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FTERMARKET I N T E R N AT I O N A L aftermarketinternational.com

Vol. 20 No. 2 2021

Mass Air Flow

Sensors

Electrical Diagnostic

ADAS Driving Control Systems Industry News New Products

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AFTERMARKET

OUT FRONT

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Ah, the dog days of August as we say here in the USA…

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very other year this issue, which you are now reading, has bonus distribution at the Automechanika in Frankfurt, Germany. No show last year, and as far as international visitors and exhibitors this year, also none. But it will be back in 2022 and am looking forward to it. With AAPEX, SEMA and Frankfurt returning, the show industry for the aftermarket is getting back to normal.

Here’s our technical line-up for this issue: Common Sense Thinking About ADAS Driving Control Systems by Ron Henningsen and Mass Air-Flow Sensor Electrical Diagnostics, by Tyler Newbury.

Aftermarket International continues to strive to provide the best in technical articles and resources to our worldwide audience, located in more than 100 countries. We believe these two features live up to that standard.

For those of you who read my comments each issue, you may recall I recently offered the rather controversial idea that AAPEX should move to an every other year format, and be held on the opposite years of Frankfurt, which of course is also every other year. And has been for as long as I can remember.

Oh boy, did I get a reaction on that column, more than anything I had ever written in the 15 years I have owned Aftermarket International. I published 10 of the many comments, with all but one agreeing with me.

That was representative of the many thoughts I received.

I asked the people from AASA if they cared to have us publish their own perspective on the issue and they declined. But I did hear from an old friend and colleague whose expertise is unrivaled in the international auto aftermarket. Ira Davis has held executive positions with BeckArnley, Echlin, Forecast Products (now part of Standard Motor Products) and Multi Parts Supply. He now owns AutoFocus Consulting & Research LLC. Ira sent me a lengthy, uunsolicited letter which we have published in full. He believes many sell AAPEX short and if they only focus on costs rather than the many benefits, over and above just exhibiting, they are not taking advantage of all AAPEX and what was one time called Industry Week has to offer. It’s good reading and please take the time to do so. Thank you, Ira! In the past we have reported on tradeshows we have physical distribution at, but of course there haven’t been any, except for virtual, since the end of 2019. But with things getting back to normal our final two issues of 2021, in October, will begin to do so again. Slated for those issues, English and Spanish is information on the following: AAPEX, AutoAmericas (for which we are Co-Director), Automechanika Dubai and Shanghai, ExpoTransporte, HDAW, INA PAACE, SEMA and The Latin Auto Parts Expo. Look for it.

Good health and happiness to all.

A Quarterly Review of New Products for Aftermarket Executives

Brad Glazer Publisher bsgrep@aol.com

Jim Wilder

Editorial Director james.r.wilder@att.net

Ron Henningsen

Technical Editor ronald.henningsen@gmail.com

Jeff Greene Art Director jeff.greene1116@gmail.com

Maria Balcells Forrellad Translation Editor marybalcells@gmail.com

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES United States Brad Glazer, Publisher bsgrep@aol.com Tel: 216-233-6943 Europe Eric Jund eric.jund@wanadoo.fr Tel: 33-4-93-587743/33-4-93-586205 Fax: 33-4-93-240072 China Arlen Luo Tel: 0086-10-88579899 Fax: 0086-10-82160061 Cell: 0086-137-0126-6684

JABS Media, LLC Contents copyright (2021) by JABS Media, LLC, Executive Offices: Brad Glazer, 3793 Meadowbrook Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44118 • Tel: 216-233-6943. Postmaster: Send address change to Aftermarket International, 3793 Meadowbrook Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44118.

Information presented in Aftermarket International is supplied by manufacturers and/or advertisers and is, to the best of our knowledge, accurate. JABS Media, LLC makes no representation, warranty or guarantee, expressed or implied, as to the quality, marketability, fitness for a particular purpose or use, or other characteristics of any product or material referred to in its publications. Publication does not constitute endorsement.

Brad Glazer, Publisher Aftermarket International

Aftermarket International

August/September 2021

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Letter to the Publisher Do we need AAPEX Every Year - YES!

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rad, I read the comments from various readers in your 2-part article concerning the need for an annual AAPEX show with great interest. Let me start by saying that AAPEX is not a show…it’s an experience.

Technology and how we communicate is changing at lightning speeds with new innovations almost daily. If we are not up on how it can impact our businesses then we are falling behind our competitors!

I have been in the aftermarket for almost 50 years and have been to numerous shows, which, when I started attending them, were mostly regional in nature with an occasional large show in Chicago or Las Vegas. In my early years I found myself on the “attendee” (buyer) side of the show but in later years I was the exhibitor (seller). I spent a great deal of my personal time volunteering for AAIA, now Auto Care and was active on their show committee as well as the AIA (now the Import Vehicle Community) segment.

In the “old days” even the largest of shows were limited primarily to the larger US manufacturer exhibitors (along with some international exhibitors with US manufacturing and/or distribution). A buyer would attend the show basically to place orders so that they could receive a “show special” (discount) as well as look for new products and/or a new supplier that may show up. Exhibitors would attend to write orders and to show new products or catalogs (yes, paper catalogs) and meet some of their customers and hope that new ones stop by their booth. In today’s world of technological communication and social media there does not seem to be much value to the huge expenditure required to exhibit or even attend a show like the “old days”. But today’s AAPEX is “not your father’s Oldsmobile”!

Annual attendance at the AAPEX event is a MUST if we want to succeed in the automotive aftermarket, keep abreast of the continuous changes in vehicle technology and stay ahead of our competition. For both exhibitors and attendees there is so much benefit from the experience. but it is up to each of us to capitalize on it. If the only thing we are focused on is “the show’ and only the show, we are missing the boat.

Below are some of the many things to think about, in no particular order of importance, while planning for the show, and who will attend from your company, in order to maximize the benefit to your company as well as the individuals attending.

All Segments of the Industry Represented and Compartmentalized for Attendee Productivity Tools & equipment, Paint, body & equipment, Mobile heat transfer, Remanufacturing, import specialty and services that will help us run our businesses more efficiently are there to provide the resources in one location

Networking, Networking, Networking The kickoff event, the AAPEX reception where we can meet and greet all of the movers and shakers in our industry in a casual atmosphere; exhibitor company gatherings where we can spend time meeting with old and new customers and maybe learn a thing or two; the fabulous networking reception, sponsored by the Import Vehicle Community, with over 600 of the industry’s leaders gathering for a cocktail and nosh; YANG events welcoming those under 40s in our industry for both networking and mentoring; Women in Auto Care- celebrating women in our industry. The AAPEX experience IS a celebration of our industry and our people

Industry Week-AWDA, Auto Care, MEMA and SEMA with Something for Everybody in One City

Education and Training Hands on technical training presented by exhibitors; product demonstrations; AAPEX education seminars covering technical, business, product, selling and promotion and human resource issues

Private Business Meetings One-on-one pre-arranged meetings for international matchmaking of buyers with sellers at the AAPEX business center International Presence- Attendees and Exhibitors from Across the Globe Welcome areas for overseas visitors New Products The lifeblood of our business is to continuously introduce new and unique products to our customers continuously whether a seller or a buyer. Seeing and feeling the new products and being able to discuss the features and benefits between customer and seller is far more impactful than viewing it on a website New Product Showcase and Awards Participation by exhibitors to proudly show their newest products and innovations; for the buyer the ability to see these all in a single display area is a huge benefit; a separate, import vehicle focused, new product display is another buyer benefit and includes media and technology awards; all products are judged and awarded on the show floor.

Focused Areas for the Latest Technologies Including “Technology of Tomorrow” Hands on Industry “Discovery” AAPEX is the perfect training ground for our newest team members to learn about our industry by walking the show, speaking to exhibitors, participating in training and education and finding opportunities for networking throughout their time in Las Vegas

After a year or more of ZOOM, Microsoft Teams and Gotomeetings, etc. I am ready to see old and new friends, meet new people, enjoy personal time and a meal because our industry is a “people to people” business that technology can augment but not replace.

If your company, as seller or buyer, is not taking advantage of all that AAPEX has to offer, then you are not getting the value for the money you are spending. It takes careful planning to maximize the benefit to attending, so create a schedule well in advance of your visit and determine what will bring the most value from the experience.

With the rapid changes in our business and technology, attending AAPEX every year is a must.

Presentations from Industry Leaders and Government Officials Keynote speeches educating attendees about our industry and issues that impact our businesses

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August/September 2021

Sincerely, Ira Davis

aftermarketinternational.com

IN THIS ISSUE/

VOL. 20 No. 2 August/September 2021

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Feat ures 8/Mass Air Flow Sensor Electrical Diagnostic. These sensors work the same as a conventional hot-wire sensor, but the change happens on the output side. It’s converted into a frequency for accuracy.

With changes in modern technology come changes in the diagnostic process.

10/Common Sense Thinking About ADAS Driving Control Systems. Today it’s Advanced Driver’s Assistance Systems (ADAS) that has everyone talking.

Understanding it, knowing how to calibrate it, having the space for service on it and a wide range of other concerns is what everyone is hearing about.

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Ad ve rt is ing 31/Must See Advertisers who receive leads from our extensive and exclusive print and online lists 31/Ad Index

De partm e n t s

ONLINE DIGITAL EDITION

3/Out Front 6/Editor’s Note 12/Industry News Acquisitions, people, company updates, trade shows and awards.

24/New Products Inficon’s new automotive service tool, AirSept’s award winning quick connect hose fittings, Mahle Motorsport’s piston kit, Continental’s fuel modules and Akebono’s new disc brake pad line.

Aftermarket International

August/September 2021

Find information, contacts, links to industry associations, free literature from businesses that advertise in the publication, events, and downloadable issue archives dating to 2007 at aftermarketinternational.com For advertising, contact Brad Glazer at 216-233-6943 or bsgrep@aol.com or info@aftermarketinternational.com

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Comments from the Editor

Adjusting to the ‘New Normal’

Consider Fleet and Commercial Business Vehicles?

In many parts of the world, businesses and consumers are returning to what is now called the postCovid-19 “New Normal.” It’s definitely a whole new world for all of us in the auto-repair business. But it’s not like the “end-of the world” scenarios that some talk about in person or over social media.

Let’s get the negative items out of the way first. Yes, many white-collar businessmen and businesswomen will continue to work at home, driving their vehicles less and less. Yes, some bluecolor or entry-level employees have low wages and will continue to ignore scheduled maintenance.

And finally, some specific replacement parts continue to be backordered, especially any type of module that uses a computer chip.

Now for the positive side of the story. Yes many will continue to work out of their homes, but these are the same individuals who are now planning road trips when it’s time for holiday travel. They’ve been spending less money during Covid, so they will want their vehicles to be in excellent running condition. You see, airline tickets and rental cars prices are sometimes twice as high as they were before the pandemic started.

The virus, combined with just-in-time manufacturing processes, really put the squeeze on aftermarket parts shipments. Slowing, but surely, that problem will be resolved in the near future — be patient and work closely with your parts suppliers.

To make up for and loss of business from the everyday motorist, consider knocking on doors, visiting large fleet operations as well as smaller commercial businesses that may have a dozen or fewer vehicles that are required for their businesses success. Privately-owned businesses are good targets and so are city and county municipalities that do not have their own repair facilities.

Be prepared before you start. Find out what type of vehicles are the most popular with each company.

Check with your automotive internet information provider to see what are common problems with these specific vehicles and what is required to fix them. Present the business owner with a maintenance schedule and make sure you can keep your promises on speedy service. Downtime means loss of revenue for these companies.

A shop-owner friend of mine in the San Diego, California area did just that. A nearby termitecontrol business used Ford Ranger pickups almost exclusively. Because my friend was well-versed in exhaust work, he knew many of these vehicles were susceptible to cracked exhaust manifolds. He promised a reasonable maintenance schedule and then emphasized that he knew the problems that Rangers had and he was prepared to tackle them in a professional and efficient manner. He got the sale before he walked out the door.

Some shops even go a step further to help limit vehicle downtime for these fleets and commercial vehicles. There are some technicians who prefer to work overnight hours. It may be because they are just used to it, or perhaps, they enjoy working overnight hours so they can go on early morning fishing or hunting trips. When a fleet or commercial vehicle is brought in at the close of the day, that late-night technician can fix the problem without the vehicle owners suffering any major down time. Many will be willing to pay extra to keep these vehicles on the road during daylight hours.

And remember, make sure your technicians keep up with the latest training in order to perform their duties correctly the first time.

Jim Wilder Editorial Director james.r.wilder@att.net

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August/September 2021

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December 1 - 3, 2021 A Hybrid Edition

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SENSOR ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTIC

By Tyler Newbury

Figure 1

Figure 2

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n today’s world of high-tech vehicles there are many sensors that attribute to the fuel-injection system on modern vehicles.

These main sensors are the Mass Air-Flow (MAF), Manifold Absolute Pressure and Oxygen sensors, however the main focus is the mass air flow sensor (See figures 1 and 2).

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Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 3

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n today’s world of high-tech vehicles there are many sensors that attribute to the fuel-injection system on modern vehicles. These main sensors are the Mass AirFlow (MAF), Manifold Absolute Pressure and Oxygen sensors, however the main focus is the mass air flow sensor (See figures 1 and 2).

Mass air-flow sensors have changed greatly throughout the years but the most common form is the hot wire frequencybased sensors. Hot-wire sensors use a hot wire in the airstream using voltage and amperage to heat up the wire and as air flows past, it cools down the wire, which causes more amperage to have to flow to the wire to maintain temperature. These sensors work the same as a conventional hot-wire sensor, but the change happens on the output side is converted into a frequency for accuracy. It’s relatively simple concept the lower the frequency the less airflow the higher the frequency the more air coming in. With changes in modern technology come changes in the diagnostic process. Oscilloscopes in shops are getting more and more common as time goes on, but most technicians are using scan tools and multimeters to diagnose sensor issues. The proper electrical procedure for gathering data from a mass air-flow sensor is at various engine rpm.

I decided to use a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado with a 3.0 Duramax engine (See Figure 3). The first thing I did was locate the proper 5V signal pin on the sensor connector to collect diagnostic readings with the sensor. Then, I hooked the positive of my DVOM to the signal pin on the sensor and the ground to chassis ground to get a base idle reading while running the vehicle. It came up as 4.48V (See Figure 4). Part of that test is to take readings at various rpm so I revved the vehicle to 1,500 rpm and got 4.58V (See Figure 5). Then, I went to 3,000 rpm and got 4.66V (See Figure 6). This indicates that the mass air-flow sensor is working properly through the DVOM because as the rpm and airflow increases, signal voltage rises. This was an analog test of a digital sensor.

The third action I performed was to hook up an oscilloscope to visually see the frequency waves as the airflow passes through the sensor I utilized the same signal pin and chassis ground as the DVOM test. Once again I did the testing at Aftermarket International

August/September 2021

different rpm ranges to watch the wave form get tighter and looser as airflow rate changes. This test verifies that this mass air flow is working because the frequency matches the airflow coming in, if this sensor was bad the frequency would be either too high or too low compared to the frequency (See figures 7 and 8). n

Figure 7

Figure 8

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Figure 1

Figure 2

Common Sense Thinking About

ADAS Driving Control Systems

By Technical Editor Ron Henningsen

Figure 4

T

oday it’s Advanced Driver’s Assistance Systems (ADAS) that has everyone talking. Understanding it, knowing how to calibrate it, having the space for service on it and a wide range of other concerns is what everyone is hearing about.

This article will present some common-sense thinking and rational about this whole vehicle control area. Rather than simply tell you about calibration and what is needed to do it this article will present a far more realistic approach to this

Figure 5

service area. As anyone who has ever built a house knows it all starts with the footings and foundation. If that isn’t correct nothing else is going to be straight or plumb.

Forward facing radar sensors are on most vehicles today.

They can be located in a variety of places but some vehicles have them behind the center grill emblem as show in Figure 1.

On this particular vehicle he wiring for this sensor is directly behind the lower grill bars and can easily be damaged in even the slightest of vehicle-collision “bumps” (Figure 2).

Other vehicles can have sensors and cameras by the rear view 10

Aftermarket International

mirror as shown in Figure 3. It should be noted that whenever a windshield is replaced the installation procedure must be checked to see if the ADAS cameras/sensors by the rear view mirror must be calibrated. Some vehicle manufacturers have more than one sensitivity level of input information to control function when programming these sensors. One person I know had a windshield replaced and the glass installer simply programmed the sensors for the mid-range and the vehicles owner noted a difference in the vehicles reaction to ADAS

August/September 2021

aftermarketinternational.com

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 6

Figure 7 Figure 11

Figure 8

driving-controlled situations.

Think that ADAS is something only found on late-model passenger cars? Think again. This semi-tractor has collision and auto braking ADAS along with other vehicle safety operation controls. It’s not that common, yet on trucks but it soon will be. (figures 4 and 5).

When a vehicle is thought to be in need of an ADAS calibration or a system check, how many people start by raising the vehicle on a hoist and performing a visual under-vehicle check? I bet not many! In most articles about ADAS calibration there is at most a paragraph or two midway or late in the article about being sure the alignment and all suspension and chassis components are correct and in line. Well this perfectly great looking truck in Figure 6 has a problem that will stop a successful ADAS calibration/vehicle operating system.

Some chassis and alignment people believe that a full fourwheel-alignment check should be done before any ADAS calibration work is performed such as the one shown in Figure 7. Note the reading shown in Figure 8. There is obviously a thrust-angle issue with this truck. What good will it do to calibrate an ADAS system assuming the vehicle will be traveling straight down the road when it wouldn’t be. With the amount of thrust shown in this picture you will be counter steering to compensate for the trust effect.

When inspecting the vehicle you can determine the front suspension has never been aligned since the factory OEM plastic “banana” inserts are still in place on the control arm

driven down the road Figure 10.

If you have a vehicle in your shop that you suspect has a sensor, radar or camera that is not operating correctly don’t just jump in to what you think is wrong or what you saw on the last similar vehicle. Hook up your scan/diagnostic tool/system to the vehicle and look for past ADAS-controlled operating system messages as seen in Figure 11.

Available diagnostic information on today’s vehicles is greater than it has ever been. Note the multitude of systems that you can obtain information on as shown on this diagnostic screen in Figure 12.

On this vehicle, you can obtain data of the Adaptive Cruise Control Disengage History Data ( you could suspect an operational issue if it had several functions in a very short time period or if the driver in front of you was doing frequent hard brake checks at highway speeds), Adaptive Cruise Control Inhibit History Data, Frontview Camera Windshield Status History Data, Front Impact Mitigation event History Data (I personally set off an event in an Subaru Outback while trying to creep under an opening garage door as it was going up. I found out the braking system can be very aggressive if needed) and Vehicle Safety System History Data. These systems on the diagnostic systems computer screen are shown in Figure 13.

Flat rate may still be flat rate but when it comes to ADAS systems, especially the vehicles foundation systems that assure a vehicle is going down the road straight and all components are working correctly, you must be sure that everything is correct on the vehicle and not jump immediately into calibration. Safety and correct operation of the ADAS is more important than how quickly you can get the job out the door. n

Ron Henningsen (ronald.henningsen@gmail.com) is the former Technical Editor of Undercar Digest magazine. He has been a professional brake and alignment trainer for more than four decades.

Figure 12

cams as shown in Figure 9.

When inspecting the rear of the vehicle the cause of the thrust should be obvious. Note the side twist to the axle/right rear leaf spring. What caused this is not at the moment important. What is important is that you can’t successfully do an ADAS calibration with this condition. Straight will not be straight when the vehicle is Aftermarket International

August/September 2021

Figure 13

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

Michael Fretwell New Pylon President

Permatex Promotes Eva Pitts to Director of Sales Traditional and International Business Permatex®, a leading innovator in chemical technology for automotive maintenance and repair, has promoted Eva Pitts to Director of Sales. In her new role, Pitts will manage Permatex’s traditional and international businesses, driving continued growth through strong sales programs, new product initiatives, and customer partnerships.

Pylon Manufacturing, an industry leader in mobility solutions in the automotive aftermarket, has announced the appointment of Michael Fretwell to president.

“Mike brings a track record of industry accomplishment and deep expertise to his new role as president,” said Gary Cohen, CEO of Qualitor Inc., Pylon’s parent company. “He will be an invaluable asset in driving our mission to be the preferred branded global market leader of vehicle visibility solutions.”

New Head of ZF Aftermarket Philippe Colpron takes over as an Executive Vice President with the responsibilities as Head of ZF’s aftermarket division. In parallel he will continue to lead Fleet Solutions – a business of ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Control Systems division. The proven industry expert is set to anticipate the future evolution and requirements of the sector, expand ZF Aftermarket’s broad portfolio and drive new advancements in customer-centric solutions.

Greg Kaganovich, Transtar Industries New Supply Chain Vice President The leading distributor of automotive aftermarket parts and software solutions, Transtar Industries, announces Greg Kaganovich has joined the growing organization as Vice President of Supply Chain. Kaganovich succeeds former VP, Supply Chain Kevin Rozsa who will now serve as VP, Marketing.

Thomas Robinson, LSI Chemical LSI Chemical, innovative manufacturer of high performance oil and fuel additives for downstream oil, petrol and diesel fuel production, announced Thomas Robinson as the company’s new Business Development & Marketing Manager.

Robinson will be responsible for the coordination of all LSI Chemical sales activity, partner and customer support, international marketing initiatives and an extensive trade show and conference event schedule.

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Motor Information Systems Names Chuck Barton Account Director Chuck Barton has been named to the position of Account Manager, National Accounts, for MOTOR Information Systems. Mr. Barton will be responsible for the relationships of approximately 60 of MOTOR’s existing National Account clients and managing the dayto-day interactions with them. His main objectives will be winning renewals with these clients and growing MOTOR’s revenue.

Mr. Barton joined MOTOR in November 1990 as a Publisher’s Representative. Then, Chuck was relocated to handle an important open territory in Indiana.

Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2021 defers to yield more promising exhibition results Prolonged global travel restrictions continue to hamper the entry of non-residential visitors into Vietnam. The limitations of face-toface business exchange led to actions deferring Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2021. Originally scheduled for June 30 – July 2, the show is now set to take place from June 29 – July 1, 2022. Ms Fiona Chiew, Deputy General Manager, Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, commented: “As a responsible business platform that serves the regional automotive community, we believe the show’s wider global participation is fundamental to its success and effectiveness. The deferred show date will allow more time for borders to open up to overseas exhibitors and buyers.”

Dana Incorporated Announces Leadership Change for its Light Vehicle Drive Systems Business Industry veteran Byron Foster, who most recently served as Dana’s senior vice president and chief commercial, marketing, and communications officer, will succeed Bob Pyle as president, Light Vehicle Drive Systems. Mr. Mr. Foster previously served in senior executive roles at Johnson Controls, Inc., and Adient plc for more than two decades.

“Byron’s tremendous commercial and operational experience, coupled with his commitment to customer centricity, make him an ideal fit to lead our Light Vehicle business,” said James Kamsickas, Dana chairman and CEO. “I’d like to thank Bob for his leadership and service to Dana as he helps to ensure a smooth transition.”

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LSI Chemical Signs New UK Distributor GreenGlove is now the official UK and Ireland distributor for LSI Chemical, offering solutions to customers in the lubrication and fuel industries to help companies bring an improved, market-ready product to end-users. Additionally, GreenGlove is now an official distributor of the full line of Hot Shot’s Secret products available for retail throughout western Europe. Hot Shot’s Secret’s line of performance fuel and oil additives and specialty oils is the fastest growing performance lubrication brand in the USA. Based in Thame, England, GreenGlove provides oil and fuel additives that utilize innovative nanotechnology to provide an improved, market-ready product to end-users. GreenGlove specializes in organic technology innovation and is a provider of innovative patented environmental products across multiple industries.

GreenGlove Managing Director, Joff Glover, noted “As a result of our partnership with LSI Chemical, we now have access to their incredible, state-of-the-art lab facilities. This means that we can test our additives in your existing formula to find the perfect balance of performance and function for your fuel and oil requirements.

Their lab scientists are also available to help develop products that specifically meet your needs and solve your problems resulting in major cost savings for your business.

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

AAPEX 2021 Announces CEOs to Participate in Keynote Buyer Panel

Tom Greco

Kevin Herron

Gregory D. Johnson

Bill Rhodes

Corey Bartlett

Sue Godschalk

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AAPEX 2021 has formed a Keynote Buyer Panel of industry CEOs for an engaging discussion on key topics facing the automotive aftermarket industry. The panel discussion will take place during the Keynote Session at this year’s in-person event, Tuesday, Nov. 2, through Thursday, Nov. 4, at the Sands Expo and Caesars Forum Conference Center in Las Vegas.

The Keynote Buyer Panel will feature executives from four top aftermarket retailers and two warehouse distributors. Karyn Schoenbart, CEO of The NPD Group, will moderate the discussion. Panelists include: • Tom Greco, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts, • Kevin Herron, president and COO, Genuine Parts Co., U.S. Automotive Parts Group, • Gregory D. Johnson, CEO, copresident, O’Reilly Auto Parts, • Bill Rhodes, president and CEO of AutoZone, • Corey Bartlett, president and CEO, Automotive Parts Headquarters, • Sue Godschalk, president, Federated Auto Parts.

Discussion topics will cover the pandemic’s impact on the supply chain, how parts disruption at the OE level is impacting the aftermarket, and how repair shops and parts stores will handle customer demands as the industry continues to rebound.

The Nov. 2 Keynote Session will begin with a “homecoming” message and an Automotive Aftermarket State of the Industry presentation from Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association, and Paul McCarthy,

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president and CEO, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA).

The program is a ticketed event that includes breakfast and runs from 6:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m., (PDT). More program and ticket information will be available on the AAPEX website, aapexshow. com in July.

To help ensure as safe and productive an event as possible, AAPEX Event Management and AAPEX co-owners – the Auto Care Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association – will take all appropriate and advisable precautions and measures as advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines for COVID-19. All attendees and exhibitors will be informed accordingly of any new or updated procedures, plans and details as they are determined, put in place or evolved moving toward the event in November.

To register for AAPEX, visit attendee registration on the AAPEX website, aapexshow.com.

AAPEX represents the more than $1.6 trillion global automotive aftermarket industry. Historically, AAPEX features about 2,500 exhibiting companies displaying their latest products, services and technologies that keep the world’s 1.4 billion vehicles on the road.

AAPEX buyers include automotive service and repair professionals, auto parts retailers, independent warehouse distributors, program groups, service chains, automotive dealers, fleet buyers and engine builders. aftermarketinternational.com

AAPEX 2021 OPENS NOMINATIONS FOR SERVICE AND REPAIR AWARDS AAPEX is accepting nominations for the second annual Shop Owner of the Year, Service Advisor of the Year and Technician of the Year awards. These awards recognize the essential services that auto repair professionals provide to keep the world’s 1.4 billion vehicles on the road. AAPEX 2021 will take place Tuesday, November 2 through Thursday, November 4, at the Sands Expo and Caesars Forum Conference Center in Las Vegas.

Nominations are due Wednesday, September 1, and should be submitted online at: www.aapexshow.com/ serviceawards.

An independent panel of shop owners and industry leaders will select the award recipients based on their commitment to training and ASE certification; local, community, charitable and industry involvement; diagnostic, teamwork and mentoring skills; and personal and professional qualities.

AAPEX will announce and honor recipients of the three awards on November 2, during the Keynote Session at this year’s in-person event.

The AAPEX Service Aftermarket International

and Repair Awards were established in 2020 and presented virtually to Shop Owner of the Year Brian Sump, Avalon Motorsports and Urban Autocare, Denver.; Service Advisor of the Year Jason Sexton, Dynamic Automotive, Frederick, Md.; and Technician of the Year Norm Schultz, Interstate Auto Care, Madison Heights, Mich.

To help ensure as safe and productive an event as possible, AAPEX Event Management and AAPEX co-owners — the Auto Care Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) — will take all appropriate and advisable precautions and measures as advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines for COVID-19. All attendees and exhibitors will be informed accordingly of any new or updated procedures, plans and details as they are

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determined, put in place or evolved moving toward the event in November.

AAPEX represents the more than $1.6 trillion global automotive aftermarket industry and features innovative products, services and technologies, as well as advanced business management and technical training for professionals to maintain excellence and take their businesses to the next level.

To register for AAPEX, visit attendee registration on the AAPEX website, aapexshow. com.

Historically, AAPEX features approximately 2,500 exhibiting companies. AAPEX buyers include automotive service and repair professionals, auto parts retailers, independent warehouse distributors, program groups, service chains, automotive dealers, fleet buyers and engine builders.

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

Broad and Unpredictable Parts and Materials Shortages Ripple effects of manufacturing and supply strains have been making their way into the heavy-duty truck parts and service suppliers’ market, potentially increasing wait times for repairs and maintenance work. It’s left to parts counter managers, fleets and others to navigate and outmaneuver difficult pricing and supply waters.

Part of the problem stems from the more intense months of the pandemic, particularly in mid-to-late 2020. Outbreaks of coronavirus and preventive measures to help stem the disease caused shutdowns and suspensions in manufacturing plants of all kinds, eventually creating hiccups and blips in supply across many markets — certainly not just trucking. As demand remained steady or even spiked for certain items, it meant slowdowns in availability of product.

Then there’s the infamous, global and continuing semiconductor shortage. This, too, has roots in the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped boost demand for, and purchases of, smartphones, laptops and other connectivity devices, since in-person contact was limited. And meanwhile, production had slowed or shut down for vehicles, from Class 1 passenger cars to Class 8 heavy-duty trucks.

With production back up and running, there suddenly weren’t enough semiconductor chips to go around, and it has stunted the assembly of today’s highly computerized vehicles. Vehicle makers of all kinds have been challenged to get enough parts to complete their products, with one recent example being Hyundai, which had to suspend its Montgomery, Ala. auto production line for a week in mid-June due to the chip shortage, the Montgomery Advertiser reported.

Back in March, Volvo Group announced that the semiconductor shortage would have a “substantial”

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impact on its global truck manufacturing operations, saying the company would implement “stop days” at plants that would amount to two to four weeks, depending on the production facility. “Visibility into the global supply chain of semiconductors as well as other components is currently very low, and the uncertainty about the development is high,” the company said in a statement.

“The disturbances are expected to have a negative impact on earnings and cash flow,” it continued. “The Volvo Group and its business partners are working hard to minimize the number of vehicles affected and the impact on customers by keeping flexibility to be able to increase production when possible.”

Another material that has been in short supply is natural rubber. There has been a series of elements affecting the natural rubber supply, Bloomberg reported back in April, including a leaf disease that spread across rubber trees. And China also bought up rubber supplies in late 2020, taking advantage of low market prices at the time to add to its national reserves. Earlier this year, the Ever Given container ship’s blockage of the Suez Canal for six days also slowed rubber shipments, among others, which helped disrupt production of parts that utilize the material.

In the trucking industry, all this has amounted to slowdowns and manufacturing delays of everything from the trucks themselves to various parts used to construct or maintain them. It has gone as far as to affect earnings and output of OEMs, dealers and parts/service providers such as Rush Enterprises, the nation’s largest truck dealer network and an “all makes” parts supplier and servicer.

W.M. “Rusty” Rush, the company’s chairman of the board, CEO and president, said during a firstquarter earnings call that the parts and materials shortages are “flattening” parts and service earnings slightly, but added that Rush Enterprises

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expects the shortages to taper off by the end of the third quarter this year. The company is tapping its nationwide inventory to help source out any parts that are unavailable or delayed, but the shortages have also been difficult to predict.

“When you talk about things [in short supply] outside of semiconductors, it’s just a myriad of things,” Rush said. “One day it could be wiring harnesses, one day it could be dash clusters or seats.

I think it’s just across the board with your Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers. The manufacturers are managing as best they can, but I think they keep getting hit with different issues from different suppliers.”

He noted that several parts suppliers seem to be having production difficulties after COVID shutdowns. “It’s even just keeping up with it — ramping up after COVID has been very difficult for Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers, and not just on the semiconductor piece,” Rush said. “From a parts perspective, if you look at our parts inventories, we’ve got more parts backordered right now.

That’s one of the issues you run into. It trickles not just through trucks; it actually trickles through parts and service, too.”

“You never know how it’s going to affect you from day to day or week to week or month to month,” he emphasized. “But I do expect [the shortages] to get cleared out.”

One solution to the problem is also helping perpetuate the problem: stockpiling. As materials and parts have been harder to source reliably and when needed, manufacturers, parts suppliers and even fleets are trying to build up stocks of items or materials when they are available — potentially squeezing supplies for others down the road.

“Some of these larger groups that have some money are accelerating their parts purchases,” said Paul Moszak, vice president and heavy-duty evangelist at MOTOR Information Systems. “They’re taking a three-year budget and consolidating it into one year, for example. Say they spend $1 million each year to buy parts; they’re getting loans for $3 million this year to order those parts right now — all of them — for the next three years.”

“It’s going to contribute further to the parts shortage,” he explained, “because they’re going to get priority since they’re heavy buyers in the first place. So, all these manufacturers are going to be struggling to meet their demand, and these [future Aftermarket International

August/September 2021

purchasing buyouts] will lessen availability in the industry.”

MOTOR offers a product called FleetCross that may provide some relief. The product includes more than 45 million cross-references for mediumand heavy-duty parts, from OEM to aftermarket, identifying parts with similar fit and function.

He noted that several parts suppliers seem to be having production difficulties after COVID shutdowns. “It’s even just keeping up with it — ramping up after COVID has been very difficult for Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers, and not just on the semiconductor piece,” Rush said. “From a parts perspective, if you look at our parts inventories, we’ve got more parts backordered right now.

That’s one of the issues you run into. It trickles not just through trucks; it actually trickles through parts and service, too.”

“You never know how it’s going to affect you from day to day or week to week or month to month,” he emphasized. “But I do expect [the shortages] to get cleared out.”

One solution to the problem is also helping perpetuate the problem: stockpiling. As materials and parts have been harder to source reliably and when needed, manufacturers, parts suppliers and even fleets are trying to build up stocks of items or materials when they are available — potentially squeezing supplies for others down the road.

“Some of these larger groups that have some money are accelerating their parts purchases,” said Paul Moszak, vice president and heavy-duty evangelist at MOTOR Information Systems. “They’re taking a three-year budget and consolidating it into one year, for example. Say they spend $1 million each year to buy parts; they’re getting loans for $3 million this year to order those parts right now — all of them — for the next three years.”

“It’s going to contribute further to the parts shortage,” he explained, “because they’re going to get priority since they’re heavy buyers in the first place.

So, all these manufacturers are going to be struggling to meet their demand, and these [future purchasing buyouts] will lessen availability in the industry.”

MOTOR offers a product called FleetCross that may provide some relief. The product includes more than 45 million cross-references for mediumand heavy-duty parts, from OEM to aftermarket, identifying parts with similar fit and function. aftermarketinternational.com

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

Aftermarket Suppliers Enjoy Spike in Sales But Face Post-Pandemic Challenges The good news for automotive aftermarket suppliers is that sales are up significantly, compared not only to 2020 but even to 2019, said Paul McCarthy, president/COO of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), in a June 15 quarterly media call. The forecast by IHS Markit, commissioned by AASA and the Auto Care Association, points to projected growth of 11.2 percent this year, 5.3 percent in 2022, and 4 percent in 2023 and 2024, he said.

“This is above our pre-pandemic trend numbers in the high growth we’re seeing right now,” McCarthy said. He noted there is a post-pandemic shift in the demand for personal transportation, which will consistently trickle down in the next several years to the aftermarket.

But challenges remain for supply chain disruption, high transportation costs, finding workers and inflation.

“In this time of crisis, it’s even more important that we behave the right way,” McCarthy said.

“We see that our channel partners in our industry are in a battle for availability, and everyone wants to get back to high levels of fill rates. But an arms race of fill-rate penalties and punitive actions – those aren’t going to get us any closer to that outcome. It just probably slows down the outcome that we all want to see. I think the leaders espouse that the way we will succeed together in the future is through collaboration and innovation.”

Digitalization is changing consumers’ buying habits and vehicle technology, McCarthy said.

“Soon we’ll see vehicle diagnostics, prognostics, and how that drives our relationship with our customers will shift.”

At the same time, he said, AASA’s legislative efforts have never been more important. The association is partnering with the Auto Care Association and the Equipment and Tool Institute to draft a bill for what AASA terms “the biggest legislative federal effort in half a century” to ensure aftermarket access to vehicle data.

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“It’s about preserving a competitive market – the very principles of free-market competition – and that requires protecting continued consumer choice on where and with what parts vehicles are repaired. It’s a pretty simple concept.”

Ann Wilson, senior vice president of Government Affairs of the Motor Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), AASA’s parent organization, said the bill “aligns well with the Biden administration’s view that we need to talk about equity in transportation,” especially for second and third owners of used vehicles counting on the independent aftermarket to keep those vehicles on the road.

“We are very hopeful that Congress will move on this legislation this summer and into the fall.”

Wilson offers hope for supply chain and tariff woes. Solving the problem of the chip shortage is a long-term goal to help deal with ongoing supply chain issues, Wilson said. The $250 billion U.S. Innovation and Competition Act, which was passed by the Senate the week of June 7, included $52 billion specifically for research, development and the manufacture of semiconductor chips in the United States.

“This is very important because it’s a very limited number of semiconductors that are actually made in this country, as well as the wafers we actually make the semiconductors out of.”

Additionally, most tariffs are currently absorbed

by AASA members. With inflation ramping up, it will be more critical to eliminate these tariffs when possible.

“In that legislation, there was an amendment requiring the president to reengage on the exclusion process on the Chinese tariffs. This particular piece of legislation still has to pass the House, but the amendment passed, with the vast majority of senators voting in favor of it. And it is a significant signal to the Biden administration that they need to reopen the exclusion process, which is something that’s very important to the aftermarket.”

And there is other good news for tariffs. The United States and the European Union (EU) on June 15 agreed to suspend tariffs for five years stemming from a dispute over subsidies to aircraft manufacturer rivals Boeing and Airbus. While

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aircraft and auto parts manufacturing may seem to be disparate issues, Wilson said some aftermarket suppliers were swept into retaliatory tariffs from the EU over the Boeing/Airbus row. And the second piece of the agreement, she said, is that both parties have committed to remove tariffs on steel and aluminum before December. Wilson said Congress is currently considering The Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act of 2021.

“It has grown into a much larger transportation bill than I have seen in the 30 years that I’ve been in Washington,” she said.

“The conversations between the Republicans and the White House broke down before the president went to Europe last week. Now there’s a bipartisan group of senators who have proposed other ways to raise some revenue and get to a smaller bill. We are still hopeful and the work is still in progress to do that, so many in Washington are focused on what’s called budget reconciliation.

They can take some of the aspects of a transportation bill and they can move it through the Senate without having to have 60 votes.”

Anticipation Builds for Return to AAPEX Chris Gardner, AASA senior vice president of operations, said registrations are tracking with recent years for the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX,) the event co-owned

by AASA and the Auto Care Association.

Show management will follow guidelines from the city of Las Vegas, the state of Nevada, and the Centers for Disease Control, and will closely monitor how other trade shows are run to keep showgoers safe and healthy.

“People want to attend the event, and also because Las Vegas and the various venues and business travel and the general economy are continuing to open up,” Gardner said. “So, there’s a great sense of anticipation for having a very successful event.”

The 2021 AAPEX will “have a huge emphasis on repair shops and technicians this year,” Gardner said. The new “Joe’s Garage” will be in the middle of Repair Shop HQ, and will feature hands-on training, eight full-size bays with working lifts, ADAS-calibration demonstrations, tire changing, diagnostics, telematics, shop management software and more. It will take up the bulk of the Aftermarket International

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first level of the Sands Expo Convention Center.

“That’s downstairs. Normally, you’re used to seeing all these international pavilions and international exhibitors fill up level one of AAPEX. A lot of these folks will be located in a center section, either in Caesar’s Forum or in part of level two.”

Gardner said AASA is planning on a virtual option for content and training but not for exhibits.

“It’s not just our industry,” McCarthy said.

“Across the industry for all these trade shows, the feedback from attendees is virtual trade shows don’t really work. It really is about that spending time in person, seeing each other and interacting with each other.”

AASA also has two events planned prior to AAPEX. The Mobility Innovation Conference, hosted by AASA’s Mobility Technology Council Aug. 30-31, will be a virtual event.

“The fastest-changing area of our aftermarket is the area of changing vehicle technologies, and this event will tackle these technologies head-on,” Gardner said.

Some topics include emerging technologies for electric vehicles and other applications, as well as telematics and data access in Europe and the U.S., electrification headwinds, and the next generation of safety technology, driver-monitoring. “This is really far-out technology that’s several years out, but it will be heading our way soon.” The AASA Technology Conference will be held in Memphis, Tennessee, Oct. 11-12. It’s the first major in-person event for AASA members since the pandemic began, Gardner said. The program will include a live conference, including receptions, general sessions and display booths, followed by additional virtual content the week after.

“Some of the topics will include how electrification will impact supply chain processes,” Gardner said. “We’re going to look at heavy-duty business technology, brand owner e-commerce strategies, technologies for pricing strategies, the role of big tech companies and connected automotive services and digital commerce, to name just some of them.”

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

BASF to Launch Refinity Refinity combines a number of different software solutions into one cloud-based solution, increasing efficiency in time and resources for collision shops BASF’s Coatings division recently introduced Refinity, a new, cloudbased, digital platform for its body shop customers. Refinity will provide customers with a seamless digital experience designed to drive efficiency in the areas of color, business, training and support solutions.

The platform will also feature links to selected partners offerings to further connect customers to industry digital offerings that drive profitability and efficiency into the overall body shop process.

Refinity is a new brand and an all-new global value proposition for refinish customers. It combines a number of different software solutions into one secure, easy-touse cloud-based solution, increasing efficiency in time and resources. The cloud platform will not only allow for automatic updates but will open the door for continuous improvement opportunities and future offerings.

Refinity is currently available for customers online on a pay-as-you-go basis. Global country-wide rollouts will begin in October.

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Mahle Video Warehouse Now Includes Six-Part Filter Instructional Video Series Videos cover common challenges and solutions related to proper spin-on oil filter installation and provide an overview of the internal components that impact overall engine performance and efficiency MAHLE Aftermarket Inc. recently added a new, six-part video series to the MAHLE Aftermarket Video Warehouse. The instructional videos cover common challenges and solutions related to proper spin-on oil filter installation and provide an overview of the internal components that impact overall engine performance and efficiency.

“We have a long history in the filter industry and recognized early on how important optimally functioning filters are for the circulation of engine air and fluids,” said Ted Hughes, director of Marketing, MAHLE Aftermarket North America. “The goal of this new six-part series is to use our extensive product knowledge to provide valuable information specific to spin-on oil filters that help our customers deliver highgrade engine performance.”

In the latest six-part video series, Tim Golema, senior MAHLE training manager, delves into the features, benefits, and components of MAHLE oil filters, and further explores extended oil change service cycles, and how MAHLE Aftermarket spin-on oil filters are designed for optimal functionality with both conventional and synthetic motor oil.

Access the MAHLE Aftermarket Video Warehouse by visiting https://videos.mahleaftermarket.com.

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Standard Motor Products Aquires Trombetta Trombetta is a worldwide leader in providing power switching and power management products to OE customers in various markets Standard Motor Products, Inc. an automotive parts manufacturer and distributor, has announced it has acquired 100 percent of the capital stock of Trumpet Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (more commonly known as “Trombetta”), for $108 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments.

Trombetta is a worldwide leader in providing power switching and power management products to OE customers in various markets. Trombetta generates approximately $60 million in annual revenue, and has manufacturing facilities in Milwaukee, Wis.,, Sheboygan Falls, Wis., and Tijuana, Mexico, as well as a majority ownership in a joint venture in Wuxi, China.

SMP will fund the acquisition in cash through borrowings under its revolving credit facility. It anticipates the acquisition will be accretive to earnings in 2021.

Eric Sills, Standard Motor Products’ CEO and president, stated, “We are very pleased to announce this acquisition. Founded in 1932, Trombetta has a long history of supplying high-quality products to a broad group of blue-chip OE customers across multiple commercial vehicle and off-highway channels, including heavy truck, construction, agricultural, electric vehicle and power sports markets. This acquisition fits very well with our strategy to expand beyond our core aftermarket business into related markets and is highly complementary with our recent Pollak acquisition.

“Trombetta’s product portfolio includes wellestablished electromechanical parts such as contactors and voltage regulators, along with cutting-edge electronic components including various electronic controls and CAN bus-enabled devices. Importantly, few of Trombetta’s products are powertrain-related and thus are unaffected by the shift from internal combustion engines. We believe that in the future we will be able to leverage these technologies in our aftermarket business.

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“This acquisition also provides us with an increased global manufacturing footprint, additional engineering talent, a well-connected sales organization, and a strong and seasoned leadership team. We believe that the combination of Trombetta, along with the business we have already built in these markets, will create a critical mass that can be a powerful force for growth. It will also provide enhanced capabilities for SMP’s core aftermarket business. We welcome Trombetta and its roughly 300 employees to the SMP family.”

Jones Exhaust offers one of the largest lines of Chrome and Stainless Steel exhaust tips on the market

We also offer many lines of mufflers, flex flange repair pipes, flex connectors, welding wire, welding supplies, flanges and gaskets.

jonesexhaust.com • 731-632-1255

Come Come See See Us Us at at AAPEX AAPEX Booth Booth A728 A728

MARK ON CARD NO. 707 aftermarketinternational.com

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

Phillips Industries Aftermarket Division Promotes Walker to Senior Director The Aftermarket Division of Phillips Industries recently promoted Randy Walker to senior director of national accounts. He reports directly to Rob Myers, president of the division.

Walker has been with Phillips for more than 17 years, regularly advancing to increasingly responsible positions within the aftermarket sales organization.

He has recently been responsible for National Accounts in the U.S., where he has led the way to tremendous sales growth. Walker’s experience before joining Phillips included positions as regional sales manager with Intra Technologies of Tukwila, WA, and vice president of marketing for American TruckSource, Dallas, TX. He graduated from the University of North Texas with a BBA in Labor Relations.

“During his tenure with Phillips Industries, Randy has been both a leader and key component in Phillips’s success and unprecedented sales growth,” commented Rob Myers, president of Phillips Industries Aftermarket.

“Congratulations to Randy on a very well-deserved promotion!”

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WVE Vehicle Electronics Introduces More Than 1,700 New Part Numbers Part numbers are for various sensors, switches, solenoids, coils, emissions, filters, fuel injection products and a distributor drive gear, now available for a range of light and heavy-duty vehicle applications.WVE Vehicle Electronics has introduced 1,791 new part numbers in July for various sensors, switches, solenoids, coils, emissions, filters, fuel injection products, and a distributor drive gear now available for a range of light and heavy-duty vehicle applications. In all, WVE announced 1,060 switches, 577 sensors, 112 emissions products, 30 solenoids, eight fuel injection products, two filters, one coil and one distributor drive gear, which includes more than 770 million sales opportunities.

“Once again, our product team has demonstrated our commitment to providing a full line of professional-grade vehicle electronics and engine management products to our customers,” said Patrick Sommerfeld, vice president of Sales and Marketing with Wells Vehicle Electronics. “In just the first half of 2021, we’ve introduced nearly 3,600 new parts to our catalog, and we’re just getting started. What’s more is that each WVE part is backed with unmatched customer service and support.”

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Davico Manufacturing goes international with the opening of a second plant Davico Manufacturing is pleased to announce the addition of a second manufacturing facility in Coahuila Mexico. This expansion will allow Davico to meet the growing demands from their customers as well as take more control over our supply chain. This new facility will have full production capabilities to produce all of their direct fit Catalytic Converter and Exhaust products. Production began in mid-June and continues to ramp up. President Ray Surprenant said, “This new facility is an expansion of our production capacity and will be in addition to our rapidly growing production plant and corporate headquarters in New Bedford Massachusetts. I am looking forward to utilizing the capacity this new plant for building inventory to better serve our customers. We will continue our commitment to manufacturing in the USA as we have since 1987, but this expansion will further allow us to better serve our industry with additional capacity and improved lead times, while maintaining the highest quality”.

Aftermarket International

Davico Manufacturing. has been in business since 1987.

Davico started out specializing in direct fit Catalytic Converters and has expanded into direct fit Mufflers, Exhaust Systems, Decarbonizing Chemicals, and Exhaust Manifolds. Davico will

be able to deliver whether you need a stock order for their Warehouse Distributors or same day special orders of hard to find or rare applications.

“Thank you to all our customers for their loyalty and allowing us to serve them”.

WHO L E S A L E R S O F

August/September 2021

­ ­ ­

MARK ON CARD NO. 708

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23

[NEW PRODUCTS] INNOVATIONS FROM AFTERMARKET MANUFACTURERS

INFICON

Using 50 years of proven technology, INFICON introduces the new Automotive Service Tools (AST) line, dedicated to automotive service and repair. From the entry level AST100 to the feature-rich AST300PPM leak detector, this line provides a leak testing solution for all automotive aftermarket technicians.

The new INFICON AST line is designed for leak detection in any automotive air conditioning system, from R134a and R1234yf to CO2 and hydrogen forming gas applications. All AST tools include a UV inspection light to help verify the leak source in systems where fluorescent dye is present. AST300PPM and AST200IR are certified to both SAE J2791 and SAE J2913 requirements and include a quick check refrigerant gauge to verify refrigerant levels in an R1234yf system. AST300PPM helps technicians identify the relative size of leaks by providing concentration in a PPM (parts per million) display. AST300PPM and AST200IR include a new, easy-to-change infrared sensor, which can accurately detect both R134a and R1234yf and will not lose sensitivity over time.

Both units are also compatible with an optional sensor for CO2 applications. The quick charging lithium ion battery enables these units to run up to 10 hours without interruption.

Inficon.com For more information, see reader service page, and write in 711

Dual Recycle Guard™ with Quick Connect Fittings AirSept now offers its award-winning Dual Recycle Guard™ equipped with efficient and easy to use Quick Connect hose fittings that will connect to any commercial A/C refrigerant recovery equipment. Users connect the high and low side quickly without the need to search and find the exact ACME or Flare fittings to start the job.

Captures debris, sealant, dye, excess lubricant and other contaminants to protect expensive A/C recovery equipment. Designed with dual filtration to ensure no contaminated refrigerant will ever enter the recovery equipment and accessories.

MAHLE MOTORSPORT The latest addition to MAHLE Motorsport’s now includes the Ford 5.2L VooDoo Drop-in Forged PowerPak Piston Kit. Machined and inspected with the same stringent standards by MAHLE Motorsport North America, this forged replacement piston is available as a dropin, ready-to-run assembly that requires no rebalancing or compression ratio change.

mahlemotorsports.com For more information, see reader service page, and write in 713

airsept.com For more information, see reader service page, and write in 712

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Continental

Formerly available as “dealer only” items, the Continental Fuel Module line now features 145 SKUs and offers coverage and availability for popular makes and models from Audi, BMW, Ford, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, RAM, Porsche, and Volkswagen.

Every Continental OEM Fuel Module is the certified OEM part manufactured by Continental in ISO/TS certified facilities, ensuring the highest quality, ease of installation, and vehicle-specific fit, form, performance.

According to Brendan Bachant, product manager at Continental, “The Continental OEM Fuel Module

Program offers a unique solution for shop owners and technicians. These high quality, genuine OE parts deliver excellent European and domestic coverage for high volume vehicles, as well as hard to find applications.

Since the parts are genuine OE components, installation is simplified and labor is reduced, leading to fewer comebacks. The parts are competitively priced and come directly from the manufacturer, Continental.”

continental-industry.com For more information, see reader service page, and write in 714

Akebono

Akebono Brake Corporation has added front brake coverage for a variety of Toyota and Lexus models in the ProACT Ultra-Premium Disc Brake Pad line. The kit also includes Premium 301 Stainless Steel Abutment Hardware.

A complete listing of Akebono applications and the rest of its product offerings can be found in Akebono’s Web-catalog linked on the website: akebonobrakes.com.

This release adds significant late-model coverage, including the Toyota Camry, RAV4 and the All-New 2021 Toyota Venza,” said Edward Gerhardt, marketing and data service manager.

akebonobrakes.com For more information, see reader service page, and write in 715

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

LKQ Partners and Tractable LKQ North America is now using Tractable’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate and optimize the recycling of the salvage vehicles the company procures across its North America segment.

The AI uses computer vision, a technology that allows

AFTERMARKET I N T E R N AT I O N A L

algorithms to reason based on images, to assess each vehicle’s specific damage and determine which parts can be recycled and reused. Tractable’s AI has been trained on millions of historical examples and performs on par with human intelligence, increasing the level of consistency and accuracy.

Yogi Shivdasani, vice president of North America Supply Chain at LKQ, said, “We are excited to be the first recycled parts provider to apply AI to the effective and efficient procurement of salvage vehicles.

Tractable’s AI has enhanced our expertise with identifying high-

quality parts on salvage vehicles and making sure those parts can be recycled and reused. Tractable further assists LKQ in delivering the right parts, to the right place, and at the right time.”

Alex Dalyac, Tractable cofounder and CEO, added, “Through this collaboration with LKQ North America, our technology is improving the value of parts recycling for the entire North American auto repair ecosystem. By finding reusable parts at scale and ensuring they are distributed more quickly, our technology is already having a positive impact on both the auto industry and the environment.”

Contact : Brad Glazer, Publisher • 216-233-6943 • bsgrep@aol.com Mail to: 3793 Meadowbrook Rd., Cleveland, OH 44118 ww.aftermarketinternational.com

Don't delay,simply fill out the form and return it to us via mail.

Please write the number of the product that you are interested in below:

Please check each of your companies activities.

A ❏ Operators of a fleet of vehicles, including trucking companies, buses, passenger and taxi fleets B ❏ Independent repair shop or service station, engine rebuilder, body or paint shop C ❏ Vehicle dealer, importer, distributor D ❏ Parts or equipment distributor/representative/dealer/importer E ❏ Vehicle manufacturer or assembler, parts or equipment manufacturer F ❏ Government, school, association G ❏ Other (please specify)____________________________ COMPLETE ONLY IF YOU ARE A FLEET OPERATOR: TYPE OF VEHICLE: ____________________________________________________________

1 ❏ Trucks

2 ❏ Buses

500 ❏ Accessories 501 ❏ Air conditioning, cooling, heating 502 ❏ Alignment and balancing equipment 503 ❏ Analyzers and testers 504 ❏ Brakes, wheel, axle, parts

3 ❏ Taxis

4 ❏ Autos

505 ❏ Fuel system parts 506 ❏ Car care products 507 ❏ Chassis parts 508 ❏ Collision repair equipment 509 ❏ Engines, engine parts 510 ❏ Ignition/Electrical

511 ❏ Lighting 512 ❏ Lubricants, additives, chemicals 516 ❏ Filters: fuel, oil, air 518 ❏ Tools and shop equipment 519 ❏ Transmission, drive train parts

520 ❏ Pumps, fuel, oil, water 521 ❏ Suspension parts 522 ❏ Collision repair parts 523 ❏ Exhaust parts 524 ❏ Heavy duty parts 525 ❏ Hoses and belts

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Viper Heavy Duty Expands its Order Management Technology VIPAR Heavy Duty’s PARTSPHERE OMS, an order management system that facilitates the electronic transmission of orders, invoices and documents between distributors and suppliers, has seen a significant increase in adoption within the network since its launch in 2019. All of VIPAR Heavy Duty’s 116 distributors are fully integrated and 87 of the network’s supplier partners are set up, or in the process of finalizing integration, to conduct their electronic data interchange (EDI) transactions faster and with greater accuracy through the platform.

The company recently expanded its order management technology with the launch of PARTSPHERE FLEET, its next-generation fleet order management system, to connect distributors and national fleet trading partners. Powered by the same technology behind PARTSPHERE OMS, PARTSPHERE FLEET integrates with distributors’ systems and uses EDI capabilities to provide a scalable parts ordering solution for fleet customers based on modern technology and with increased functionality.

Automated algorithms conduct parts matching and price validation to streamline the ordering process and improve accuracy, optimizing time and resource savings for distributors and their fleet customers.

“The past year has accelerated an already growing need for digitization in our industry,” said Andrei Katibnikov, vice president of information technology, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “VIPAR Heavy Duty’s focus on integration within PARTSPHERE OMS, the launch of PARTSPHERE FLEET, and our continued investment in our full digital platform ensures distributors, suppliers and fleet and enduser customers have the necessary tools to support and grow their business, delivering True Group Value to benefit our entire network.”

PARTSPHERE PIM, the organization’s product information management system, contains information that helps distributors and their customers easily locate needed parts. Continuous improvements have been implemented to support the growing breadth and depth of quality data, including product attributes, descriptions, interchanges, image assets and more.

Aftermarket International

August/September 2021

Automechanika launches Digital Review of auto:resource After a successful six-month start, auto:resource brought to you by automechanika, has collated its most popular content with the most views from its aftermarket community in a newly launched Digital Review, as a way to celebrate the very best information and insights on the platform.

The new digital click book showcases the latest training, product information, promotions, business advice and insights from leading suppliers in one location.

The easily accessible and free-ofcharge Digital Review can be viewed instantly and on the go at just the click of a button.

What’s more, users can access all of the informative industry blogs from key players in the industry, including Hayley Pells and Tom Denton, as well as webinars that auto:resource has curated and published, since December. The full version on each page can also be viewed by simply selecting articles or videos.

The Digital Review also includes an update from aftermarket associations on current trends and topics affecting the industry, such as The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), The Institute of Motor Industry (IMI), and other contributors to the State of the Aftermarket Report, including Andy Savva, The Garage Inspector and Quentin Le Hetet from GiPA UK. Supplier Spotlights feature too, with detailed information and insights from some of the aftermarket’s leading suppliers, including Blue Print, Bosch AA, Comline Autoparts, NGK Spark Plugs and Valeo. aftermarketinternational.com

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[INDUSTRYNEWS] ALL AROUND THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

Ford Motor Company Names TSD as an Authorized Ford Dealer Telematics Service Provider Dealerships that create customized alerts will know when their vehicles leave a designed area.

Keeping track of both rental and loaner fleets no longer requires any guesswork.

TSD Mobility Solutions officially announced its status as an authorized Ford Dealer Telematics Services Provider this week. Today, more than 500 Ford and Lincoln dealerships rely on TSD’s fleet management software to control costs, reduce liability, and improve the customer experience.

The formalization of their partnership offers dealerships access to exclusive features, including TSD’s telematics integration with Ford and Lincoln, which launched at the beginning of 2021. The success of the integration prompted Ford’s Courtesy Transportation Program and Rent-A-Car teams to select TSD as their preferred partner.

“We’ve helped Ford and Lincoln dealers manage their loaner and rental fleets for more than 25 years,” said Shawn Concannon, executive vice president of TSD. “We are excited to bring dealerships more advanced technology such as Telematics, Contactless Customer Contracting, Service Pickup and Delivery, and many other great new features.”

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Aftermarket International

Exploring the Direct Benefits of Telematics Telematics grants dealerships greater oversight and control. A Ford service manager in Los Angeles can draw a geofence of his local area to deter his customers from taking a gamble with his Mustang in Las Vegas or going on a joyride in Tijuana. Dealerships that create customized alerts will know when their vehicles leave a designed area. Keeping track of both rental and loaner fleets no longer requires any guesswork.

The benefits of telematics go beyond just GPS; enhanced telematics makes pickup and delivery easy for staff. Dealership employees can quickly navigate to drop off or pick up vehicles from their customers’ homes. Other perks of TSD’s telematics integration include faster service thanks to TSD’s automated fuel and mileage.

Ford and Lincoln dealers have the opportunity to enable (and disable) telematics options as they see fit.

Further information on TSD as an Authorized Ford Dealer Telematics Services Provider will be sent out to dealers at the beginning of the third quarter. TSD looks forward to supporting Ford and Lincoln dealerships with live telematics training in the upcoming weeks.

August/September 2021

aftermarketinternational.com

The Federal Trade Commision Creates a “Made in USA” Regulation The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has consolidated its longstanding policy on enforcing unqualified “Made in USA” claims within a new regulation, “Part 323— Made in USA Labeling.” The regulation does not impose any new requirements but is intended to make it easier for businesses to understand claim conditions and, for the first time, allow the FTC to seek civil penalties for violations.

Since at least 1940, the FTC has used its general legal authority to enforce against deceptive or unfair trade practices regarding unqualified Made in USA claims. It has provided broad guidance, most recently in December 1997, that requires a seller making an unqualified Made in USA claim to have a reasonable basis for asserting that “all or virtually all” of the product is made in the United States.

While recognizing that there Aftermarket International

is no single “bright line” to establish when a product meets the “all or virtually all” threshold, the FTC policy remains that an unqualified Made in USA claim implies no more than a de minimis amount of product is of foreign origin. The final assembly or processing of the product must occur in the United States.

Beyond this minimum threshold, the FTC will consider other factors such as the portion of the product’s total manufacturing costs attributable to U.S. parts and processing, how far removed from the finished product any foreign content is and the importance of the foreign content to the form or function of the product. The FTC’s 1997 guidance document also remains in effect and is available for additional reference.

Companies may still make qualified Made in USA claims for products that include U.S.

August/September 2021

content or processing but do not meet the criteria for making an unqualified claim.

Examples of qualified claims include: “Made in USA of U.S. and imported parts”; “75% U.S. content”; “Assembled in U.S.A.” The FTC rule does not supersede or affect any other federal or state rule that is consistent or would provide greater protection. For example, California allows a “Made in U.S.A.” label for products sold in California if the product is made in the United States and all its subcomponents that are sourced from outside the U.S. constitute no more than 5 percent of the final value of the manufactured product.

The labels may also be used if the subcomponents cannot be obtained in the U.S. and all subcomponents sourced from outside the U.S. make up no more than 10 percent of the final wholesale value of the manufactured product.

aftermarketinternational.com

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Continental Enhances Autodiagnosis Pro New coverage has been added for European makes that include 1.53 million Volkswagen, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles in operation in the U.S. and Canada Continental has sincreased the vehicle coverage and service capabilities of its Autodiagnos Pro Automotive Diagnostic System.

New coverage has been added for European makes that include 1.53 million Volkswagen, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles in operation in the U.S. and Canada.

Additionally, specific tool enhancements were added to help automotive technicians streamline vehicle diagnosis and repair vehicles faster. The scan tool can now be used to service a wide range of Asian, domestic, and European makes and models. Vehicle coverage is continually being added as new models are introduced by manufacturers.

Autodiagnos Pro reports vehicle-wide DTCs in an average of 20-30 seconds, decodes VINs in seconds, and provides accurate data in list, multiple graph, and gauge formats. The clear and sharp interface presents vehicle data in an intuitive and uncluttered layout that’s easy to configure and easy-to-read. The tool has been designed to integrate seamlessly with a shop’s current workflow system.

Christopher Bahlman, head of Diagnostics &

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Aftermarket International

Services, Continental Commercial Vehicles and Services, said, “With the addition of significant European coverage and Continental-specific tool capabilities, Autodiagnos Pro will help our professional customers streamline their diagnostic procedures for faster and more productive vehicle service.”

Engineered and supported in the U.S., Autodiagnos Pro was designed and built by OEM tool developers on a worldwide OEM platform. The scan tool features an easy-to-use interface and incorporates the same data used in OE diagnostics. The Autodiagnos Pro was engineered and is supported in the US. The Autodiagnos Pro Automotive Diagnostic System is offered on a subscription-based model, so there is no large, upfront investment.

The scan tool comes with a one-year subscription at purchase. The system can utilize a shop’s existing compliant desktop, tablet, or laptop. The subscription can be bundled with a new tablet at purchase.

Bahlman added, “Continental is also extending a special offer to Autodiagnos Pro customers.

Autodiagnos Pro Scan Tool sold and registered through May 30, 2022 will have two years of software updates included in the initial purchase.”

August/September 2021

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