Faulty Tire Repair Brings $22.8 Million Court Award
A bad tire repair and a lack of proper repair training led to a record $22.8 million award to the estates of a couple killed when a tire repair failure caused a rollover accident.
New Bosch A/C Refrigerant Handling Systems Offer Speed, Accuracy, Reliability and Automated Operation
Bosch’s new ACS 620 and ACS 625 Digital A/C Refrigerant Handling Systems are fully automated, accurate and user friendly, and are fully compliant with the J2788 standard. Featuring a swivel control turret housing with an LCD display and easy-to read gauges, the new R134a refrigerant recovery/recycle/recharge systems are equipped with a large 6 CFM vacuum pump, an easy-access refrigerant filter for quick maintenance and patented manifold assembly that increases machine uptime – and therefore shop revenue.
Sleek New SmartLift Trio Superstructure Raises Technician Productivity
The world’s best-selling inground lift has a sleek new superstructure that increases technician productivity with three key developments: greater drive-through clearance, improved lift-to-vehicle clearance, and extended arm reach. Rotary Lift recently unveiled the patent-pending SmartLift Trio superstructure at the NADA Expo.
New Hampshire Shop Repairs Vehicles to Precision: Dick Horan’s Precision Imports Fixes Vehicles Other Shops Can’t
Precision Imports in Manchester, NH, is a clean, modern vehicle repair facility with nine bays, and housing the latest in scan tool technology to fix a variety of import vehicles for a wide customer base. But when owner Dick Horan opened the doors 31 years ago, the shop could hardly be described as state-of-the-art.
Tips for a Successful Direct Mail Campaign
Advertising can be a great way to drive business, but the key is finding the right vehicle to spread your message. What I really wanted was a compelling way to reach the highest-caliber customers located closest to my shops. Direct mail allowed me to achieve that goal. I was able to target higher-income households within two miles of my shop.
Shop Owner Offers Advice to Customers for Dealing with Cold Weather
Jim Doyle, owner of General Auto Repair and Tire in Hendersonville, NC, recently told a local newspaper reporter that the cold winter weather is taking a toll on his customers’ vehicles. “Cold weather causes a lot of rubber parts and plastic parts to break,” he said.
Catalytic Converters Stolen from Memphis Repair Shop
Thieves in Memphis, TN, cut through a fence and stole catalytic converters off at least nine vehicles at Classic European Motors. In addition, TVs, a stereo and even the tires and wheels were taken from the vehicles.
Educate Drivers About Tire Maintenance During National Tire Safety Week
During National Tire Safety Week, retailers nationwide will work to educate motorists about proper tire care and maintenance. RMA provides tire retailers, auto dealers and automotive repair shops with free “Be Tire Smart” brochures and other materials.
Waukegan Tire & Supply Co. Embraces Social Media to Keep Pace with Shifting Demographics
Waukegan Tire & Supply Co. Inc. has learned to adapt. The company did not just accept change because there was no other choice; it embraced change, and is thriving as a result. From adopting social media to keeping pace with shifting demographics, the company has found ways to grow a sense of community. As a family-run business, it is naturally focused on personal relationships, and has chosen to see not only customers, but also the entire community as its extended family.
AAIA Town Hall at AAPEX: Industry Resets, Realigns Aftermarket for Growth and Prosperity
The resounding message echoed among panel members was that the economic reset that resulted from the recent recession has prompted an industry reset that will position the aftermarket for growth, but they cautioned that we should not forget the lessons we learned the past year.