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Automotive industry news
Steeling for price increases
01/11/2008
When John Milanovich, president of manufacturer RightPSI, worked in the world of finance, he assumed commodity prices such as steel would eventually go down. What he found instead was nothing short of an "eye-opener," he adds.
Tech Tips 2008
01/11/2008
Several times a month, you probably come across something in your bay that has you stumped. You go to other techs in your shop, in your town and on the Internet. Well, some of your fellow techs are sharing their best tips to help your job go a little smoother.
The virtual keys to success
01/11/2008
At the end of the day, one of the last things most technicians want to do is head downtown or across the state for a few hours of training. But it's no secret that training is a key part of a technicians' success in his or her shop.
Tuner Times
01/11/2008
A new generation of automotive enthusiasts has arrived, and industry insiders couldn't be more thrilled. The 20-something post-baby-boomer crowd has found an automotive identity – front-wheel-drive compact cars. Today's hip generation of automotive enthusiasts is pushing what was once considered an economy/commuter car to a whole new level of style and performance. Like the ...
VW Aftermarket
01/11/2008
Air-cooled, water-cooled and red-hot: welcome to the Volkswagen aftermarket – both of them. It's not a red state/blue state type of divide, but the distinction between air- and water-cooled VW cars and customers is definitely black and white. One group loves the iconic, fun, funky, oil-leaking air-cooled variety while the other prefers its modern ...
Eco-friendly repair franchise plans to double store growth
23/10/2008
At a time when most businesses are seeing flat to no growth, one repair shop franchise has its sights set on doubling its 19 stores and increasing its estimated $11 million in sales.
AAPEX show looks at 'technical tipping point'
01/10/2008
If you haven't invested in your company's technology standards, "the time to wait is long past," advises Scott Luckett, VP of technology solutions and standards for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).
Adding to Basic Service
01/10/2008
Every tech out there knows the importance of maintaining proper pressure in their customers' tires. If your experience is anything like mine, you also know the majority of tires that pass through your service bays are underinflated. But did you know (depending on which source you read) nearly 250,000 accidents and more than 800 ...
Auto Tech and Body: Bridging Collision and Technical Repair
01/10/2008
Like a colossus astride the Pompano Beach, Fla., repair market, Auto Tech and Body bridges both technical and collision repair with a state-of-the-art facility. As envisioned by owner Jay Ghanem, however, this shop is designed to encompass much more than just customary car upkeep. A high-end lobby denotes taste and culture, technicians are certified ...
Canadian growth in U.S.
01/10/2008
While attention of late has been focused on the recent acquisition of CSK by O'Reilly, we thought it would be worth taking a few moments to highlight yet another acquisition that, albeit smaller, still carries some importance. In an operating environment where high gas prices and declining miles driven have forced auto aftermarket participants ...
Diesel Market Power
01/10/2008
Although the light-duty diesel aftermarket has existed for decades, the segment didn't explode 'til this millennium. Manufacturers and enthusiasts discovered enormous potential in late-model, computer-controlled Detroit Three oil-burners. Diesel vehicle sales shot upward; aftermarket manufacturers and install shops spread like kudzu taking over Tennessee.
Don't miss a beat
01/10/2008
The company that filed for Chapter 11 protection just seven years ago is no longer. Federal-Mogul has transformed itself into a global aftermarket contender with aspirations of continued international growth.
Even dealerships sometimes stuggle to find repair information
01/10/2008
Independent repair shops have long been suspicious that OEMs don't provide the same information to independent repair shops as they do the dealerships. An Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) survey found that 70 percent of independent shop owners and technicians have no confidence that car companies will always provide access to repair information.
Greenwashing the flock
01/10/2008
It's not easy being green. We've all heard the cringe-worth adage. But despite Kermit's proclamation, it might not be quite as hard as we thought.
Holding maintenance at arm's length
01/10/2008
Remember the lessons of the McDonald's McLean Deluxe. Back in the early 1990s, survey after survey told the fast-food giant that customers were clamoring for healthier offerings. Yet when McDonald's finally unveiled the McLean — with less than half the fat of the Big Mac — the sandwich flopped.
Industry organizations partner to offer end-of-program tests to future techs
01/10/2008
Training new technicians is part of any repair shop owner's job, but some owners warn that assuming an entry-level tech's skill level can have dangerous results. Recognizing this and the importance of testing in the aftermarket, three organizations in the industry have teamed up again to make skills assessment easier on shop owners.
Installer's Corner
01/10/2008
Jeeps are the Harley-Davidsons of the truck world. Jeep owners not only purchase their Jeep for transportation but also for the dream of a Jeep lifestyle. It's said that more Jeep owners use their rigs off pavement than owners of any other brand. Perhaps this is why you'll find Jeeps being lifted and outfitted ...
Motor Age Garage: Troubleshooting Traps
01/10/2008
I am teaching eight courses this semester, and live work is piling on us faster than we can work it out. The cool thing is that the students are learning to gather data and make surgical repairs.
Off-Road Expo's Hot Products
01/10/2008
This month, instead of running our regular new product section Supply Line, Styling & Performance is showcasing the latest and greatest products seen at this year's Off-Road Expo, held from October 3-5 in Pomona, California. Enjoy.
Off-Road's Growing Pains
01/10/2008
There's no question that, like an experienced desert racer or trail rider, the off-road industry is hunkering down for the long haul.
