New Jersey Automotive December 2020

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ALLIANCE OF AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE PROVIDERS/NEW JERSEY (WWW.AASPNJ.ORG) AND THE AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY (www.ARANJ.org)

DECEMBER 2020 $5.95

STANDING TOGETHER, EVEN APART

2020 NJA INDUSTRY SURVEY The

H Claim Settlement and the Law H Auto Body License Update H Opt OE: FCA Takes a Stand

www.grecopublishing.com

THE LATEST FROM

| FLEXIBLE | Easily interchangeable calibration components with power adjustable frame

| PRECISE | Secure knob movement with laser positioning for accuracy of millimeter ruler

| COMPLETE | Frequently update MaxiSYS software to provide newest model OE level coverage.

OE level calibration with graphic instruction is easier to use than OE interface.

Exceptional vehicle coverage and graphic instruction for accurate calibration procedures

CALL US TO LEARN MORE, AND TO SIGN UP FOR YOUR IN-SHOP ADAS DEMO!!

AND DON’T FORGET ABOUT GREAT DEALS AVAILABLE ON PROSPOT, SPANESI AND MORE! CALL US TODAY!

973-348-9490 W W W.ISATWELD IN G.C O M 2 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

SOM ME SEE ONL O Y PAINT. WE SEE S A REFLECTION OF WHO W WE E ARE. Every vehiclle finish mirrors what we value most as a com mpany—our commitment ent to delivering the industryy’s most advanced coatings that meet the demands mands of an ever-changing ging marketplace.

And a passion for partnering with our customers to help them succeed at everyy level of their business. Our values have been gu uiding us for more than n 115 years running, so o our dedication is always there for the world to see.

ppgrefinish.com fi i h

©2018 PPG Industries, In nc. All rights reserved.

The PPG Logo is a registe ered trademark and We We prot pr ect and beautiffyy the w world is a trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. c.

THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER WAY TO BUY THE WORLD’S BEST ENGINEERED PARTS. THEY’RE CALLED “ORIGINAL BMW PARTS” FOR GOOD REASON. FOR UNCOMPROMISING PRECISION AND INCOMPARABLE QUALITY, YOUR BMW CENTER IS YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR EVERYTHING BMW.

For Original BMW Parts, contact one of these authorized BMW centers: BMW of Springfield 391-399 Route 22 E. Springfield, NJ 07081 Toll Free: 800-648-0053 Fax: 973-467-2185 bmwofspringfieldnj.com

Paul Miller BMW 1515 Route 23 South Wayne, NJ 07470 PH: 973-696-6060 Fax: 973-696-8274 paulmillerbmw.com

BMW of Bridgewater 655 Route 202/206 Bridgewater, NJ 08807 PH: 908-287-1800 FAX:908-722-1729 bridgewaterbmw.com

Flemington BMW 216 Route 202/31 Flemington, NJ 08822 PH: 877-657-2787 Fax: 908-782-1795 njparts.com/bmw

Park Ave BMW 530 Huyler Street South Hackensack, NJ 07606 PH: 201-843-8112 FAX:201-291-2376 parkavebmw.com

Circle BMW 500 Route 36 Eatontown, NJ 07724 Parts Direct: 732-440-1235 Fax: 732-440-1239 wholesale@circlebmw.com circlebmw.com

©2020 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

4 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

We Appreciate Your Business!

Flemington Audi, the largest Audi wholesale parts dealer in NJ, thanks our customers for continued loyalty and business. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you over the years, and look forward to helping you save time and increase profits in the future with Audi Genuine Parts.

• Our expert parts staff is ready and able to give you premium customer service and help you meet the demands of your business.

• Our concierge support helps you get the parts you need when you need them to wow your customers.

• We offer daily deliveries throughout the tri-state area with our fleet of 22 delivery vans.

• As our customer, you have access to the Audi technical support hotline to help you speed up installation and get repairs out the door quicker.

Flemington Audi 213 Routes 202/31 South, Flemington, NJ 08822 Business Hours: M-F 7:30am – 5pm Sat 8am – 4pm

Parts Direct: 877.857.2787 Parts Fax: 908.782.1795 Email: rmuir@flemington.com www.njparts.com mikekaufmann d e a l e r g r o u p “It’s all in the name”

Join our growing list of satisfied customers!

Orders accepted by phone, fax and email.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 5

6 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

P.O. Box 734 Neptune, NJ 07753 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Charles Bryant 732-922-8909 / setlit4u@msn.com 2019 - 2021 OFFICERS PRESIDENT Jerry McNee, Ultimate Collision Repair, Inc. 732-494-1900 / ultimatecollision@att.net COLLISION CHAIRMAN Dennis Cataldo, Jr., D&M Auto Body 732-251-4313 / jr@dnmautobody.com MECHANICAL CHAIRMAN Keith Krehel, Krehel Automotive Repair, Inc. 973-546-2828 / krehelauto@aol.com TREASURER Tom Elder, Compact Kars, Inc. 609-259-6373 / compactkars@aol.com SECRETARY Thomas Greco, Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 973-667-6922 / thomas@grecopublishing.com BOARD Brad Crawford, Livingston Collision, Inc. 973-992-5274 / livingston.collision@gmail.com Gary Gardella, Jr., County Line Auto Body 732-363-5904 / countylineautobody@gmail.com Dave Laganella, Peters Body and Fender 201-337-1200 / petersbandf@gmail.com Sam Mikhail, Prestige Auto Body 908-294-1985 /prestige@goldcar.us

VOLUME 50 NUMBER 12 | December 2020

CONTENTS COVER STORY

by Jacquelyn Bauman

The 2020 NJA Industry Survey 10 14

OUT OF BODY (AND MECHANICAL) EXPERIENCES PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Ted Rainer, Ocean Bay Auto Body 732-899-7900 / ted@oceanbayautobody.com

LOCAL NEWS

Anthony Trama, Bloomfield Auto Body 973-748-2608 / anthony@bloomfieldautobody.com

22

BOARD ALLIED Joe Amato, The Amato Agency 732-530-6740 / joesr@amatoagency.com

37

STANDING TOGETHER, EVEN APART:

24

16 20

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE COLLISION CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

54 NJA ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

Rutgers Law Professor Addresses Claim Settlement Issues at AASP/NJ Annual Meeting by

AASP/NJ Guides Members through Auto Body License Renewals PPG’s Scott Pearson Seeks Kidney Transplant

Mike Kaufmann, Advantage Dealer Services 973-332-7014 / mkaufmann@advantageds.com

26

PAST PRESIDENT ATTENDING Jeff McDowell, Leslie’s Auto Body 732-738-1948 / chacki@aol.com

30

AASP/NJ Members Stress Importance of Proper Documentation

34

AASP/NJ’s Tom Elder Elected President of AASP National

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 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Charles Bryant • Mario DeFilippis • Jeff McDowell • Mitch Portnoi • Ron Ananian Keith Krehel • Jerry McNee • Bob Dirkes • Jacquelyn Bauman

Published by: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202, Nutley, NJ 07110 Corporate: (973) 667-6922 / FAX: (973) 235-1963

www.grecopublishing.com NEW JERSEY AUTOMOTIVE is published monthly and is sent to AASP/NJ and ARANJ members free of charge. Subscriptions are $24 per year. NEW JERSEY AUTOMOTIVE is published by Thomas Greco Publishing Inc., 244 Chestnut St., Nutley, NJ 07110. The editorial contents of NEW JERSEY AUTOMOTIVE are copyright © 2020 by Thomas Greco Publishing Inc. and may not be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher and/or editor. Articles in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Thomas Greco Publishing Inc. Stock Images courtesy of www.istockphoto.com.

NATIONAL NEWS 36

FCA Takes a Stand against “Opt OE” Parts

AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY 50 Wharton Insurance Briefs by Mario DeFilippis Joe Amato, Sr. Ron Ananian Jim Bowers Charles Bryant Don Chard Guy Citro Pete Cook Ed Day Dave Demarest Phil Dolcemascolo Tom Elder Bob Everett

Thomas Greco Dan Hawtin Rich Johnson Wes Kearney Nick Kostakis Jim Kowalak Keith Krehel Joe Lubrano Michael Lovullo Jeff McDowell Sam Mikhail Ron Mucklow

George Petrask Russ Robson Jerry Russomano George Threlfall Cynthia Tursi Lee Vetland Paul Vigilant Rich Weber Brian Vesley Glenn Villacari Stan Wilson

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 7

Not only do we sell WHOLESALE GENUINE PARTS across the tri-state area — we have a knowledgeable team of parts specialists that can find the component you need for a seamless vehicle repair.

Our flagship dealerships are pleased to offer a wide selection of authentic genuine parts so you can repair your customer’s luxury car to the highest quality.

AUDI QUEENS 30-35 College Point Boulevard Flushing, NY 11354 Wholesale Direct: 929.297.0788 audiqueens.com

JAGUAR GLEN COVE 70 Cedar Swamp Rd. Glen Cove, NY 11542 Wholesale Direct: 516.674.8599 jaguarglencove.com

MERCEDES-BENZ OF BROOKLYN 1800 Shore-Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11214 Wholesale Direct: 929.509.4749 mbofbrooklyn.com

JAGUAR HUNTINGTON 1249 E. Jericho Turnpike Huntington, NY 11743 Wholesale Direct: 631-427-2704 jaguarhuntington.com

MERCEDES-BENZ OF CALDWELL 1220 Bloomfield Avenue Caldwell, NJ 07006 Wholesale Direct: 973.808.0204 mbofcaldwell.com

JAGUAR SOUTHAMPTON 355 Hampton Road Southampton NY 11968 Wholesale Direct: 631.287.5162 jaguarsouthampton.com

WHOLESALE PARTS

HOTLINE

8 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

8 4 4 . 9 8 . PA RT S

The repair of luxury vehicles begins with

LAND ROVER GLEN COVE 70 Cedar Swamp Road Glen Cove, NY 11542 Wholesale Direct: 516.674.8599 landroverglencove.com

LEXUS OF BRIDGEWATER 1550 US-22 Bridgewater, NJ 08807 Wholesale Direct: 866.679.7054 lexusofbridgewater.com

LAND ROVER HUNTINGTON 1249 E. Jericho Turnpike Huntington, NY 11743 Wholesale Direct: 631-427-2704 landroverhuntington.com

LEXUS OF EDISON 711 US Highway 1 Edison, NJ 08817 Wholesale Direct: 732.593.6860 lexusofedison.com

LAND ROVER SOUTHAMPTON 355 Hampton Road Southampton, NY 11968 Wholesale Direct: 631.287.5162 landroversouthampton.com

(844.987.2787)

WE WILL GO THE EXTRA MILE FOR YOU.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 9

OUT OF BODY (AND MECHANICAL) EXPERIENCES by THOMAS GRECO, PUBLISHER

And So This Is Christmas 2020...

Let’s get this out of the way before any holiday tidings.

As I write this, there is still no official decision on the election, but it looks like we will have a new president come January. For those of you who voted for Joe Biden, congratulations. To the victors go the spoils. For our country’s sake, I pray he does great things. For those of you who voted for Donald Trump, just remember that many of the very same people who are dancing in the streets and gloating now are the ones who voted for President Obama in 2008. And eight years later, we elected President Trump. It’s all a cycle. So, don’t give up hope. If nothing else, let’s all come together and beat this COVIDPage 1 19 demon.

And so this is Christmas...Obviously, a Christmas like no other. So, let’s go back a few years and tell a tale of Christmas past…

When I was a kid, the job of hanging the Christmas lights always went to my dad and my brother Steve. That was fine with me. Steve was always good with doing chores, whether it was shoveling snow, vacuuming the pool or cleaning the gutters. (Oh, man, I HATED cleaning the gutters. Not only was it a disgusting job, but I was scared of heights!) He loved doing that stuff. Eventually, when I was around 10, I got sucked into helping out with the lights totally against my will. I mean, to hang Christmas lights required some of the things I hated most.

LYNNES

AUTO GROUP WHOLESALE DEPARTMENT

Genuine Service & Parts

JAGUAR LAND ROVER PARSIPPANY Attention Body & Repair Shop Managers…

What can Jaguar Land Rover Parsippany do for you?

• Competitive "Negotiable" Discounts with Free Delivery • Knowledgeable Staff - Over 20 Years Jaguar Land Rover Wholesale Experience • 99% of Orders Delivered the Next Day… Max 48 Hour Turnaround • Back Orders Chased • Parts Hunted Down!

SERVICE, SELECTION AND VALUE SINCE 1953

Delivering to the New Jersey/New York area.

Genuine Nissan parts are built to the same standards as Nissan vehicles. It’s no wonder they’re the driving force behind the most exhilarating vehicle on the road.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER PARSIPPANY

7 experienced countermen and 12 drivers ready to serve

220 Route 46 West, Parsippany, NJ 07054

Phone: 973-575-8055 Fax: 973-575-5583 LRPPARTS@paulmiller.com HOURS: Monday-Saturday 8am to 5pm (Sunday: Closed) Part of the Paul Miller Auto Group

10 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

Parts: 800-782-7597 E-mail: John@lynnes.com www.lynnesnissan.com Hours: M-F 7:30am - 6pm, Sat 7:30am - 2pm 5 Alva Street | Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Like getting up early.

Or climbing a ladder.

Or manual labor of any kind.

But there I was. At first, it was kind of easy. It was my job to check the lights and pass them up. That lasted for maybe a year or two. Soon enough, I was called into full duty. And what a year my dad picked for that…

You see, that was the year my dad got it in his head that he was going to go all out with Christmas decorations.

It also happened to coincide with Steve’s first year of college – meaning he wasn’t around to help. The day I saw my dad pull into the driveway with sheets of plywood, a bunch of 2x4s, a bale of hay and the entire cast of the Nativity, I knew I was in deep, deep trouble.

Of course, the first thing I asked my dad was, “What is all of that for?”

He just backhanded me across my face and said, “Go pick it up.” (NOOOO! My dad would never do that; I was just seeing if you were paying attention!)

He actually said, predating Chevy Chase in Christmas

Vacation, “Tom, we’re gonna make the best Christmas display in town.”

Now you have to remember that this was the early 1970s. There were no blow-up Santas or Frostys on anyone’s lawns. There were no reindeer or fake icicles on people’s roofs. Homeowners put lights around the windows and wreaths on their doors, and that was about it.

That’s what we always did. We only had to add maybe two extra strings to be the “best in town.” But not this year. No, not with little Tommy on full duty.

“Son, get the ladder. We’re going on the roof.”

I wanted to cry like Ralphie in A Christmas Story. He climbed up and asked for the 2x4s.

“Bring up the hammer and nails, Son.” (As I have said here many times before, to this day, I can’t put a hammer to a nail – a true bricklayer’s son.) As I joined him on the roof, I asked him what we were doing (while at the same time trying not to faint from looking down).

“Son, we’re going to nail these two beams together,

Continued on page 23

is a distributor of high quality collision supplies sold at cost effective pricing.

Check out our website and find many great products!

• Clear Coat Set Ups • Seam Sealers • Primer • UV Products • Putties and Fillers

• IWATA Spray Guns • Masking Tape • Colad Cup Systems • Colad Paint Suits • Spray On Bedliner Product

Sign up for our newsletter! Subscribers are notified of new specials each month. We carry a complete line-up of ICR Sprint, Colad and Sunmight Abrasive products.

First Time Customers receive 10% off when placing their first online order of $50 or more! Use coupon code 10-Off when ordering online.

collisionsuppliesne.com New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 11

12 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 13

Look It Up!

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by JERRY MCNEE

There was a time in this industry when shops were able to rely on their experience and expertise to accurately determine how a vehicle repair should go, but that era is long gone.

These days, as technology in automobiles continues to outpace the in-house knowledge of even the best shops out there, it’s critical that OEM repair procedures are utilized every time a vehicle arrives at your door. That doesn’t just mean tracking these procedures down; it also means making sure everyone – the technician, the shop manager, the quality control personnel, etc. – reads and understands them. Of course, OEM information doesn’t just fall from the sky; it has to be thoroughly researched and applied. This takes time, energy and focus – and none of these things are free.

At my shop, we’ve been making a real effort to track our OEM research times. To illustrate how important this is, here’s an example from a recent test study performed by a shop I know in another part of the country: As per the OEM, replacing the tailgate and rear bumper cover on a 2019 Toyota Highlander required 24 procedures spelled out over 64 pages. It took 45 minutes to research this information, 60 minutes to review it and another 30 minutes to get the necessary diagnostic equipment together. Can you honestly say you’re repairing vehicles correctly if you’re not putting in that kind of time? It’s always important to get paid, but shops need to do this work even if an insurer refuses to acknowledge it. That’s an entirely separate issue. First and foremost, we need to do what’s necessary to perform proper repairs and keep our customers safe. If you’re not making that

commitment, then you’re doing a disservice to the entire industry.

The bottom line is that you are responsible if something bad happens to that vehicle in a subsequent collision because of something you did – or didn’t do – at your shop. Those things do happen; we just don’t hear about them because litigation and gag orders keep them quiet. Could something happen to you?

Probably not. Is it possible? Sure. Do you want to be the one singled out? Only you can answer that.

As far as billing goes, don’t allow yourself to get beat down by what insurers refuse to pay. Certifications cost money.

Accessing repair procedures costs money. Tools and equipment cost money. These are all things worth billing for.

On another note, this issue of New Jersey Automotive includes a position statement by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in regard to the use of “Opt OE” parts. Our position on these products was made clear in the previous two issues of this magazine, and now FCA has stepped up to draw a line in the sand on the matter. Read what FCA has to say and use it to make more informed decisions in your parts-ordering processes. We need to stand up and push back against the insanity going on with part definitions and classifications. The practice of adding “OE” to parts that clearly don’t measure up needs to stop.

In closing, I wish all of our members a safe and healthy holiday season. We’ve all been through a lot this year, and 2021 will likely be another challenging time. AASP/NJ is here to help you through as much as we can. Stay strong. NJA

WE BRING G YOU OU THE E BEST T... ✓ PRODUCTS ✓ ACCOUNT SUPPORT ✓ PROCEESS SOLUTIONSS ✓ DELIV VERY OPTIONS ✓ TECHN NICAL TRAINING G /finishma asterinc @finishm masterinc finishmassterinc

14 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

8 866 866-711-5 711 5235 5

www.finiishmaster.com/weecanhelp

THE FOUNDATION OF OUR BUSINESS SUCCESS IS YOUR LOYALTY.

OUR SUCCESS IN BUSINESS COMES FROM OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH LOYAL CUSTOMERS. With years of service and commitment to the BMW brand, we reflect on our past and look to the future, thankful for your loyalty and dedication by allowing us to serve you. We also want to extend our services to new and existing businesses who are looking for something more than just a parts supplier. · · · · ·

We are part of the BMW NA delivery program that delivers to us three additional times per day We have a highly-trained and experienced team of BMW parts advisors Our team of advisors can be counted on to be knowledgeable when you need technical support We update our inventory daily to ensure we stock the most current items to meet your demands All original BMW parts carry a 2-year limited warranty

BMW of Springfield Wholesale Parts Hotline: 800-648-0053 Wholesale Direct: 973-671-9321 Wholesale Fax: 973-467-2185 391 Route 22 East, Springfield, NJ 07081 Orders accepted by phone, fax, and email to speed your delivery and your repairs. Ask about our next-day UPS delivery.

Email: wholesaleparts@bmwofspringfieldnj.com or visit us on the web: bmwofspringfieldnj.com

Join our growing list of satisfied customers. Save time, improve profits and keep your customers loyal. * If your order is placed by 10:30am, we will confirm availability and provide you with and ETA for delivery. ©2020 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 15

Just When We Thought It Was Over, Here It Comes Again!

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE by CHARLES BRYANT

I have been involved in the collision industry for many employees were still afraid to come back to work and be years, and I’ve witnessed just about everything we thought around others in a close environment, so the shops still it would have to deal with. When Hurricane Sandy hit, we could not fully open up. Other shop owners found that were devastated by the flooding and treacherous winds certain employees had found other jobs and were not that snapped trees like pretzels and took down buildings available to come back. Some of the shops that closed like they were made of straw. We’ve dealt with other down have stayed that way. disasters, including the wildfires out west and severe Just when it seemed that we were just about back to flooding and tornadoes wiping out homes and businesses normal (or at least had learned how to navigate through clear across the United States. However, those were this disaster), here we go again. All of a sudden, the natural disasters, and we often we had COVID-19 pandemic is back without a chance to prepare before they warning in what appears to be full Whether we like it actually hit. Because we have seen force, and it’s getting worse by the day. or not, the pandemic these types of terrible natural disasters Although people are getting used to that we thought had before, we are somewhat aware of wearing masks and social distancing, slowly slipped away how to deal with them. Plus, they are life is just not the same. A whole new is back, and it usually over in a few days or weeks, way of life has been introduced appears to be getting unlike the COVID-19 pandemic we are because of the pandemic, and we have stronger as the presently confronting. seen really wonderful things happen – The first difference is that we did as well as some not-so-nice things. We days go by. not see this coming; therefore, we have witnessed people in the were not prepared for it. Next, I am not automotive industry helping one sure there would have been any way to prepare for it. It’s another get through the hard times, and we have seen not like a natural disaster where we could hunker down in a certain people take advantage of the pandemic. storm shelter, board up our home or business or build a Some of the stories would warm your heart, like the dam. If you get the virus, you just hope you will make it shop owner who lost his painter and didn’t know where to through. We have many in the industry who got it and turn until his competitor offered to do his paint work until made it through; unfortunately, we have some who did not. the other shop could find a replacement and get back on Although automotive businesses were considered its feet. In another instance, a member of our industry went essential and allowed to stay open, many in our industry from shop to shop, picked up donated N95 masks and still had to lay people off or close down completely delivered them to hospitals that did not have enough anyway. Some closed because a few of their people masks to go around for the workers. caught the virus, and others closed simply because they Other stories were not so wonderful. As the pandemic had no business (at least when the virus first hit). However, got stronger and stronger, certain insurers began to use it even when things started to lighten up and certain to their advantage. Some carriers had wanted to eliminate restrictions started getting lifted, many businesses still did the cost of having appraisers come out to inspect not have the same workflow they had before this all damaged vehicles and prepare estimates long before the started. As a result, they could only hire back some of their pandemic hit. Now, many of those insurers simply say they employees. As time went on and things seemed to get are not coming out because of the pandemic and are somewhat forcing the shops to inspect the vehicles, take better (but not fixed), some shop owners found that many

16 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

pictures of the damage and prepare the estimate without compensation. To add insult to injury, now that the insurers have many shops going along with this practice, they are starting to deny payment for certain damages based on the claim that can’t be justified based on pictures. At that same time, they refuse to come out and inspect the vehicle when they claim that they can’t see all the damage. When we see and hear of the nice things people are doing to help one another, it just seems so heartless to hear that anyone would take advantage of these hard times.

Whether we like it or not, the pandemic that we thought had slowly slipped away is back, and it appears to be getting stronger as the days go by. This year, AASP/NJ had to cancel its annual Golf Outing and in-person NORTHEASTÂŽ Automotive Services Show. Now, we are all

sitting on the edge of our seats to see how strong the current wave will be and, more importantly, how long it will last. AASP/NJ will be watching and reporting on things as they arise.

We also want to remind our members that we have a host of member benefits available to help you get through these hard times, including a Hot Line to answer questions and solve problems as they come up and a Labor Pool for shops to find employees and for workers to find jobs. If you are a member of AASP/NJ and are experiencing a problem, don’t hesitate to call the Hot Line at (732) 9228909. If you are not an AASP/NJ member, now would be a good time to become one so you to could take advantage of all the great benefits our membership has to offer.

Again, AASP/NJ is here to help. Our members never have to feel they have to face things alone. NJA

2

2

CALL US: 888-918-0737 EMAIL US: sales@network1llc.com

THE LIFT KING - LIGHT DUTY PACKAGE >Â?Â?ÂœĂœĂƒ ĂžÂœĂ• ĂŒÂœ Ăƒ>viÂ?Ăž >˜` ivwVˆiÂ˜ĂŒÂ?Ăž remove and install Pickup Boxes with only one operator in a matter of minutes! *DOLLIES ALSO AVAILABLE!

3 MADE IN AMERICA You read that right, our product is 100% American made. Rest assured knowing your dollar supports domestic business.

THE FENDER PAINT STAND V>˜ LÂœÂœĂƒĂŒ ĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ ÂŤĂ€ÂœwĂŒĂƒ LĂž ˆ˜VĂ€i>ĂƒÂˆÂ˜} ĂŒÂ…i ivwVˆi˜VĂž Âœv your collision repairs and painting process.

THE LIFT KING HEAVY DUTY PACKAGE allows you to remove and install Semi œœ`Ăƒ Ăƒ>viÂ?Ăž >˜` ivwVˆiÂ˜ĂŒÂ?Ăž ĂœÂˆĂŒÂ… one operator, with additional tilting mobility for body repair and painting. *DOLLIES ALSO AVAILABLE!

*DOLLIES ALSO AVAILABLE!

EFFICIENT Using four mechanics

to remove or install a semi hood or pickup bed is a liability and not productive. Use the Lift King and one person.

SAFE Meets requirements for ASME PASE-2014 Safety Standard.

WWW.NETWORK1SOLUTIONS.COM New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 17

WayneMazda.ccom We ship anywhere in the coun ntry!

F AS T! F REE! NEXT D AY DELIVER RIES!

WA AY YNE MAZDA

1244 Route 23 North, Wayne NJ 07470 1-800-639-7278 • Fax: 862-221-9664 Email: Blanterman@waynemazda.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat. 7:30a am-4pm

Call us for ALL of your Wholesale olesale Parts and Accessory Needs! ds!

FAST! FAS FA AST ST T! F FR FREE EE NEX NEXT EXT XT DA DAY AY DEL DE LIVERIES IV VERIES ES 1244 Route 23 North, Wayne NJ 07470 1-800-639-7278 • Fax: 862-221-9664

WayneHyundai.com Email: Blanterman@waynehyundai.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-7pm, Sat. 7:30am-4pm 18 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

Call us for ALL A of your Whollesale Parts and d Accessory Neeeds!

FAST FR REE EE DELIVERIES! 700 Rt. 23 North, Pomp

,

Phone: 1-800-639--7278 • Fax: 862-221--9664 www.Rt23Honda.ccom Email: Blanterman@233honda.com Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30am-7:00pm, Saturday 7:30am-5:00pm 0am-5:00pm

Call us for A ALL of your Whollesale Parts and d Accessory Needs!

Neeeds!

FA AST FREE E D DELIV DELIVERIE ES!

1567 Rt. 23 S South, Butler, NJ • Phone: P 1-800-639-7278 78 • Fax: 862-221-96664

www.PerforrmanceNissanNJ.com m Email: Blantermann@performancenissannj.ccom Hours: Monday-Friday 7:330am-6:00pm, Saturday 7:30am-3:00pm 0am-3:00pm

!

T S E ES A F RE RI F IVE L E D

Pe Per erfo rfor fo form orm rm man ma mance anc ceLF

1-8000-639-7278 278 906 Route 10,, Randolph, NJ 07 7869 The parts s and accessories you y need…from the e people you trust!

Hours: Mon-Fri 7:330am-6pm; Sat 7:30am-3:00pm Parts Directt: 1-800-639-7278 Fax: 8622-221-9664 E-mail: Blanterrman@performancelf.com New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 19

COLLISION CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE by DENNIS CATALDO, JR.

Help AASP/NJ Prepare for Our Industry’s Future

As one of the most bizarre and chaotic years in recent history comes to a close, the one thing I have learned is to adapt. Over the past 12 months, we have had to significantly modify our daily lives and deal with what seemed like monthly changes to the way we were allowed to operate personally and professionally. Some struggled to operate at all.

Luckily, AASP/NJ was able to combat the push to close our businesses and have automotive repair deemed an essential business in New Jersey. While we were not allowed to have our beloved NORTHEAST® Automotive Services Show in person, we adapted and provided it online. Over the summer, while we were not allowed to gather in groups, we still held virtual training classes and seminars to try and improve our industry and push it forward. When members were having trouble renewing

their auto body licenses, AASP/NJ was able to help.

What AASP/NJ needs now is for our members to adapt and help in the coming year. We need members to call on their state representatives to support bills A1659 and S1559 (the New Jersey Insurance Fair Conduct Act).

Passing this legislation will improve our industry and push for safe and quality repairs on consumer vehicles. Every member of our Legislature needs to know why the proper repair of a vehicle is more important than the bottom line of an insurance company. We need to make sure every consumer with a valid complaint against an insurance company submits it to the Department of Banking and Insurance. We need every member to attend our events; we need you to be active.

If you want to see something specific, let us know! We

Continued on page 23

Superior service starts with superior parts.

Rely on what Mazda drivers already know-Genuine Mazda parts extend a car's life.

Designed specifically for Mazda vehicles Get the right part the first time We're an accurate, trusted resource as close as your phone Give us the opportunity to serve you

Contact these Mazda dealers for all your parts needs: Maxon Mazda 2329 Route 22 West Union, NJ 07083 Phone: 800-964-7281 Fax: 908-851-5631

Nu Car Mazda 172 North Dupont Highway New Castle, DE 19720 Phone: 800-346-5283 Fax: 302-322-7135

20 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

Mazda of Lodi 130 Route 46 East Lodi, NJ 07644 Phone: 866-716-0511 Fax: 973-594-4933 www.mazdaoflodi.com

Wayne Mazda 1244 Route 23 North Wayne, NJ 07470 Phone: 973-646-0333 Fax: 973-694-1700 www.waynemazdafactoryparts.com

Audi dealers strive to make you an Audi Genuine Parts fan •

Audi Parts Professionals are your subject matter experts on collision parts, replacement components and mechanical items.

•

Many Audi dealers offer technical service support hotline access that can reduce your repair times and help you meet an on-time promised delivery.

•

Installing Audi Genuine Parts contributes towards improved cycle time that makes both your customer and their insurance company happier.

Helping you do business is our business. Order Audi Genuine Parts from these select dealers.

Flemington Audi 213 Route 202/31 Flemington, NJ 08822 Toll Free: 877.657.2787 Fax: 908.782.1795 email: rmuir@flemington.com www.NJPARTS.com

DCH Millburn Audi 2211 Millburn Ave Maplewood, NJ 07040 Toll Free: 800.553.9250 Direct: 973.762.0262 Fax: 973.762.2381 www.dchmillburnaudi.com

Paul Miller Audi 179 Route 46 East Parsippany, NJ 07054 Toll Free: 800.35.MILLER Parts Direct: 973.575.7793 Fax: 973.575.5911 www.paulmiller.com

Bell Audi 782 Route 1 Edison, NJ 08817 732.396.9360 Fax: 732.396.9090 www.bellaudi.com

Audi Brooklyn 211 63rd Street Brooklyn, NY 11220 Phone: 718.492.6400 Fax: 718.492.8899 rmerchant@audibrooklyn.com www.audibrooklyn.com

Town Motors Audi 400 South Dean Street Englewood, NJ 07631 201.227.6506/6536 Fax: 201.541.0314 www.townmotors.com

Jack Daniels Audi of Upper Saddle River 243 Route 17 Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 201.252.1500 Fax: 201.254.1552 tbabcock@jackdanielsmotors.com www.jackdanielsmotors.com

Audi Bridgewater 701 Route 202-206 N Bridgewater, NJ 08807 929.600.9156 Fax: 908.595.0237 parts@audibridgewater.com www.audibridgewater.com

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 21

LOCAL NEWS by Alana Bonillo

Rutgers Law Professor Addresses Claim Settlement Issues at AASP/NJ Annual Meeting AASP/NJ hosted its annual virtual membership meeting via Zoom on October 29. The evening presentation featured guest speaker Jay Feinman, Rutgers Law professor and author of Delay, Deny, Defend: Why Insurance Companies Don’t Pay Claims Rutgers Law professor and What You Can Do About Jay Feinman It. Feinman’s discussion (photo source: Rutgers) addressed the ongoing claim settlement issues auto body shops experience with various insurance companies.

“Things seem to be getting worse, and the reason I think is because of what is known as ‘delay, deny, defend,’ the title of my book. Insurance companies increasingly delay payment of claims, deny valid claims in whole or part, force policyholders to litigation to get what they are entitled to and then aggressively defend that litigation.”

To illustrate how the trend began, he provided background into how insurance companies were advised by management consultants back in the 1990s to increase profit by reducing payments on smaller claims.

“This is why you have the problems you have with $2,000, $5,000 and $10,000 claims. It is much more effective for them to save money there because there are just so many [of them].”

Although the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (NJDOBI) is in place to promulgate state regulations governing auto physical damage claims and unfair claim settlement practices, the complaint process thus far has been largely ineffective.

Feinman believes there are a number of things repairers can do to fight the battle. One method involves having customers file complaints with the NJDOBI in greater numbers. He encouraged repairers to see to it that

22 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

complaints are filed in order to force the NJDOBI to investigate these actions and perform market conduct examinations. These forms of communication will also go on to create better information for consumers.

“If your customer has a significant problem [with an insurer], I encourage you to have them file a complaint form. These complaints get compiled; annually, the Department publishes a ranking starting with the worst insurance company.”

Currently, the most crucial component in the fight to improve insurance claim practices is to get behind AASP/NJ’s support of the New Jersey Insurance Fair Conduct Act (A1659), which would create a private cause of action for first-party claimants regarding certain unfair or unreasonable practices by their insurer. Additionally, successful claimants would be entitled to (among other things) reimbursement for their loss and court and attorney’s fees.

“When this legislation comes up [in session], we need everyone to make calls, write letters and support it,” stressed AASP/NJ Executive Director Charles Bryant. “This industry needs to do something, and we can’t do it by whining and carrying on. We have to take action, and I’d greatly appreciate it if everyone got involved.”

In addition to the keynote presentation, AASP/NJ provided meeting attendees with an update on the association’s 2020 activities and re-elected the following members to the Board of Directors for the 2021-2023 three-year term: Ted Rainer (Ocean Bay Auto Body; Point Pleasant), Anthony Trama (Bloomfield Auto Body; Bloomfield), Joe Amato, Sr. (Amato Insurance Agency, A Division of World Insurance Associates LLC; Neptune) and Gary Gardella, Jr. (County Line Auto Body; Howell).

Additionally, new Board member Brad Crawford (Livingston Collision; Livingston) was elected to serve his first three-year term.

For more information on AASP/NJ, visit aaspnj.org.

NJA

COLLISION CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Continued from page 20

need more contributions to our Legal Fund to help those looking to fight for what is right in our industry. When we are allowed to have our NORTHEAST® Automotive Services Show and Golf Outing again, we need them to be

the largest ever attended. Member support is what keeps us going, and it is what is needed to find new ways to adapt to the future of our industry. NJA

OUT OF BODY (AND MECHANICAL) EXPERIENCES

Continued from page 11

put a star on the end of them and tie it to the chimney so you can see it from the next town!”

Okay, Dad. Can I get down now?

I’m a lot like my dad in some ways. We are both very, very impulsive and relentless. By the time it got dark, that damn star was lit on top of the chimney and you could see it from the next town.

“It looks cool, Dad. Great job. Let’s go inside and warm up.”

“Son, get the plywood and the hay out of the truck.”

“What the fu#k?” (WelI, I thought that anyway.)

We proceeded to build a manger scene on our lawn.

(Well, I mean my dad did; I mostly watched and marveled.) It was complete with the aforementioned hay,

Joseph, Mary, the baby Jesus, three wise men and a donkey (and a few ticks from my dog, Queenie).

When we gathered in the street to look at the house, I was thrilled and proud. With the lights, the star and the manger, my dad had truly created “the best Christmas display in town.”

My dad, being the best dad ever, topped it all off by saying, “Tom, my son, great job. Let’s go get a couple of wellers at Rutt’s Hut.” As we stood at the counter eating our hot dogs – me drinking my Yoo-hoo, my dad drinking a beer – I looked up at him in awe.

That may have been the happiest meal of my life.

Merry Christmas, everyone!!! NJA

REMEMBER MAXON PONTIAC?

THEY’RE BAAACK! INTRODUCING

Over $1 million of inventory located in a dedicated 8,000 sq. ft. wholesale warehouse Large multi-vehicle delivery fleet Multiple daily deliveries available Long-term dedicated wholesale staff with over 100 years combined parts experience Deep discounts & Quality service Industry-leading order fill rate All major parts procurement platforms including PartsTrader, OE Connection, OPSTrax

The same fantastic service you’ve come to expect from Maxon, now servicing all GM brands, including: BUICK GMC CADILLAC SATURN HUMMER CHEVROLET PONTIAC AND MORE!

PARTS HOURS: MON-SAT 8am - 5pm

CALL TOLL FREE

FAX YOUR ORDER

Se Habla Español

24 HOURS A DAY:

(800) 964-7281

(908) 851-5631

Wholesale Body & Mechanical Parts Experts Serving The Automobile Repair Industry of New Jersey

DON’T CALL OUT OF STATE! We deliver complete parts orders the NEXT BUSINESS DAY!

2301 RT 22 WEST, UNION, NJ 07083

www.MAXONBUICKGMC.com

MEMBER New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 23

LOCAL NEWS

AASP/NJ Guides Members through Auto Body License Renewals With COVID-19 dramatically affecting collision repair businesses in New Jersey over the past several months, AASP/NJ has been actively assisting several shops in ensuring that their auto body licenses will be renewed for the next two years.

In July, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) contacted the association to discuss the need for shops to file their renewal applications by September 30.

The Commission followed up in mid-September by providing AASP/NJ a list of businesses that had not yet fulfilled the requirements for renewal. The association took immediate action, with Executive Director Charles Bryant working with several repair businesses in making sure they had compiled the necessary documentation and information to provide to the State.

“We assisted nearly three dozen shops that contacted the AASP/NJ Hot Line in getting their applications in order by reviewing what they already had, identifying missing items and providing other guidance when needed,” explains Bryant. “We especially wanted to be available to help those members who were behind on things due to the demands placed on their businesses during this pandemic.”

According to MVC Spokesperson William Connolly, 1,250 body shop licenses had been renewed as of early November, while the Commission is working with 112 licensees who submitted their applications but need to supply additional information to complete the process.

“Typically, we encounter problems with repair shops providing documentation for insurance certificates, training certificates and, in some cases, fire inspections,”’ he says.

“Most commonly, licensees submit documents with improper dates or coverage. The MVC flags the issue upon review of the application and contacts the facility to obtain the corrected or updated document.”

As this issue of New Jersey Automotive went to press, Connolly noted that MVC was still determining which of the remaining 112 shop applications were renewed, canceled or pending.

“They all received 14-day letters to correct any issues and provide updated documentation. If the case handler receives the required documents, the license would be renewed. If the shop doesn’t respond, the license would be canceled. If a license is in pending status, it means we are working with the applicant to clean up any issues with

24 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

the application. If this application is for a renewal, the license would remain valid. At some point, the MVC may cancel the license if the applicant is not actively working to resolve the issues with their application.”

Connolly adds that when an auto body repair facility license is not renewed on time, the licensee may have to submit an application for a new license. He also credits AASP/NJ for its response to MVC’s contact last summer and for helping shops hit the deadline and meet state requirements during a challenging time.

“We believe this outreach contributed significantly to a successful renewal cycle.”

“Although we were disappointed that MVC did not offer extensions to license renewal this year to help shops impacted by COVID-19, we’re pleased to see so many shops in New Jersey rise to the challenge and successfully renew their licenses within the required time period,” comments Bryant. “AASP/NJ is always available to serve as a resource for members who have questions or concerns in regard to licensing, and we expect to see the vast majority of the 112 shops still engaged in the process reach a final conclusion and remain licensed to operate in our state. I would caution anyone who hasn't finalized the licensing process to do so immediately.” NJA

?

WHY CALL TOLL FREE

FAX YOUR ORDER 24 HOURS A DAY:

Se Habla Español

908-851-5631

(800) 964-7281

EMAIL: maxonwholesaleparts@gmail.com ON-LINE PARTS ORDERING AVAILABLE!

Wholesale Body & Mechanical Parts Experts Serving The Automobile Repair Industry of New Jersey

DON’T CALL OUT OF STATE!

PARTS HOURS:

We deliver complete Hyundai parts orders the NEXT BUSINESS DAY!

MON-SAT 8am - 5pm

Over $1 million of inventory located in a dedicated 8,000 sq. ft. wholesale warehouse Large multi-vehicle delivery fleet Multiple daily deliveries available Long-term dedicated wholesale staff with over 100 years combined parts experience Deep discounts Quality service Industry-leading order fill rate All major parts procurement platforms including PartsTrader, OE Connection, OPSTrax

www.MAXONHYUNDAI.com

2329 RT 22 WEST, UNION, NJ 07083

MEMBER

• Over $1 million of inventory located in a dedicated 8,000 sq. ft. wholesale warehouse • Large multi-vehicle delivery fleet • Multiple daily deliveries available • Long-term dedicated wholesale staff with over 100 years combined parts experience • Deep discounts • Quality service • Industry-leading order fill rate • All major parts procurement platforms including CCC, PartsTrader, OE Connection, OPSTrax

PARTS HOURS: MON-SAT 8am - 5pm

CONTACT US FOR DETAILS ABOUT PRICE MATCHING THROUGH THE MAZDA COLLISION PARTS ADVANTAGE PROGRAM! If it doesn’t say MAXON MAZDA on your wholesale parts invoice, you paid TOO MUCH! FAX YOUR ORDER 24 HOURS A DAY: 908-851-5631 EMAIL: maxonwholesaleparts@gmail.com ON-LINE PARTS ORDERING AVAILABLE!

DON’T CALL OUT OF STATE! We deliver complete Mazda parts orders the NEXT BUSINESS DAY! www.YESMAXON.com

CALL TOLL FREE (800) 964-7281 Se Habla Español

2329 RT 22 WEST, UNION, NJ 07083 New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 25

LOCAL NEWS

PPG’s Scott Pearson with his wife, Tammy.

PPG’s SCOTT PEARSON Seeks Kidney Transplant

As anyone who’s met him knows, 38-year industry veteran and PPG Territory Manager Scott Pearson is one of the friendliest and most dedicated members of the New Jersey collision repair scene. What most people don’t know is that he has spent years navigating life with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Earlier this year, Pearson was put on the kidney transplant list. Although he is holding his own these days, he will need a transplant in the future. Despite his health challenges, he remains a critical part of PPG after 29 years.

“PPG’s just a great company to work for; they always take care of their employees. If I didn’t like the company, I would have left a long time ago.”

Pearson is also well known for his industry volunteerism, including serving as event coordinator for the collision repair side of the New Jersey SkillsUSA Conference from the mid-’90s through the early 2000s.

“It was great seeing the kids who were coming into the industry. I went to Aberdeen Vo-Tech, so I’ve always had

26 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

an interest in helping vocational students. All of the shop owners who volunteered wanted a hand in it too, because that was the future that was going to be walking into their shops.”

Nearly 40 years after starting his career, he still finds joy in the closeness of the New Jersey automotive community.

“It’s a tight-knit community. You see people you’ve known 25, 30 years and still have relationships with them.

That’s rare in any kind of business or industry. A lot of people come and go in other professions, but they tend to stay in this industry – and you also see their kids take over their businesses. I see guys I’ve known since I was 18 years old with kids who are in the industry now. That’s pretty cool. I’m glad to see that and still be a part of it.”

How You Can Help Scott If you are able to be screened as a potential kidney donor, please fill out the form at bit.ly/donor-referral-form and enter Scott Pearson as the intended recipient. As soon as you fill out the form, please email Jami Abes, the living donor coordinator at Robert Wood Johnson Transplant Center, at Jami.Abes@rwjbh.org or (732) 253-3338 and let her know that you have filled out the form to be screened as Pearson’s potential kidney match.

All of the donor’s medical expenses are paid for by Pearson’s insurance, and you do not need to live in New Jersey to be tested or to have the surgery performed.

Additionally, all of the potential donor’s information is completely confidential. For more information on the kidney donation process, please email Scott’s wife, Tammy, at tammygeric@gmail.com. NJA

+V KU YKVJ OWEJ GZEKVGOGPV VJCV YG CPPQWPEG QWT PGY 'ZRQ FCVGU CU YG EGNGDTCVG 18'4 80 ;GCTU QH $WUKPGUU

0'9 ' &# &#6' #6'5

The Hiltton Long Island / Huntington 598 Broad dhollow Road, Melville, New York York /Â…Ă•Ă€Ăƒ`> >Ăž Ć‚ÂŤĂ€ÂˆÂ? ÂŁx] ÓäÓ£UU Ă€Âˆ`>Ăž Ć‚ÂŤĂ€ÂˆÂ? ÂŁĂˆ] ÓäÓ£U Ă“ Saturday April £Ç, 202ÂŁ 8400 New Horizons ons Blvd., Amityville, NY 11701 r YY YYY MGORGTNG EQO

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 27

LOCAL NEWS

AASP/NJ Members Stress Importance of Proper Documentation With the rise of COVID-19 already causing logistical issues between many shops and insurers in the settlement of claims, New Jersey Automotive has received a groundswell of reader feedback in recent weeks in regard to how they are fighting back when insurers refuse to negotiate over items and procedures needed to bring vehicles back to pre-loss condition.

“We follow the P-Pages and OEM procedures to know what it takes to do repairs properly, but some insurers refuse to budge without a drawn-out fight,” comments one longtime AASP/NJ member. “Our charges for researching OEM procedures and using OEM parts when the ‘Opt OE’ parts they’re pushing us to use are unavailable are two of the major ones they’re digging their heels in over. In no insurance policy that I’m aware of does it say, ‘Hey, we’re

going to partially bring your car back to pre-accident condition.’ Their job is to indemnify their customers and bring that vehicle back to the way it should be.”

Another reader tells us that a recent Allstate job took six weeks to resolve after his shop’s estimate came to

In the battle for proper compensation, a growing number of shops are increasing the level of documentation in their job files.

approximately $13,400 (based on documented procedures) and the insurer’s estimate – even after an approximate

CONTTACT US TODAY AY FOR A COMPPETITIVE QUOTE ON YOUR NEEXT COLLISION REPAIR ESTIMATE. CENTRAL A AVENUE VENUE CHRYSLER CHR JEEP EP 1839 Central Park Avenue Yonkers, NY 10710 Order Hot Line: (800) 967-5298 Fax: (914) 361-1508 www.centralave.com COLLISION LINK, REP PAIR AIR LINK AND PARTS PARTS TR TRADER RADER

EASTCHESTER CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE 4007 Boston Road Bronx, NY 10466 Order Hot Line: (914) 597-7018 Fax: (718) 881-3014

FIT AND FINISH IS NO PLACE TO GET CRREATIVE T .

30 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

WE COMPETE WITH AFTERMARKET PRICES! FREE DELIVERY!

Check out MoparRepairConnection.com for resouurces, promotions and technical information. ©2020 FCA A US LLC. LLC All Rights Reserved.

Reserved Chrysler, Chrysler Dodge, Jeep, ep, Ram, Mopar par and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. LC.

$3,200 supplement – came to just over $11,000. After sending in another supplement and not receiving a response after days of attempts, the shop owner got his customer involved. The insured reached out to their agent, who contacted Allstate with a complaint. According to the shop owner, the subsequent call he received from the Allstate rep led to an interesting exchange.

“I told him, ‘All I want to do…’ and he finished my sentence by saying, ‘Get paid for what you’ve done.’”

Not surprisingly, this AASP/NJ member is making it a habit to keep his customers informed on payment issues as they develop.

“If not for our customers getting involved and us continuing to pursue it, these things wouldn’t be addressed. There are zero negotiations happening in a lot of cases. That’s a problem.”

In the battle for proper compensation, a growing number of shops are increasing the level of documentation in their job files. For example, one reader informs us that when he is faced with an insurer’s refusal to pay for a particular procedure, he includes various examples of that carrier’s “usual and customary” payments on other claims

featuring the exact same work. This information, which the shop gathers through the services offered by National AutoBody Research (nationalautobodyresearch.com), has been largely successful in addressing payment conflicts – particularly with smaller claims.

“It seems like insurance companies have no problem beating us up and cutting money out of $3,000 to $7,000 claims. They’re going after smaller jobs, which means we really need to step up in documenting everything we do as a defense against it.”

In addition to using the “usual and customary” approach to his advantage, he encourages other shops to document every step of the repair process – including all OEM procedures and position statements that were looked up – and make the consumer aware of why every step performed on the shop floor is necessary.

“Insurers won’t hold up their end of the rules and regulations that they agreed to in order to sell insurance in this or any other state. The only way to fight back is through proper documentation and not being afraid to loop your customer in. Nobody can argue with facts.” NJA

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 31

OF FLEM MINGTON

O Stop One o Col o lision Wholes e ale Parts: a MERCURY

A Superior i Levell off Custtom mer S Servvic i e With FREE EE DELIVERIES 6 Dayss a Week! e k!*

1--877-NJ-P PAR A TS AR 1-8 7 7 -65 7 - 2 7 8 7

NJParts.com

Brought to you by...

Fax: 908 908-782-1 782 1795 *State and d other restrictions ma ay apply.

32 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

NATIONAL NEWS

AASP/NJ’s Tom Elder Elected President of AASP National

In an effort to foster ongoing AASP/NJ Addresses COVID-19, Photo communication despite COVID-19, various Estimating Like every industry association, AASP/NJ affiliate association representatives met in has spent most of 2020 working to assist its October for a two-day AASP National members impacted by the coronavirus Board meeting via Zoom. pandemic. During his state affiliate report at During the first day, AASP/NJ the National Board meeting, AASP/NJ Treasurer Tom Elder (Compact Kars, Inc.; Tom Elder Executive Director Charles Bryant noted the Clarksburg) was elected president of the rise of insurer-prompted photo estimating in national organization. He had previously recent months and its negative impact on Garden State served a two-year stint as AASP National vice president. shops. Most notably, photo estimating has led to He is a longtime member and past president of AASP/NJ considerable delays in the estimating and supplement and has been actively involved with local collision and processes, often resulting in insurers refusing to pay for mechanical repair associations since the 1980s. storage for the time it took for them to determine a total “I am pleased to be elected as president of the loss.

“The reality is that the vehicle became a total loss when the two cars collided on the highway; it just took the “I look forward to directing the Board insurers weeks to figure it out. From our point of view, the to make a difference for our member insurers are taking full advantage of COVID-19 and trying shops throughout the country.” to insist that shops take pictures and deal with the estimates that way. They’re writing really lowball estimates; we’re seeing them for $700 or $800 on $8,000-$9,000 National Board and am hoping that we can further the jobs. Then, [the shops] have to pull teeth to get the cause through the US,” commented Elder. “I look forward insurers to look at the vehicles again and write supplement to directing the Board to make a difference for our after supplement. This sometimes takes three to four member shops throughout the country.” weeks.”

“Tom has been such a strong advocate at the state To make matters worse, Bryant noted that current level for so many years, and he will, no doubt, bring that photo estimating practices contradict state law. same degree of commitment and passion to our work at “Part of the New Jersey Auto Body License Law says the national level,” added AASP National Administrator that a shop shall not prepare an estimate based on Judell Anderson.

In addition to Elder, the following industry leaders were pictures, phone calls or any means other than personal elected to comprise the 2021-2022 AASP National inspection of the vehicle. That doesn’t mean that an insurance company can’t do it, but it does mean that an Executive Board: Vice President – Molly Brodeur auto body shop cannot prepare an estimate by looking at (AASP/Massachusetts), Secretary/Treasurer – Mike a picture of a damaged vehicle.”

Moehlenkamp (AASP/Missouri), Chair of Executive As a way to combat the issue, AASP/NJ has been Directors – Amanda Henry (AASP/Pennsylvania) and drawing shops’ attention to the Duty to Protect provision Immediate Past President – Bill Adams (New York State found in auto insurance policies, which specifies that Association of Service Stations and Repair Shops).

Continued on page 49

34 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

KEEP IT GENUINE

INSIST ON GENUINE GM PARTS

Using Genuine GM Parts for collision repairs is better for your customers, and better for your business. Contact the following dealers for all your Genuine GM Parts needs: MAXON BUICK GMC 2301 Route 22 West Union, NJ 07083 Phone: 800-964-7281 Fax: 908-851-5631 maxonwholesaleparts@gmail.com

www.maxonbuickgmc.com

FLEMINGTON CHEVROLET BUICK GMC CADILLAC 211 Highway 202 Flemington, NJ 08822 Phone: 877-657-2787 Fax: 908-782-1795 www.njparts.com

FRED BEANS PARTS 131 Doyle Street Doylestown, PA 18901 Phone: 877-942-3267 orders@fredbeans.com www.fbparts.com

BAY RIDGE CHEVROLET OF BROOKLYN 1575 86th Street Brooklyn, NY 11228 Phone: 833-244-3475 Fax: 718-392-6570 www.bayridgechevy.com

NU CAR CHEVROLET 172 North Dupont Highway New Castle, DE 19720 Phone: 800-633-6606 Fax: 800-346-5285 parts@nucar.com www.nucar.com

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 35

FCA Takes a Stand against “Opt OE” Parts

NATIONAL NEWS

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has issued the following position statement on the use of “Opt OE” parts on their vehicles (presented below with minor edits):

Opt OE Is Not OE Opt OE parts can seem like authentic Mopar at a value price compared to purchasing from an FCA dealer. However, Opt OE is not OE and can create problems for collision shops and vehicle owners.

What Is Opt OE? Opt OE refers to Option OE and may also be referred to as surplus or OE-supplier. These parts may not come from an FCA dealer and may not be manufactured to meet the same high standards as the original part. Only authentic Mopar OE parts are designed, engineered, manufactured and tested to the FCA US LLC internal and government-mandated standards and are the only equivalent to the originally installed components. Even though parts classified as Opt OE may appear in various estimating systems or parts ordering documentation, there is no guarantee that they are genuine Mopar parts.

Our Stance Mopar does not have an Opt OE program or an OE surplus program and does not recognize the sale of Opt OE parts. Often, these parts are imported from other markets where vehicle content, safety standards and appearance may differ as compared to North America. In other cases, Opt OE parts may be manufactured by OE suppliers. It is important to know that no supplier is authorized to utilize FCA US LLC tooling, test equipment or intellectual property in the development or production of aftermarket parts. Even when offered by OE suppliers, aftermarket parts are often made with materials and processes that do not adhere to FCA US LLC standards.

FCA US LLC does not approve of or recognize repair procedures where authentic Mopar parts are not used for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Fiat brand vehicles. Due to the complex safety systems engineered into modern vehicles, these parts may not function properly and may disable or impair the function of critical safety devices. In addition, they may not fit properly or match the finishes used on the original components. This can result in unsafe or poor-quality repairs, lost productivity and future warranty concerns for collision shops.

For more information, log on to MoparRepairConnect.com.

NJA

• Coatings • Paint-Related Materials • Tools & Equipment • All of your collision repair needs...from start to finish!

OPEN EVERY SATURDAY

8AM - 2PM MGM is seeking an outside salesperson as well as a counter person experienced in color matching.

NOW HIRING!

CALL US: (973) 304-0024

CALL US TO LEARN MORE!

VISIT US ONLINE:

Shop our online catalog!

mgmautobodysupplies.com

YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PAINT AND BODY SUPPLIER SERVING NORTHERN NEW JERSEY FOR OVER 35 YEARS! 36 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

344 Wagaraw Road Hawthorne, NJ 07506

STANDING TOGETHER, EVEN APART The 2020 New Jersey Automotive Industry Survey

By Jacquelyn Bauman

It has been a crazy year. With all of the uncertainty that 2020 has brought to our doors, it is very easy to feel isolated.

Yet it is important to remember that even when we are competing with one another, we’re all facing the same unifying struggles. As such, New Jersey Automotive has once again set out with its annual survey to bring some important information to light. Are your Labor Rates higher or lower than the shop next door? Do you struggle with the same insurers as other shop owners in the Garden State? Has COVID-19 affected your business in the same way as your neighbors? All of this information and more can be found on the following pages. We would like to extend a huge thank you to the overwhelming number of shop owners who participated this year; we hope this helps you make the best choices for your businesses next year and beyond.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 37

2020 NJA Industry Survey

demographics Where is your business located?

How long have you been in business?

Northern NJ: 36%

Central NJ: 51%

What best describes your primary business?

l 1-5 years: 3% l 6-10 years: 3% l More than 10 years: 94%

Southern NJ: 13% l Collision & Mechanical: 23% l Collision Repair 72% l Mechanical Repair: 5%

COLLISION SHOPS: Are you a DRP?

YES: 78% NO: 22%

If you selected “YES� to being a DRP, how many programs are you on?

1 - 5: 83%

6 - 10: 14%

More than 10: 3%

What age is your oldest employee?

1 - 5: 31% 6 - 10: 33% 11 - 20: 26% More than 20: 10%

How many employees do you have, including yourself?

30 - 40: 10% 41 - 50: 8% Over 50: 82%

How many employees have you hired in the past year?

18 - 25: 64% 26 - 35: 18% Over 35: 18%

None: 33% 1 - 2: 18% 2 - 4: 31% More than 4: 18%

What age is your youngest employee?

Even though hiring new techs is a constant concern for members of the industry, it seems as though the numbers are on the rise. Last year, only 24 percent of readers had hired more than two employees for the year. In 2020, that number is up by a considerable amount. One Central Jersey repairer even indicated that he had hired more than 20 new employees this year.

38 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

2020 NJA Industry Survey

state of the shops

35%

On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your current state of business?

There is still plenty of positivity out there. Even with everything our country is currently going through, 75 percent of readers rate their current state of business to be better than average.

Despite COVID-19, a majority of readers still consider their current state of business to be a seven or higher.

30%

25%

20% 15%

10% 5%

0%

1

2

3

As in years past, many of the issues topping the list of main concerns for shop owners included substandard Labor Rates, not getting paid properly for necessary procedures (if at all), hiring new technicians and steering.

However, we saw a spike this year in repairers indicating that a lack of jobs coming through the door is a growing source of anxiety.

“Until recently, the biggest issue we were facing was always the lack of younger individuals coming into our profession,” a shop owner from Central Jersey pointed out. “But right now, with reduced traffic due to COVID19 and the development of

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

COLLISION SHOPS: What is the most pressing issue affecting repair shops today?

35% Escalating costs

18%

11%

6%

vs. substandard Labor Rate

COVID-19 and lack of new jobs

Insurers not paying for repairs

Complexity of repairs

15%

1%

Hiring new technicians

Photo estimating

13%

1%

Steering

Aftermarket parts

crash avoidance features in almost every new car, our biggest problem is the lack of work.”

“In the short term, we’re facing an issue with COVID-19 and decreased miles being driven,” another repairer said. “But in the long term, our issue is always that insurers will drive work to consolidators who can self-manage programs, cut insurance appraisal staff and then will drive pricing down by leveraging oversupply and the willingness of consolidators to buy business with lower pricing.”

MECHANICAL SHOPS: What is the most pressing issue affecting shops today?

Mechanical shops and collision repair facilities are more alike than they might think. As with survey respondents from the collision side of the industry, mechanical repairers indicated that their top concerns in the field today include hiring qualified technicians, utilizing scanning equipment, new technology and a lack of jobs due to decreased traffic. While it’s easy to believe mechanical shops have it easier because they don’t have to deal with insurers in the same way as collision repairers, it’s important to realize that most of the struggles dealt with on a daily basis are felt by the entire industry.

In the past year, did your sales increase, decrease or stay the same?

DECREASE: 77% STAY THE SAME: 5% INCREASE: 18%

Unsurprisingly, this was the question with the largest response difference from previous years. With fewer cars on the road and businesses being forced to close for periods of time due to stay-at-home orders, it should come as no shock to anyone that a majority of readers felt a hit to their bottom lines this year.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 39

40 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

HYUNDAI IS PROUD OF ITS REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND SERVICE. SO ARE THE DEALERS AND BODY SHOPS WHO RELY ON GENUINE HYUNDAI PARTS. TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT YOU GET THE RIGHT HYUNDAI PART, ASK FOR A HYUNDAI WHOLESALE PARTS SPECIALIST. For Genuine Hyundai parts, contact an Authorized Hyundai Dealer.

MAXON HYUNDAI 2329 ROUTE 22 WEST UNION, NJ 07083 TOLL FREE: 800-964-7281 FAX: 908-851-5631

LIBERTY HYUNDAI 371 ROUTE 17 NORTH MAHWAH, NJ 07430 201-529-3600 FAX: 201-529-3051

WAYNE HYUNDAI 1244 ROUTE 23 NORTH WAYNE, NJ 07470 PH: 973-646-0333 FAX: 973-694-1700 waynehyundai.com

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 41

Diagnostically speaking, there is no substitute.

Porsche technology.

Porsche Genuine Service & Parts.

Contact one of these authorized dealers.

Town Porsche 105 Grand Avenue Englewood, NJ 201-227-6505 Fax 201-227-6553 town-motorcar.porschedealer.com

Flemington Porsche 213 Route 202/31 Flemington, NJ 800-216-5124 Fax 908-782-9397 flemingtonporsche.com

Porsche Princeton 3333 Route 1 Lawrenceville, NJ 609-945-1500 Fax 609-945-1501 princetonporsche.com

Š 2020 Porsche Cars North America Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

42 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

Paul Miller Porsche 3419 Route 46 East Parsippany, NJ 973-227-3000 Fax 973-575-8396 paulmillerporsche.com

Porsche Monmouth 280 Route 36 East West Long Branch, NJ 732-935-7600 Fax 732-935-7602 porschemonmouth.com

Manhattan Motorcars 711 11th Avenue New York, NY 877-661-1586 Fax 646-473-0798 manhattanmotorcarsporsche.com

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 43

2020 NJA Industry Survey

operations

Has your facility undergone an OSHA inspection in the Are you currently certified/recognized by an OEM to last 12 months? perform collision repairs? s Yes: 15% s Yes: 28% s No: 85% s No, and I do not plan on becoming certified/OEM recognized: 28% s No, but I am working towards it: 44% Has the increase in photo estimating since the Over 20 different manufacturers were mentioned by repairers who COVID-19 pandemic HELPED the repair process? took our survey. The top certification programs that respondents are participating in were Nissan/Infiniti, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and s Yes: 33% Porsche. Other major players included General Motors (GM), s No: 67% Honda/Acura, Kia, Fiat-Chrysler, Ford aluminum, Tesla and Volvo.

How do you feel OEM certification programs will affect your business?

s No mechanical certification programs/Not applicable: 6% s My business will be affected in a NEGATIVE way: 15% s My business will be affected in a POSITIVE way: 54% s My business will not be affected: 25%

Has steering affected your business? s Yes: 74% s No: 26%

STEERING: The bane of most shop owners’ existence. It’s hard enough that customers are uninformed and don’t know that they can use any shop they would like, but it makes it doubly difficult when you don’t even get a chance to explain that fact to them.

“Vehicles get moved from our shop because of insurance companies’ interactions,” one Central Jersey repairer observed. “We don’t even have a chance to speak with the vehicle owner and try to secure the repairs at our shop.”

Many hope that a good relationship with a customer would help to mitigate the effects of steering, but as one respondent noted, that isn’t always the case.

“We have had several of our long-term customers and even our own family members steered away from us for insurance repairs. Unfortunately, the insurance company gets in the customer’s ear before we ever have the opportunity to sell our services. The common insurance company speech makes the owner believe that they will not get good service, they will have out-of-pocket expenses other than deductibles, the work will not be guaranteed, the repairs will take a lot longer, etc. The insurance company basically instills a fear into the customer, and the average person will then go along with what they tell them.”

“There have been customers scheduled for repairs with us who ended up going to a DRP after talking with their insurance company further,” a shop owner from North Jersey revealed. “We have even had friends and family being told the common talking points: ‘We can’t guarantee that you won’t have to pay out of pocket,’ ‘That shop isn’t one of our preferred shops,’ ‘We’ll be able to streamline the process for you if you use one of our preferred shops,’ etc. It’s endless!”

“The insurance companies are always trying to steer the vehicles to the DRP shops – even if the customer is reporting the accident from our shop,” one repairer from South Jersey explained. “They are relentless. This has been going on for years with no help for the industry in sight.”

44 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

The rise of photo estimating in the industry has led to varying opinions on its effectiveness.

“The photo review process has its pros and cons, but it certainly extends the repair process with multiple hours being added to administrative duties per claim due to carriers writing initial short sheet estimates and not negotiating in person to settle claims,” one North Jersey repairer noted.

Another repairer points out an unexpected benefit of the rise of the photo estimating process – customers becoming more informed.

“I am finding customers asking and realizing the amount paid on the initial photo estimate does not seem ‘right’ or ‘enough’ to repair their vehicle. Some of them are realizing how little we’re actually getting paid to do work through their insurer.”

Do you typically perform scans before and/or after a repair job? s Yes: 95% s No: 5% Those who answered “yes” fell into these categories: s Scan in-house using a third-party scanner: 57%

s Hire a third-party vendor to perform scanning services: 16% s Scan in-house using an OEM scanner: 27%

Do you experience difficulty in getting properly compensated for scanning? s Yes: 62% s No: 38% What is your current Labor Rate? s $50-$60: 79% s $61-$70: 18% s $70+: 3%

What do you think your Labor Rate should be? s $65-$75: 9% s $76-$85: 50% s $86-$95: 26% s $96+: 15%

2020 NJA Industry Survey

operations

Where do you commonly go to find information on ADAS repairs and procedures? s OE sites: 46% s Scanner software: 8% s ALLDATA: 18% s Mitchell: 4% s Sublet vendor: 11% s CCC One: 3% s I-CAR: 10% Where do you look to hire new employees? s Word of mouth: 36% s Indeed: 31% s Everywhere: 15% s Craigslist: 13% s Ads: 13% s Tech Schools: 5% s Facebook: 5%

How do you promote your business to current and potential customers?

How have social media and digital platforms such as Yelp affected your business?

Everyone has an opinion, and ever since the dawn of the internet, it is easier than ever for people to share that opinion with the world – for better or for worse. As many shop owners know, online reviews can make or break their businesses.

“Everyone looks at the internet,” one Central Jersey repairer explained. “Good reviews are extremely important in this competitive industry. Some customers tell us that they chose our shop because we had good reviews online.”

Even though 49 percent of survey respondents agreed and mentioned that positive online reviews have helped them bring in new customers, many feel the impact of negative reviews on their bottom line.

“Yelp is absolutely horrible,” shared a shop owner from South Jersey. “We caught them faking their bid system to the tune of a 20 percent decrease on our bottom line.”

“It’s been an easy way for customers to make an unsubstantiated claim about us, and there’s not much we can do to correct it,” another repairer from North Jersey said. “Some people even leave poor ratings when they’re not even a customer!”

The five most popular answers were: s Word of mouth

s Social Media s Print advertising s Direct mail s Billboard, cable & radio, TV, salesmen, local events

insurance companies

In your experience, which insurance company do you find the most difficult to deal with, and why?

GEICO

ALLSTATE PROGRESSIVE STATE FARM

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

While nearly every insurer you can possibly name showed up at least once in our list of worst insurers to deal with, the top three most difficult insurers remain – for the fourth year in a row – State Farm, Progressive and Allstate.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 45

2020 NJA Industry Survey

insurance companies

Has an insurer told you that you have to order “Opt OE,” “Alt OE” or “Surplus OE” parts from a particular vendor at a discount?

F No: 31% F Yes: 69%

If you answered “yes” to the previous question, do you typically agree to order the parts and use the insurerdesignated vendor?

F No: 59% F Yes: 41%

It can be a struggle having insurers control almost every part of the repair process – from deciding whether or not to pay for necessary procedures like scanning to determining which parts they want you to use and even where to buy them. As many repairers know, pushing back on these mandates can be extremely difficult.

parts

Approximately how much do you spend on parts annually? l $1-100,000: 2%

l $101K-500K: 51%

l $501K-1 million: 26%

l $1 million or more: 21%

“The parts we get from these vendors are just not good,” one North Jersey shop owner explained. “Some insurance companies even tell me that they aren’t going to pay the difference in price if I decide to go with a vendor I trust instead.”

“They push us hard to order these parts, and they don’t care if you already have the new parts in hand,” a Central Jersey repairer echoed.

“They say they won’t pay for them and insist that you order the part they want from their selected vendor.”

The issue with ordering parts from these vendors isn’t just that insurers are relentless in their insistence that you use them or even the fact that their quality of parts may be lacking. As one South Jersey repairer stated, lack of stock is also a problem.

“Most times, the parts are unavailable. Insurers rarely check availability of the parts they include. When they aren’t available, the process has to be stopped while they sometimes try several other sources, usually with the same results. This adds cycle time to the repair process and cuts into efficiency.”

What’s the most important factor in determining who you purchase your parts from?

Those who answered “yes” fell into these categories:

1. Relationship with representative 2. Delivery time 3. Quality

4. Inventory 5. Price

What is the approximate ratio of OEM to aftermarket parts you use? v Less than 25% OEM: 3%

v 25% OEM, 75% aftermarket: 10% v 50% OEM, 50% aftermarket: 26% v 75% OEM, 25% aftermarket: 46% v 100% OEM: 15% 46 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

2020 NJA Industry Survey

parts

In what instances do you use aftermarket parts?

The most popular answers were:

v When the customer is paying out of pocket

Where do you look first when purchasing parts and services? v Word of mouth: 41% v New Jersey Automotive magazine: 39% v Vendor relationships, ABD,

v To replace aftermarket parts only

v When an insurance company mandates it

NORTHEAST®, Parts reps: 12% v Online: 8%

covid-19

What aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected your business the most?

Fewer cars on the road means fewer cars in your shop. During no other time in recent history has there been a situation that has led to decreased traffic for this extended period of time. Over one-third of NJA readers indicated that a decreased work volume due to people working from home and shelter-in-place orders has hit them the hardest. Shop owners have also struggled with increased cycle time, a lack of ability to get parts, the additional labor necessary to apply disinfectant to vehicles and even shop closures over the past several months.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your relationship with insurers?

The stress of this pandemic is being felt by people across this country, and repairers in New Jersey are no different. For one thing, the increased labor on the part of the repairer and the lingering difficulties in dealing with insurers are making this situation a nightmare for some shop owners in the Garden State.

“We spend more administrative labor on every claim,” a Central Jersey shop owner indicated. “The time explaining the need for labor and necessary procedures eats into profits. We see the car; they see a photo. Who are they to argue?”

“There’s much more of a reliance on photo estimating,” explained one North Jersey repairer. “Everything is virtual, which makes the supplements a lot larger.”

In addition to shops taking on a heftier role in the administrative process, getting paid properly for repairs is affecting many repairers’ cycle times and bottom lines.

“They use every excuse not to pay,” lamented a shop owner from South Jersey. “They don’t even want to pay a fair rate to apply disinfectant to the vehicles. It has caused us to do more work per repair to get an agreed price.”

“Insurers were understanding of some delays as long as it didn’t cost them money,” noted another North Jersey repairer. “But they made it clear if delays and added rental expenses are from our shop voluntarily closing, it would not be acceptable.”

“It’s making everything so much worse,” one survey respondent stated.

“The reliance on photos makes wait times so much longer and delays the entire process. Customers are waiting longer on repairs because we’re having difficulties finalizing claims.”

However, some lucky shop owners have noticed that these completely unprecedented circumstances have actually led to more pleasant interactions with their insurers.

“It’s a little more human,” opined a repairer from North Jersey. “Believe it or not, I’ve found some company adjusters to be more agreeable and even possibly having some compassion for us.”

“In most cases, dealing with insurers is the same,” shared a Central Jersey shop owner. “However, I do feel the companies that in the past were not always cooperative are becoming a little easier to work with, because we are now doing more of the work for them. It’s decreasing their operating costs, making their jobs easier.”

“I’d like to think that this situation has helped our relationships a little bit,” added another respondent. “The drawback is that the shop has to do more of the work regarding the photo estimates and supplements. But if the insurance company is going to waive their right to inspect, then they have to be more open to our opinions and judgments.”

More than one-third of respondents said they haven’t seen any real change in the way they’ve had to deal with insurers since the start of the pandemic – mostly because insurance companies were already so difficult to deal with.

Did your business close at any time due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Have you found difficulty in refilling positions due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Did your business receive any COVID-19 financial assistance?

Have you experienced parts and/or materials supply issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

v Yes: 13% v No: 87% v Yes: 92% v No: 8%

v Yes: 41% v No: 59%

v Yes: 92% v No: 8%

Six months from now, do you think business conditions will be better or worse than they are presently?

v Better: 82% v Worse: 18%

This has been a time unlike any other, and the results of this year’s survey clearly reflect that fact. Hopefully, the next 12 months will deliver a safer, calmer and more profitable industry for all.

NJA New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 47

Superior customer service starts with Town Audi and Audi Genuine Parts.

• Our expert parts staff is ready to serve you with over $500,000 in inventory and a fleet of trucks to help ensure same-day delivery on most orders • We respect your time, and offer a quick and accurate order process to help meet your needs • Proudly serving the Tri-State area with Audi Genuine Parts since 1970 • Same-day delivery on stocked items, next-day availability on most non-stocked items

Town Audi 400 South Dean Street Englewood, NJ 07631 Parts Direct: 888.779.6792 Fax: 201.541.0314

Email: audiparts@townmotors.com

Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-7pm

Saturday: 8am-5pm

Porsche Genuine Parts & Service.

With our comprehensive inventory of Porsche Genuine Parts & Service, you will guarantee your customer optimal safety and reliability and ensure their Porsche remains what it is: an original.

Maintain Originality.

Town Porsche 105 Grand Avenue Englewood, NJ 07631 201-227-6505 town-motorcar.porschedealer.com

© 2019 Porsche Cars North America Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

48 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

S H O P FO R RENT q Six bays, one inground lift

q 2,800 square-foot building on ½ acre of property q Gas Heat, City Water and Sewer

q Three-phase Electric (paid by tenant), complete fenced-in yard with three large double gates

$3,800/month rent Contact Bob at bobmag922@gmail.com or (908) 915-3734

NATIONAL NEWS

Continued from page 34

carriers are responsible for covering the expenses involved in policyholders keeping their vehicles in a safe location while awaiting repair or, in some cases, waiting for the vehicle to be determined a total loss.

“When there is a loss, [the insured] of the covered vehicle is obligated to protect it from additional damage. The insurer must pay any ‘reasonable expenses’ incurred to do so that are reported to them. It’s right in the policy.”

Bryant offered to share documentation on the Duty to Protect provision with other AASP state affiliates. More information on the Duty to Protect is available in the July 2020 issue of New Jersey Automotive (available at grecopublishing.com).

In other AASP/NJ news, Elder shared that the association plans to host an in-person NORTHEAST® Automotive Services Show this March, with an alternate date planned for September if necessary.

AASP National was founded in 1999 by a coalition of state and regional organizations representing the industry. AASP affiliates represent over 8,000 automotive businesses in strategic alliances and monitor federal legislation and regulations. For more information, visit autoserviceproviders.com. NJA

167 Route 31 Flemington, NJ 08822 Toll Free: 877-657-2787 Fax: 908-782-1795 bseymour@flemington.com www.njparts.com

55 Kinderkamack Road Emerson, NJ 07630 Phone: 201-261-7495 Fax: 201-261-3261 Toll Free: 888-782-9493 parts@libertysubaru.com www.libertysubaru.com

3469 Route 46 Parsippany, NJ 07054 Phone: 973-658-5714 Fax: 973-402-9591 mdaltilio@paulmiler.com www.paulmillersubaru.com/parts

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 49

EMPIR RE AUTO PARTS A

Spend more time running your y business and less time worrying orrying about your parts.

ww ww.empireap.co om

ARANJ Officers

President Rodney Krawczyk Ace Auto Wreckers (732) 254-9816 aceautonj@comcast.net 1st Vice President Daryl CarmanLentini Auto Salvage (908) 782-4440 darryl@las-parts.coms

Parts Accuracyy Friendly Sales Tea eam

Qua ality Assurance Fastt, Free Delivery

2nd Vice President Mike Ronayne Tilghmans Auto Parts (609) 723-7469 tilghmans@snip.net Past President Bob Dirkes Dirkes Used Auto Parts (609) 625-1718 dirkesauto@gmail.com

ARANJ Board of Directors David Yeager EL & M Auto (800) 624-2266 elandmauto@aol.com

Ed Silipena American II Autos (609) 965-0987 esilipena@yahoo.com

Norm Vachon Port Murray Auto (908) 689-3152 portmurrayauto@yahoo.com

50 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

Dillon Rinkens East Brunswick Auto (732) 254-6501 ebautonj@comcast.net

ARANJ The Automotive Recyclers Association of New Jersey

Wharton Insurance Briefs

Winter is coming, bringing snow and ice to our area. There is an exhausting amount of work needed to keep your business safe from slips and falls. So far, our clients have done an excellent job in preventing these types of accidents from occurring. Focusing on the safety of your businesses sometimes causes you to overlook safety at home. Just like protecting your business, you need to protect your home from snow load and ice dams forming on your roof.

Here are some precautions you can take to protect your property and life from snow load: • Removing the weight of the snow from the roof, will prevent a collapse.

• Watch for falling snow or ice from roofs.

• Don’t put untrained individuals on roofs to clear snow.

• Inspect roofs for leaks or structural deficiencies that may develop.

• Make certain gutters, drains and downspouts are clear of ice and debris.

• Clear snow and ice away from exhaust vents that go through exterior walls.

• Clear snow off decks to reduce stress on them.

Ice damming is caused when heat from the inside of a home with a sloped roof escapes into the attic space, warming the underside of the roof. The collision of heat from inside your home and colder temperatures outside melts the snow on the warmer portion of the attic, and it runs down the roof and freezes when it encounters the cold edge of the roof’s eave. Consequently, the melted snow running down the roof begins to back up underneath the sheathing and leaks into your attic, damaging the structure and its contents. When these ice dams occur, you need to melt a channel through the ice to the roof surface to create a drain to relieve water build up.

If you are not sure how to create the ice channels or need some ideas or methods, please contact me.

Mario DeFilippis, AAI Vice President (732) 686-7020 (office) (908) 513-8588 (cell) mdefilippis@whartoninsurance.com

Wheel Collision Center Excellence in Wheel Sales and Repair

Patent assures 100% WHEEL INTEGRITY From $77/wheel

Tested Process

Superior Workmanship

Warranty!

Sales/Exchange

Guaranteed Lifetime

NEW 2020

ONLINE OEM WHEEL CATALOG Stocking THOUSANDS of refinished wheels!

7286 Penn Drive, Bath, PA 18014

www.wheelcollision.com

1.800.292.RIMS (7467) New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 51

52 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

Genuine Volkswagen Collision Parts Are a Call or a Click Away.

The best repairs start with the best shop-supplier relationship. Contact the following Authorized Volkswagen dealers by phone, fax or email to get the parts you need, when you need them.

Flemington Volkswagen 213 Route 202/31 Flemington, NJ 08822 TOLL FREE: 877-657-2787 FAX: 908-782-1795 rmuir@flemington.com www.NJPARTS.com

Paul Miller VW of Bernardsville 118 Morristown ROAd Bernardsville, NJ 07924 Toll Free: 877-318-6557 Local: 908-766-1600 Fax: 908-766-6171

Douglas Motors 491 MORRIS AVE. SUMMIT, NJ 07901 PHONE: 908-277-1100 FAX: 908-273-6196 TOLL FREE: 800-672-1172 www.douglasvw.com email: douglasparts@douglasautonet.com

Trend Motors 221 Route 46 West Rockaway, NJ 07866 888-267-2821 fax: 973-625-4985 www.trendmotors.com email:dreinacher@trendmotors.com

Crestmont Volkswagen 730 ROUTE 23 NORTH POMPTON PLAINS, NJ 07444 TOLL FREE: 800-839-6444 fax: 973-839-8146 www.crestmontvw.com email:vwparts@crestmont23.com

“Volkswagen“ and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. ©2020 Volkswagen of America, Inc.

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 53

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

Our wholesale parts team is here to make sure you find the exact Genuine Subaru Parts you need for every repair.

3469 Route 46 Parsippany, NJ 07054 Phone: 973-658-5714 Fax: 973-402-9591 mdaltilio@paulmiller.com www.paulmillersubaru.com/parts

1-800-NEW-PARTS................................18-19

Maxon Hyundai ......................................25

Acme Nissan..........................................6

Maxon Mazda ........................................25

Accudraft................................................IBC

Mazda Group..........................................20

Albert Kemperle......................................27

MGM Auto Body Supplies ......................36

Amato Agency........................................33

MINI Group ............................................54

Audi Group ............................................21

Mopar Group..........................................30

BMW Group............................................4

Network 1 Solutions ..............................17

BMW of Springfield ................................15

NUCAR ..................................................12-13

Collision Solutions ..................................31

Paul Miller Subaru ..................................54

Collision Supplies of New England ..........11

Performance Ford Lincoln ......................11

Empire Auto Parts ..................................50

Porsche Group ......................................42

Flemington Audi ....................................5

PPG........................................................3

FinishMaster ..........................................14

Reliable Automotive Equipment ..............28-29

Flemington Group ..................................32

Sherwin-Williams/Help Wanted ..............52

GM Group ..............................................35

Sherwin-Williams/Sunfire ......................OBC

Hyundai Group ......................................41

Spanesi..................................................43

Innovative Solutions & Technology /

Subaru Group ........................................49

Pro Spot ................................................IFC

Town Motors ..........................................48

Jaguar Land Rover Parsippany ..............10

USI of North America ..............................40

Klean Frame ..........................................50

Valtek ....................................................51

Kollective Auto Group..............................8-9

VW Group ..............................................53

Lynnes Nissan East ................................10

Wheel Collision Center............................51

Maxon Buick-GMC ................................23

“GET ME

GRECO PUBLISHING

NOW!”

MAINTAIN AN INFINITE INVENTORY OF ORIGINAL MINI PARTS.

At your local MINI dealer, we believe that using Original MINI collision replacement parts will speed your repairs and increase your profitability.

Original MINI parts assure an absolute perfect fit and function.

For Original MINI parts, contact any of these authorized MINI dealers.

MINI of Mt. Laurel 1311 Rt. 73 Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 856-778-3000 Fax: 856-813-4622 MINIOFMTLAUREL.COM FACEBOOK.COM/MINIOFMTLAUREL

MINI of Manhattan 793 11th Avenue at 55th Street New York, NY 10019 212-246-7375 Fax: 212-315-9560 MININYC.COM FACEBOOK.COM/MINIOFMANHATTAN

Reach THOUSANDS of customers every month in print & online!

LET US SHOW YOU HOW! Contact: Alicia Figurelli - Sales Director

© 2020 MINI USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The MINI name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

54 | New Jersey Automotive | December 2020

973.667.6922 ALICIA@GRECOPUBLISHING.COM

New Jersey Automotive | December 2020 | 55

THE S Y S TEM FO OR THE CUSTOMER T H AT WA N T S

ONE ONE S O L UT ION N

PA RT N E R YOUR S Y S T EM I S SUNFIRE PR R O ™.

YOUR PAR T NER I S SHERWIN - WILLIAM W S® A UT O M O TIV VE FINISHE S .

IT IS TIM ME T O C ONVER R T. sherwin-automotive.com/sunfir s repro