JANUARY 2021
RIGHT TO REPAIR
New Victories, New Roadblocks
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AASP-MN News
CONTENTS Vol. 30 No. 1 AASP-MN News is the official publication of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota, Inc. 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102 Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 612-623-1110 Fax: 612-623-1122 email: aasp@aaspmn.org website: aaspmn.org. To keep its readers better informed, AASP-MN News allows its columnists to fully express their opinions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of the publication. AASP-MN News is published by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. ©2021 All rights reserved. Cover image www.istockphoto.com.
AASP of Minnesota is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving the state’s automotive service industry and the success of its members.
AASP-MN BOARD MEMBERS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE ..........................................4 ESSENTIAL by Judell Anderson, CAE, AASP-MN Executive Director LEGISLATIVE UPDATE................................................................6 Make New Friends, but Keep the Old by Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist
2020 - 2021 PRESIDENT Matthew Feehan
LOCAL NEWS ............................................................................8
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Carl Thomas
NATIONAL NEWS ......................................................................10
SECRETARY-TREASURER Tom Archambault
DEG ESTIMATING TIPS ..............................................................14
COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Jesse Jacobson
COVER STORY ..........................................................................16 Right to Repair: New Victories, New Roadblocks by Joel Gausten
MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR Tony Newman ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Loren Feldkamp COLLISION SEATS Randy Miller Lee Schlosser
COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.) Train's A-Coming by Janet L. Keyes, CIH and Carol A. Keyes, CSP ................................18 CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS! ....................................20 AASP National Benefits Available to AASP-MN Members
MECHANICAL SEAT Jeremy Nordgren
STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Judell Anderson, CAE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Jodi Pillsbury MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR Tom Kluver PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc.
UPCOMING EVENTS May 20
June 22
Fall 2021
Annual Meeting & Leadership Conference
26th Annual Golf Outing
Race for Automotive Education
Nicollet Island Pavilion Minneapolis
TBD
ProKart Indoor Racing Burnsville
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
PUBLISHER Thomas Greco | thomas@grecopublishing.com SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli | alicia@grecopublishing.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lisa M. Cuthbert | lisa@grecopublishing.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Joel Gausten | joel@grecopublishing.com EDITORIAL & CREATIVE COORDINATOR Alana Bonillo | alana@grecopublishing.com OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco | donna@grecopublishing.com
www.grecopublishing.com
aaa Auto Parts ..........................................................19 A-Con Recycling ......................................................17 Aramark ......................................................................20 Bolt On Technology ................................................7 Dentsmart ..................................................................9 Inver Grove Honda/Inver Grove Toyota ..........6 Jack McClard ............................................................10 Keystone ....................................................................15 Maplewood Toyota ................................................14 Mopar Group ............................................................15
AASP-MN News
Morrie’s ......................................................................4 MPA ..............................................................................IBC Proven Force ............................................................OBC Reliable Automotive Equipment ........................12-13 Rosedale Chevrolet ................................................20 Sherwin Williams ......................................................IFC Spanesi ........................................................................5 Straight & Square ....................................................22 Toyota Group ............................................................11
January 2021 | 3
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
ESSENTIAL One positive thing that came out of the 2020 pandemic was by Judell Anderson, CAE, the recognition that the auto AASP-MN Executive Director service and collision repair industry is ESSENTIAL. Of course, those of us “in the know” have realized this all along. But it’s nice for it to be publicly recognized and more official, isn’t it?! AASP-MN members have amazed us with their resourcefulness, resilience, generosity and exceptional business acumen during the disruptions of the past year. What is most impressive to me, personally, is your positive attitude. Even during the low times of March and April, your thoughts quickly turned to the encouraging industry trends that were likely to come from the pandemic. Things like: • More miles traveled due to a desire to venture outand-about after the long confinement in our homes; • Miles traveled shifting away from public transportation and shared-ride services and back toward private passenger vehicles; • Customers spending money to keep their older vehicles on the road rather than committing to new car payments; and
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• Accelerated implementation of new technologies that increase shop productivity, efficiency and profitability. Your optimism has lifted the spirits of your Alliance staff, as well. We are geared up and motivated to make your 2021 membership experience even more valuable than ever before. That experience will include a reunion celebrating your resilience at the Leadership Conference on May 20. It also includes the introduction of a new member benefit program: CARS Co-Op discounts/rewards for collision shops. We’re revamping the Neighborhood Auto Repair Pro™ campaign to deliver an even bigger impact for participating shops. And, of course, we will continue our work to advocate for you at the state Capitol, promote industry careers through MNCARS and provide opportunities for you to connect, share and learn from other members. On that note, we wish you a very Happy 2021! Here’s to vaccines and a quick economic recovery. And here’s to you – our members – the best of the best of Minnesota’s auto service and collision repair industry! You are, indeed, ESSENTIAL.
AASP-MN News
AASP-MN News
January 2021 | 5
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Kevin Walli
AASP-MN Lobbyist
Make New Friends, but Keep the Old
There are going to be plenty of new faces at the State Capitol when the legislature convenes on January 5. Going into this year’s election, there were a number of retirements and several incumbents lost their bid for re-election. One of the tasks we will be undertaking on behalf of AASP-MN is to help members connect with their legislators in the House and Senate, whether they are Democrats or Republicans. Our goal, in general, is to educate legislators about the repair industry and the types of issues that we typically work on at the legislature. Over the years, we’ve had a considerable amount of work in the House and Senate Commerce Committees armwrestling with the insurance industry on fair claim practices. Those issues will undoubtedly continue to be in the forefront, but we have had issues in other committees as well. We always watch the Tax Committees to see how busi-
6 | January 2021
ness tax policy changes, in general, and whether there are any provisions of particular interest to the repair industry. We follow the Environment and Natural Resources Committee and the proposed rules that come out of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to determine their consequence for repair shops. This keeps us engaged to provide input as the legislature considers changes to environmental policies or implementation at the agency level. We hope you will be a resource on repair industry concerns for your legislators or become a resource for the newly elected legislators just learning about the repair industry. We want to be responsive to member interests and concerns. If there is an issue that arises that affects your business operation, please bring it to the association’s attention so that we can evaluate whether there is a legislative remedy that we might incorporate in our 2021 legislative platform.
AASP-MN News
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January 2021 | 7
LOCAL NEWS
HAPPY NEW YEAR! from the AASP-MN Board of Directors & Staff We Need You! AASP-MN is looking for automotive industry professionals who are interested in advancing the industry by serving in leadership positions on the Alliance’s Board of Directors and advisory committees. If you have a personal interest or would like to nominate someone else to fill one of these positions, nominations must be received by February 20. To be considered, an individual must be nominated by five or more regular members. The Nominating Committee may also nominate a person whose name was not submitted by the regular members. If, by March 1, only one person has been nominated to fill the open seat(s) on the Board of Directors, the person so nominated shall be declared to have been elected to the Board without further action. If more than one person has been nominated to fill a position, the Nominating Committee will prepare an electronic ballot setting forth the names of the persons who have been nominated and will send to the regular members by March 10. There are also several positions open on the Collision, Mechanical and Associate Advisory Committees, as well as the Government/Regulatory Affairs Committee. If you are interested in serving on any of the committees above, please contact the Nominating Committee Chair, Carl Thomas (Lancer Service), at (651) 224-0267 / carl@lancerservice.com, or the Alliance office at (612) 623-1110 / aasp@aaspmn.org by February 20. Note: Only an individual representative of a member which performs collision work may be nominated to fill a Collision Division Seat, and only an individual representative of a member which performs auto service work may be nominated to fill a Mechanical Division Seat. AWAIR Program Webinar Now Available On-Demand AASP-MN is pleased to announce its “Creating an AWAIR Program for Your Shop” webinar is now available ondemand. All automotive repair facilities in Minnesota are required to have A Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction (AWAIR) program. Minnesota OSHA has been out since July enforcing and citing violations of the AWAIR standard. Webinar attendees will learn the purpose and requirements of the AWAIR standard to begin developing a customized program for their own shop. Participants will receive a 20-minute phone consultation with CHESS to review draft programs. The program is presented by Carol & Janet Keyes, Complete Health, Environmental & Safety Services (CHESS).
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Cost for this webinar is $100 per member/$150 per non-member shop. To view the webinar, click “On Demand” at elearning.autoserviceproviders.com. APH Acquires JMC Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH), a family-owned aftermarket auto parts distributor and store group, has announced the acquisition of Jack McClard & Associates (JMC), a leading automotive equipment sales and service business located in Hopkins, Minnesota. The newly acquired location will become an integral part of APH’s BENCO Equipment division and its plans for future growth and market expansion. JMC, owned and operated by Dave and Jan Fischer (pictured above), has been in business since 1972. The Fischers have been the sole proprietors of the business since 1993 and, along with the help of seven fulltime employees, have grown the business into one of the largest and most well-respected automotive equipment distributors in the Upper Midwest. In the coming months, APH plans to merge its BENCO Equipment location in Shakopee with JMC to better serve the Twin Cities and surrounding markets.
Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS) MNCARS is a non-profit organization established in 2016 by AASP-MN. Its sole purpose is to promote careers in the automotive industry, recruit young people into the state's college-level automotive service and collision repair programs and, ultimately, into industry workplaces. To further those efforts, MNCARS recently participated in the following events: • CTE Works! Summit (Career & Technical Educators)
• MSCA Fall Conference (Minnesota School Counselors Association)
Take advantage of the resources in the MotorMouth toolbox at https://carcareers.org/motor-mouth/. Get out and get active in your local community promoting
Sponsorship Support Needed for AASP-MN’s Education & Events in 2021 Sponsorships are now available for AASP-MN education and events in 2021. Sponsorships help the Alliance deliver quality programs and keep registration fees affordable. Sponsors are rewarded by increased visibility and recognition within the Alliance membership and industry at-large. It’s a great way to stand out, expand marketing dollars and connect with the best shops in the industry.
AASP-MN News
If you are interested in sponsoring any events in 2021, sponsorship information can be found on the Alliance’s website, aaspmn.org or by calling the office at (612) 623-1110. 2021 Membership Dues Are Due! Annual membership renewals were mailed in December. By now, all AASP-MN members have received at least two membership renewal notices. If you have not paid your 2021 membership dues, PLEASE do so today. Your timely payment will save the Alliance additional costs and time incurred with re-billing and other collection efforts. We would much rather be dedicating those resources to programs and initiatives to improve the automotive service industry – and your business. Thank you!
To date, the following companies have made sponsorship commitments in 2021: Platinum Sponsors Fix Auto LKQ Minnesota Lube Tech & Partners Gold Sponsors AASP National Auto Value Parts Stores/APH Axalta Coating Systems CBIZ FinishMaster Podium PPG Automotive Finishes United Fire Group
Silver Sponsors aaa Auto Parts AmeriPride Services Colonial Life Enterprise Rent-a-Car O’Reilly Auto Parts Single Source Sherwin Williams Suburban Chevrolet Bronze Sponsors C.H.E.S.S. Twin Cities Auto Glass Leadership Conference Vendor Sponsors 1 Collision Network 3M Automotive Trades Division Dentsmart PDR
SUBSCRIBE TODAY to the official publication of AASP-MN / the Alliance! Visit https://forms.gle/ipnVyZzeLMYcoZvS7 to begin receiving the print version of AASP-MN News every month! AASP-MN News
January 2021 | 9
NATIONAL NEWS Double-Digit 2020 Mileage Plunge Annual mileage on U.S. roads will plunge by more than 12 percent during 2020, according to the latest www.langmarketing.com projections by Lang Marketing. This will be only the seventh year since World War II in which U.S. mileage has fallen. The 2020 percentage plunge in mileage will be more than six times larger than any previous annual driving decline over the past 65 years. A2C2 White Paper Details Problem of Counterfeit Auto Parts Sold Online Analysis cites unverified approach by online marketplaces and lack of consumer awareness as major concerns and offers ways to improve the situation The sale of counterfeit automotive parts through online marketplaces is a significant and growing problem, posing a threat to the health and safety of U.S. consumers, according to a new white paper commissioned by the Automotive AntiCounterfeiting Council, Inc. (A2C2). The report details key factors contributing to the proliferation of counterfeit auto parts online, including an unwillingness on the part of e-commerce marketplaces to sufficiently verify the legitimacy of the third-party sellers and products on their sites, and the general lack of awareness among consumers that some automotive parts sold online are counterfeit. While calling for online marketplaces to be held account-
able for the products available on their sites, the white paper also offers several suggestions to improve the situation, including implementation of industry practices to validate marketplace supply chains; greater collaboration between marketplaces, brands and law enforcement to identify and track counterfeiters; and improved consumer education. Although A2C2 has been focusing on mass-market ecommerce marketplaces and not business-to-business parts procurement systems used by the automotive aftermarket, due diligence is recommended when an auto service or collision repair shop is dealing with a customer who shows up with parts in hand and requests that the repairer install them. The white paper states, “Consumers are unaware that some products on online marketplaces are counterfeit. Many consumers believe that the offerings online are more akin to brick-and-mortar retailers. Many do not realize the lack of regulation of the third-party sellers and thus are unknowingly putting themselves or their customers (in the case of automotive repair shops) at risk.” The Automotive Anti-Counterfeiting Council, Inc. is comprised of 10 North American vehicle manufacturers – FCA U.S., Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen Group of America and their subsidiary brands – representing nearly 30 trusted brands and over 90 percent of the nation’s passenger vehicle market. The complete paper and additional information on the counterfeit automotive parts problem in the United States are available at A2C2.com.
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January 2021 | 11
ESTIMATING TIPS Mitchell: Masking Within Refinished Panel Perimeter NOT INCLUDED Recent DEG Inquiry 17278 response from Mitchell states, “Perimeter masking is included up to 36 inches, areas requiring masking within the perimeter have not been factored into the refinish allowance.” An example of masking within perimeter of a panel that may not be included is fuel door pocket, quarter glass openings, door openings, vents and various holes within a panel. This would be an on-the-spot evaluation. When exterior panels (i.e., doors) are removed leaving exposed door openings/entrances, additional masking operation labor times can be found in the Mitchell CEG>> Page 28> Mask vehicle to prevent overspray. Materials are never included in published labor times. Audatex: Wire Harness Attached to Bumper Covers is NOT INCLUDED Recent DEG Inquiry 17326 response from Audatex regarding parking sensor harness attached to bumpers during overhaul operation: “We do not allow time on any harness in accordance with Database Reference Manual Section 4-2 Labor Exclusions. No change is warranted at this time.” An example would be overhauling or replacing a bumper cover with an additional harness attached to the backside of
the bumper. Labor to un-route and re-route the harness is NOT included and would be an on-the-spot evaluation. Nissan Wire Harness Repair Repairers can easily locate wire harness repair kits available from Nissan using Nissan Tech-Mate (nissantechmate .com/harness-repair) Tools and Equipment website. Repairers can easily identify connector type using images to ensure the correct OEM part number is being ordered. CCC: Refinishing “Break Point” Recent DEG Inquiry 17409 states, “After review, when refinishing a ‘Welded-On Panel’ the requirement is to refinish to the nearest ‘Break-Point’, because creating a Blend-Line at a ‘Non-Break Point’ may result in ‘Refinish Deterioration’. Your example: "Repairing the Quarter Panel and the Outer Surface of those parts will require some type of refinishing. The time necessary to perform this type of operation should be estimated after an on-the-spot evaluation of required procedure. MOTOR recommends these factors be considered before finalizing any repair cost estimate. “MOTOR feedback: A breakpoint would be a hard stopping point in an undetectable area that may be covered by a molding or the panel edge. The image sent would not be considered a breakpoint or panel edge.”
Note: The estimating databases are all intended to be used as a GUIDE ONLY - it is important to remember that the auto body professional performing the repair is in a position to thoroughly inspect, diagnose and identify the methodology and their unique cost of the vehicle damage repair. You can view these tips and others on the DEG website, DEGWEB.ORG.
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AASP-MN News
AASP-MN News
January 2021 | 15
COVER STORY By Joel Gausten
Right to Repair: New Victories, New Roadblocks In the world of automotive service and repair, there is no such thing as living in a bubble. Although Massachusetts isn’t exactly in the backyards of most readers of this publication, there has been a flood of critical news coming from that state in recent times that could ultimately have a tremendous impact on the Right to Repair movement in Minnesota and everywhere else in this country. While November 3, 2020 will likely go down in history for kickstarting one of the most surreal and head-scratching events in American politics, it also marked a major milestone for the independent automotive service and repair industry. On that day, more than two million voters in Massachusetts ensured passage of a critical ballot measure to strengthen and revise the state’s existing Right to Repair Law (in place since 2012). The measure was created to improve the independent industry’s access to OEM repair information through the following provision (presented here with minor edits):
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Commencing in model year 2022 and thereafter, a manufacturer of motor vehicles sold in the Commonwealth, including heavy-duty vehicles having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds, that utilizes a telematics system shall be required to equip such vehicles with an inter-operable, standardized and open access platform across all of the manufacturer’s makes and models. Such platform shall be capable of securely communicating all mechanical data emanating directly from the motor vehicle via direct data connection to the platform. Such platform shall be directly accessible by the owner of the vehicle through a mobilebased application and, upon the authorization of the vehicle owner, all mechanical data shall be directly accessible by an independent repair facility or a class 1 dealer licensed pursuant to section 58 of chapter 140 limited to the time to complete the repair or for a period of time agreed to by the vehicle owner for the purposes of maintaining, diagnosing and repairing the motor vehicle. Access shall include the ability to send commands to in-vehicle components if needed for purposes of maintenance, diagnostics and repair.
AASP-MN News
“Right to Repair is extremely important – not just because I’m a shop owner, but because it protects the rights of people to be able to choose where they want to have their vehicles taken care of. It’s the same as choosing a restaurant
Continued on page 19
What’s Wrong With This Picture?
ANSWER: A cord with electrical tape likely covering up damage at the strain relief (where the cord enters the plug).
“This is an extraordinary win for independent automotive service and collision repair facilities in the Commonwealth,� commented Evangelos “Lucky� Papageorg, executive director of AASP’s Massachusetts affiliate, in an official statement shortly after the votes were tallied. “The Right to Repair law was overwhelmingly supported in 2012; however, it needed updating due to advances While only time will tell in technology. On behalf where the legal fight of the vehicle owner – and to protect our own liability against Right to Repair in the repair process – it is will lead, the story critical that both collision unfolding on the East Coast is surely being repairers and independent automotive service watched by anyone who professionals have access believes that consumer to the most current mechoice and access to chanical and diagnostic repair information are data available. This inforfundamental rights. mation is vital to enable proper repair and guarantee proper functionality of all the computerized functions of today’s vehicle.� Unfortunately, the celebration lasted less than three weeks. On November 20, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (a group formed this year that claims to represent “the manufacturers producing nearly 99 percent of cars and light trucks sold in the U.S.�) filed a lawsuit against Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey in opposition to the recently passed ballot measure. In its suit, the organization argues that “[t]he extraordinary changes required by the law, combined with the standard industry lead time necessary to develop future model year vehicles, means that most members will be incurring substantial costs immediately in an attempt to comply with the law. And if an automaker cannot research, develop and implement the open-access, bi-directional platform required by the [ballot measure], then it could be subject to significant penalties for its vehicles sold in Massachusetts, whether directly through dealers or in the aftermarket.� Not surprisingly, the Massachusetts Right to Repair Coalition, which spearheaded the original ballot measure, takes exception to the Alliance for Automotive Innovation’s legal maneuver to prevent democratically determined revisions to state law. “After spending $26 million only to be resoundingly defeated at the ballot box, the big automakers still don’t get it,� commented Coalition Director Tommy Hickey in a statement. “Their baseless, anti-democratic lawsuit attempts to thwart the will of the voters and their customers, who voted by a 75 percent majority for Right to Repair.� Much closer to home, AASP-MN member and staunch Right to Repair supporter Tony Newman (Dale Feste Automotive; Hopkins) is quick to express frustration over the tug of war playing out 1,500 miles away.
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January 2021 | 17
COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES, INC. (C.H.E.S.S.)
Train’s A-Coming By Janet L. Keyes, CIH and Carol A. Keyes, CSP
hearing tests.) This annually required training can be included with Right to Know/Hazard Communication training or may be provided by the company that does hearing tests.
You only hire qualified people, right? And once you hire them, they never need training, right? Of course not. You know people need to maintain their skills and learn new ones to stay competitive. They also need training to stay safe. The training required by OSHA is the bare minimum of what is needed. But many shops don’t even hit that floor. That’s why lack of training consistently ranks among OSHA’s most frequently cited standards. What’s the minimum required training?
Fire Extinguisher Use You can tell employees to get out if there’s a fire or you can give them training each year on when and how to use a fire extinguisher. That can be a simple five-minute briefing or could be a live burn, with each employee getting a chance to extinguish the flames.
Right to Know/Hazard Communication You need to train employees on the chemical and physical hazards to which they are exposed. You need to provide them with enough training, so they understand warning labels (do they know what the label pictograms mean?) and know how to get more information about those hazards. The training has to cover the hazards with which they work. That makes sense – if your painters know that they need to be careful with clear coats because the isocyanates in them can cause asthma, you might be spared a lifelong disability claim from isocyanate-induced asthma. Because products change and people forget, refresher training on this is required each year. Respirators If employees are required to wear respirators, you must provide them with annual training and respirator fit testing. If employees do not know how to maintain their respirators or if they use them incorrectly, the respirators are of no value. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Employees need to know what PPE is required and how to take care of it. That includes protective gloves, safety glasses and hearing protection. You do not have to repeat this each year, but occasional refreshers are a good idea. Noise If employees are exposed to a time-weighted average of 85 decibels, they need training on the hazards of noise and how to protect themselves. (You also need to offer annual
18 | January 2021
Emergencies You can’t assume employees would know what to do if the shop bursts into flames or someone is injured. If they need to evacuate, do they know where to meet so you can account for everyone? Training on emergencies is required. You aren’t required to repeat it each year, but you want to make sure it’s kept up to date. A Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction (AWAIR) Automotive repair shops need to have AWAIR programs, outlining safety responsibilities and how hazards will be identified and controlled. That has to be communicated to employees, but it doesn’t have to be via formal classroom training. AASP-MN just held a webinar which now is available on-demand at elearning.autoserviceproviders.com/. Overwhelmed yet? That’s not all. If employees do any welding or work with flammable liquids, they need training on safe work practices. If you have a forklift, users must be trained and tested to show they can operate it safely. They need training on “control of hazardous energy,” if something could start up or fall down or otherwise release energy when worked on. They need to know how to use electricity safely. Are you thinking you need to spend so much time training that employees will never be able to get anything done? It’s not that bad. Start off by looking at what trade school or continuing education training employees are getting now. Did they take an I-CAR welding course? If so, they probably have had training in safe welding practices. Once a year, when you have a staff meeting, take five minutes to review what to do in case of emergencies. At an-
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other staff meeting, take another five minutes to review when and how to use fire extinguishers. You don’t know how to use them? Do an internet search. Sites such as fire-extinguisher101.com do a very good job of explaining extinguisher use. Or check with your local fire department. Once you have developed your AWAIR program, go over it with employees. That should take 15, 20 minutes. Have people sign a roster, so you have a record that you communicated the program to them. Right to Know and respirator training require some expertise to provide. Videos may be available from OSHA or
from the local safety council. Your suppliers may be able to provide help with respirator training and fit testing. Or you can hire a safety and health consultant to help with those. That won’t be free (but I-CAR training isn’t free, either). You want a safe workplace. Having people injured and equipment damaged costs you money and time. It isn’t fair to employees – and it can be costly to you – to assume they know everything about how to work safely. Invest in training. It will pay off. For more information, contact Carol Keyes at carkey@chess-safety.com or (651) 481-9787.
COVER STORY
Continued from page 17
or who will fix your furnace. I don’t know if making proprietary information unattainable in any field is consumer oriented. People need to have that choice.” Like many, Newman is cynical when considering how something that more than two million citizens voted for is now facing an uncertain future. “I’ve come to learn that if you want to figure out why something is off, it’s not because the majority of people wanted it; it’s because there’s money behind it somewhere.” While only time will tell where the legal fight against Right to Repair will lead, the story unfolding on the East Coast is surely being watched by anyone who believes that consumer choice and access to repair information are fundamental rights. As for the Alliance for Automotive Innovation’s argument, Newman can only shake his head. “Manufacturers are saying that this is inconvenient, and they don’t have the time to put this stuff in place, but they should have known all along that this was how it was supposed to be.” More insight into Right to Repair in Massachusetts is available in the August 2020 issue of AASPMN News.
AASP-MN News
January 2021 | 19
CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS!
AASP National Benefits Available to AASP-MN Members Did you know that by being a member of AASP-MN you have access to many other AASP National benefits? Check them out here! Website and Internet Marketing Solutions Autoshop Solutions, the leader in internet marketing for the automotive aftermarket, has developed and launched the most cutting-edge marketing platform for auto shops. RPM is an all-in-one program that bundles your website, payper-click, search engine optimization, social media and much more! By using every marketing tool in the toolbox, you’re guaranteed to have a stronger online presence that brings more cars to your bays. With five levels of “Really Powerful Marketing” to match your budget, goals and competition – RPM is built to drive your shop forward. For more informa-
tion, contact Tony Mercury at (919) 267-1731 or (888) 991-3449 or email tony@autoshopsolutions.com. Information Providers IDENTIFIX offers AASP members discounted prices on the industry’s number one technical repair information subscription, Direct Hit. For more information, contact customer service at (800) 288-6210. Mitchell International offers AASP members a 15 percent discount on any Mitchell RepairCenter™ TechAdvisor package. Call Customer Service at (800) 238-9111 or visit mitchell.com for more information. Mitchell 1 offers AASP members special discounts on the Mitchell 1 family of integrated software tools. For more information, contact customer service at (888) 724-6742.
AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS PROPERTY/LIABILITY AND WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE CBIZ AIA Contact: Brad Schmid 763-549-2247 / bschmid@cbiz.com CBIZ AIA and United Fire Group (UFG) have created a program for members that includes a special premium discount, exclusive coverage and potential safety group dividend. CBIZ AIA can present quotes from multiple carriers and, as an added bonus, offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums.
WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS Autoshop Solutions Contact: Tony Mercury 919-267-1731 / tony@autoshopsolutions.com Autoshop Solutions has developed the most cutting-edge marketing platform for AASP members. Really Powerful Marketing (RPM) is an allin-one program that bundles your website, pay-per-click, search engine optimization, social media, and much more! With five levels of RPM to match your budget, goals, and competition, it’s built to drive your shop forward!
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Business Planning Professionals Contact: Dennis Begley 612-308-6577 / dennis@begley-group.com Business Planning Professionals will provide AASPMN members with quotes from multiple carriers for life insurance, health insurance, long-term care and disability insurance.
Net Driven Contact: Rich Mullen 877-860-2005, ext. 224 / rmullen@netdriven.com Net Driven is a market leader in website and internet marketing solutions designed exclusively for the automotive industry. AASP-MN members who choose Net Driven are eligible for a $500 discount off their 1st year setup fees.
EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARY BENEFITS Colonial Life Contact: Deb Ferrao 612-600-4135 / deb.ferrao@coloniallifesales.com or Tracy Bailey 612-801-0139 / tracy.bailey@coloniallifesales.com Dedicated representatives can help members transform their benefit package with competitive rates, value added services at no cost and complimentary legal document preparation service. Colonial Life has the tools and flexibility to create a plan to fit everyone’s needs.
INFORMATION PROVIDERS Mitchell 1 Contact: Mitchell 1 Representative 888-724-6742 Mitchell 1 offers AASP members special discounts on the Mitchell 1 family of integrated software tools. .
UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES AmeriPride Services Contact: John Majchrzak 612-670-4034/ majchrzak-john@aramark.com Discounted pricing to members on rental of uniforms, entrance mats, shop rags, etc. Purchases are also discounted. Members receive annual rebate equal to 10% of their business with AmeriPride each year. CREDIT CARD PROCESSING Association BankCard Services Contact: Mac Hardin 952-933-2026 / mach@retailfinancialservices.biz Competitive rates for AASP-MN members. Terminals and printers sold at cost. Monthly rental of equipment is also available. LEGAL CONSULTATION Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick 800-496-6789 Members receive free, over-the-phone legal assessment and consultation (some restrictions apply) with an attorney who specializes in the area of law that is the subject of the call.
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Mitchell International Contact: Mitchell International Representative 800-238-9111 AASP members receive a 15% discount on any Mitchell RepairCenter TechAdvisor package. Visit ww.w.mitchell.com/ products-services/collisionrepair-shop-solutions/cloud-estimating for more information. TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE IDENTIFIX 800-288-6220 Members enjoy discounted prices on the industry’s #1 technical information hotline, DirectHit. AUTO EMPLOYEE ASSESSMENT Assessment Associates International Contact: Nate Page 952-854-6551 / nate@aai-assessment.com Designed to help facilitate and enhance hiring decisions. AASP-MN members receive 50% off retail price, starting as low as $15 per assessment.
BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARS AASP-MN Contact: Jodi Pillsbury 612-623-1110 / jodi@aaspmn.org Discounted rates on printed business forms and calendars. CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES Certegy Check Services 877-520-2987 Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments. SAFETY COMPLIANCE Complete, Health, Environmental & Safety Services, Inc. Contact: Carol Keyes 651-481-9787 / carkey@chess-safety.com AASP-MN members receive a 20% discount on Safety Data Sheet Management (SDSLinks), Right to Know(RTK)/Hazard Communication program customized for your facility and monthly safety reminders, and other safety, OSHA or environmental assistance. PAYROLL PROCESSING CBIZ Payroll Contact: Carrie Hobrough 612-436-4620 / chobrough@cbiz.com Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll products and services (excluding 401k). BUSINESS COACHING 180BIZ 540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com Members receive a 20% discount on one-on-one sales and management coaching programs (covering financial planning & analysis, strategic marketing, leadership and personnel development) without long-term commitments. Members also receive a 20% discount on monthly sales & management webinars as well as a 20% discount on all 180BIZ advisor training programs. REPAIR SHOP PRODUCTS/SERVICES DISCOUNTS CARS COOPERATIVE Contact: Stephanie Sheppard 405-547-4077 / membersupport@cars.coop Members receive discounts on a variety of products and services they use every day! From discounts on paint and rental cars to office supplies and phone services. Over 50 programs available!
For information on any of the programs/services above, visit www.aaspmn.org/savings/
AASP-MN News
Business Coaching 180BIZ offers members a 20 percent discount on one-on-one sales and management coaching programs (covering financial planning and analysis, strategic marketing, leadership and personnel development) without long-term commitments. Members also receive a 25 percent discount on monthly sales and management webinars, as well as a 20 percent discount on all 180BIZ advisor training programs. For more information, call (540) 833-2014 or visit 180biz.com. Online Education Portal AASP members have access to free webinars designed to enhance management skills and help their business thrive. Visit elearning.autoserviceproviders.com to check it out. For more information about any of the AASP National programs above, contact the AASP-MN office at (612) 623-1110 or aasp@aaspmn.org.
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2845 Hwy 35W North Located at I-35W & County Road C Roseville, MN
AASP-MN News
January 2021 | 21
22 | January 2021
AASP-MN News
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IS OUR TOP PRIORITY. PARTNERS OFFER DEDICATED WHOLESALE CALL CENTERS. OVER 50 DELIVERY VEHICLES WITHIN PARTNER NETWORK. ALL PARTNERS OFFER TECHNICAL SUPPORT FOR ASSOCIATE VEHICLES.
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Walser Nissan - Wayzata Toll Free 800-328-9552 Direct 651-484-8888 Fax 877-593-2526
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Toll Free 800-328-3551 Direct 952-475-1721 Fax 952-475-2024
Mark Bowman
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Toll Free 888-483-8840 Direct 651-484-0962 Fax 651-490-6674
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