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Seizing a chance at the shop counter

2012-04-01T04:00:00Z

While the first day of summer doesn't officially happen until June 21, the bountiful days of summer are coming. The world of automotive typically experiences a boom in the four or so months of summer that can rival the other eight months of the year. How are you capitalizing on this?

Working legally with warranties

2012-04-01T04:00:00Z

In the never ending competition between new car dealers and independent automotive repair shops, most of us of theautomotive world are aware of the Magnuson-Moss Act of 1975, though frequently only insofar as it applies to our ability to do repairs and services without impacting a customer's new car warranty. Certainly this is a great place to start a discussion on the legal side and impact of warranties on the tire and automotive repair world, but it only scratches the surface of legal issues that have every potential to impact our ability to do business.

Open service at Dr. Import

2012-04-01T04:00:00Z

Walking into the repair area at Dr. Import Automotive Service can feel more like a dealership setting than an independent repair shop. The huge, wide open bay area, encompassing 17 bays in a 14,000-square foot zone, gives the seven technicians more than enough room to repair and maintain vehilces in Orange County, Calif.

Survey reveals that half of drivers postpone repairs

2012-03-07T05:00:00Z

Survey reveals that half of drivers postpone repairs

Where there's smoke, is there fire?

2012-03-01T05:00:00Z

We've all heard this old saying, but does it have any real meaning in the automotive world? Let's listen to Senior Coach George Zeeks share his experiences in the trenches.

Making the past your future

2012-03-01T05:00:00Z

Political pundits say you need a certain "fire in the belly" to even consider running for President of the United States. It appears that same quality is also a necessity if you want to work on customs, classics, collectibles, hot rods and racers.

Delphi giving away another dream shop

2012-02-28T05:00:00Z

Due to the popularity of last year?s Dream Shop giveaway, Delphi announced they will again equip one lucky technician with parts, tools, equipment, shop supplies and training as part of the 2012 Delphi Dream Shop Sweepstakes, which launched this month and will continue through Sept. 30. The winning technician can use the grand prize to upgrade an existing shop or build his ultimate Dream Shop. Part of Delphi?s fourth-annual Destination: Victory Lane promotion (www.delphi.com/victorylane), the grand prize winner will be named at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in November 2012 in Las Vegas.

Can You Learn a New Trick?

2012-02-01T05:00:00Z

This month, we are going to learn a new skill that will help you stabilize your car count, increase your profits and help you stay the best shop in your area.

Graduating from Groundhog Day

2012-01-10T05:00:00Z

One of my favorite movies is "Groundhog Day" starring Bill Murray. In the movie, Murray's character is stuck in a frustrating cycle. Every morning when he wakes up, it's the same day. During this day the town, events and people never change. It is not until he changes that he is able to break this cycle. Have you ever felt like Murray's character? You go to the shop day after day and the results stay the same.

Employees Keeping You Up at Night?

2012-01-01T05:00:00Z

Have you ever asked yourself what you could do differently to get your people to do what you want them to do?

Technology driving improved shop relations

2012-01-01T05:00:00Z

Sitting in the midst of broad and fundamental change, the view might be no more extraordinary than sitting in the eye of a hurricane. But just as that eye eventually will move on, switiching over to a storm-ravaged environment, so, too, is change swirling around the tire and automotive repair industries.

More than a paycheck

2011-12-16T05:00:00Z

One tip to hiring and retaining the best employees is to offer outstanding benefits. Providing your employees with a comprehensive benefits package is becoming more important. Most current and prospective employes consider benefits as important as salary when choosing a job.

Mitchell 1's Social CRM brings new services to shops in 2012

2011-12-02T05:00:00Z

As 2011 winds down, Mitchell 1 has new programs in place to help your shop get off on the right foot in the new year with reviews that actually can help your business.

Planning for when our shop grows up

2011-11-01T04:00:00Z

Just like your kids, someday your shop will mature into a full-fledged member of the local business community. And just as there are things you need to do as a parent to set your kids up to be successful in their adult lives, you need to take steps as a business owner to craft and mold what your business matures into.

8 seconds to engage website traffic

2011-10-05T04:00:00Z

Your website is selling you, and you have only 60 seconds to do it when a customer lands on your home page. Danny Sanchez, founder of Autoshop Solutions, explained to a room full of today?s plugged-in shop owners what they need to do to improve their websites during his ASRW presentation ?Ignite the Internet! Internet Marketing for Auto Repair Professionals.?

Finding the right money guy for your shop

2011-10-01T04:00:00Z

It would seem like common sense, but in taking on a financial advisor, it is extraordinarily important not only to find someone who is ethical and competent, but who also is somebody you are comfortable with and can talk to. It's not quite a spouse, but choosing your financial advisor can and should be a serious exercise.

Surviving the day at the repair shop

2011-10-01T04:00:00Z

Turning wrenches, answering phones, diagnosing cars, building estimates, ordering parts, directing technicians and speaking with customers makes up a typical day for most shop owners. Add just one hiccup in any of the previously mentioned events, and you add several more to the list. The day typically starts at the crack of dawn and runs straight through until the sun goes down, and for some, even longer. At the end of it all, you are just happy to have survived the day. But what did you do to survive tomorrow? What about surviving next week, next month or next year? Let's listen to Bryan Stasch, ATI's director of client fulfillment, explain how we teach our clients to survive.

You're measuring tech productivity wrong

2011-09-01T04:00:00Z

What would you say if I told you that your current way of measuring technician productivity is not effective? Typically, most shops measure technician production based on billed hours versus hours available. The auto repair and service industry has been measuring productivity in this manner forever. Now I am not saying that measuring billed hours is not effective to motivate or provide performance feedback to the technician. What I am saying is that billed hours alone do not guarantee the sales and gross profit dollars needed for your shop and your financial model. Dollars pay the bills, not billed hours.

Heat, not cold, shortens battery life

2011-08-17T04:00:00Z

Here's a hot tip about car batteries: Warm weather is the time for major car-battery problems. Heat, not cold, shortens your customer's battery life, says the Car Care Council. The average life of a battery is three and a half years, and even shorter in warmer climates.

Is your service advisor more like a robot?

2011-08-01T04:00:00Z

In today's economy and in talking to many shop owners across the country, I often hear, "I need more cars," and "Customers just aren't buying." If you have made either of these statements yourself, maybe you need to look at the level of customer service on your counter.

The magic pill for increasing car count

2011-07-01T04:00:00Z

The price of gas is hovering around $4 per gallon. Consumers are driving less, so their time between visits will be longer. What does that mean to you, the auto repair shop owner? Keeping car count consistent in your shop is going to be more challenging than ever! Today, building strong relationships with your customers is critical. Shop owners constantly tell me they're looking for the magic pill, the secret sauce or the silver bullet to get more cars into their shops. So what's the secret?

Parts Warranties: A feature and a benefit for your business

2011-06-01T04:00:00Z

I am sure that most of us who have stood behind the counter in an automotive repair shop anywhere in the U.S. have had the discomfort of helping a customer who is returning with a warranty issue. I am not talking about the guy who pulls out of our shop after we have done his brakes only to return 10 minutes later complaining that his car is running rough and that he didn't have a problem until we touched his brakes. I'm talking about that customer who had a water pump installed six months ago or that woman in a minivan who had us install a hub bearing.

Answering your phone effectively

2011-06-01T04:00:00Z

Americans in general do not maintain their cars the way they should, and there are plenty of bad drivers out there who stretch the limits of automotive engineering every time they sit in a car. Beyond all of that, parts occasionally do fail. It's a fact of life. Of course, your customer does not necessarily want to hear that after sitting on the side of the road for three hours waiting for a tow truck. He definitely doesn't want to hear that the $642 water pump that he had installed last summer is bad and not covered by the 4,000-mile, 90-day warranty you gave him when you sold him the job many months ago.

The economy rebounds as consumers save more, spend less

2011-05-18T04:00:00Z

CHICAGO ? There is a paradox in today?s recovering economy, and it is affecting your business whether you realize it or not. In fact, you might notice it more in your household. William Strauss, senior economist and economic advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, describes the dichotomy of today?s consumers saving vs. spending the Paradox of Thrift, and it?s affecting today?s economy. He explained the pattern at the 2011 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) on Wednesday morning.

Branding your service center

2011-05-01T04:00:00Z

If you want your shop to be perceived as the best shop in your area, you have to differentiate it from your competition. When your car count is stable your profits will be stable and you won't have to lay employees off when you don't want to. The way you accomplish this is through branding your service center. Many of you have already started on this journey and don't realize it. Listen to Head Coach Mike Haley teach shop owners how to implement branding in any size shop.

Properly maintaining the lifeblood of your vehicle with Luber-finer

2011-04-19T04:00:00Z

April is National Car Care Month and the perfect time of year to take an active role in educating motorists on vehicle maintenance, in order to avoid costly repairs and potential breakdowns. For example, checking the vehicle?s oil, filters and fluids is one of the most recommended and basic maintenance procedures to ensure superior performance.

Bosch announces 2011 rebate programs for its DistancePlus and Premium oil filter lines

2011-04-15T04:00:00Z

Thinking of driving long-distance anytime soon? Whether you are planning a summer trip to some vacation hotspot or a visit to friend or family miles away, you will probably check your vehicle to see if it's up to the task before you get behind the wheel. Unless you've changed your oil and filter recently, replacing them should be a 'must' on your pre-travel prep list.

Boost your repeat business with Mighty's spring rebates

2011-04-15T04:00:00Z

Mighty Auto Parts is offering your customers an incentive worth up to $70 toward their next service within 120 days! This program is designed to increase preventive maintenance sales and to bring the same customers back to your shop for a follow-up visit.

Mitchell 1 adds target market promotions to eCRM program

2011-04-13T04:00:00Z

Mitchell 1 announces its eCRM comprehensive e-mail marketing service for small-to-medium sized automotive repair shops has been recently updated to include a new target market promotions feature. Automotive repair shops will now be able to send e-mails to connect with their customers more often and with more precision than ever before ? and it?s free.

Purolator's 2011 rebate programs put money back in motorists' pockets

2011-04-11T04:00:00Z

If you've been debating changing your car, van or SUV's filters because of a slow economy, here's your chance to save. Purolator, supplier of top quality automotive filters to the North American aftermarket and OEMs is offering four new promotional rebates that are designed to keep money in your pocket.

Curry's Auto Service opens new shop

2011-04-06T04:00:00Z

Curry's Auto Service opened a new shop at 9909 Main Street in the City of Fairfax on Monday, April 4. The new shop will include 4,000 square feet with five service bays and Curry's usual state of the art equipment.

Popular 'Totally MOOG®' promotion for Professional Technicians returns

2011-04-06T04:00:00Z

The 'Totally MOOG®' technician rewards program, one of the most popular promotions ever for automotive repair professionals, returns now through May 31, 2011, with thousands of prizes for professionals who rely on the aftermarket?s number one line of replacement steering and suspension components.

Walker spring exhaust promotions benefit consumers and tecnicians

2011-04-04T04:00:00Z

Consumers can save up to $60 and professional technicians can earn similar cash rewards this spring when purchasing qualifying Walker® mufflers, welded exhaust assemblies and catalytic converters through two new promotions from Tenneco Inc.

The new age of marketing for increasing car count

2011-04-01T04:00:00Z

"It has taken me years to learn how to fix cars and run my shop. I don't have time to learn how to do advertising; I'll just pay someone to do that." Does that sound familiar? Here at ATI, we have heard it so many times that it sounds like a broken record. The bottom line is that whether you like it or not, whether you want to do it or not, you're already in marketing. For better or worse, it is a fact of lfe. If you want to survive you had better learn what to do and how.

Mitchell 1 updates DIY online program

2011-03-31T04:00:00Z

Mitchell 1 announces its popular DIY online program, Mitchell 1 DIY (aka eAutoRepair.net) for automotive do-it-yourselfers, has been updated to include service information for 2010 models. With repair information on over 20,000 vehicles, Mitchell 1's DIY online program features over 200,000 repair articles, thousands of technical service bulletins, including recalls, and millions of supporting graphics.

Monroe promotions rewards consumers and technicians

2011-03-31T04:00:00Z

Consumers can save significant money and professional technicians can earn valuable cash rewards this spring by replacing worn shocks and struts with new Monroe® units through two new promotions from Tenneco Inc.

Curry's Auto Service raises $10,000 for Dulles south youth sports and ALS research

2011-03-25T04:00:00Z

Curry's Auto Service raised $10,000 for charity with its 5K and Fun Run On Saturday, March 19, in South Riding, VA.

Goodyear Gatorback Poly-V belts gear up for 10th year of driving NASCAR technology

2011-03-23T04:00:00Z

The Goodyear Gatorback Poly-V belt celebrates its tenth season this year as NASCAR?s predominant underhood belt. Veyance Technologies, the manufacturer of Goodyear Gatorback belts, continues to work with NASCAR Sprint Cup teams to push technology forward and ensure engine components run smoothly under the extreme conditions found on NASCAR race tracks.

Honeywell's Friction Materials Business launches consumer and repair shop promotion

2011-03-22T04:00:00Z

Drivers are keeping their vehicles longer, which translates into more trips to the shop for general routine maintenance. Honeywell's Friction Materials business, maker of Bendix® brakes, is launching the "Bounce Back with Bendix" consumer offer for 2011 that eases repair costs while also helping independent repair shops by promoting return visits.

Harsh winter makes TRICO's "Change Your Clocks, Change Your Blades" campaign more timely than ever

2011-03-14T04:00:00Z

Daylight savings time started March 13, and TRICO is going the extra mile to promote the added safety of wiper blade replacement through the company's "Change Your Clocks, Change Your Blades" consumer initiative.

Order Car Care guides for National Car Care month

2011-03-10T05:00:00Z

Participation in National Car Care Month in April has been proven time and time again to be a great opportunity to increase service and repair business. Ordering Car Care Guides online takes just a few minutes and will ensure you have a popular give-away on hand for your customers to help educate them about the importance and benefits of regular vehicle maintenance.

Effective shop discipline without the pain

2011-03-01T05:00:00Z

Why is it that building the right staff and keeping them is so difficult for many business owners? We all know that one of the key elements to a smooth running and profitable shop is getting all team members to follow the same script. Talking to shop owners over the years, it has become obvious that the three biggest problems to maintaining dicipline effectively are on-time attendance, smoking in teh shop and excessive cell phone use. Holding people accountable for following the rules is one of the most challenging things a sho owner must do.

Bosch spark plug customer rebate rewards program

2011-03-01T05:00:00Z

Bosch is offering motorists the opportunity to get cash back by mail, with the 2011 Bosch "Light 'Em Up 2011!" spark plug rebate program, when they install Bosch premium spark plugs.

Automotive excellence is a matter of Xs and Os

2011-03-01T05:00:00Z

Running an automotive repair or tire shop is an all consuming undertaking that has never been easy but one that has become more and more challenging with the emergence of technology and as cars have become more complex.

Consumers can save up to $20 per set of Champion® Spark Plugs

2011-02-28T05:00:00Z

Federal-Mogul's comprehensive "Smart Choice(tm)" promotional campaign now includes a special offer that can save consumers up to $20 on a set of Champion® automotive replacement spark plugs.

Experian Automotive launches CheckMyRide.com

2011-02-25T05:00:00Z

Experian Automotive has launched CheckMyRide.com, a free social media Website for car enthusiasts. Members of the site can build their own personal vehicle history timeline, track the whereabouts of vehicles they have owned in the past, and easily share their favorite memories about the cars and trucks they love on Facebook and Twitter. The new site also allows members to receive a free AutoCheck® vehicle history report so they can fully understand and share their current vehicle?s history.

Automotive technician offers less expensive approach to car repair

2011-02-23T05:00:00Z

A new piece of information in the marketplace is talking to consumers about never having to pay for ?another mystery car repair.? A certified technician takes consumers into the garage in "Car Care for the Clueless (...or How to 'Make Money' While Maintaining Your Vehicle)" by shop owner Pamela Oakes.

AutoTex PINK to sponsor Marketing to Women Conference

2011-02-17T05:00:00Z

AutoTex PINK, the windshield wiper blade that is working to "Wipe Out Breast Cancer," has announced that it will be a sponsor of the 7th Annual Marketing to Women® Conference to be held April 13-14, 2011 at the Chicago Cultural Center. The conference is the nation?s premier conference on marketing to women and features the best speakers and the brightest minds with real world track records.

Mudlick Mail forms partnership with AskPatty.com

2011-02-15T05:00:00Z

Mudlick Mail, a provider of direct mail services for auto repair shops, has signed an affiliate agreement with AskPatty.com Inc. a website, blog, and online resource that serves as a safe place for women to get advice on car purchases, maintenance and other automotive related topics.

Eating the shop elephant one bite at a time

2011-02-01T05:00:00Z

We now have a way you can leave the loose ends behind and learn how to easily take yourself, your employees and your entire shop to a whole new level of organization, professionalism and consistent growth. One of our senior coaches, Brian Hunnicutt, has an easy and fast technique for implementing change that he likes to use with his clients. The technique is called, "Eating the Elephant with a Notebook," otherwise referred to as the Notebook Technique.

Tenneco offering installers $40 for each pair of Monroe Quick-strut assemblies sold

2011-01-31T05:00:00Z

Tenneco Inc. is offering automotive repair professionals a $40 cash reward for every pair of Monroe® Quick-Strut® assemblies they sell during February and March.

Timken adds Automotive and Heavy-Truck focus to Social Media conversation

2011-01-28T05:00:00Z

The Timken Company has a growing social media base that makes it easy for engineers, customers and colleagues to interact on topics of mutual interest. Timken's aftermarket team has added focused outlets geared especially for vehicle repair technicians, auto parts distributors and enthusiasts, inviting them to join the online conversation with Timken experts.

New Snap-on Catalog App makes tool shopping fast and easy

2011-01-24T05:00:00Z

Are you looking to find out about the latest and greatest tools and equipment Snap-on has to offer? You now can do so from the palm of your hand with your iPad or iPhone by downloading the new Snap-on catalog app.

NARPRO goes national to bring more power to independent shops.

2011-01-17T05:00:00Z

Building a solid customer base today means drawing in non-coupon shoppers. You want the customers who are looking for a long-term relationship with their automotive professional and who understand the need to invest money in vehicle maintenance and repair.

Luber-finer phone app helps installers find the filters they need

2011-01-14T05:00:00Z

Luber-finer has released its latest filter change productivity enhancement tool ? the new Luber-finer 'phone app' for smartphones that run on Android? operating systems. This exciting new app can be downloaded for FREE from the Luber- finer website or online from the Android Market.

Batteries Plus stores offer free car battery checks to help ensure reliable performance in all climates

2011-01-13T05:00:00Z

Batteries Plus stores are now offerring free car battery and electrical system testing to ensure safe and reliable starts in both hot and cold climates. Regular inspections include a visual inspection of the car battery to look for common problems such as corrosion, poor connectors and failed hold downs that can affect battery performance.

ASA announces new agreement with Worldwide Connectors

2011-01-13T05:00:00Z

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has announced the launch of its newest member benefit agreement with Worldwide Connectors. Through this agreement, ASA members will have free access to MotorVehicleConnectors.com, a website serving as a marketing prospecting program that focuses on the new and used car sales market and is dedicated to the independent repair shop.

Loss prevention bulletin: Snow and ice loads and other winter hazards

2011-01-10T05:00:00Z

Zurich's loss prevention bulletin discusses snow and ice loads and other winter hazards.

Make National Car Care Month your business resolution

2011-01-05T05:00:00Z

Looking for a way to bolster your business in the new year? The Car Care Council is urging shop owners to make a resolution to conduct a community car care event during National Car Care Month this year.

Snap-on adds FAQ section to diagnostics website

2011-01-04T05:00:00Z

Snap-on has added a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section to its recently redesigned diagnostic website. The section is set up to serve as a place for customers to get answers related to Snap-on?s diagnostic products, including tool operation, maintenance, updates, special applications, etc.

Purolator's free service answers any filter-related question

2011-01-04T05:00:00Z

Purolator has set up a new online site for any technician of any level who has any filter-related question. T he Purolator PROS (Purolator Response Office) is a free phone and e-mail service offered by Purolator.

Shop owner secrets to achievement

2011-01-01T05:00:00Z

I have been blessed to be able to hang out with some of the most successful shop owners in North America over a 40-year work history in the automotive repair industry. It isn't one thing, but about 15 things a successful shop owner has to do in concert to truly have the most successful shop in any given market and have enough free time to enjoy life. I won't bore you with the 15 things, but the most important one is to have a definite purpose in life and the power to achieve it. If you are reading this article, you made it through 2010 and some of you may have made a few New Year's resolutions for 2011. What do you suppose the odds of achieving those resolutions would be? Slim to none? Many of us have given up on New Year's resolutions because we know they don't work for us. Why?

Good Housekeeping Seal to grace Goodyear's Assurance Fuel Max tire

2010-12-29T05:00:00Z

After being evaluated by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute, Goodyear?s Assurance Fuel Max tire has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.

Car Care: A New Year's resolution that pays off

2010-12-21T05:00:00Z

In the New Year, encourage your customers to resolve to perform regular vehicle maintenance. Spending a little time now on preventive maintenance, can save a lot of headaches in the long run and make for a great 2011 according to the Car Care Council.

Snap-on announces 'Free Accessory' software promotion

2010-12-13T05:00:00Z

nap-on's 'Free Accessory' software promotion, offers VERUS®, MODIS?, SOLUS PRO? and SOLUS? owners in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico a free credit of up to $185 towards diagnostic accessories when they invest in Snap-on's latest upgrade, Software Bundle 10.4.

Ohio Technical college receives 2010 Weatherhead 100 award

2010-12-12T05:00:00Z

Ohio Technical College - a provider of specialized technical training in a wide variety of transportation fields - has been awarded the Weatherhead 100 Award by Case Weatherhead School of Management and The Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) for the third consecutive year.

Luber-Finer website designed to optimize customer experience

2010-12-10T05:00:00Z

Luber-finer, a Champion Laboratories, Inc. brand has launched its new website located at www.luber-finer.com. The dramatically redesigned site embodies Luber-finer?s forward-thinking vision and commitment to going the extra mile for its customers.

Alternators need extra care as winter approaches

2010-12-07T05:00:00Z

The alternator, which powers the vehicle?s entire electrical system, not only provides current to operate all of the car?s electrical accessories and the engine ? it keeps the vehicle?s battery charged, and its importance is amplified as the weather turns colder and the vehicle uses more power-robbing accessories.

Luber-Finer launches Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and YouTube sites

2010-11-22T05:00:00Z

Champion Laboratories, Inc.is proud to announce it has launched social media sites for its Luber-finer brand of automotive, medium-duty and heavy-duty lines of filtration products on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Luber- finer?s social media presence has been designed to connect with channel partners, installers and end-users in a cutting-edge way that provides quick access to information about the Luber-finer brand, its filtration products and how they can be used, as well as offering a portal to connect with fellow Luber-finer users.

Curry's Auto Service opens a new shop at Dulles Town Center

2010-11-19T05:00:00Z

Curry's Auto Service opened a new shop at Dulles Town Center on November 15. Located at 45591 Dulles Eastern Plaza in Sterling, VA, the shop is 5,000 square feet with seven bays and Curry's usual state-of the-art equipment.

Are your customers being sold on the facts?

2010-11-04T04:00:00Z

?The biggest issue in the industry today is that most service consultants are non-technical,? Carquest Technical Institute?s Chris Chesney told AAPEX attendees Thursday during his ?Communicating with Confidence:  Service Consultants and Technicians Working Together for Vehicle Owners (And Increasing Profit for Repair Shops)? presentation. 

Being a 'tech geek' can boost your reach

2010-11-03T04:00:00Z

For those who don't know about current technologies, or want to improve on how they promote their business with new technologies and websites, Gene Marks highlighted a number of means in his Wednesday morning AAPEX presentation ?Gadgets, Gizmos, Geeks: 25 Tools, Technologies and Web-Based Services that Smart Businesses are Using to Keep Their Customers Happy.?

Timken giving customers info faster with new category management system

2010-11-03T04:00:00Z

Timken is taking a closer look at what's going on in your backyard. The company has a new comprehensive category management system it unveiled at AAPEX 2010. It has restructured its resources to have the group look more closely at using data so customers can have the right number of parts at the right time and not have a lot sitting around.

Activant moving distributors into eBay Motors

2010-11-03T04:00:00Z

Activant Solutions is giving its catalog users a new way to reach new customers beyond their physical reach. Activant debuted at AAPEX its new ListingExpert that allows distributors to essentially open a second store on eBay Motors. The service enables distributors and jobbers to create and post comprehensive product listings for parts sales on the website.

Investing within important to Beck/Arnley

2010-11-03T04:00:00Z

Throughout the coming year, the benefits of investments within the company?s people, products and processes will come to fruition for Beck/Arnley. Max Dull, vice president and general manager, says the business has three areas that it is investing: products, marketing and sales. And it all starts with investments in the product Beck/Arnley makes.

WIX expands product line, heads into industry

2010-11-02T04:00:00Z

LAS VEGAS ? WIX Filters is branching out into new areas that its sales staff drives by nearly every day.

Shop of Tomorrow highlights technology needed today

2010-11-02T04:00:00Z

With the connectivity of today's vehicles changing nearly every day, repair shops must make sure they are ready to handle this new technology. All of this is on display at the Shop of Tomorrow at AAPEX.

Social media key to business success

2010-11-02T04:00:00Z

Social media is here to stay, and if you?re not active on Twitter, Facebook and other outlets, your business could be at risk. An aftermarket panel shared benefits to participating and their experiences in Tuesday?s Lunch & Learn.

New technologies mean new innovations for Shell

2010-11-02T04:00:00Z

Vehicle innovations are causing automotive companies around the aftermarket to relook at how they address their product lines, and Shell Lubricants is working to stay ahead of what?s coming down the pike. At Shell Lubricants? panel discussion ?Driving Innovation: The Industry?s Need to Advance? on Tuesday morning, experts talked about the innovations the company is putting into the marketplace and the messages its driving to educate consumers.

Choosing the lane to successful shop cultures

2010-11-01T04:00:00Z

Like many of you, I started in the automotive industry at the ripe age of 21. Life seemed so simple and a heck of a lot of fun. Eventually I applied to Sun Electric, bcause I liked their tachometers. Remarkably, they hired me! Everyone eventually had all the necessary equipment to fix a car, but some shops just seemed more successful and more passionate. So if passion and culture can be a path to profits, how can we get everyone in your business passionate about serving the customers se we can stay the best shop in our area?

Mitch Schneider returns to Motor Age

2010-10-28T04:00:00Z

Mitch Schneider is coming back to Motor Age and the rest of the SearchAutoParts.com brands. An award-winning journalist and ASE-certified Master Automotive Technician, Schneider will become a contributing editor for Motor Age, Aftermarket Business World and ABRN on Jan. 1, 2011.

Federated roadside assistance program continues to grow

2010-10-20T04:00:00Z

Federated's new Roadside Assistance Program not only serves as a great tool for Federated Car Care Center members, it also serves as an added benefit for their customers who have had service performed at a Federated Car Care Center.

Tire services included in new TomTom motor club program

2010-10-15T04:00:00Z

TomTom has unveiled a Roadside Assistance service for users of its GPS units and iPhone applications.

On-the-go customers connecting with Nitto's new mobile website

2010-10-15T04:00:00Z

Nitto has launched a website designed to provide access from mobile devices.

Prolong Super Lubricants supports 11th annual Cruisin' for a Cure car show

2010-10-15T04:00:00Z

Prolong® Super Lubricants joined more than 200 exhibitors to support the local Cruisin? for a Cure charity car show, Sept. 25, 2010, at the OC Fair & Events Center in Costa Mesa, Ca.

Curry's Auto Service named 2010 Top Shop

2010-10-15T04:00:00Z

Curry's Auto Service, based in Chantilly, Va., has been named the 2010 Motor Age Top Shop. Matt and Judy Curry own the five-location business.

Care Car Council salutes Bridgestone's consumer education programs

2010-10-14T04:00:00Z

Bridgestone has been honored by the Car Care Council with a pair of Automotive Communication Awards for the company's driver safety education initiatives and Car Care Academy program.

Who you want determines how you work

2010-10-11T04:00:00Z

Before you can go out and attract new customers ? or keep the ones you have ? you need to know who you want your customers to be. Are you looking for budget-minded drivers or those who have a good interest in taking care of their vehicles? Once you know where to aim your business, you?re on the right track, says Frank Joel, publisher of Page One Publishing. He presented ?Customer Relationship Management Using Integrated Marketing Strategies? to CARS attendees Monday.

It's not about the money

2010-10-10T04:00:00Z

When you have a great technician or service advisor, you will do anything to keep them. But throwing money at them is not the way to go. Instead, says Bob Cooper, you need a well-rounded compensation incentive plan to keep employees from looking elsewhere in the first place.

Profiting from using service information

2010-10-10T04:00:00Z

You go to training and learn the ways to track down service information. But what happens when you get back to the shop? As shop owner Donny Seyfer says, usually the training is just not utilized.

TRICO expands It's Raining Rebates promotion to reward installers

2010-10-06T04:00:00Z

TRICO Products will present the popular TRICO It's Raining Rebates campaign this fall, and will expand the reward to include installers for selling qualifying TRICO wiper products.

OnStar celebrates National Customer Service Week

2010-10-05T04:00:00Z

OnStar, as part of national customer service week, honors its more than 2,000 Advisors by recognizing their high-quality service with fielding more than 100,000 calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week. OnStar Advisors provide a wealth of information to the nearly 6 million subscribers that depend on them 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Tires Plus and Wheel Works conducting in-store fundraisers to fight childhood cancer

2010-10-05T04:00:00Z

Motorists visiting Wheel Works and Tires Plus locations through Oct. 10 have a chance to support the Pediatric Cancer Foundation with a $1 upgrade on an oil change.

ASA featured in auto safety publication for consumers

2010-10-04T04:00:00Z

Content provided by the Automotive Service Association (ASA) was recently featured in the Los Angeles Times in a supplemental section created by MediaPlanet, an independent publisher of focused reports distributed with leading newspapers and online sites. The "Panel of Experts" section featured four ASA members who participated in a question-and-answer section providing motorists with auto safety advice.

Car Care Council urges participation in Fall Car Care month

2010-10-01T04:00:00Z

It's not too late to participate in Fall Car Care Month in October, the perfect time to remind your customers to have their vehicles checked after the wear and tear of summer and before harsh winter weather sets in.

Don't let discounts make your shop D.O.A.

2010-10-01T04:00:00Z

Is discounting killing your business? Yes! Now, I know what you're saying: Discounting helps create new customers and increase sales. But that is not always true. I do agree that discounting a service as an acquisition tool might help you attract new customers. But what type of customer did you just attract? And can you retain that customer for future visits? And on the sales side, did you generate enough in sales to make the discount worth doing?

CarMD.com debuts Vehicle Health Matters consumer driving tips online video series

2010-10-01T04:00:00Z

CarMD.com Corporation has debuted its CarMD Vehicle Health Matters Driving Tips Video Series, which is designed to help drivers, particularly younger motorists, learn about maintenance, safety and tips to extend the life of their vehicle.

ATI Endorses Demandforce, backs next generation client solution

2010-09-29T04:00:00Z

Automotive Training Institute (ATI), the industry leader in automotive business coaching, has endorsed Demandforce as a preferred software communications vendor to help ATI repair facilities attract new customers, retain existing customers, and measure their performance.

Michelin hosting ALMS extravaganza on streets of Greenville

2010-09-24T04:00:00Z

Michelin hosting ALMS extravaganza on streets of Greenville

Meineke Wisconsin franchise recognized by IFA as Franchisee of the Year

2010-09-23T04:00:00Z

Meineke Car Care Centers, Inc. franchisees Joseph Saelens and Carl Kampmeier of Madison, Wis., were recognized as the Franchisee of the Year, by the International Franchise Association (IFA), during the 11th Annual Public Affairs Conference, for their outstanding performance and the contributions they have made to enhance the growth and development of franchising.

Search Auto Parts | Automotive News - Customer Service

Seizing a chance at the shop counter

Working legally with warranties

Open service at Dr. Import

Survey reveals that half of drivers postpone repairs

Where there's smoke, is there fire?

Making the past your future

Delphi giving away another dream shop

Can You Learn a New Trick?

Graduating from Groundhog Day

Employees Keeping You Up at Night?

Technology driving improved shop relations

More than a paycheck

Mitchell 1's Social CRM brings new services to shops in 2012

Planning for when our shop grows up

8 seconds to engage website traffic

Finding the right money guy for your shop

Surviving the day at the repair shop

You're measuring tech productivity wrong

Heat, not cold, shortens battery life

Is your service advisor more like a robot?

The magic pill for increasing car count

Parts Warranties: A feature and a benefit for your business

Answering your phone effectively

The economy rebounds as consumers save more, spend less

Branding your service center

Properly maintaining the lifeblood of your vehicle with Luber-finer

Bosch announces 2011 rebate programs for its DistancePlus and Premium oil filter lines

Boost your repeat business with Mighty's spring rebates

Mitchell 1 adds target market promotions to eCRM program

Purolator's 2011 rebate programs put money back in motorists' pockets

Curry's Auto Service opens new shop

Popular 'Totally MOOG&reg;' promotion for Professional Technicians returns

Walker spring exhaust promotions benefit consumers and tecnicians

The new age of marketing for increasing car count

Mitchell 1 updates DIY online program

Monroe promotions rewards consumers and technicians

Curry's Auto Service raises $10,000 for Dulles south youth sports and ALS research

Goodyear Gatorback Poly-V belts gear up for 10th year of driving NASCAR technology

Honeywell's Friction Materials Business launches consumer and repair shop promotion

Harsh winter makes TRICO's "Change Your Clocks, Change Your Blades" campaign more timely than ever

Order Car Care guides for National Car Care month

Effective shop discipline without the pain

Bosch spark plug customer rebate rewards program

Automotive excellence is a matter of Xs and Os

Consumers can save up to $20 per set of Champion&reg; Spark Plugs

Experian Automotive launches CheckMyRide.com

Automotive technician offers less expensive approach to car repair

AutoTex PINK to sponsor Marketing to Women Conference

Mudlick Mail forms partnership with AskPatty.com

Eating the shop elephant one bite at a time

Tenneco offering installers $40 for each pair of Monroe Quick-strut assemblies sold

Timken adds Automotive and Heavy-Truck focus to Social Media conversation

New Snap-on Catalog App makes tool shopping fast and easy

NARPRO goes national to bring more power to independent shops.

Luber-finer phone app helps installers find the filters they need

Batteries Plus stores offer free car battery checks to help ensure reliable performance in all climates

ASA announces new agreement with Worldwide Connectors

Loss prevention bulletin: Snow and ice loads and other winter hazards

Make National Car Care Month your business resolution

Snap-on adds FAQ section to diagnostics website

Purolator's free service answers any filter-related question

Shop owner secrets to achievement

Good Housekeeping Seal to grace Goodyear's Assurance Fuel Max tire

Car Care: A New Year's resolution that pays off

Snap-on announces 'Free Accessory' software promotion

Ohio Technical college receives 2010 Weatherhead 100 award

Luber-Finer website designed to optimize customer experience

Alternators need extra care as winter approaches

Luber-Finer launches Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and YouTube sites

Curry's Auto Service opens a new shop at Dulles Town Center

Are your customers being sold on the facts?

Being a 'tech geek' can boost your reach

Timken giving customers info faster with new category management system

Activant moving distributors into eBay Motors

Investing within important to Beck/Arnley

WIX expands product line, heads into industry

Shop of Tomorrow highlights technology needed today

Social media key to business success

New technologies mean new innovations for Shell

Popular 'Totally MOOG®' promotion for Professional Technicians returns

Consumers can save up to $20 per set of Champion® Spark Plugs