Automotive Repair News Today

Braxton Critcher [00:00:05]:
Thanks so much for listening to this week's episode of Automotive Repair News today. Right now, the top stories from around the industry that you need to know about Tooltech 2025 is coming up March 31st through April 2nd, just off the coast of San Diego, California. The deadline to register is March 17th. Lucas Underwood shares why he loves this conference.

Braxton Critcher [00:00:28]:
It's really where the automotive industry comes together in a lot of ways, because this event is where the OEMs show up, the tool manufacturers show up, the independent shops show up, and the people at the forefront of the technology that you're going to see in an automobile two to ten years from now are at this event, the people who are creating that technology. And so if you want your shop to be a powerhouse in the automotive space and you want your shop to be something that is a long standing component, you have to think 90,000 steps ahead and this is a really good way for that to happen again.

Braxton Critcher [00:01:10]:
The deadline to sign up for Tooltech 2025 is coming up March 17, and early registrants before March 3 pay just $1,049. After March 3, the price goes up to $1,249. SEMA is advocating for the rights of vehicle owners and the aftermarket industry to repair and modify vehicles without restrictive legal or technological barriers. As you know, access to OEM data is crucial for ensuring repairs are made properly. However, automakers are not required to provide full life cycle support, making it difficult for repair shops to properly calibrate systems when modifications like larger tires, lift kits or new bumpers are installed. SEMA argues that while the Repair act supports independent repair shops, it does not extend protections to individuals and businesses that modify vehicles, leaving gaps in access to critical data. With the specialty automotive aftermarket industry generating 337 billion annually, SEMA is pushing for legislative and regulatory solutions that safeguard the ability to customize and enhance vehicles while maintaining safety and performance. Automotive repair shops can now submit their educational certifications online, making it easier for consumers to verify a shop's qualifications through the Bureau of Automotive Repair Auto Shop Locator.

Braxton Critcher [00:02:43]:
This new feature allows businesses to showcase certifications from organizations like I Car ase, trade schools and vehicle manufacturers. Shops that previously submitted certifications with their application must resubmit online to ensure they appear on the locator. To update certifications, shop owners can visit the BAR website, navigate to the Licenses section, and upload their documents through the online portal. ASC Chairman Jason Raney recently outlined the organization's achievements and future plans in a letter noting the value of feedback from ASE surveys. Rainey announced that the organization will reduce questions on rarely performed repairs in its test content to keep exams relevant. ASC is also focused on addressing the technician shortage and expanding career paths within the industry. Through partnerships like its recent collaboration with Rinchway, ASE's Education foundation is creating connections between schools and employers, providing a digital platform to help bridge the gap between education and and the workforce. The 12th annual California Tire Dealers association and 1-800-every Rim New Year luncheon in Commerce, California focused on right to repair legislation and the impact of the recent wildfires.

Braxton Critcher [00:04:08]:
There, a panel led by industry leaders discussed efforts to protect independent tire dealers access to essential repair tools and technology. The event raised over $4,700 for fire victims, with several companies stepping up to match donations. All proceeds will go to the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation. Additionally, Napa Auto Parts donated food boxes to food finders supporting those in need in the Los Angeles area, Promax Tool has introduced the world's first Air Hammer powered fuel injector puller, the 900 series. It's designed to remove stubborn injectors quickly and efficiently. Compatible with Ford Powerstroke, GM Duramax and Dodge Fiat Ecodiesel engines. With a Nissan Titan Cummings version on the way, the tool eliminates the need for time consuming cab removal and cylinder head disassembly. Using the Airstrike BI Directional Air hammer, it delivers 3000 bpm with harmonic vibration to break the bond between materials in as little as 15 seconds for hard to reach injectors.

Braxton Critcher [00:05:21]:
The 22 inch shock kit articulated punch allows access from underneath. The 900 series can also be paired with the new 200 series air hammer assisted Injector lift kits, further enhancing technician productivity. Faith based nonprofit Hands of the Carpenter has been providing vehicle placement, repair and maintenance for single mothers since 2003. With growing demand, the organization has expanded from its original Golden, Colorado location to three sites, including its most recent and Federal Heights. Serving the entire Denver metro area, HANDS helps working moms achieve economic self sufficiency by ensuring reliable transportation. The expansion has been made possible through the fundraising efforts, including the annual Heart for Hope gala, which raised a record $177,000 last October. The event features auctions, sponsorships and the donation of a vehicle to a mother in need. As HANDS continues to grow, it seeks partnerships with like minded automotive suppliers to support the mission.

Braxton Critcher [00:06:36]:
Looking ahead, the organization plans to develop a new strategic roadmap this spring, exploring future expansion possibilities to serve even more families in need. Tesla is recalling over 376,000 vehicles due to a steering power issue affecting certain 2023, Model 3 and Model Y cars with outdated software. The recall is linked to an over voltage breakdown in the electronic power assisted steering system which can cause a loss of steering power. Drivers will receive a visual alert if the issue occurs. Affected owners will be notified by mail on March 25 and Tesla is offering free software updates to fix the problem. AAA's latest survey on autonomous vehicles shows a slight increase in trust with 13% of US drivers willing to ride in self driving cars, up from 9% last year. However, fear remains high as 60% still feel uneasy about the technology. Instead of full autonomy, most drivers prioritize improving existing safety features, 78% see advancements in vehicle safety systems as a top priority, while 13% prioritize self driving development.

Braxton Critcher [00:07:59]:
Interest in features like automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance remains strong. Meanwhile, awareness of robo taxis is growing with 74% of drivers familiar with them yet 53% unwilling to use them. While most Millennials and Gen Xers are more open to the idea, most are still hesitant to embrace autonomous ride sharing. Valvoline Incorporated has announced a $625 million deal to acquire Breeze Auto Care, operator of nearly 200 Quick Lube stores across 17 states under the Oil Changers brand. Breeze Auto care, which generated 200 million in net sales last year, expands Valvoline's footprint in California, Texas and the Midwest. This acquisition brings Valvoline's total store count to over 2,200 as it pushes toward a go of 3,500 stores. Breeze Auto Care locations will initially keep their branding while Valvoline develops a long term integration plan which may include refranchising select stores. California auto repair shops are facing growing challenges securing insurance as major providers like State Farm and Allstate reconsider issuing new policies due to wildfire risks.

Braxton Critcher [00:09:22]:
With coverage costs rising, the state is pushing legislation focused on consumer protection, climate resiliency and market stability. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has issued a one year mandate preventing policy cancellations for properties near wildfire zones, pausing non renewals for six months. Many shop owners are left relying on the Fair Plan, a last resort option backed by insurers. But concerns remain over its financial stability. Lawmakers are now considering expanding the mandate to protect small businesses as insurers request premium hikes of 30% or more. Applications are now open for the Art Fisher Memorial scholarship@automotive scholarships.com 13 scholarships will be awarded for the 20252026 academic year to students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket, administered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. The scholarships are available to students attending accredited colleges, ASC certified training programs, or vocational high school. Seniors heading into these programs are also eligible.

Braxton Critcher [00:10:35]:
Federated Auto Parts, along with over 30 other organizations, offer scholarships through UAF's website. Applications are open until March 31 at automotivescholarships.com Asbury Automotive Group has announced a major acquisition of various automotive dealerships owned by the Erb Chambers Companies, one of the largest privately owned dealership groups in the United States. The deal, valued at 2.9 billion, includes 33 dealerships, 52 franchises and three collision centers, making it one of the most significant transactions in US Auto retail history. Asbury President and CEO David Holt expressed excitement over the merger and praised Herb Chambers for his strong reputation and commitment to customer service. Snap on has announced a special offer for its Spring 2025 software release, providing it for free to eligible customers who purchased the current Software update before March 30, 2025. This buy one get one promotion includes expanded coverage for 50 makes with new additions like Tesla and updates for 2024 model year vehicles across various brands. The upcoming Spring 2025 release will further expand coverage, adding more 2024 model year updates along with the 2025 code scan and clear, expanded ADAS and EV coverage and exclusive guided tests. Customers can learn more by contacting their Snap on franchisee or sales representative.

Braxton Critcher [00:12:22]:
That does it for this week's episode of Automotive Repair News Today. Thanks for joining me. If you have updates or news that you'd like to share as well, email me @braxtonautomotive repair news.com thanks for being here. 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. And you know what? While you're at it, slap on a review too. If you feel like this content is helpful for the industry, don't forget to follow us on all your favorite social media platforms.

Braxton Critcher [00:13:01]:
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