision of a dedicated support team - A valuable resource offering comprehensive assistance in training, operations, marketing, and more. This support is especially beneficial for repair shop owners who may not possess in-depth expertise in the nuances of glass repair, ensuring they receive the requisite knowledge and tools to seamlessly integrate NOVUS Glass services into their existing offerings.

Furthermore, NOVUS Glass prides itself on industry-leading technologies, boasting proprietary tools, resins, and 27 patents, supported by a dedicated research and development team. The brand can repair more windshields with greater optical clarity and structural integrity than any other system in the industry. This technological edge positions mechanical repair shops at the forefront of innovation in the field of auto glass repair and replacement. The strategic network advantages extend beyond technical prowess, providing partners with opportunities to secure insurance work, gain access to fleet accounts, and foster robust supplier relations. These advantages collectively amplify the competitive strength of repair shop owners within the NOVUS Glass banner under Fix Network.

In the ever-changing automotive repair landscape, NOVUS Glass emerges not merely as an adaptation to industry changes but as a pioneering force leading the way into a future characterized by sustained success, innovation, and profitability. As the industry undergoes a significant shift towards electric mobility, the addition of windshield repair and replacement services proves to be a stable and lucrative choice for any repair shop seeking resilience and growth in this evolving market. NOVUS Glass, with its unwavering commitment to excellence, cuttingedge technology, dedicated support, and strategic positioning within Fix Network’s globally leading automotive aftermarket service brands, is poised to shape the trajectory of success and profitability for repair shop owners in the years to come.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE AFTERMARKET

The importance of embracing social media and tips from those who are succeeding

#By Emily Atkins

Social media is a vital tool for anyone in the automotive industry. DriveCentric reported in a LinkedIn whitepaper that 90 per cent of new-vehicle buyers who used social media in their decision process feel it influenced their decision.

The same is true for the automotive aftermarket, whether you’re a repair shop or jobber store. TikTok’s 2022 Automotive Playbook, “Driving in the Fun Lane”, reported that 70 per cent of users discovered new automotive brands and products directly as a result of the platform.

Research by social media marketing firm Hootsuite found that more than half of internet users between the ages of 16 and 24 use social media as their primary form of brand research. And two-thirds of Facebook users check out local businesses every week.

All of this demonstrates the value of an active and engaged social media presence.

Two Ontario shops come at the social media question from two different angles — with both are seeing success.

2021 Shop of the Year winner Master Mechanic, in Toronto’s High Park neighbourhood, uses Instagram to connect with its community and drive engagement, led by owner Josie Candito.

Candito started her shop’s Instagram account in 2017 just as a way to have fun and spread positivity. She said the Instagram

account is an extension of who she is, who her team is and how they run their business.

“My community makes it very easy to love them, so it’s just natural for me to be on social media and let them know how much I appreciate them,” she said. “Social media lets people see who we are and represent our business and our team in a real and positive way.”

Candito didn’t come into the social media side of the business with a concrete plan. However, she has seen success just by being authentic and engaged.

“I guess I just have fun energy,” Candito said. “I do a lot of things that are probably different than what other shops do.”

The store is known in the neighbourhood for the inspirational quotes on the signboard out front, and Candito uses those signs in her Instagram posts, as well as sharing both company and personal milestones. That helps connect the physical store to the social media account.

“I’m also very into animals and animal advocacy, so I kind of tie in my passions in life and things that inspire me, and things I find inspiring in the community and combine them as well,” she added.

Using the social media account for advocacy is one of the less intuitive tips shared by TikTok in its automotive marketing playbook.

According to TikTok, 63 per cent of social media users say it’s important that companies support causes important that are important to them.

The Playbook also reports that 58 per cent of users say it’s important companies are actively involved in their communities. That’s the key to Carlo Sabucco’s approach over at Sil’s Auto, in Oakville, Ontario.

“Really, we’re tying into the community and using Facebook ‘six-degrees of separation’ style content,” Sabucco explained.

Sil’s Auto doesn’t do any paid promotion on Facebook; their primary usage is as a member of local community groups. Sabucco said it took time for this approach to really reap results. They’ve been helping people in the community, talking to them, answering automotive questions for three years, he said.

“Throwing Facebook money and doing a paid campaign could work, but I’ve never had success with it because you’re basically just a blip on the radar for a 30-second impression. But if someone asks a question in their local community group and you answer it back, give them some guidance, then you’re a part of the conversation and you can really connect,” Sabucco explained.

“Now three years later, we measure our Facebook return and it’s top three in our company sales, and it’s cost nothing but my time.”

Answering questions, helping people solve their automotive questions, and being an active member of the local social media community has helped Sil’s Auto earn an army of community advocates.

cement their roots in the community.

Sabucco has increased his investment in charity since seeing the way it amplifies his social media efforts, and vice versa.

“During COVID, we did more charity because it helped with community engagement. Now we use social media and charity together to get better results,” he said.

“We went from $2,000 in charity work to $10,000 and because of the social media aspect we got a lot more conversation and benefit. And I can see that when I’m more engaged. For example, we’re doing a charity function, then I can see Facebook rise, so I know that the charity thing I did caused the engagement and drove in more customers.”

The time Sabucco put in is also paying off because his presence in the group has grown over time, and those posts don’t go away.

“Now we see people searching their groups for mechanics too, and they’re finding us just through the search too because we’ve been doing this for three years now, so we have a lot of posts and comments up there,” he said.

But, as with every tool businesses use, there are pitfalls, and social media can be especially fickle.

Candito said it’s important to stay organic, and not try to force a set number of posts per week or at specific times.

So now I am careful about how I respond, and I might even encourage them to call me. Or I might even call the customer and address that complaint right with them.”

“You know you have success too when the community answers for you. As an owner, I don’t have to be the guy that responds to questions like, ‘Hey, is there a local mechanic?’ because those people in the community are now answering on our behalf and saying, ‘Go to Sil’s Auto,’” he said.

“Even if people post comments and say, ‘Oh, Sil’s Auto is expensive,’ you get the community stepping in to defend us. That’s where the magic really starts to happen because the community does a lot of that work for you.”

Both Candito and Sabucco agree that the key to social media success is authentic results that show the integrity behind the business.

“You can’t hire a third-party company to do that,” Sabucco said.

Candito sums up her philosophy by reminding us that social media is supposed to be social. “I shy away from how-to videos and things because for us it’s more about just showing that we’re engaged with our community and our customers,” she said. “We stay involved in their life and keep them involved in ours.”

Another tip is to use social media in conjunction with community outreach like contests, and in particular, charity work. Both Master Mechanic and Sil’s Auto use charity to help

At Sil’s Auto, Sabucco said he learned early on that it’s important to manage his time. “There are some shops doing really great social media engagement, but I also know those owners are answering their phones at 8 a.m. on a Saturday, or they’re on vacation but not switching off. Social media is hungry — when it asks, you have to give.”

Both owners stress the importance of representing your business in the best possible light.

“Stay positive and keep it light,” Candito said. “You can still stand up for things you believe in, but it’s important to make sure you really think carefully about how what you’re saying can impact people.”

That was a lesson Sil’s Auto boss Sabucco admitted he learned the hard way. His advice: “Bite your tongue. People can pound the crap out of you online, and my instinct was to defend myself, but it’s not the place,” he said.

“So now I am careful about how I respond, and I might even encourage them to call me. Or I might even call the customer and address that complaint right with them. If you come back with an edge, people will make an assumption about your business.”

At the end of the day, Candito said, small business gets its best results by focusing on the customers in the community and having fun.

“I think social media is a big part of people’s lives, but it’s still a distraction. So, let’s engage them on that human level and let them know that this is a real business run by real people.”

BAYWATCH

TIRE CHANGERS

TAKE A LOOK AT THE NEWEST PRODUCTS

The Coats Company has introduced the Maxx Tire Changer line. It has three models: the Maxx 70, 80 and 90. Key features of the Coats Maxx Tire Changer series include flexible power options for multiple shop setups from a 110V or air to 220V, a two-speed option to combine precision and speed, a dual nozzle inflation system that seals difficult assemblies with ease, the ability to accommodate bigger, heavier wheel assemblies, from six- to 30-inch clamping capacity and more.

www.coatscompany.com

DUAL-CLUTCH TRANSMISSION OIL

With two-thirds of vehicles equipped with automatic transmission or automated manual transmission, Liqui Moly has developed the Dual Clutch Gear Oil 8100. The product’s range is being expanded and can be used in almost all wet dual-clutch transmissions. The oil can be used in more than 90 percent of vehicles with wet-running dual-clutch transmissions on the European automotive market. The composition of shear-stable viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives and constantly hardwearing friction modifiers ensures shifting under all conditions.

www.liqui-moly.com

https://bit.ly/42S0YDu

BORESCOPE

Milwaukee Tool launched M12 Auto Technician Borescope, it’s first diagnosis tool. It provides 5mm of access with a high-definition front and side cameras and 4.3-inch display for enhanced viewing and easier diagnosis. It has four zoom levels. The three-foot flexible cable helps manoeuvre through confined spaces. It guards against failure with its Heat Sense Temperature Alert technology. The tool notifies the user and shuts down if the vehicle being inspected is too hot to use the camera without potential damage. It is on the M12 battery platform.

www.milwaukeetool.ca

SEVERE-DUTY GASKETS

Dana has introduced a new line of Victor Reinz Victor-Lock reusable differential gaskets designed for severe-duty applications. The gaskets feature resilient FoamFlex facing material bonded to a steel core with selective silicone beading to enhance sealing stress and improve loading in critical areas for an ultimate, leak-free seal. The reusable differential gaskets are manufactured with FoamFlex material on both sides of the gasket to provide a level of compression and recovery while the steel core provides strength. No room-temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone is needed so there is an instant seal and service technicians do not have to wait for reassembly.

victorreinz.us

STEEL JACKS

OTC has released the S012, 12-Ton Steel Jack Stands which come with increased strength and safety in vehicle holding. The stands are universal for most vehicles and ideal for midsize, heavy-duty vehicles. The S012 stands are formed and welded with a steel base, including a steel support column featuring 12 locking positions for versatility and increased holding strength. The form-fit, flat-top horseshoe style saddle design and wide steel base ensures stability. Welded foot pads resist sinking into soft ground or asphalt, while the durable baked-enamel finish resists corrosion.

www.OTCTools.com

BRAKE, LIFT SUPPORT OPTIONS

ZF Aftermarket added 74 new products to its branded portfolios in August 2023 for Canada and the U.S. The company introduced 22 different part numbers for TRW brake pad sets, adding availability to more than 9.7 million more vehicles in operation. Its aftermarket offerings for TRW X-Tend powered lift supports were also expanded, adding 49 new part numbers for a range of vehicle brands. Additional products launched in August include SACHS clutch replacement parts for the Audi A4 Ultra Sport 2.0L and a clutch kit for the Smart Fortwo 2016-2017 Turbocharged. www.zf.com

CAR-TOONS

"This is just a routine check, sir - who did you use for your last auto repairs?"

CAR CARE PRODUCTS

Liqui Moly now wants to be the top name in the car care products game. The company is focusing the relaunch on its Gloss Polish, Polish & Wax and Hard Wax products. The company said users will notice added emphasis on water running off better. Packaging has also been refreshed. Gray containers are being replaced by transparent blue ones. Spray bottles and caps have also been improved for better application.

www.liqui-moly.com

BOTTLE JACKS

OTC announced the release of two heavyduty bottle jacks suitable for up to 12 and 30-ton capacities. The bottle jacks were designed to provide high-quality lifting power while being compact enough to be used on the road, on the job site or inside the repair shop. Key features include 12 and 30-ton capacities designed using durable, high-quality materials; a chromed pump piston and ram to increase rut resistance and extend the life of the product; meeting or exceeding the newest ASME PASE-2019 safety standards. www.OTCTools.com

BAYWATCH

Over