www.grecopublishing.com SCRS Highlights Culture and Industry Resources WMABA Members Share SEMA Excitement September 2022 Volume 15, No. www.wmaba.com$5.959
2 September 2022 224-SPANESI (224-772-6374) www.spanesi-americas.com facebook.com/spanesiamericas Spanesi Americas, Inc. 123 Ambassador Dr. STE 107 Naperville, IL 60540 The Blueprint is Right in Front of You. The Spanesi® Touch Electronic Measuring System and Multibench Structural Repair Workstation are designed to work together seamlessly. The Multibench allows technicians to drive most vehicles directly onto its low-profile ramps. After the vehicle is disassembled to evaluate the damage, the Touch rolls right up, letting the technicians gather measurement data in no time. With its 10-ton pulling column, the Multibench also serves as a single-bay repair solution. Finally, technicians use Touch to check structural repairs and ensure proper OEM specifications are achieved. Touch Electronic Measuring System: Comparative Measurements Complete WheelVehicleUserSuspensionMechanicalDocumentationPartsMeasurementsPartsMeasurementsAddedPointswithPhotosFrameandStructuralItemsandTireAlignmentChecks Multibench Structural Repair Workstation: Loading Capacity 3,175kg (7,000lbs) Lifting Height 1.45m (4’ 9”) Lift Time (Ascension) 45 seconds Pulling Force 10 Tons MULTIBENCH Structural Repair Workstation TOUCH Electronic Measuring System Learn More Now 2022 - 09 TGP Hammer Spanesi Ad FP REV1.indd 1 8/18/22 11:02 AM
3September 2022 DEPARTMENTS 4 Editor’s Message 6 Executive Director’s Message 7 WMABA Member Application 12 WMABA Golf Outing Notice 17 WMABA Sponsors 29 WMABA Board of Directors 34 Advertisers’ Index SeptemberCONTENTS2022WMABAFEATURE8WMABAMEMBERS SHARE SEMA EXCITEMENT BY ALANA QUARTUCCIO BONILLO Counting down to Vegas! NATIONAL NEWS 10 WOMEN’S INDUSTRY NETWORK OPENS 2023 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS WIN offers some help for school. NATIONAL FEATURE 14 SCRS HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE AND INDUSTRY RESOURCES BY CHASIDY RAE SISK 40 years of action and advocacy. INDUSTRY ADVICE: ASK MIKE 32 SHOULD SHOPS BE THREATENED BY DIAGNOSTICS AND CALIBRATIONS? Mild, moderate or severe crash? Calibration needed! 20 COVER STORY BY CHASIDY RAE SISK CHANGE CREATES OPPORTUNITY: CIC CONSIDERS CURRENT AND COMING CONCERNS Bridging the gap between the present and the future.
EXECUTIVEADMINISTRATIONDIRECTOR Jordan Hendler (jordanhendler@wmaba.com) 804-789-9649 WMABA CORPORATE OFFICE P.O. Box 3157 • Mechanicsville, VA 23116 PUBLISHERSTAFF Thomas Greco thomas@grecopublishing.com SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli alicia@grecopublishing.com SALES REPRESENTATIVE Bill Moore | (201) bill@grecopublishing.com209-1989 EDITORIAL/CREATIVE Alana Quartuccio Bonillo COORDINATOR alana@grecopublishing.com MANAGING EDITOR Chasidy Rae Sisk chasidy@grecopublishing.com OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco donna@grecopublishing.com PRODUCTION Joe Greco COORDINATOR joe@grecopublishing.com PUBLISHED BY TGP, Inc. 244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 973-667-692207110FAX 973-235-1963 Reproduction of any portions of this publication is specifically prohibited without written permission from the publisher. The opinions and ideas appearing in this magazine are not necessarily representations of TGP Inc. or of the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association (WMABA). Copyright © 2022 Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. Stock Images courtesy of istockphoto.com. WMABA OFFICERS PRESIDENT Steve Krieps steve@gregclineauto.com 304-755-1146 VICE PRESIDENT Rodney Bolton boltonconsulting61@gmail.com 443-386-0086 TREASURER Kris Burton kris@rosslynautobody.com 703-820-1800 SECRETARY Phil Rice phil@ricewoods.com 540-846-6617 IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Torchy Chandler Torchy Chandler torchy.chandler@gmail.com 410-309-2242 BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTINUED ON PG. 31 Chasidy Rae Sisk 302.593.7002 chasidy@grecopublishing.comMESSAGEEDITOR’SBACKTOSCHOOLTOMOVETHEFUTURE FORWARD
4 September 2022
“But those technicians don’t have the right entry-level skills,” repairers often express complaints and discontent with the return…but did they ever even make an investment? Investing in the next generation can come in many forms. One of the most effective methods is simply getting involved. Join the program’s professional advisory committee. Attend career fairs. Talk to students on career days. Invite students to come check out the shop, or participate in an apprenticeship program. Feedback must be provided before there’s an opportunity to implementSchoolit.budgets
don’t always provide instructors with everything they need to educate the next generation of collision repair professionals, especially with advancing technology changing those requirements more frequently than ever before. Shops that upgrade their tools and equipment can donate their used goods to local educational programs to expand students’ exposure to different products. Instructors constantly seek access to more consumable goods, which allow students to repetitively practice their skills to become more proficient. Leftover parts are one of the most frequent needs reported by collision repair instructors. That fender, hood or bumper cover you’re about to discard? Donating it to a local school provides students with an opportunity to train on current model vehicles. Without the industry’s donations, many students are left learning their future career on vehicles and parts that are nearly their age… and don’t have the same advanced technology they’re bound to see in your Alreadyshop!overwhelmed with your workload and don’t know where to start?
The Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) offers resources to connect shops with local schools, 248-763-4375
September means ONE thing for parents around the US –time to send your offspring back to school! Following the initial feeling of relief (it’s okay to admit it; kids are exhausting), it’s not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed at the preparations needed: school clothes, crayons, notebooks, gluesticks…the list goes on and on.Auto body shops also have a long list of needs: paint, materials, tools and equipment, training – flip to page 8 to learn a little about the industry’s biggest upcoming training event – and technicians. And that takes this conversation right back to the schools.Running a shop is expensive, but running it successfully ensures that you’re receiving a return on your investment (ROI). Vo-tech collision programs invest time, energy and money into training the next generation of industry professionals, but in a school setting, the ROI doesn’t come in the form of dollars and cents – the “profits” in this scenario are the newly-graduated technicians, painters and welders entering the industry. And shops reap the benefits.
Don Beaver (donbeaver3551@gmail.com) 443-235-6668 Barry Dorn (bdorn@dornsbodyandpaint.com) 804-746-3928 Bill Hawkins (hawkinswilliamjr@gmail.com) 510-915-2283 John Shoemaker (john.a.shoemaker@basf.com)
5September 2022
Jordan Hendler (804) from the Executive Director’s perspective.
I was just witness to a shop owner educating another shop owner about how to put a sophisticated customer vehicle into “service mode” so that the customer couldn’t turn on the vehicle, watch them through the on-board cameras, and generally control their car from their phone. This wasn’t about being watched, but about the safety of the technician. This is a tiny glimpse into what it takes to deal with today’s vehicles. They literally have a mind of their own. The important takeaway here is that one shop owner helps another. It’s the way we should all be. It’s actually odd to me that we gear up for learning when the environment is closing down for the winter, but inevitably when we hold association meetings in the Summer, it’s a far cry from the participation we have in the Fall or even Winter. Also coming soon are also a local membership meeting, and an announcement for us to hold an education and tradeshow event in the spring. We’re so excited about what is in store for the area, we can hardly contain ourselves.
IT’S (F) ALL ABOUT GETTING EDUCATED
there EVERYWHERE! EXECUTIVE
jordanhendler@wmaba.com789-9649Back to school and so much more! BY JORDAN HENDLER Check the WMABA website and newsletters for regular updates and reports
MESSAGEDIRECTOR’S
Don’t worry, I’m not going to talk about pumpkin spice. But truly, September is the start of the Fall season, where all the kiddies are back in school and nature is signaling the Summer season is coming to a close. It’s the time of year that gets us excited to get together, and learn more from each other.
6 September 2022
September is only a month away from our annual WMABA Golf Outing on October 13, which is being held this year in Maryland at the Oak Creek Golf Club. A morning teeoff will no doubt have a crisp bright start to a fun day together, one that will benefit our community. These are the days that have the best memories; when our members and vendors all get to have a really fun time together, and do it for a great cause.WMABA is meant for more than just advocacy. It’s my firm belief we are stronger together, better by one another, and the community we create is the most important way we can elevate the professionalism of our industry. If you don’t know what that looks like for you personally, give me a ring anytime, and I’d be happy to talk to you about where you should fit into this great group. Call me at the office (804-789-9649) or on my cell (804-396-0195).Hopetoseeyou
Every month, WMABA holds a Watercooler Chat, where we talk about anything under the sun. It always gets into the meat and heart of what is happening right now in our marketplace. We hit every issue - from training to tech shortage, parts supply to customer relations. It’s like a standing lunch with business friends who you can connect with and relate to. Upcoming dates are September 7, October 5, November 9, and December 7. Mark your calendar, and come! Your education isn’t just beholden to the association, this magazine, or the industry media at large, but it is dependent on your dedication and effort to expand your knowledge and wisdom to continue to grow. Graduating from primary school wasn’t the end and your customers depend on you to have a strong desire to keep abreast of all things affecting the safety, quality and timeliness of their repair. How you’re able to effectively communicate with them is also directly dependent on you knowing how their vehicle was made, how it operates and how it is to be reconstructed.
7September 2022 D iagnost ic ally sp eak ing, there is no subst itute. Por sche technology. Por sche G enuine S er vice & Par t s . Porsche Bethesda 11990 Rockville Pike Nor th Bethesda, MD 855 683 3144 Fax 301 945 4341 bethesda porschedealer com Porsche Silver Spring 3141 Automobile Boulevard Silver Spring, MD 844 413 6929 Fax 301 890 3748 silverspring porschedealer com Euroclassics Porsche 11900 Midlothian Turnpike Midlothian, VA 804 794 3399 Fax 804 794 9771 euroclassics porschedealer com © 2021 Porsche Cars North America Inc Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic aws at al times Cont act one of these authorized dealers
8 September 2022
“It’s always exciting for me to watch,” Shoemaker says of one of his preferred SEMA pastimes. “It highlights what the young people in our industry are able to do with their talents and gives me hope that our industry is being left in good hands. The vehicles they bring to the competition are always top-notch and give some of the more seasoned builders a run for their money.”
“I’m really excited about helping repairers learn how to identify labor on a vehicle the right way,” he adds about the “Profitability Gains through Labor Identification” discussion.
SEMA never fails to equip repairers with the latest knowledge on advancing technology.
As was revealed in the August issue of Hammer & Dolly (bit.ly/Hammer0822), the Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) Repairer Driven Education includes a fiveday schedule of courses led by some of the industry’s most well-informed minds, including Danny Gredinberg (Database Enhancement Gateway), Tim Ronak (AkzoNobel) and John Shoemaker (BASF).
As part of the RDE series, Shoemaker will serve on three panels with BASF. With “Untap Your Potential by Understanding Your Performance,” the team will set out to “Illustrate the KPIs that really affect your day to day. It’s hard to monitor them all and we hope to show what you can look at daily that will help to keep your business moving forward.
The countdown has begun! In less than two months, the Las Vegas Convention Center will be swarming with automotive professionals from around the world, eager to take in the excitement the 2022 SEMA Show promises to deliver!
FEATUREWMABAMEMBERSSHAREEXCITEMENTCOUNTINGDOWNTOVEGAS!
SEMA really is the ONLY place to be November 1-4 in Las Vegas. From witnessing the very latest and greatest in equipment and technology to networking and learning from the best in the industry, it’s a worthwhile experience no automotive or collision repairer should miss. If you don’t already have your airfare and hotel accommodations secured, don’t waste another second! Get yourself to the most exciting automotive week of the year!
A regular SEMA attendee and presenter, Shoemaker is eager to get to Vegas to help educate others on KPIs, labor identification and modern paint processes while also taking the opportunity to enjoy seeing new products – one of his favorite aspects of the show.
“We often write using only the body Labor Rate when so much of it is structural or mechanical. Most repairers are missing that. Shops are not getting reimbursed for the training they put in by using the body rate – which is the lowest skill set in the industry.” Lastly, during “Are You Capturing Modern Paint Processes,” he will set out to provide an understanding of the paint process and how one can better document it on damage appraisals so shops get paid for extra steps and products needed to complete a paint job.
The educational portion alone is one reason to NOT miss this year’s show.
Another is the Battle of the Builders’ Young Guns event.
Burton returns to SEMA this year as a newly elected SCRS Board member; he’s looking forward to being a part of the show from that aspect. Of course, you can’t miss taking in all the equipment laid out in front of you on the massive SEMA trade show floor.
“It’s great to see all the new equipment and have the opportunity to demo it, put your hands on it and see what may work for you and may not.
Tuesday, November 1, 8am-5pm ciclink.com for details
Dorn has been a regular at SEMA for more than a decade. What brings him back year after year? Networking is at the top of his list.“It’s 100 percent the networking. Everyone is there – clients, vendors, manufacturers, insurers. It is number one!”
“Then, you’ve got the show itself. There are so many exhibitors and different people we work with that we get to see, meet and learn about things firsthand. If you want to hit all the booths, you’d have to spend 1.2 seconds or less at each. I’ve been going since 2009, and I have yet to see the entire show. I’m still in the 50 to 60 percent range over 10 years later.”
Education is another reason, and it’s why Dorn brings members of his staff along so they can take part in the learning.
SEMA is the place to be already, and with the education available through SCRS’ Repairer Driven Education, and the opportunity to attend the Collision Industry Conference as well, there is just no other place to be than Vegas for that week!
On top of that is the education. He sees so much value in the programs offered. “You learn things that will stick with you throughout your entire career.”
“There’s so much to do and see as you walk around the SEMA floor. It’s miles and miles of things to see.” His advice to any SEMA newcomer: “Bring your most comfortable shoes!”
-Jordan Hendler
Don’t hesitate to book your trip to SEMA 2022. Act now to secure your airfare and hotel arrangements, and don’t forget your SEMA tickets at semashow.com . While you’re at it, make sure to register for SCRS’ RDE courses at scrs.com/rde, as well as the final Collision Industry Conference (CIC) of the year at ciclink.com . H&D
Barry Dorn (Dorn’s Body and Paint; Mechanicsville, VA) has set his sights on checking out the EV section this year in addition to checking out all the new tooling and equipment.
Is your SEMA stay booked yet?
SEMA DATES: October 31 - November 4 & Don’t Miss the final CIC of 2022!
The North Hall is going to have everything one can think of when it comes to EV and related technology, and Dorn could not contain his excitement about all there will be to see.
9September 2022
BY ALANA QUARTUCCIO BONILLO
“From what I’ve heard, it’s going to be unbelievable!”
Kris Burton (Rosslyn Auto Body; Alexandria, VA) can’t wait to take everything in – even the offerings beyond collision repair. Like Dorn, he looks forward to the networking aspect of SEMA.“It’s a huge thing to get in front of the vendors and different shops. That’s the biggest takeaway.”
Executive Director’s Thoughts
WOMEN’S INDUSTRY NETWORK OPENS 2023 APPLICATIONSSCHOLARSHIP Why Join WIN? WIN offers education, mentoring and leadership development opportunities to build critical
10 September 2022 NEWSNATIONAL
Obtaining a collision repair education can be costly, but as part of its commitment to supporting women pursuing a career in this industry, the Women’s Industry Network (WIN) will be awarding up to 20 scholarships to provide tuition assistance, educational opportunities and enrichment activities to qualified applicants.
To ensure that these awards remain relevant and beneficial to recipients, WIN has revitalized their scholarship program for the coming year and will be offering awards in two separate categories. Stars will receive a $500 scholarship, while Champions receive a $2,500 scholarship and access to monthly student engagement activities.Allscholarship recipients will be given a free virtual pass to the 2023 WIN Educational Conference, plus they’ll be granted membership to WIN’s exclusive student Facebook group. Additionally, each young lady will be given the opportunity to be mentored by a WIN member.
students.
Support for female collision
Applications for the 2023 program will be accepted from September 12 through October 28, 2022 with winners announced in January 2023. Access the application or obtain more information at bit.ly.com/ WINsch23 H&D skills for success
in the collision repair market. • NetworkingLocal/RegionalEvents • Annual ConferenceEducation • Educational Webinars • OpportunitiesMentoring womensindustrynetwork.com • Scholarship Program • School ProgramOutreach • Most Influential Women (MIW) Award
11September 2022
9amUpperOakOctober2022GOLFOUTING13,2022CreekGolfClubMarlboro,MarylandShotgunStartREGISTERNOW!Visit:https://wmaba.com/golf-outing/
13September 2022
14 September 2022
Exploring the differences between telematics and infotainment systems, Alley indicated the result is vehicles becoming more like smartphones on wheels, so anything on a user’s phone could get recorded on some module within the car.
SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg
As members of the national association gathered in Pittsburgh, PA for its quarterly Open Board of Directors Meeting, SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg took a moment to honor the organization’s rich history and express gratitude to the Board, past and present:
SCRS Chair Bruce Halcro
Collision repair is a tasking career path, but having access to the right tools helps it feel just a bit more manageable. For the past 40 years, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) has gone above and beyond to support auto body professionals and businesses through its advocacy and representation as well as by creating resources.
FEATURENATIONALSCRSHighlightsCulture and Industry
Former SCRS Chair Lou DiLisio, Jr.
Resources at Open Board Meeting
After Past Chair Lou DiLisio (Automotive Industry Consulting, Inc.) swore in the new Board of Directors, Education Committee Chair Amber Alley (Barsotti’s Body & Fender; San Rafael, CA) and Ron Reichen (Precision Body & Paint; Beaverton, OR) delivered a special presentation on “Addressing Consumer Data,” which emphasized the need for shops to protect their businesses and their consumers.
“We talk a lot about specific actions and industry issues, but I want to really focus on who SCRS is – there’s a culture that permeates around this table and through our members, and that culture was really established by those who came before us. We’re in this milestone year; we’re celebrating 40 years as an organization with a really bright future ahead of us. And that’s because of the past.”
“Telematics information is harvested by a lot of vehicles in respect to how they’re managing their GPS, OnStar connections and things of that nature for notifying first responders,” Reichen explained. “But it also tracks personal daily information, like doctor’s appointments, where your children are dropped at daycare, your personal address…there’s a lot of personal data stored that you wouldn’t want in the hands of someone you don’t know.”
SCRS plans to continue monitoring the bill because “it’s important that we remain visible and continue being the voice that supports what’s important to our members.”
“It’s just so subliminal that we don’t even think about it,” ReichenAlleyadded.andReichen offered best practices for shops to consider related to educating consumers, obtaining authorizations, understanding liability, performing research and procuring the correct documentation, and they shared tips for protecting the repair facility.
“We have to be a lot more careful about protecting sensitive data that the customer potentially doesn’t want passed around,” Alley advised.
“Although it might not fix your current issue, your inquiry could potentially lead to a conversation that addresses a large-scale issue for the entire industry.”
Todd Hesford (Mission Viejo Auto Collision), Amber Alley (Barsotti’s Body & Fender), Dave Gruskos (Reliable Automotive Equipment), Dominic Martino (Gold Coast Auto Body), John Mosley (Clinton Body Shop), Michael Bradshaw (K&M Collision)
SCRS Secretary Michael Bradshaw 26
Newly appointed SCRS Board Members
“Even if an inquiry doesn’t get resolved immediately, that information is collected and addressed in SCRS’ meetings with the IPs,” DEG Administrator Danny Gredinberg encouraged attendees.
“Our focus is on raising awareness and identifying how to put the available information to use in a practical sense,” Schulenburg touted the benefits of belonging to the association. “Nobody is on an island. Everybody is facing the same issues, which are communicated to SCRS regularly. When you’re not involved in an organization, it’s easy to start believing you’re on an island because you’ve been told ‘you’re the only one’ so often. Industry professionals who join – and participate in – associations are less prone to believing that myth because they recognize others in their markets and around the country are facing the same challenges…and that there’s work being done to try to resolve it.”
“And those pressures are placed by some of the very same companies that are proponents of this bill. So, yes, consumers deserve the right to choose and to have their vehicles fixed properly. But our industry deserves the right to champion those messages that address our challenges, not those that have been hijacked by others, and it seems that the message of the independent repairer is being utilized not for the gain of the independent repairer or the customers we serve.”
Robert Grieve (Nylund’s Collision Center), Andy Tylka (Tom and Ed’s Autobody), Tony Adams (AkzoNobel), Erin Solis (Certified Collision Group), Bruce Halcro (Capital Collision Center), Kris Burton (Rosslyn Auto Body)
15September 2022 SCRS offers a comprehensive cache of collision resources. BY CHASIDY RAE SISK
Additionally, the association participates in ongoing meetings with information providers (IPs), such as Audatex, CCC and Mitchell, to review and update language, how operations are reflected in the data and other information. SCRS is currently preparing to conduct a blend study with the major paint companies in response to members routinely indicating that IP blend values are not reflective of the actual task. Repairers also have recourse to any inaccuracies they find within those systems through the Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG), a free resource to the industry.
One of SCRS’ current initiatives relates to the REPAIR Act (H.R. 6570), and while the association supports consumer choice and access to high quality and affordable vehicle repair by independent shops with the access to the tools, equipment and technology to effect safe repairs, SCRS has concerns related to the “auspices that those things are unavailable to the independent market,” according to Schulenburg. “We have the ability to follow OEM repair procedures and to use the tools necessary to perform the repair properly, but the bigger challenge is the pressure against our members to NOT follow those procedures or get reimbursed for them because another shop isn’t following them.
Gredinberg is also heavily involved in another SCRS initiative, the organization’s Quick Tips videos, which he co-hosts with Mike Anderson (Collision Advice).
CONTINUED ON PG.
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THANKSYOUWMABA WMABA thanks their supportersgenerousofthe CorporateSponsorProgramfor2022! We YOURencourageSUPPORTofthosewhoSUPPORTUS! For more information about the sponsorship program, please ExecutivecontactDirectorJordanHendlerat(804)789-9649 or emailwmaba.comjordanhendler@ www.wmaba.com BAPS Auto Paints & Supply Certified Automotive Parts Association FinishMaster National Coatings and Supplies LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 17September 2022
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COVER STORY 20 September 2022
“Passenger protection is number one, but the vehicle structure itself has to protect the battery,” Logan noted. “When we launch our procedures, they are very specific and based on our knowledge and training related to that vehicle, so it’s absolutely critical that OE procedures are followed so the frame doesn’t react differently in a subsequent accident.”
“Look at the repair procedures every time,” Cid agreed. “That’s the only way you’re going to know the right way to repair that specific vehicle at the time you’re working on it. There are many nuances to repairing EVs and hybrids, and they’re all called out in the procedures.”
Rodenroth offered a few words of wisdom in closing: “Collision shops are a reflection of our brand, so I can’t stress enough how important it is to be more educated on that car than the customer. You have to possess the product knowledge, and if you’re not ready, you better get ready.”
In the collision repair industry – as in life – the only true constant is change. But change is scary, especially when it comes to all the evolving technologies on the horizon. Industry leaders examined current trends and explored future shifts that shops can expect at the most recent Collision Industry Conference (CIC) in Pittsburgh, PA. Few topics bridge the gap between the present and the future quite like ADAS and EVs…so much so, in fact, that CIC decided to add a half-day special session specifically focused on helping repairers “Elevate Your Understanding” with four adventure stations honing in on specific industry technologies. By 2025, almost 50 percent of North American vehicles will be equipped with ADAS, a number predicted to jump to 75 percent by 2030.
The pair of EV experts demonstrated how to utilize a two-pole voltage tester to measure the electrical potential and “verify, verify, verify” that the vehicle is safe to touch before proceeding with the repair.“We can’t assume it’s safe…We have to make sure it’s safe,” Center stressed.
OEM representatives discussed how they identify shops for their programs, which parts are restricted, what tool requirements exist and why it’s imperative to follow OEM repair procedures.
“The more calibrations you do in-house, the more business you have access to,” Gardner suggested. “It’s great to see how passionate everyone here is about proper repairs, but then CONTINUED
“Keeping people safe is a top priority,” Allen said. “There’s not much difference in the structure of EVs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. In general, the difficulty factor hasn’t gone through the roof, but you need to be aware of the electrical components and their possible pitfalls.”
ON PG. 24
As the industry moves forward, augmented reality will arm repairers with additional ways to safely inspect EV damage, as Jake Rodenroth (Lucid) demonstrated with the OEM’s proprietary app that allows a 3D model to be superimposed over the vehicle to identify areas of concern. Lucid has also developed an associated training portal to help get techs up to speed quickly on these complicated vehicles.CIC’s special session concluded with an OEM panel on alternative power, featuring Rodenroth, Mark Allen (Audi), Benito Cid (Mercedes Benz) and Kelly Logan and Frank Phillips (Rivian), moderated by Ron Reichen (Precision Body & Paint).
“It’s expensive,” Zeise acknowledged, “But there’s money to be made, and it’s the only way to ensure a safe repair.”
Furthermore, only 30 percent of collision shops are capable of ADAS component replacement due to complexity, expense or perceived lack of demand.
Angela Lee (Autel) reviewed the three main charging connectors for EVs in North America: Level 1 AC, Level 2 AC and Level 3 DC (CCS1 or CHAdeMO), and she explained how electricity works like a water hose, with the voltage, amperage and wattage dictating how fast the vehicle charges.
21September 2022 Marching into a new world – together. BY CHASIDY RAE SISK
I-CAR’s Bud Center and Dirk Fuchs teamed up to review safe repair practices when it comes to EVs. Fuchs warned repairers to “look at damaged EVs with your eyes, not your hands, until you’ve confirmed zero potential” as he donned electrical-insulating gloves with leather gloves on top while emphasizing, “It’s better to be overprotected than under-protected.”
“Document every aspect of the ADAS service/calibration process as if you were going to court tomorrow!” Terlep advised. He then broke down the investment necessary for a shop to offer calibrations, estimating a minimum investment of $150,000 is needed.
CIC Incoming Chair Frank Terlep (AutoTechcelerators, LLC) partnered with Jason Buck Zeise (LaMettry’s Collision) to address the six major challenges shops encounter when trying to calibrate vehicles.“Only 20 percent of shops have enough space to properly perform ADAS calibrations,” Terlep intoned, specifying that a shop needs a minimum of 4,000 square feet and noting the importance of level floors, adequate lighting and plain walls. Additional challenges that must be addressed include equipment, personnel and training, business processes and a business operating system, ADAS technology and calibration identification and the unknown.
The industry is abuzz with preparations for the future, and the Emerging Technologies Committee welcomed Jim Fish (New Hammer Ventures) and Chris Gardner (Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association) to share their findings from an ADAS study conducted by the University of Michigan. Although ADAS works – reducing backing crashes, rear-end striking crashes and lane change collisions by 42, 46 and 20 percent respectively – consumers deactivate 45 percent of all ADAS systems.
22 September 2022
23September 2022 THOMAS GRECO PUBLISHING info@grecopublishing.com973.667.6922 Greco Publishing has successfully served the automotive repair industry for over 30 years in print, online and as an association liaison. Our publishing team handles all pre-press production in-house, from ad design to editorial layout. Greco Publishing also provides a variety of different services to cover the needs of our clients, helping to facilitate day-to-day business. We do all of the heavy lifting so you can focus on what’s most important: GETTING YOUR MESSAGE OUT THERE.
there’s 99 percent of the industry that isn’t here…They’re working on vehicles without staying up-to-date on what’s changing. And that can be dangerous.”
Rodenroth encouraged the industry to evolve by being adaptable to new and changing service and sales models, investing in training and tooling, enhancing marketing efforts, supporting local schools and participating in apprenticeship programs.
Jordan Hendler (WMABA Executive Director)
Technological advancements will also require changes on the recycling and salvage side of the equation, according to Sandy Blalock (Automotive Recyclers Association). Recyclers require better access to ADAS calibration information to ensure proper fit and function, engagement in efforts to meet OEM-specific repair requirements and industry-specific training for proper handling and processing of ExploringBEVs.thetopic of BEVs as a future disruption, Fuchs urged collision repairers to “Educate yourself first. The language of EVs is not yet present in our daily communication, but charging is really complex.”
Collision repair shops can expect many business model variations related to consolidation, OEM certification, independent facilities, specialization, ADAS calibration and BEVs.
CIC incoming Chair Frank Terlep (AutoTechcelerators, LLC)
“All of this actually presents an opportunity,” Karl Kirschenman
COVER STORY CONTINUED FROM PG. 21 24 September 2022
CIC Outgoing Chair Darrell Amberson (LaMettry’s Collision, Glass and More)
During the ensuing discussion on the challenges associated with calibrating in-house, panelists indicated that standardization will eventually happen when a regulation is passed or a need comes into play. They also acknowledged the need for hands-on training related to ADAS and discussed the influence of third-party payers on the number of shops that choose to sublet calibrations.
Tackling the exponential change being experienced by every collision industry business, CIC’s Future Disruptions Committee examined future business models related to transportation, insurance and claims, salvage/recycling, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and collisionExploringrepair.how vehicles will be bought, leased, rented and used in the next decade, Michael LoPrete (Critica Consulting) envisioned a future where ride sharing and partial ownership programs will become increasingly prevalent and encouraged attendees to “start thinking about how that impacts us. Regardless of the transportation model, collisions will still occur, but as the transportation model changes, so will insurance models. Who will pay for the repair? How can the collision segment evolve to continue taking care of these vehicles?”“These are future disruptions, not new or existing disruptions,” Trent Tinsley (Entegral) reminded CIC participants, as he predicted claims being treated as a service and requiring new policy models. He also foresees enhanced OEM influence in the form of OEM riders, not just for OE parts but also for repairs at an OE-certified shop.”
Attorney Steven Block (Silver, Golub and Teitell) indicated that every state has existing laws on data privacy and that new legislation constantly tightens those mandates.“Theoverarching theme is we’re all marching toward a world in which federal and state legislation enhance and heighten the obligations with respect to data that all the players in the supply chain have and the disclosures that are required for consumers so that they can give informed consent and acknowledge how the data is being used…And understand what the purpose of its use is and what they may be able to do to prevent sharing of the data, if it’s appropriate.”
“That’s a lot of information, but the point isn’t that they have the data…it’s where they’re getting it,” Schulenburg pointed out. “A lot of industry companies are doing the right thing, but at least one isn’t. Instead, they’re taking that information and selling it to someone for an entirely different purpose, and that leads to an even more important conversation about what we can do to protect our businesses, our industry and our data.”
Pete Tagliapietra (Datatouch LLC) described his company’s solution, which should be available for purchase by October. “Datatouch is all about giving collision repair shops total control over their repair information. Shops need to feel comfortable that their information is secure.” (Get more insights and tips for protecting data from Tagliapietra and other subject matter experts in last month’s Hammer & Dolly, available at grecopublishing.com/hd0722coverstory.)
Condition Now’s Tom Allen approached the topic of data privacy from a different angle.“Controlling the data is important, but once it’s been leaked, we want to preserve the shop’s relationship with the consumer.”
The overarching endeavor of CIC is to have a platform for both gathering and sharing of information with the interindustry. The shared experience leads to helpful advancement of the industry in areas covered even in this article: new technologies, diagnostics, documentation, data privacy and more. The issue of shops’ data leakage is much bigger than we all even realize. It’s not just about what gets to CARFAX “somehow”, because that’s the tip of the iceberg. The data aggregation is a huge issue with even how shops are reimbursed, as the data pulled from the estimate and put together by the region then sold back to the insurance companies who then use it as a hammer when it’s neither verifiable or market rate is infuriating. Realizing that the database providers have customers on “both sides of the fence”, we have more to contend with than we know. -Jordan Hendler Executive Director’s Thoughts
25September 2022 (Spanesi Americas) insisted. “Change creates opportunity!”
Data access challenges provide many concerns for shops, and when the Data Access, Privacy and Security Committee broached the topic, Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of the Society for Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), informed attendees that he was recently approached by a third-party company that was exclusively licensed to resell data it accesses through a collision industry aggregator that was sourcing the data through their primary business interactions with the collision industry, as well as aggregating and licensing the data as a secondary business model bought data from a collision industry aggregator with the intent of re-selling it to the industry.
He explained Condition Now’s method of providing updates to vehicle history reporting platforms to “show the good and educate the consumer about the proper repairs performed to restore their vehicle to manufacturer specifications. It doesn’t always have to be bad news. Shops that are following the OEM procedures already possess the documentation, and adding that to the damage report allows us to control the narrative.”CIC’s final meeting of the year will take place on Tuesday, November 1 at the Westgate Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, in conjunction with the 2022 SEMA Show. For more information about CIC, visit ciclink.com H&D
Dirk(I-CAR)Fuchs Steven Block (Silver Golub & Teitell LLP) Pete Tagliapietra (Datatouch LLC)
26 September 2022 NATIONAL FEATURE CONTINUED
SCRS rolled out its 401(k) Multiple Employer Plan in 2019 (learn more at scrs.com/401k), the association has been diligently working on finding a better solution for shops’ healthcare needs. After five years of vetting possible plans, SCRS shared during the meeting that the board has approved a program for the industry and hopes to share the details of these endeavors by SEMA in November.The2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas will also feature SCRS’ Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, with dozens of classes scheduled October 31 through November 4. Schulenburg lauded the opportunity to “obtain the education to better your business while also taking in the excitement of the Show floor and everything at SEMA.
“I think it’s fair to say the growth of the collision segment at SEMA certainly centered right alongside the growth of the educational programs. We always believed that education will bring people to a show, and that was the premise of our partnership with SEMA. This year, we’re offering a really wide array of different topics, so I can’t imagine somebody not finding things that are relevant to your business.”
FROM PG. 15 (K&M Collision; Hickory, NC) excitedly announced that the upcoming round of videos will address consumer-facing concerns that shops can use in their daily interactions with customers to educate them on the claims process, the importance of OEM procedures, why their vehicle needs to be calibrated and much more.
Register for 2022 RDE classes at scrs.com/rde. More information about SCRS is available at scrs.com. Learn more about the DEG at degweb.org H&D I want to echo what Aaron said on page 15 about everybody facing the same issues. It’s so important to realize and embrace that we don’t have to do this all on our own. Even if you don’t find comradery in the association, you need it. Whether it’s a collision community, or a business community, leaders need to be around other leaders. And, it’s not to lead more, but to find like minds to consult and gain knowledge and wisdom from. It’s as much about giving as getting; uplifting yourself and your shop culture. -Jordan Hendler Executive Director’s Thoughts
That desire was evidenced in a special presentation by Chris White (KECO Products), who partnered with SCRS to award a level two glue pull repair system to one vo-tech school per quarter, based on nominations from SCRS affiliate organizations; however, White was unable to select only one school and chose to donate two systems to College of Lake County (Grayslake, IL) and City College of Montana State University (Billings, MT). He also announced that he’ll offer a 30 percent discount to any educational institution seeking to purchase the product because he recognizes the long-term value of investing in the future generation of collision professionals.
With SCRS at the helm, the future looks bright for the collision industry, but it’s even more brilliant when everyone works together, as Director at-Large Tony Adams (AkzoNobel) reiterated in regard to the involvement of 37 state affiliate associations.
SCRS Treasurer Robert Grieve (Nylund’s Collision Center; Englewood, CO) shared praise for the Blueprint Optimization Tool (BOT) and the increased number of operations being added to create more thorough estimates throughout the auto body community. He also offered a favorable update on the association’s finances, resulting from members’ support. But the way those funds are used is much more relevant, according to Schulenburg. “It affords us the ability to invest back into the industry, so we’re able to fund significant programs like the DEG and Repairer Driven News. SCRS is also a longtime supporter of SkillsUSA because it’s imperative that those contestants know there’s an industry here waiting for them when they enter the workforce, that this industry is working hard to advance the profession they’re getting into, that the collision industry wants to see them succeed.”
“Collectively, we’re building a culture related to bringing value to our relationships and our memberships,” Adams expressed, alluding to the previous day’s SCRS Affiliate Meeting and the discussion about the “problems and challenges that affiliates are hearing from their members, from the technician shortage to technology challenges and estimate training. And then we tried to forecast some roadmaps for solutions, so we can focus on building something to provide value by bringing tools to shops to help solve their problems. It’s exciting, and we get to do it together.”
“There’s a culture that permeates SCRS, and that culture was really established by those who came before us.”
SCRS’ track record suggests their efforts will be fruitful, but the association already has several beneficial resources coming down the pike.Although
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29September 2022 “ ” TREASURER: Kris kris@Rosslynautobody.comBurton703-820-1800 srkrieps@live.comStevenPRESIDENT:Krieps304-755-1146 VICE OFFICERSrbolton@aacps.orgRodneyPRESIDENT:Bolton443-386-0066 EXECUTIVEJordanDIRECTOR:Hendler jordanhendler@wmaba.com804-789-9649
Position BusinessYouras a Leader! association fostering the exchange of ideas and providing a voice and support for the collision repair professional.
Contact Executive Director Jordan Hendler to find out how WMABA can amplify YOUR voice in the collision repair industry.
An
BOARD OF DIRECTORS phil@ricewoods.comSECRETARY:PhilRice540-846-6617 PAST PRESIDENT: Torchy hawkinswilliamjr@gmail.comtorchy.chandler@gmail.comChandler410-309-2242BillHawkins510-915-2283 Barry bdorn@dornsbodyandpaint.comDorn804-746-3928JohnShoemakerjohn.a.shoemaker@basf.com248-763-4375
Just like equipment and training, WMABA membership is not only a commitment to excellence, but also a valuable investment.WMABA is recognized both regionally and nationally as the key forum for the exchange of ideas concerning the D.C., MD, VA and WV collision repair industry. It is the venue to discuss, learn about and impact evolving standards and policies in the technical, administrative and legislative fronts of our industry. Shops and industry supporters can best develop themselves and their employees by actively engaging in the association and its Automotiveactivities.collision repair facilities in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, D.C. who are willing to adopt WMABA’s Standards of Membership and offer a guarantee to their consumers are encouraged to engage their business as an active member of the association. For over 40 years, the WMABA membership of professional collision repair businesses and affiliates have committed to operating at a higher standard on behalf of their industry and their consumers. Over the years, WMABA has proudly represented the collision repair industry at hearings on Capitol Hill, in Annapolis, MD, and Richmond, VA as well as almost every national collision repair event. While WMABA has a rich history of dedicated men and women serving the local collision repair community, WMABA also boasts numerous past and current accomplished Board members who represent our membership at the national level.
WMABA offers current and dynamic discussion forums on topics facing collision repairers, technical information and educational seminars, opportunities to network and discuss pressing topics with leaders of the collision repair industry, an arbitration program that works with consumers to help resolve issues they might have, apprenticeship programs, legislative representation and the ability to receive and contribute to one of the nation’s leading collision repair magazines, Hammer & Dolly
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Solving the tech shortage all comes back to the schools, but they can’t do it alone. How are you giving back to the future?
It’s hard to dedicate time and energy to the future when you’re floundering in the present, but continuing to do the same thing you’ve always done only ensures that you’ll receive the same results you’ve always gotten. And if you want to see a bigger ROI, you have to start by making that initial investment.
H&D
31September 2022 EDITOR’S MESSAGE CONTINUED FROM PG. 4 or shops can support schools and students through a number of CREF’s initiatives, including school grants, student scholarships and uniform sponsorships that ensure students look and feel professional as they’re pursuing their future career. (Learn more at collisioneducationfoundation.org.)
TechForce Foundation focuses its efforts on career exploration and workforce development for technicians across all transportation industry sectors, including collision, through school engagement and student scholarships (more information is available at techforce. org).And the Women’s Industry Network also awards scholarships to female collision students (find out how to apply on page 10).
CREF and I-CAR recently announced a new initiative related to Industry Talent Programming that’s intended to be geared toward raising awareness about the collision industry as an excellent career option and attracting more talent. Sounds like a worthwhile endeavor, and I’m curious to see how it develops as elements of the program will be launching throughout 2022-2024.
32 September 2022 INDUSTRYADVICE
Hammer & Dolly: Diagnostics and calibrations are nothing new, but some shops still view them as these insurmountable obstacles in their businesses. How can shops think more positively about diagnostics and calibrations and embrace performing them, instead of viewing them as a threat?
Mike Anderson: The first thing you have to look at is that when you sublet out your scans or your calibrations, you’re still liable. The contract is between you and the vehicle owner. If you choose to sublet that out, the liability still falls on you. When it comes to scanning a vehicle, we talk about pre-scans and post-scans, but a scan tool is used for so many things. It can be used for placing a vehicle that’s connected to telematics – like Toyota’s Safety Connect – into service mode. A scan tool can be utilized for inspecting a seatbelt pretensioner. It can be used to initialize a headlight or a steering gear assembly…or determine if something on a vehicle is inoperable. We have to understand that a scan tool is used for a variety of functions or procedures in regard to vehicle repair.
This month, we “ASK MIKE” for his thoughts on the industry’s perspective of diagnostics and calibrations – and why they are necessary procedures not to be feared or overlooked. We at Hammer & Dolly hope you find the following exchange useful, and we encourage you to reach out to us if you have a question for Mike on this or any industryrelated matter that he can answer in a future issue.
ASK MIKE:
As vehicles become more complex, it’s important to scan them and to use scan tools properly to ensure a safe and proper repair. When we’re using a scanning and diagnostic tool, it’s also part of our quality control to ensure all of the safety and comfort features are working properly. Safety would be something like a blind-spot monitor or adaptive cruise control. Comfort features would be things like Bluetooth. If a customer is accustomed to using their Bluetooth in their vehicle, and that doesn’t work when they pick the vehicle up, the customer is going to be upset. Utilitizing a scan tool – whether you’re subletting out your scans or doing them in-house – is non-negotiable; it’s just as important as making sure you follow the OEM guidelines for welding or if a special component needs to be replaced versus repaired.The troubling thing is that you can go back to vehicles that were manufactured in the 1990s or early 2000s and find supporting documentation within the OEM repair procedures that stated scanning needed to be done. It’s not like this is something that’s just occurred; many collision repairers simply didn’t have the mindset to research OEM repair procedures to understand why a scan tool was needed. Also, a lot of the procedures that need to be done in order to do a proper diagnostic scan aren’t just about hooking up a scan tool. It really upsets me when people dumb it down and say, ‘I just have my wash rack person do it.’ That’s not right. You need to understand the importance of allowing the vehicle to get to operating temperature. You have to hook up battery support – and that’s not a jump box or a battery charger. You need constant battery support or what some people refer to as a ‘battery maintainer.’ It’s also about understanding that before you do a post-scan, you need to test drive the vehicle to achieve the set conditions so that certain vehicle features
Should Shops Be Threatened by Diagnostics and Calibrations?
They may say, ‘The accident wasn’t that bad; I don’t need to do that.’ I can’t believe the industry is still having this discussion. Get over it; it needs to be done. Nobody would question whether they needed a cat scan or an MRI. Imagine you went to the hospital because your leg was hurting you because you fell down. You wouldn’t be asked, ‘Well, did you fall down mildly? Was it a moderate fall? Was it severe?’ You wouldn’t be told, ‘Well, if it was a moderate or severe fall, we’ll pay that for your leg. Did you only fall one step? If so, we won’t x-ray your leg.’ That’s just ludicrous. H&D Mike Anderson is an Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) and the former owner of Wagonwork Collision Centers, two highly acclaimed shops located in Alexandria, VA. He has served as a member of many industry organizations throughout his career, including the WMABA Board of Directors, the Mitchell Advisory Board, the MOTOR Advisory Board, the ASE Test Review Committee, the National Auto Body Council, the Collision Industry Conference and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists.
Additionally, he is a past Virginia SkillsUSA chairman, serves as a facilitator for Axalta Coating Systems’ highly recognized Business Council 20 Groups in both the US and Canada and facilitates numerous courses for Axalta Coating Systems’ Educational Series. He currently offers expert industry consulting via his latest venture, Collision Advice (collisionadvice.com).
Safety-driving diagnostics are non-negotiable.
33September 2022 activate. This is all more complex than some people make it out to be.
H&D: From your experience, are you seeing more shops sublet or more shops taking the steps to incorporate this within their own four walls? MA: There is data on that in the “Who Pays for What?” surveys through Collision Advice [collisionadvice.com]. Some shops use a remote provider, like AirPro Diagnostics or asTech, and other shops have purchased their own scan tools – whether it’s aftermarket or OEM. Another percentage of shops just sublet it out. If you’re using AirPro or asTech, that’s still kind of subletting, but I separate those two and consider subletting to be a mobile provider or a dealership. The caveat to shops purchasing their own scan tool is that they’re purchasing aftermarket tools in most cases. Anybody who knows me knows that I’m a huge proponent of OEM scan tools. I’ve seen aftermarket scan tools fail more times than I care to remember. The challenge right now is that because of the chip shortage, it’s difficult to actually buy scan tools directly from the OEMs. H&D: It’s not a stretch to suggest that there are more shops not doing proper calibrations than we care to admit. MA: I agree 1,000 percent.
H&D: What do you think is driving that? What is it going to take for more shops to understand how important this is? MA: People use insurance companies as an excuse. They say, ‘Well, the insurance company won’t pay for it.’ That’s just wrong on multiple levels. Honestly, I think some of it is due to a lack of education; I’ll give some shops the benefit of the doubt. Also, some people aren’t doing it based on the nature of the vehicle or the type of accident it was in. They’ll think, ‘That’s an older vehicle; it doesn’t have the technology that requires me to do it.’
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