WIX Filters Names Second-Annual Best Tech During AWDA -

WIX Filters Names Second-Annual Best Tech During AWDA

WIX Filters, a member of the Affinia Group family of brands, in conjunction with Brake & Front End, ImportCar and Underhood Service magazines, named Kim Brant from Joe's Tire & Auto Sales in St. Joseph, Mo., the second-annual WIX Filters Best Tech during the annual AWDA Meeting and Conference in Las Vegas on Oct. 29. As part of his award, he and a guest traveled to AAPEX for an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas.

WIX Filters, a member of the Affinia Group family of brands, in conjunction with Brake & Front End, ImportCar and Underhood Service magazines, named Kim Brant from Joe’s Tire & Auto Sales (www.stjoeautoservice.com) in St. Joseph, Mo., the second-annual WIX Filters Best Tech during the annual AWDA Meeting and Conference in Las Vegas on Oct. 29. As part of his award, he and a guest traveled to AAPEX for an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas.

“From the diagnosis of electrical problems to evaluating exhaust systems to recommending the best parts – technicians play a major role in enhancing a vehicle’s performance,” said Mike Harvey, brand manager for WIX Filters. “We are thrilled to recognize Brant for the second-annual Best Tech award for his distinguished career built on outstanding customer service as a committed advisor and resource and for his dedication to learning as vehicles become more sophisticated with a wider range of repairs and maintenance work.”

Brant is an ASE Master Certified Technician and WIX Expert-Level Certified Technician, as well as Best Tech finalist in 2011. During his 28-year career, Brant has serviced Prowlers and Lamborghinis and recharged the AC system on a LifeFlight Helicopter. He has a passion for staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and training. Brant is also an active member of the community and supports Habitat for Humanity, the Special Olympics and youth activities.

“With complicated systems that make up automobiles today, it is imperative that technicians provide the highest-quality service to ensure that drivers and passengers are safe on roadways,” said Brant. “I am truly delighted to win this award not only for myself but for everyone at Joe’s Tire & Auto Service. From our technicians, owners to service writers, we hold the shop to the highest standards by encouraging ongoing education, implementing top-level industry standards and providing excellent customer service which drives returning customers.”

WIX Filters and Babcox publications also named two Best Tech finalists – Travis Luscomb from Larson’s Service, Inc. in Peabody, Mass., and Kevin Dietz from BTS Tire and Service in Providence, R.I.

As a sponsor of Tomorrow’s Technician School of the Year, Counterman’s Counter Professional of the Year and Babcox Media’s Automotive Tech Group’s Best Tech programs, WIX Filters supports excellence at every level of the automotive repair industry.

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The True Cost Of Comebacks

Comebacks are a hot topic today. You need to track all comebacks, determine the reason (tech error, part error, training issue, other) and then calculate the true cost of the comeback.

By Joe Marconi of Elite
Comebacks are a hot topic today. You need to track
all comebacks, determine the reason (tech error, part error, training issue,
other) and then calculate the true cost of the comeback.
Here are a few things to consider:
• The loss of time when performing the comeback; time that the tech can use to
perform other work and generate profit;
• The misc costs, such as overhead costs, supplies, cleaners, etc.;
• Towing costs, rental, etc.;
• Cost to morale;
• Reputation damage; and
• Reduction to your profit margin.
For every part issue, you need to
inform your supplier. Sit down with suppliers on a regular basis. Don’t return defective
parts until you have listed the parts, and maintain a report. Document
everything.
Part issues are increasing. Every shop
owner I speak to is frustrated over this.
Remember, comebacks kill your bottom
line. The more comebacks you have, the more they’re killing your profits.
This article was contributed by Joe Marconi.
Joe is one of the 1-on-1 business coaches who helps shop owners through
the Elite Coaching Program, and is the
co-founder of autoshopowner.com.

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