Automotive Repair News Today

Braxton Critcher [00:00:05]:
Thanks so much for listening to this episode of Automotive Repair News today. I'm your host Braxton Critcher and we're going to touch on the most important things you need to know going on right now in the repair industry. The Environmental Protection Agency has announced the largest deregulatory action in U.S. history, rolling back 31 policies to align with President Trump's executive orders. Administrator Lee Zeldin says that these moves will lower cost costs for Americans, boost energy production and revive the auto industry. Key rollbacks Target regulations on power plants, vehicle emissions and manufacturing standards, aiming to reduce living expenses and bring back jobs in the US The EPA also plans to shift decision making power to states, revisiting rules on environmental enforcement and federal oversight. Officials say these changes will eliminate trillions in regul costs and spur economic growth. Chad Snitz, the Vice president of Topdon and newly elected member of the Tool and Equipment Council with the Auto Care association, joined me for an interview to be released later this week about his excitement to help further improve the industry with his involvement on the council.

Braxton Critcher [00:01:24]:
I asked him what he thought he'd like to help accomplish during his term.

Chad Schnitz [00:01:28]:
It's absolutely an honor to be able to do this and to work with this great team of people, provide some solutions maybe for challenges that people industry didn't even realize we had. And one of those is right to repair. And that's one of the things that that I'm passionate about and things that I think that I can help with.

Braxton Critcher [00:01:45]:
Check out the full interview when released later this week. The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable foundation has appointed Deborah Hamlin to its Board of Trustees. Hamlin is a leader in the tire and automotive industry and she brings 27 years of experience and currently serves as the Director of Dealer Development at Bridgestone Americas. She is also president of the Tire Industry association and effectively supports industry advocacy and charitable initiatives. AACF Executive Director John Kerry said that her leadership within the tire industry and her commitment to helping those in need align perfectly with the AACF's mission. Ed and Brandy Caswell of Full Throttle Automotive and Fast Lane Auto Repair in Kentucky and Indiana won this year's Radical Generosity award at Vision 2025. Their shops have grown rapidly over the last few years because of a shift in how they see and run their business, but also how they use their shop and team to impact their community. Demonstrating Radical Generosity Here's a short clip from our conversation.

Ed Caswell [00:02:59]:
I went over there to help me and one other guy. Next thing I know I'm getting goosebumps. Holy spirit, man the whole team rolls up from full throttle and like we got this. I'm talking massive trees on this house. They cut the whole tree up, did everything, got it all put away, retarp the house and and did that. We had a big ice storm and it took out a bunch of electricity. People were without power. They were all in need.

Ed Caswell [00:03:23]:
I came to the shop, I was praying when I got here and God laid it lighted on my heart like, hey, open this place up. Give them a place to sleep. So that's what we did. We went and picked people up throughout the community.

Braxton Critcher [00:03:36]:
And that clip was a portion of an upcoming Good News and Auto Repair podcast episode to drop next week. Be on the lookout for that and hear the whole story of why Ed and Brandi were selected for this year's Radical Generosity Award. And let me tell you, it was well deserved. The Auto Care association has been certified as a Great Place to Work for the second year in a row. Based in Bethesda, Maryland, the nonprofit trade group has earned the designation through employee feedback, with 98% of staff recognizing it as a great workplace. Employees highlighted strong leadership, clear communication and ample resources as key factors in their positive experience. A new report from Fullbay based on survey data from nearly 1,000 experts and insights from over 3,500 repair shops, reveals key trends in the repair industry. Findings show that 44% of shops frequently adjust labor rates to maximize profits, while 68% of technicians prefer to stay with their current employer when offered competitive benefits.

Braxton Critcher [00:04:45]:
Mobile repair is on the rise, with 81% of shops providing the service and many charging up to $135 an hour. Additionally, 57% of businesses now advertise online to attract customers, and 69% actively manage parts inventory. To control costs. Aztech and LaunchTech have integrated their services on compatible LaunchTech USA diagnostic platforms, allowing shops to access Aztech Connect instantly without downloads. The tool enables remote use of OE diagnostic equipment for reprogramming and calibration, offering a cost effective alternative to dealerships. Users receive guided instructions, live chat support, and pay only per use with no setup or monthly fees. New users can register directly through the device and will receive free scans through the first month as part of the launch promotion. Mema, the Vehicle Suppliers association, is closely monitoring the impact of new steel and aluminum tariffs on the industry.

Braxton Critcher [00:05:55]:
The organization warns that the changes could create significant cost pressures and supply chain demands, particularly due to the end of supply agreements and allied nations and the exclusion process. A recent MEMA Survey found that 78% of suppliers are affected by steel tariffs, 63% by aluminum tariffs and 97% are concerned about distress among sub tier suppliers. With 78% of suppliers locking access to domestic production capacity, the tariffs could strain global supply chains and hinder investment. MEMA continues to work with policymakers to advocate for trade policies that support economic stability and long term industry growth. The alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota is working with state lawmakers to strengthen protections for insurance policyholders and repair shops. Senate file 2209 and House file 1322 aim to speed up repairs by requiring faster insurer responses, prevent settlements from reducing necessary safety related repairs, and mandate clear documentation of claims. The bill also prohibits insurers from delaying negotiations by repeatedly requesting the same information. Additionally, it would allow repair shops to take legal action over unfair claim practices, ensuring better enforcement of industry regulations.

Braxton Critcher [00:07:27]:
So we'll take a look and see how that works in Minnesota and if other states try to adopt as well. Stellantis North America is inviting high school students across the US to enter its 13th annual drive for Design contest, offering a chance to create their vision of a future Chrysler vehicle. The grand prize winner will receive a summer internship in the Ram Truck Design Studio, an iPad pro, and an opportunity to judge the Eyes on Design Car Show. Second and third place winners will also receive prizes including a scholarship to pre college design programs. Entries are due by April 25th and full details can be found at stellantisdrivefordesign.com all right, that does it for this week's episode of Automotive Repair News Today. Thanks for listening. Hey, if you're still here, thank you so much for listening to this episode of Automotive Repair News Today. If you enjoyed the show, please take a moment like Share subscribe to the podcast that'll help us out a big deal and help grow the show.

Braxton Critcher [00:08:38]:
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