Southern Automotive Journal

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December 2013 VW XL1 Please Turn to Page 4 COLLISION NEWS www.southernautomotivejournal.com 2014 Acura MDX 2014 Toyota RAV4 Southern Automotive Journal P.O. Box 675097 Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 (770) 321-9920 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LAKELAND, FL PERMIT NO. 00335 Supplier Spotlight Crown Inifinti The Volkswagen XL1, the most fuel- efficient and aerodynamic production car in the world, made its U.S. debut at the 23rd Annual Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) Conference at the Chattanooga Convention Center today. The XL1 offers an estimated European combined fuel con- sumption rating of 261 mpg (more than 200 mpg estimated in the U.S. cycle) and can Volkswagen XL1, World’s Most Fuel-Efficient And Aerodynamic Production Car, Makes U.S. Debut In Chattanooga cover up to 32 miles as a zero-emissions vehicle in all-electric mode. “The XL1 offers a glimpse into Volkswagen’s present and future eco- mobility capabilities, and highlights the ultimate successes of ‘Thinking Blue’,” Gene Hamilton Honored as industry icon ASA Asks State Officials to Review State Farm’s Mandatory Parts Procurement Program Oregon Repairer Chooses Not to Re-Negotiate State Farm’s Select Service Agreement Toyota and Mitchell Partner to Provide Breakthrough Estimating Tool Alabama Auto Dealer Forrest McConnell Elected NADA Chairman for 2014 Dodge and Mopars New SCAT Package Performance Data Finds 1 in 5 Bulk Motor Oils Fail to Meet API Standards DEALER NEWS

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Southern Automotive Journal provides news trends and perspectives to professionals in the automotive collision industry including, independent repair shops, collision shops and new car dealers. Circulation area includes the southeast United States.

Transcript of Southern Automotive Journal

Page 1: Southern Automotive Journal

December 2013

VW XL1 Please Turn to Page 4

COLLISION NEWSwww.southernautomotivejournal.com

2014 Acura MDX

2014 Toyota RAV4 Southern Automotive JournalP.O. Box 675097Marietta, Ga 30006-0009(770) 321-9920

PRSRT STD

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

LAKELAND, FL

PERMIT NO. 00335

IN-HOME: Dec. 1, 2008

Supplier Spotlight

Crown Inifinti

The Volkswagen XL1, the most fuel-efficient and aerodynamic production car in the world, made its U.S. debut at the 23rd Annual Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) Conference at the Chattanooga Convention Center today. The XL1 offers an estimated European combined fuel con-sumption rating of 261 mpg (more than 200 mpg estimated in the U.S. cycle) and can

Volkswagen XL1, World’s Most Fuel-Efficient And Aerodynamic Production Car, Makes U.S. Debut In Chattanooga

cover up to 32 miles as a zero-emissions vehicle in all-electric mode.

“The XL1 offers a glimpse into Volkswagen’s present and future eco-mobility capabilities, and highlights the ultimate successes of ‘Thinking Blue’,”

Gene Hamilton Honored as industry icon

ASA Asks State Officials to Review State Farm’s Mandatory

Parts Procurement Program

Oregon Repairer Chooses Not to Re-Negotiate State Farm’s Select Service Agreement

Toyota and Mitchell Partner to Provide Breakthrough

Estimating Tool

Alabama Auto Dealer Forrest McConnell Elected NADA

Chairman for 2014

Dodge and Mopars New SCAT Package Performance

Data Finds 1 in 5 Bulk Motor Oils Fail to Meet API Standards

DEALER NEWS

Page 2: Southern Automotive Journal

Parts You Need A Name You Trust

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Acura 800.899.7278 770.422.3138 770.590.4154Audi 877.625.5393 678.795.3500 678.352.3450Bentley 866.204.9264 678.352.3577 678.795.2957BMW 800.622.2021 404.296.8644 404.297.9134Honda 866.362.8034 770.306.4646 770.306.4640Hyundai 855.639.9027 678.487.1839 678.210.2320Inifinti - Decatur 800.522.3324 404.292.0831 404.296.8701Inifiniti - Marietta 877.625.5392 770.281.8645 770.281.8646Jaguar/Porsche 877.724.3030 864.281.1115 864.478.1438KIA 855.651.0006 678.323.4629 678.750.1355Lexus - Galleria 800.966.5398 770.514.7408 770.590.4132Lexus - Roswell 877.495.3987 678.795.2050 678.795.9606Nissan 800.647.7278 404.292.4774 404.297.6962Toyota - Roswell 877.594.8696 678.832.4300 770.552.2365Toyota - Lithonia 855.646.6526 678.708.4899 678.708.4850Volkwagen 866.204.9106 678.795.3472 678.795.2941Volvo 877.724.3030 864.281.1115 864.478.1438

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Acura Nalley Acura 770.422.3138 800.899.7278 770.590.4154

Audi Jim Ellis Audi 770.955.2580 800.253.8242 770.952.6199 Nalley Audi 678.795.3500 877.625.5393 678.352.3450

BMW Century BMW 256.532.4570 800.236.8456 256.536.0361 Nalley BMW 404.296.8644 800.622.2021 404.297.9134

Chrysler Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Benchmark 205.823.5237 800.633.4304 888.815.5238 Hayes 770.963.6263 800.241.8124 770.237.8174Ferrari Ferrari Maserati of Atlanta 678.802.5000 800.522.2345 678.802.5018FIAT FIAT of Birmingham 205.823.5237 800.633.4304 888.815.5238Ford Gwinnett Place Ford 770.813.6825 866.665.9318 770.622.6156General Motors/Saturn Ivan leonard Chevrolet 205.823.5428 800.239.5100 205.979.3048 Rick Hendrick Chevrolet 678.957.5300 888.339.7278 678.957.5310Honda Gwinnett Place Honda 678.957.5151 800.277.8836 678.957.5156 Nalley Honda 770.306.4646 800.367.9834 770.306.4640 Tameron Honda 205.433.7651 800-467-0699 205-443-7656Hyundai Jim Burke Hyundai 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Nalley Hyundai 678.487.1839 855.639.9027 678.210.2320 Tameron Hyundai 205.433.7652 800-467-0699 205-443-7656 Serra Hyundai 205-856-6600 800-426-4351 205-853-7530Infi nti Crown Infinti 205.985.4200 800.476.4669 205.402.2243 Nalley Infinti - Marietta 770.281.8645 877.625.5392 770.281.8646 Nalley Infinti - Decatur 404.292.0831 800.522.3324 404.296.8701Izuzu Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Jaguar Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Nalley 864.281.1115 877.724.3030 864.478.1438 KIASerra Hyundai 205-856-6600 800-426-4351 205-853-7530 Nalley KIA 678.323.4629 855.651.0006 678.750.1355

Maserati Ferrari Maserati of Atlanta 678.802.5000 800.522.2345 678.802.5018Mazda Jim Ellis Mazda of Marietta 770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645 Mall of Georgia Mazda 678-957-5300 877-339-7278 678-957-5310Merecdes-Benz Atlanta Classic Cars 678-924-4249 800-241-6086 678-924-4257 Crown Merecdes-Benz 205.985.4200 800.476.4669 205.402.2243Mitsubishi Serra 205-856-6600 800-426-4351 205-853-7530Nissan Jim Burke Nissan 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Nalley Nissan 404.292.4774 800.647.7278 404.297.6962 Land Rover Century Land Rover 256.532.4570 800.236.8456 256.536.0361Lexus Lexus of Huntsville 256.824.8075 855.528.0487 256.824.8019 Nalley Lexus Marietta 770.514.7408 800.966.5398 770.590.4132 Nalley Lexus Roswell 678.795.2050 877.495.3987 678.795.9606Porsche Century Porsche 256.532.4570 800.236.8456 256.536.0361 Nalley Porsche 864.281.1115 877.724.3030 864.478.1438SAAB Jim Ellis SAAB of Marietta 770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645

Subaru Jim Burke Subaru 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Troncalli Subaru 770.889.8951 800.646.9438 770.889.2545 Subaru of Gwinnett 678.584.7245 800.584.8727 678.584.7246Suzuki Suzuki of Memphis 901.347.4208 800.338.5481 901.347.4207 Toyota/ Scion Limbaugh Toyota 205.788.9390 800.239.5050 205.780.5215 Nalley Toyota of Roswell 678.832.4300 877.594.8696 770.552.2365 Stone Crest Nalley Toyota 678.708.4899 855.646.6526 678.708.4850 Volvo Century Volvo 256.532.4570 800.236.8456 256.536.0361 Jim Ellis Volvo 770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645 Nalley Volvo 864.281.1115 877.724.3030 864.478.1438 Volvo of Memphis 901.347.4208 800.338.5481 901.347.4207 Volkswagen Jim Ellis 770.955.2580 800.253.8242 770.952.6199 Nalley Volkswagen 678.795.3472 866.204.9106 678.795.2941

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Southern Automotive Journal December 20134 www.IneedOEMparts.com

VW XL1 From Cover

said Oliver Schmidt, General Manager of the Engineering and Environmental Office (EEO), Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “Volkswagen is proud to debut this ultra-fuel-efficient vehicle before the Society of Environmental Journalists, a group that shares in our commitment to environmental stew-ardship.”

In addition to the XL1 display, Volkswagen’s participation in the SEJ Conference included a tour of its LEED® Platinum-certified Chattanooga manufacturing plant and solar park; test-drives in its line of eco-friendly cars, such as the e-Golf, Passat TDI Clean Diesel and Jetta Hybrid; and a bird-watching expedition on Volkswagen Chattanooga’s sanctuary grounds.

The XL1 is an automotive stand-out that follows pure sports-car design principles: light weight (1753 pounds), exceptional aerodynamics (Cd 0.19), and a low center of gravity. This super-efficient Volkswagen has the ability to cruise down the road at a constant 62 mph while using just 8.4 PS (6.2kW) horsepower. In all-electric mode, the XL1 r e q u i r e s

less than 0.1 kWh to cover more than a kilometer.

The XL1 emits just 21 g/km of CO2, thanks to its high-tech lightweight design, aerodynamic efficiency, and a plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 48 PS (35kW) two-cylinder TDI® engine, a 27-hp electric motor, a seven-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmis-sion, and a lithium-ion battery.

The estimated European driving cycle of 261 mpg fuel consumption

figure is a record that has not been achieved by any other vehicle to

date, showing that Volkswagen is redefining what is techni-cally feasible in the automo-tive industry. The XL1 also has a top speed of 99 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 12.7 seconds.

Conceptually, the XL1 represents the third evolution-

ary stage of Volkswagen’s 1-liter

Page 5: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 5www.IneedOEMparts.com

car strategy. When the new millenni-um was ushered in, Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Piëch, now Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG, formulated the visionary goal of putting into pro-duction a practical car that had com-bined fuel consumption of one liter per 100 km (235 mpg). In the two-seat XL1, this vision has become reality.

Despite the tre-mendous effi-ciency of t h e

X L 1 , the engi-neers and designers success-fully came up with a body design which delivers more everyday utility than the

two previous proto-types. In the L1, the 1-liter car that was shown in 2002 and 2009, the driver and passenger sat in a tandem arrange-ment for optimal aerodynamics; in the

XL1, the two

occupants sit slightly offset, side by side, almost like a conventional

vehicle.The XL1 is 153.1 inches

long, 65.6 inches wide, and just 45.4 inches tall. By com-parison, a Volkswagen Polo

is slightly longer (156.3 in) and wider (66.2 in), but is significant-

ly taller (57.6 in). Even a purebred sports car like today’s Porsche Boxster is 5.1 inches taller. The XL1 will look spectacular going down the highway—a car of the future, built for today.n

To save weight and improve

aerodynamics, VW engineers

removed side-view mirrors.

Instead, they used low-pro-

file cameras and a monitor

inserted into the door.

Page 6: Southern Automotive Journal

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Southern Automotive Journal December 20136 www.IneedOEMparts.com

In honor of the 45th anniversa-ry of the legendary “Scat Pack Club” that played a prominent role in Dodge heritage, Dodge and Mopar today announced the introduction of new Scat Package performance stage kits for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, 2014 Dodge Charger and 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

  In 1968, Dodge united the brand’s performance vehicle enthusi-asts through the creation of the Scat Pack Club. The Scat Pack Club quickly transformed and expanded from an enthusiast club into an over-arching Dodge performance philosophy. This shared philosophy ultimately evolved into the desire for even more per-formance. Dodge and Mopar brands

Dodge and Mopar join forces to introduce new Scat Package performance upgrade kits for 2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Dodge Dart

Scat Package Please Turn to Page 18 The 1968 Scat Pack are identified by their bumble bee strips.From top to bottom: Dart GTS, Coronet R/T, and Charge R/T

Page 7: Southern Automotive Journal

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During a meeting with the area State Farm Estimatics Manager, Ron Reichen, President of Precision Body and Paint in Beaverton Oregon, chose not to re-negotiate his company’s Select Service agreement with State Farm Insurance, the nation’s largest personal auto insurer. A relationship which lasted over 17 years and of which accounted for $2 million dollars in business over the past year.

“It was actually a business decision we had been considering for some time” stated Reichen; “Discussions came to an impasse over fair and rea-sonable rates and allow-ances for aluminum repair. Our terminating the Select Service agreement stems from our company being a certified Tesla repair facility and the invest-ments in time, equipment, training, specialized equipment and facilities which we could not offer for the rates State Farm was willing to pay. This will no doubt enable our company to re-evaluate and revise our pricing on other goods and services for the

Oregon Repairer Chooses Not to Re-Negotiate State Farm’s Select Service Agreementother manufacturers of which we are a certified repairer for including Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, Nissan, Volvo, GM, Chrysler and several others.”

Along with all other insurers, State Farm has paid Precision’s post-ed aluminum labor rates in the past. With Precision being the only certified

Tesla repairer in the state, it is believed that with its growing popularity and its all aluminum construction, that State Farm has now elected to deny Precision’s aluminum rates under the Select Service Program. As a result, like all other insurers, State Farm will no longer be provided the concessions (e.g. storage) Precision offered in the

past.Reichen stated: “While insurers

continue to adjust their rates based upon economic pressures; as vehicle technology advances with new sophis-ticated metals, manufacturing and repair techniques, repairers, party

to such programs as Select Service are pre-cluded from keeping pace with their increas-ing costs. We found attempting to do so, while maintaining the highest level of qual-ity and service, to be both unreasonable and unsustainable, and as a business decision we elected to resign from the insurer’s program.

“ T h is w as Precision’s last insurer

Direct Repair relationship, and as in the past, we will continue to work with all insurers on our customer’s behalf. Precision is committed to its customers and our community and will continue to work diligently to serve them with the highest quality repairs and service in an expeditious manner regardless of which insurer is involved.“n

“While insurers continue to adjust their rates based upon economic pressures; as vehicle technology advances with new sophisticated metals, manufacturing and repair techniques,

repairers, party to such programs as Select Service are precluded from keeping pace with their increasing costs

Ron Reichen, President Precision Body and Paint in Beaverton Oregon

Page 8: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 20138 www.IneedOEMparts.com

Southern Automotive Journal,Inc.

P.O. Box 675097

Marietta, Ga 30006-0009

(770) 321-9920

E-Mail

[email protected]

Volume 17 Issue No. 12

Jim TuckerPublisher

[email protected]

Michele TuckerEditor

[email protected]

Southern Automotive Journal (ISSN: 1092-6321) is published monthly by Southern Automotive Journal Inc. P.O. Box 675097, Marietta, Ga 30006-0009.SAJ accepts no responsi-bility for the opinions, views statements of the authors or for claims made by advertisers. Views expressed by writers are not necessarily those of the publication. Subscription: $12.00 per year. No representation is made as to the accuracy or the com-pleteness of the information provided by this publication. Entire contents copyright 2013. All rights reserved.

ContributorsNick Palermo Ami Vonesh

Russ Heaps Michael Winters

The National Automobile Dealers Association's board of directors has elect-ed Forrest McConnell, III, chairman for 2014.

"I’m truly honored," said McConnell, owner of McConnell Honda/Acura in Montgomery, Ala., who represents Alabama’s new-car dealers on NADA’s board. "I look forward to the challenge."

“Dealers are small Main Street busi-nesses and pillars of their communities,” added McConnell, who is only the sec-ond dealer from Alabama to lead NADA. “One of the greatest challenges we face is regulations that choke small businesses in America.”

Bill Fox was elected NADA vice chairman. He represents New York’s new-car dealers on NADA’s board, and is the owner of Fox Dealerships in Auburn, N.Y.

The election took place at NADA's board meeting in Santa Barbara, Calif. Colorado dealer Jeff Carlson was elected Secretary, and George Nahas, a dealer in Florida, was elected Treasurer.

McConnell and Fox will take office at the 2014 NADA Convention & Expo in New Orleans, which runs Jan. 24-27.n

Alabama Auto Dealer Forrest McConnell Elected NADA Chairman for 2014

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced recently an all-new way of delivering recommended repair pro-cedures through a partnership with Mitchell, a leader in provid-ing technology, connectiv-ity, and information solu-tions to the collision repair and insurance industries. Mitchell's new mobile/online estimating system is being developed to expose Toyota recommended repair procedures during the estimating process. The new solution should reduce the time required to write a collision estimate by elimi-nating the need to refer-ence multiple sources when repairing a Toyota vehicle to its pre-accident condi-tion. It will also provide standardized information needed throughout the entire repair process.

"Our goal is simple, to ensure customer safety and confidence," said

Toyota and Mitchell Partner to Provide Breakthrough Estimating Tool for the Collision Repair Industry

Rick Leos, Collision Program Developer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. "By com-bining Mitchell's expertise in estimating and Toyota's quality repair procedures,

we have found a way to help repair shops save time and money, while decreasing cycle time and reducing supplements. It's a win for our custom-ers, repair experts, and insurance com-panies alike."

"Mitchell is excited to offer direct

access to repair procedures from Toyota within a collision repair estimate," said Jim Brady, Vice President, Product Management, Mitchell. "By capitalizing

on Mitchell and Toyota's core competencies and strengths, together we will create a dynamic solution in which Toyota vehicle information automatically appears when parts are added to an esti-mate."

Toyota's integrated repair procedures include recommendations on parts that should be replaced rather than re-used along with supporting information detailing the non-reusable

parts. Toyota repair procedures will be available with the release of Mitchell mobile estimating in 2014. n

"Our goal is simple, to ensure customer safety and confidence," said Rick Leos, Collision Program Developer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. "By combining Mitchell's expertise in estimating and Toyota's quality

repair procedures, we have found a way to

help repair shops save time and money..."

Page 9: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 9www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Parts Managers - We Buy Obsolete NISSAN Parts - Call Jon

I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, has announced the appointment of Todd Chizmar of Chrysler Group LLC to its International Board of Directors as a Board Member.

Todd Chizmar has been part of the automotive industry for nearly 20 years, the last 14 in technical and management roles at Chrysler. He is currently Senior Manager, Technical Training for Chrysler, a role in which he is responsible for the planning, development and execution of the company’s global technical train-ing strategy. This includes curriculum design, development and course deliv-ery for all technical training programs.

Chizmar previously managed a department at Chrysler responsible for improving dealership repair processes and increasing customer satisfaction.

I-CAR International Board Of Directors Welcomes Todd Chizmar Of ChryslerPrior to that, he managed Chrysler’s Global Service Diagnostics department. He also worked for more than five years developing enhanced onboard diag-nostics for Chrysler’s electronic control modules.

Before joining Chrysler, Chizmar gained five years of hands-on automo-tive diagnosis and repair experience as a Service Technician for Clouser Auto Repair. Chizmar holds an M.B.A. from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He is also an ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technician and Advanced Engine Performance Specialist.

“Todd’s many years of technical and management experience at Chrysler and firsthand expertise in automotive

repair will enable him to add significant value to the I-CAR International Board of Directors,” said I-CAR Chair William Brower. “His insights will be particu-larly helpful as I-CAR begins to signifi-cantly increase its repair-related techni-cal support of the industry through its new Repairability Technical Support and Knowledge initiative.”

In support of the I-CAR Vision and Mission, the Board of Directors sets the overall strategic direction for the orga-nization and works to ensure the neces-sary plans and resources are in place to accomplish organization objectives. The Board of Directors comprises representa-tives from each of the following six indus-try segments: collision repair; insurance; equipment, tools, and supplies; educa-tion, training, and research; vehicle manu-facturers; and related industry services.n

Page 10: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal November 201310 www.IneedOEMparts.com

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ber of years. Monday evening's gath-ering saw exciting progress on the issue with Toyota Motor Sales Collision Business Development Consultant Rick Leos announcing the manufacturer's 2014 launch of Toyota Recommended Procedures. Brought about in part through continued dialogue with asso-ciations like SCRS, this estimating solu-tion will offer technicians full access to technical data available in Toyota's Technical Information System (TIS) as well as Collision Repair Information Bulletin (CRIB) notes and repair man-uals, recommendations of parts to replace versus repair and detailed notes and documentation to help streamline communication and compensation from insurers. Toyota has partnered with Mitchell to unveil this ground-breaking technology in early 2014, with plans to offer all makes and models 2012 and newer by the end of next year. Leos, who initially announced plans to provide estimating solutions at the 2012 SCRS A s s o c i a t i o n A d d r e s s , stated, "I never imag-ined that we would be here, one year later, ready to go to the mar-ket."

Leos' presentation gave way to A u s t r a l i a -based trade m a g a z i n e p u b l i s h -er David N e w t o n -Ross, who offered an international p e r sp e c t i ve on insurer-m a n d a t e d parts pro-c u r e m e n t . With recent

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 11www.IneedOEMparts.com

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) closed out the first day of the 2013 SEMA Show with a special glimpse into the association's initiatives to elevate the industry at large both now and in the future. The Association Address, held Monday, November 5 at 5:30pm on the Collision Repair and Refinish Stage of the North Hall, offered attendees an after-hours look at the show floor as well as sev-eral presentations from SCRS com-mittee members and guest speakers focusing on proper repair practices, insurer-mandated parts procurement, OEM-approved collision repair data and more.

Following opening remarks by SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg, Chairman Ron Reichen touched upon a few of the associa-tion's many endeavors, including those to address the influence of proposed Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) standards on the repair pro-cess. "With these new [standards] will also come a new set of challenges for repairers," he said. "Repairs will change, compensation will change and we will have to explore how our investments in equipment have been impacted. This is one of many things SCRS is currently looking at, that we are charged with to help make the business of collision repair better."

Industry expert Toby Chess pre-sided over a presentation on behalf of the SCRS Education Committee, leading attendees through multiple real-world examples of cars that "go to good shops...but get bad repairs." Sample data included several vehi-cles that were determined to be total losses following reinspection/custom-er return and, in one case, even the discovery of a technician's dolly left inside of one car. As noted by Chess, these repairs are not performed by so-called "bad" shops or technicians, but are rather the result of disregard for OEM repair processes and procedures.

SCRS has been addressing the need for widespread acceptance of OEM repair procedures as the stan-dard in collision repair for a num-

SCRS Association Address Welcomes International Participation, New Members and Recommended Procedures Announcement From Toyota

developments abroad of LKQ Corp. (the largest supplier of recycled parts in the US) teaming up with Suncorp Group (Australia's largest insurer) to develop an alternative parts busi-ness in Australia and New Zealand, Newton-Ross emphasized the need for open participation and communi-cation between industry groups. "The good thing about being involved is that we can share information," he said. "We may be from different parts of the world, but we share many of the same problems and can help formu-late solutions."

Following Newton-Ross' address and the announcement of Arrowhead General Insurance Agency joining the Society of Collision Repair Specialists as the association's latest Corporate Member, Schulenburg concluded the evening by thanking the association's sponsors and companies whose sup-port SCRS both during SEMA week and year-round. n

Page 12: Southern Automotive Journal

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The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has sent letters to state insurance regulators and state attorneys general regarding State Farm’s nationwide rollout of changes in its direct repair program, “Select Service.” The letter requests that state regulators review State Farm’s mandate to use the PartsTrader LLC parts procurement pro-gram to determine if it violates state law.

Under the rollout, which will be completed by 2014, State Farm will man-date that shops participating in its Select Service program use PartsTrader’s soft-ware to electronically order parts.

ASA’s position did not come with-out much input and forethought. ASA contacted State Farm and PartsTrader after the pilot program was made public, expressing members’ concerns with the program. ASA dispatched a team of colli-sion repair leaders to State Farm’s head-quarters to discuss the pilot, the impact of the program on collision repairers and any expanded program rollouts.

Dan Risley, ASA executive director, states in the letter:

“We believe this mandatory parts procurement program stifles competi-tion and harms both the consumer and the small businessperson.”n

ASA Asks State Officials to Review State Farm’s Mandatory Parts Procurement ProgramAttorneys General, Insurance Regulators Should Review Consumer, Small-Business Impact

State Farm’s mandate has the potential to impact

repairers in the following ways:

• Limit a repairer’s right to choose the parts vendors from whom they purchase parts;

• Limit a repairer’s right to choose an electronic parts ordering vendor;

• Increase the number of days to repair the customer’s vehicle;

• Increase the indirect costs to the consumer;

• Increase the repair facility’s administrative time;

• Negatively impact the repair facility’s profitability;

• Reduce local automotive parts sales, negatively impacting local economies.

To view the full text of the letter, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.

Page 13: Southern Automotive Journal

Acura MDX Please Turn to Page 22

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 13www.IneedOEMparts.com

In designing the new MDX, Acura engi-neers built on the foun-dation of its excellent dynamic performance with a focus on three core values: class-lead-ing fuel efficiency, new levels of luxury comfort, and top-level safety per-formance. At the same time, they sought to fur-ther enhance dynamic performance while maintaining the MDX's core appeal - the fami-ly-friendly, 7-passenger cabin in a nimble exteri-or size and appearance.

ALL-NEW PLATFORMNew from the

ground up, the 2014 MDX has a 2.8-inch longer wheelbase, and is lower and narrower for reduced frontal area and enhanced fuel efficiency. With high-strength steel, aluminum and magnesium compris-ing 64-percent of its body structure, the 2014 MDX is 275 pounds lighter than the previous model with the light-est published weight in its segment, which directly contributes to improved acceleration, nimble handling, and class-leading fuel economy ratings. A redesigned MacPherson strut front sus-pension and new multilink rear suspen-sion, along with new Electric Power Steering (EPS) give the MDX even greater agility and confidence-inspiring dynamic performance. The standard Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) lets drivers select their preferred driving mode (Comfort, Normal or Sport) to suit their mood and the driving conditions. Standard on the MDX, a signature Acura technology called Agile Handling Assist selectively uses the vehicle's brakes to improve corner traceability and impart confident handling feel.

POWERTRAINPower comes from an all-new

direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 rated at 290 peak horsepower and 267 lb.-

2014 Acura MDX Takes Luxury Refinement to a New Level

ft. of peak t o r q u e (both SAE net). Closely related to the pow-erplant in the new 2014 Acura RLX luxury sedan, this 24-valve V-6 engine is Acura's sec-ond Earth D r e a m s ™ Technology engine, which features a next-generation set of advancements that greatly enhance both driving performance and fuel efficiency. For the first time, the MDX has standard Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which switches seamlessly between 3- and 6-cylinder modes, depending on engine load, effectively varying engine displacement to match driving condi-tions for improved fuel efficiency.

Compared to the 3.7-liter engine it replaces, the 3.5-liter V-6 in the 2014 MDX offers an 8-percent increase in torque at engine speeds below 2,750

rpm for greater overall responsiveness. Due to improved operating efficiency, horsepower output per liter is up two percent and torque output per liter is up 4.4 percent compared to the pre-vious model's engine. Together with the 2014 MDX's substantial reduction in curb weight, overall performance is enhanced, including quicker 0-60 mph times and 8-second quicker lap times on Germany's Nürburgring Nordschliefe (North Loop), where both the new and outgoing model were

Page 14: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201314 www.IneedOEMparts.com

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The Automotive Service Association (ASA) was excited to announce a successful week at this year's ASRW 2013 in Las Vegas. Highlights of this year’s event include the robust conference program with more than 100 hours of management education and technical train-ing, the largest MSO Symposium to date with 17 spon-soring organizations, two concurrent Opening General Sessions featuring industry-specific content, and a lively welcome party on the show floor.

The Expo featured more than 170 exhibitors sup-porting the show; the ASRW Main Stage, which featured a different industry speaker every hour, on the hour; scan tool demonstrations; PDR certification demonstra-tions; Recycled Rides gifting ceremonies and the First Responder Emergency Extrication (FREE) demonstration; and the ASA Marketplace and Business & Technology Pavilion.

As the 2013 event closes and planning begins for 2014, ASA is also excited to announce a new strategic partner, Stone Fort Group. Stone Fort Group’s experi-enced team will provide conference management, sales and marketing for NACE and CARS 2014, and will work closely with the association in a similar capacity to ASA’s longstanding relationship with Hanley Wood Exhibitions.

Stone Fort Group co-founders Sean Guerre and Brian Nessen have extensive trade show and conference experience. For more than 20 years they have man-aged, owned and consulted on events around the world, including co-located programs.

“We are excited to be a part of the changes taking place with the NACE and CARS events and feel the new direction of ASA will allow us to revitalize the show as well as be innovative in delivering an enhanced show experi-ence for exhibitors and attendees,” said Nessen. “We look forward to contributing to the event by using our experi-ence with numerous events that have the history and industry support that NACE and CARS brings.”

“It’s been an honor and a privilege to have such a great partner as we’ve had in ASA, and for the opportu-nity to be a part of NACE and CARS, and the automotive service and repair industry,” said Lindsay Roberts, show director, Hanley Wood Exhibitions. “We feel completely confident Stone Fort Group’s direction of NACE and CARS in 2014 and beyond will positively impact the show, the association and the industry.”

“I can’t thank the Hanley Wood team enough for the decades of service to our industry, to ASA and our event attendees. The level of dedication they have shown to our CARS and NACE events has been unsurpassed. They have been true partners to the association, and we make this transition maintaining the utmost respect and appreciation of Hanley Wood and their leadership,” said Dan Risley, ASA executive director. “With exciting and significant changes to our trade show format in 2014, we

Exciting Changes for NACE, CARS

NACE Please Turn to Page 27

Page 15: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 15www.IneedOEMparts.com

Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) is the Automotive Service Association’s (ASA) newest corporate member – a recently introduced mem-bership category that provides indus-try-leading companies an opportunity to strengthen their ties with ASA and its leaders in the collision and mechanical repair industry.

“To have Ford among our corpo-rate partners is truly an honor,” said Dan Risley, ASA executive director. “We’ve enjoyed a great relationship with Ford for many years. Strengthening our rela-tionship allows us to further explore ways to work together to the benefit of Ford, ASA and the industry.”

“We are pleased to continue our long-standing support relationship between ASA and FCSD,” said George Gilbert, FCSD collision merchandising manager.n

FCSD, ASA Forge New Relationship

ASA Corporate Membership Provides

New Opportunities

I-CAR® officially launched its new Live-only courses in steel parts repair and replacement, giving technicians the up-to-date information they need to make the right decisions in replacing and sectioning steel unitized parts, especially those featuring new advanced materials.

“The old general sectioning guide-lines no longer apply with current mod-els,” said Josh McFarlin, I-CAR Director of Curriculum and Product Development. “Collision repair professionals need cur-rent knowledge on when to replace steel unitized structures at factory seams, when to section, and how to carry out these tasks when OEM repair guidelines are absent. The two new courses deliver essential guidance on how to achieve complete and safe repairs in these situ-ations.”

Replacement of Steel Unitized Structures (SPS10) offers considerations

I-CAR Debuts New Steel Replacement and Sectioning Courseswhen recommendations for OEM proce-dures for disassembly at factory seams are not available. It provides students with opportunities to learn from actual vehicle maker procedures for replacing parts at factory seams, to understand why certain parts need to be completely replaced, and to learn the factors that impact decision-making when separat-ing an assembly.

Sectioning of Steel Unitized Structures (SPS11) provides the informa-tion technicians need to make proper decisions for sectioning. It defines sec-tioning and its differences from partial replacement at factory seams, shows how to prepare the vehicle for a sec-tioning repair, examines various types of sectioning joints, and details part-specif-ic sectioning considerations. The course features interactive classroom activities, props and demonstrations to illustrate

detailed information on sectioning prep-aration and joint types.

The new courses replace the SPS01 and SPS02 courses to provide more current information and better align with the Knowledge Areas in I-CAR’s Professional Development Program™. As of today’s course launch, SPS10 is now a ProLevel 2 requirement and SPS11 a ProLevel 3 requirement for Steel Structural Technicians. Estimators and Auto Physical Damage Appraisers can apply SPS10 and/or SPS11 courses toward their annual training requirements. Only those Steel Structural Technicians who have previously completed both SPS01 and SPS02 will be exempt from taking the new courses to meet their ProLevel 2 and 3 requirements; SPS01 and SPS02 are no longer available. Registration and more information is now available on the I-CAR website, www.i-car.com.n

Page 16: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201316 www.IneedOEMparts.com

T o y o t a ’ s four th- generation RAV4, introduced for the 2013 model year, debuts a new Entune® Audio line-up for 2014. The RAV4 Limited grade model offers a new Technology Package option that includes Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Alert and Auto High Beam.

The RAV4 is carefully tailored to the needs of the compact cross-over SUV market it launched more than 15 years ago. The latest model combines a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, a standard six-

speed automatic transmission, two-row seating for five and exceptional in-cabin technologies. Available in three trim levels -- LE, XLE and Limited – the fourth-generation RAV4 offers balanced performance and capability, including higher fuel efficiency, along with increased cargo capacity, striking design, and a compelling array of stan-dard features.

Design: Dynamic Exterior, Sleek Roofline, Bold Character Lines

The RAV4 design shows strong,

2014 Toyota RAV4 - Tailored To The Needs Of The Compact Crossover Suv Market

dynamic proportions while conveying an agile, fun character. Its low hood, sculpted fenders and arcing roofline

define an ath-letic pres-ence. The interior has a premium look with s o f t - t o u c h accents and driver-centric controls.

As on other recent-ly introduced Toyotas, RAV4 shows spe-cial attention to aerody-namics, the

most obvious detail being small vortex g e n e r a t o r s molded into the taillight cases and near the base of the A-pillars. Aerodynamic u n d e r t r a y s beneath the p a s s e n g e r cabin help

smooth and con-trol airflow. RAV4’s rear spoiler visu-ally extends the arc of the roofline, enhances aerody-namics and incor-porates a brilliant LED center brake light.

Spacious Interior Design, Premium M a t e r i a l s , Excellent Cargo Volume

The new-generation RAV4 offers a versatile seating arrange-ment, vast cargo

space, and a quiet interior with high lev-els of standard equipment. The asym-metrical, driver-centric dash panel puts primary and secondary controls within easy reach. The dash panel and gauges feature Clear Blue Illumination, which provides crisp visibility in most ambient light conditions, and a unified, coherent appearance at night. On the passenger side, the scalloped dash panel adds to the sense of spaciousness.

The 60/40 split/fold second-row seats recline several degrees to enhance passenger comfort, and retractable rear seat head restraints help with rear visi-bility. Compared to the previous-gener-ation RAV4, the new model’s cargo area is deeper, larger and easier to access,

RAV4 Please Turn to Page 34

Page 17: Southern Automotive Journal

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Page 18: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201318 www.IneedOEMparts.com

Coninued on Next Page

partnered to respond to this need by delivering factory-engineered per-formance stage kits that would ultimately become known as “Scat Packages.”

  “The Scat Pack performance philoso-phy has always been the core of Dodge DNA,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “Bringing back factory stage kits allows Dodge enthusiasts to extract the maximum performance from their vehicles with-out the fear and guess-work typically associated with modifying late-mod-el vehicles.”

  Scat Package 1, 2 and 3 kits will be made available for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, Charger and Dart, all at a cost-effective price, allowing

Left to Right2014 Dodge Dart GT with Scat Package 3, 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T with Scat Package 3 and 2014 Dodge Charger R/T with Scat Package 3

SCAT Package From Page 18

Page 19: Southern Automotive Journal

enthusiasts to step up performance at their own pace. Each Scat Package kit includes a numbered hard badge associated with its performance stage, so enthusiasts can proudly display the emblem on their vehicle as a badge of honor.

  “The new Scat Package kits reinforce our commitment to the perfor-mance arena,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “With multiple kits avail-able, we can suit the per-formance upgrade needs of our owners.”

  The Scat Package performance upgrade kits will be available in the Spring of 2014.

 2014 Dodge Challenger / Charger

Scat Package 1 achieves a sig-nificant horsepower boost through three modifications, including a Mopar cold-air intake to provide increased air-

flow into the engine, Mopar cat-back exhaust to free up downstream airflow,

and an all-new performance calibrated engine controller, optimized to the 5.7-liter HEMI® engine.

Scat Package 2 adds approxi-mately double the horsepower bump and is geared towards the performance

enthusiast looking for that competi-tive edge. In addition to a customized,

optimized performance calibration feature tai-lored for Scat Package 2, a new Mopar perfor-mance camshaft works in conjunction with the components of the Scat Package 1 kit to take advantage of improved engine breathing and deliver that additional acceleration advantage.

  Scat Package 3 takes aim squarely at the competitive enthu-siast who is looking for extreme performance and ultimate bragging rights. Gains of more than three-times that of Scat Package 1 are real-ized with the custom-ized, optimized per-

formance calibration tailored for Scat Package 3, new Mopar performance CNC-ported cylinder heads, Mopar per-formance camshaft and Mopar hi-flow

2014 Dodge Challenger / Charger SCAT PACKAGESSCAT PACKAGE 1 5.7-liter  “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 1Mopar cold air intakeMopar cat-back exhaustScat Package 1 badge SCAT PACKAGE 2 5.7-liter  Adds:“Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 2Mopar performance camshaftScat Package 2 badge SCAT PACKAGE 3 5.7-liter  Adds:“Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 3Mopar performance ported and polished headsMopar hi-flow performance headersScat Package 3 badge

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 19www.IneedOEMparts.com

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SCAT Package Please Turn to Page 30

Page 20: Southern Automotive Journal

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Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 21www.IneedOEMparts.com

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I-CAR has concluded its 2013 Technology Conference in Boston and unveiled the first specifics on its 2014 event, which will take place next year as part of Industry Week, an industry-first gathering of the collision industry’s top events over one week and under one roof.

This year’s event, held at the Westin Boston Waterfront Hotel, kicked off July 24 with the I-CAR Awards. Recognizing indi-viduals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing the training and professionalism of the collision repair indus-try, the ceremony honored Chairman’s Award winner Tom Moreland, Russ Verona Memorial Award winner Oakland Auto Body (accepted by owner Ron Vincenzi), and Jeff Silver Award winner Mike Loy.

Following introductory remarks from I-CAR Chair William Brower and I-CAR CEO & President John Van Alstyne, conference moderator John McElroy of Autoline introduced attendees to a day of tech-focused speakers. They shared insights on research and emerging technologies (Nathaniel Beuse, NHTSA), advanced technologies and vehicle safety (David Zuby, IIHS) and self-driv-ing vehicles (Richard Wallace, CAR). The afternoon concluded with a panel dis-cussion featuring the speakers, followed

I-CAR Concludes 2013 Technology Conference, Reveals First Details On 2014 Eventby an evening networking reception and sponsor showcase.

On July 25, the conference’s final day brought attendees the wisdom of conference keynote speakers Reginald R. Modlin, Director of Regulatory Affairs

for Chrysler Group LLC, and Lawrence Geise, Vice President of Automobile Frame Design, Research and Testing for Honda R&D Americas, Inc. Modlin spoke on new regulations on how they will affect the consumer and the OEM design challenge, while Geise led attendees through a primer on chassis and body structure innovations for safety and fuel economy. The formal agenda conclud-ed with a panel of seven Inter-Industry leaders who discussed the repairability and business challenges associated with the vehicle “technology tsunami” facing the collision repair industry.

“This year brought a new expand-ed focus to our annual conference as I-CAR strives to more broadly support the industry’s education and technol-

ogy needs,” said John Van Alstyne, CEO & President of I-CAR. “Our goal for the 2013 I-CAR Technology Conference was to expand industry awareness of new vehicle technologies that are being developed and engineered into

the increasing diversity and volume of new vehicle mod-els that OEMs launch every year. This level of awareness, combined with a commit-ment to building and main-taining a ‘Learning Culture’ that supports complete and safe repairs, are critical suc-cess factors for our industry as we collectively navigate the technology tsunami.”

At an onsite press conference, I-CAR announced that it will host its 2014 Technology Conference and Reception at Detroit’s Cobo Center on Wednesday, July 30, 2014. The independent event will be a highlight of the inaugural Industry Week, which will bring sev-eral important collision repair industry events together at one location from Monday, July 28, through Saturday, Aug. 2. In addition to the I-CAR Technology Conference, Industry Week will also fea-ture the CIC Meeting and Reception (July 29), the Collision Repair Education Foundation Golf Outing (July 31) and the NACE Education and Expo (July 31-Aug. 1). Industry Week will conclude with additional education and hosted indus-try tours on Aug. 2, 2014.n

“This year brought a new expanded focus to our annual conference as I-CAR strives to more broadly support the industry’s education and technology needs,”

John Van Alstyne, CEO & President of I-CAR

Page 22: Southern Automotive Journal

Acura MDX From Page 13

Southern Automotive Journal December 201322 www.IneedOEMparts.com

extensively tuned and tested.The efficient new engine is paired

with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Sport Shift, and available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). For the first time ever, the MDX is available with front-wheel drive, which saves weight and enhances fuel econo-my ratings. This new 2-wheel-drive MDX is EPA rated at 20/28/23 mpg2 (city/highway/combined), a 28-per-cent increase in the EPA combined rating versus the previous SH-AWD model (the only drivetrain configura-tion previously available). The 2014 MDX with SH-AWD has a remarkable 17-percent increase in its EPA com-bined fuel economy rating versus the previous model, reaching class-leading ratings of 18/27/21 mpg2 (city/high-way/combined).

INTERIORPerfect for kids or clients, the

MDX interior is a luxurious and accom-modating passenger compartment with roomy seating and a second-row seat with reclining seatbacks and a new Extended Slide feature that offers a total of 6-inches of fore-and-aft travel. Additionally, a new kid-friendly One-Touch Walk-In feature greatly improves

access to the third row of seating, and a wider, lower step-in enhances conveni-ence and usability. Cabin quietness and overall refinement have been dramati-cally improved, with hundreds of meas-

ures aimed at reducing noise, vibration and harshness, including thicker, 3-layer acoustic glass for the windshield and front side windows, thicker rear door glass, new triple side-sill door seals and Active Noise Control technology.

Repackaging of the rear-seat cli-mate control system allows for a large

center console storage space, con-cealed beneath the sliding, leather-trimmed center armrest. About 2 inches deeper and wider, and almost 5 inches longer, the main compartment offers

2.5 times more volume than the previous model and is large enough to accommodate a moder-ately sized purse, tablet computers and more. This is a key MDX advan-tage in the class, where many competing models offer little center-console storage.

The all-new 2014 MDX offers comfort, connectivity and perfor-mance every luxury cus-tomer wants at a price

that no other luxury brand can match. Available for the first time in a new two-wheel drive model, pricing for the 2014 MDX begins with a manufacturer's sug-gested retail price (MSRP) of $42,290, a substantial $990 reduction in starting price versus the outgoing 2013 model.

The 2014 MDX is the third genera-tion of Acura's top-of-the-line SUV to be designed, developed and engineered in North America. Production of the new MDX and its powertrain will take place at the company's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Lincoln, Alabama.n

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Page 23: Southern Automotive Journal

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Page 24: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201324 www.IneedOEMparts.com

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) is pleased to announce BASF is its newest corporate member. This new level of membership provides industry-leading com-panies an opportunity to strengthen the ties between ASA and its leaders in the collision and mechanical repair industry.

“BASF is excited about the changes at ASA. They’re off to a fresh start with a new leadership team and are strengthening relationships within the collision repair industry. A good example is the combined NACE/I-CAR/CIC conference in Detroit next year. We believe collabora-tions like this can help the collision industry thrive,” said Joe Skurka, manager, OEM and Industry Relations.

“ASA is proud to have BASF among its first corporate members. BASF continues to display its professionalism and commitment to support and work with repairers as one of the industry’s leading paint and refinish compa-nies. As such, it’s my pleasure to welcome them and their leadership team,” said Dan Risley, ASA executive director. “We truly appreciate their support of ASA and our mem-bership.”

To learn more about ASA’s dedication to service and repair professionals, the value of ASA membership and how to join, visit www.ASAshop.org or call (800) 272-7467, ext. 361. To learn more about ASA’s corporate member-ship program, contact Risley at (817) 514-2912 or [email protected]

BASF Joins ASA as Newest Corporate Member

Experian Automotive has announced that the number of cars and light trucks on the road reached 247.9 million in Q2 2013. According to the latest Vehicles in Operation( )(VIO)( )market analysis, increased new vehicle sales and lower scrappage rates pushed VIO to the highest point on record since Q3 2008. Additionally, findings showed that the average age of vehicles on the road was 10.9 years in Q2 2013, almost a full year older than was record-ed in Q2 2009.

"During the recession, new vehi-cle sales dropped, causing challenges for aftermarket companies," said Marty Miller, senior manager for Experian Automotive. "However, the recent uptick

Experian Automotive: Total Number of Vehicles on The Road Reaches Highest Level Since 2008

in new vehicle sales, combined with more aging vehicles on the road, means these challenges will only be in the short term. As these new vehicles begin to

age and enter the prime aftermarket repair years, growth opportunities will rebound."

Additional data from the analy-sis showed that full-sized pickup trucks were the top vehicle segment on the road in Q2 2013 at 14.9 percent of total VIO; they were followed by standard midrange cars (11.9 percent) and small-

economy cars (9.1 percent).From a regional perspective,

when looking at new vehicle registra-tions, the Midwest and South regions

followed a similar trend, as full-sized pickup trucks were the top new vehicle segment in each region at 14.1 percent and 13.5 percent, respectively. However, the trends in the West and Northeast

regions were drastically different. Full-sized pickup trucks were only the third-ranked new vehicle segment in the West (9.8 percent) and the fifth most popular in the Northeast (7.8 percent). Small-economy cars (12.7 percent) topped the list in the West, while entry-level cross-over utility vehicles (14 percent) were the top segment in the Northeast region.n

Average age of vehicles rose to 10.9 years, up nearly a full year from four years ago.

Repairing A Maserati?We Can Help

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email: [email protected] Alpharetta Highway • Roswell, GA

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Page 25: Southern Automotive Journal

Shane McCormick Marc Hooks Michael Tramell

[email protected]

mhooks@ crownautomobile.com

[email protected]

Providing Professional Service to The Automotive Collision Professional for

Over 40 Years

www.crownautomobile.com1800 Montgomery Hwy • Birmingham, AL 35244

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We Deliver!Alabama • Georgia • Florida • Tennessee

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Page 26: Southern Automotive Journal

Robert Robinson Wholesale Sales

Ext. 190888.428.2190205.909.2190

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John MooreParts Manager877.310.5450205.380.6789

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ivanleonard.com

Eric SmithWholesale Sales

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mm

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Terry ScrewsWholesale Sales

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ivanleonard.com

Todd JonesWholesale Sales

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Andy PolkWholesale Sales

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Earl HarrsWholesale Sales

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Eddie PikeWholesale Sales

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Mark RunyanWholesale Sales

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Greg HoffmanWholesale Sales

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Page 27: Southern Automotive Journal

We Stock Engines

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The National Auto Body Council is pleased to welcome its newest toplevel Diamond member, Overall Parts Solutions, a leading parts procurement and logis-tics technology provider for the collision industry.

Based in Grand Prairie, Texas, Overall Parts Solutions provides a collision parts tool called OPSTRAX, a web-based parts coordination system designed to work with major estimating and management systems.

“We look forward to being an inte-gral part of the National Auto Body Council,” said Nick Bossinakis, president of Overall Parts Solutions. “With the help of many of our part-ners in the collision industry, we have been quietly growing our business. As we now take our business to the next level, we believe we have an obli-gation to support the work of the National Auto Body Council which will strengthen and benefit all of us in the col-lision industry. “

With the addition of Overall Parts Solutions, mem-bership in the National Auto

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 27www.IneedOEMparts.com

Overall Parts Solutions Joins National Auto Body Council as a Top Diamond Level SponsorBody Council now includes 199 businesses and individuals representing all facets of the collision industry. OPS joins 26 other companies at the top-tier Diamond spon-sor level.

“We appreciate the leadership dem-onstrated by Overall Parts Solutions, espe-cially at the Diamond membership level,” said Chuck Sulkala, National Auto Body Council Executive Director. “This level of commitment sets OPS apart as a leader and helps the NABC to further our mission to identify, develop and implement initia-

tives which promote a positive image of the collision industry.”.

These initiatives include the popular Recycled Rides program, First Responder Emergency Extrication, and Distracted Driving. Sulkala issued an open invitation for all NABC mem-bers and anyone interested in learning more about these programs to attend the Recycled Rides giftings and First Responder Emergency Extrication pro-gram demonstrations at the upcoming NACE shows.n

now welcome Stone Fort Group, which will be work-ing with Hanley Wood dur-ing the next few months to ensure a smooth hand off as we launch CARS and NACE in Detroit next July.”

NACE and CARS 2014 will take place July 29-Aug. 2 at the Cobo Center in Detroit, Mich., and will be co-located with I-CAR, CIC and the Collision Repair Education Foundation.

To learn more about CARS and NACE, ASA’s ded-ication to service and repair professionals, and how to join, visit www.ASAshop.org or call (800) 272-7467, ext. 361.n

NACE From Page 14

Page 28: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201328 www.IneedOEMparts.com

Crown Infiniti

SUPPLIER

SPOTLIGHT

Tuning a smooth-running engine is certainly less overwhelming than rebuilding one. A tweak here, a small adjustment there and that engine just keeps purring right along. Just ask Danny Waine.

When Waine assumed his current post-ing as parts manager for Hoover, Alabama's Crown Automobile Infiniti a few months ago, he wasn't sailing into uncharted waters. Well into his third year working different jobs in the back end of the Infiniti store, he was more than familiar with the systems, processes, people and policies.

He got to Crown Automobile the old fashioned way: He answered a classified “help wanted” ad. “I was working in an aftermarket retail parts store and was just tired of working crazy hours,” he explained. “I saw the ad, figured I'd give it a shot and answered it.”

It turned out to be one of the better decisions of his life. “Crown is a great place to work,” he enthused. “They give me everything I need to get this job done.”

Since joining Crown, Waine worked as a service writer and even filled in for a while as the service manager. He was well versed in the ways of Crown Automobile when man-agement tapped him to lead the Infiniti parts department that moves roughly $250,000 in parts each month. “Parts is just where I really want to be,” he stated.

Crown Automobile is a muti-franchise operation located on Montgomery Highway in Hoover, just south of Birmingham. The other key brand at Crown is Mercedes-Benz. A 40-year-old franchise, the Mercedes-Benz store was well established when Crown Automobile acquired the Infiniti franchise.

What does the Mercedes-Benz store have to do with

www.crownautomobile.com 1800 Montgomery Hwy • Birmingham, AL 35244

205-985-4200Direct

205-402-2243

800-476-4669FAX

Toll FreeDanny Waine Crown InfinitiParts Manager

by: Russ Heaps

Page 29: Southern Automotive Journal

www.IneedOEMparts.com Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 29www.IneedOEMparts.com

Crown Infiniti

anything? Just that the wholesale-parts efforts of both dealerships are joined at the hip. The same three wholesale-parts specialists receive calls, process orders and service customers for both brands. These are guys with more than 60 years of wholesale-parts experience. Their cus-tomers know them; and more important-ly, they know their customers.

There's a certain peace of mind that comes when a trusted voice you've heard for 20 years assures you that part will be there tomorrow. As far as Waine is concerned, he couldn't be happier that the wholesale desk is shared. “A lot of the shops we deal with handle Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz,” he said. “It's a big advantage for customers to have a single contact for both brands.”

When asked what he would look for in someone to replace one of the guys on the wholesale desk, Waine respond-ed, “I haven't really thought about that. These guys have been here forever. I guess we'll cross that bridge if one of them ever leaves.”

Because the wholesale desk is such a well-oiled machine, Waine has been able to focus more on the details of his job. This is particularly true of managing the $400,000 or so in parts inventory that is always on the shelves. “I really enjoy

working the inventory and running the inventory,” he stated. “It's a challenge, but I like that. I've initiated a few new inventory policies”

Among the new policies Waine insti-tuted is a more thorough inspection of parts before they are loaded onto the trucks. This to minimize the number of damaged or mislabeled parts delivered to customers. “We've increased the rate of the “right” parts being delivered to some-where between 95 to 98%,” he estimated.

Confident that he has the right inven-tory on hand, Waine said most parts orders are filled same day or next day. “We've got a hefty stock of the most called-for colli-sion parts,” he declared. “ I know there are some dealerships outside this market that have been working this area for the past couple of years. My goal is to keep my cus-tomers by keeping them happy. The best way to do that is speed and accuracy.”

The local customer base is obviously the easiest to serve, and Waine has two local delivery trucks in the field every day. For those outlying shops – he said they are shipping parts as far as Arkansas and Illinois – he relies on a number of deliv-ery services like NAPCO, Advantage and Diligent.

Of recent improvements and devel-opments Waine credited with growing the

Crown Automotive Wholesale TeamOver 40 Years of Experience

Shane McCormick

[email protected]

205.402.2261Michael Tramell

[email protected]

205.402.2266Marc Hooks

mhooks@ crownautomobile.com

205.402.2262

business, he was most enthusiastic about CollisionLink. It's an online parts order-ing service that he is convinced removes some of the confusion and ambiguity from the ordering process. The end result is improved speed and accuracy. “Not only does it save our customers the phone call,” he explained, “it can speed up parts turn-over and reduce mistakes. Customers can actually call up the part and show us what they need.”

Despite only being in his job for a few months, Waine is looking into the future and planning for it. Not surprising, most of his plans revolve around increas-ing sales.

“I want to grow the business and be the best at what we do,” he said. “I don't want to get ahead of myself, but I want to add another person to strengthen the system and get things working more smoothly. We've got the most experienced guys for wholesale parts for Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz in the region. That's a huge advantage. We're the home team. The big-gest thing I want to do is to use that to grow the business.”

The parts department at Crown Infiniti is open from 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. It can be reached at 205-985-4200, or toll free at 800-476-4669.n

Page 30: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201330 www.IneedOEMparts.com

headers.

2014 Dodge Dart Completing the Scat Package

offerings for Dodge at SEMA is the 2014 Dodge Dart GT, powered by a 184 horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with six-speed manual transmission.

  The Dodge Dart offering con-sists of three kits, with Scat Package

SCAT Package From Page 19

The American Petroleum Institute (API) has evaluated results from its annual motor oil testing program and determined that almost 1 in 5 samples of bulk motor oil purchased from the marketplace in each of the last 5 years have failed to meet API motor oil perfor-mance standards--meaning consumers' vehicles could be at risk.

"API is concerned about the high levels of failure we are finding in our audit results," said Kevin Ferrick, API's Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System manager. "API is sharing these

Sampling Data Finds 1 in 5 Bulk Motor Oils Fail to Meet API Performance Standards

audit findings with the public as part of its new 'Motor Oil Matters' program, which will help reduce the risk of con-sumers receiving oil that doesn't meet their cars' performance requirements."

API's Motor Oil Matters program or "MOM" is committed to providing infor-mation to consumers on the importance of using quality motor oils, ensuring these quality oils are installed in cars and trucks, and verifying the oils are prop-erly identified on invoices and receipts. Oil-change locations and motor oil dis-tributors that share MOM's commitment--and submit to independent, third party

auditing--have the opportunity to be rec-ognized by MOM through the Motor Oil Matters distributor and installer licens-ing programs. Motor oil distributors and installers that prove their commitment will be easy to find--they'll proudly dis-play the API Motor Oil Matters Mark.

Consumers should start to look for the MOM symbol at approved locations. Consumers can also visit MotorOilMatters.org to find a MOM cer-tified oil change location, read important information on oil quality, and download the MOM oil change checklist to take to their next oil change.n

American Petroleum Institute's Motor Oil Matters Program Provides Warning for Consumers

1 providing a shot in the arm of per-formance and handling improvements from Mopar through a cold-air intake, performance brake pads and a new short-throw shifter.

  The next-level, Scat Package 2 amps up horsepower by providing Dodge Dart owners with a no-non-sense customized engine calibration to work in harmony with a Mopar cat-back exhaust.

  At the top level, Scat Package

3 provides the ultimate package for those seeking optimal track times. Included is a Mopar big brake kit, including 13-inch vented rotors, four-piston front calipers and stainless steel lines to maintain optimum tempera-tures during extreme braking maneu-vers. Also included is a performance suspension comprising of adjustable springs for ride height, adjustable dampening struts and front and rear sway bars.n

Page 31: Southern Automotive Journal

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Page 32: Southern Automotive Journal

dthomason@

opaparts.com

Doug ThomasonWholesale Sales

866.909.2128205.909.2128

[email protected]

Kevin SellersWholesale Sales

888.757.2131205.909.2131

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Frank SebertWholesale Sales

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Tommy Parker Wholesale Sales 866-854-6639334-514-7640

fax334-514-7627

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We Care About Your Order

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Page 33: Southern Automotive Journal

The Georgia Collision Industry Association held its annu-al golf tournament on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2013 at the Trophy Club of Atlanta in Alpharetta, GA. In addition, the association dedicated the day as Gene Hamilton Day in honor of this industry icon. There was ceremony after the tourna-ment to award Mr. Hamilton with the GCIA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Gene Hamilton is one of the most respected and recognized people in the collision repair indus-try today. This is not only because of his many accomplishments, awards, and business successes; but also because in 1997 Gene helped start the Georgia Collision Industry Association that has helped local, regional and national repairers as well. From the begin-ning of his career he has held a passion for our industry. For Gene, it has never been enough to turn out high quality repairs in his facili-ties. He has always believed that anything he can do to improve the reputation and respect of the collision repair industry at large would not only make his business model sustainable but would assist his many friends, peers, and yes, even competitors provide safer and more reliable repairs for the con-sumer. In the end, it has always been about ensuring that friends and families can feel confident that their vehicle was repaired to pre-accident condition and by a true collision repair professional. Gene knows that collision professionals working together is the only way to make improvements in and to better our industry.

Hamilton is an industry inno-vator and owns two businesses: Sports and Imports Collision-Chamblee, GA and Sports & Imports Collision-Gwinnett, GA. These repair centers are among the finest automotive-related enter-prises in the nation.n

Southern Automotive JournalDecember 2013 33www.IneedOEMparts.com

Some of the many accolades and accomplishments during Gene’s long career in the collision repair industry include:

• 1996, received the SCRS “Green Shop” Award for his efforts to make his Sports and Imports No. 2

an environmentally sound business.

• 1998, inducted into the Hall of Eagles, the industry’s equivalent to the Hall of Fame.

• 1998, received the Body Shop Video Magazine “Collision Business of the Year” award in the multiple location division.

• 1999, received the SCRS “Industry Achievement Award” for his efforts to have manufacturers and vendors redirect funds traditionally used for big industry parties to non-profit organizations that serve the industry.

• 1999, received the “Innovator of the Year Award.”

• 2000-01, Chairman of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS).

• 2003-04, Chairman of I-Car.

• I-CAR: Board Member of the I-Car Education Foundation, I-Car Gold Class Steering Committee, and the I-Car Board of Directors.

• CIC: Active participant, and past Chairman of the Environmental Committee.

Gene Hamilton Honored at GCIA Golf TournamentHoward

Batchelor

Exective Director

of the Georgia

Collision Industry

Association pre-

sented Gene

Hamiliton with

the Lifetime

Achievement

Award.

Gene Hamilton, recipient of the GCIA Lifetime Achievement Award

Page 34: Southern Automotive Journal

34 www.IneedOEMparts.com

RAV4 From Page 16

1595 Montgomery Highway / Hoover, Alabama 35216

800.467.0699 205.443.7656

David Bonnett(205) 443-7655

[email protected]

David Cartee(205) 443-7653

[email protected]

Frank Jackson(205) 443-7651

[email protected]

Jim Henson(205) 443-7654

[email protected]

with 38.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded, RAV4 offers excellent maximum cargo capacity of 73.4 cu. ft.

Privacy glass, cruise control, power side mir-rors, power door locks and power windows are standard on all RAV4 models.

The standard Multi-Information Display (MID) is controlled through but-tons on the right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. The MID provides an array of information including distance to empty, average fuel economy, instant fuel economy, selected gear, as well as warn-ings including low fuel, battery, tire pressure monitoring system and more.

Six-Speed AT, Dynamic Torque Control AWD, Sport and ECO Modes

All 2014 RAV4 models are powered by a 2.5-liter direct-injection four-cylin-der engine coupled to a standard six-speed automatic transmission, with fifth and sixth gear ratios being overdrives. The engine produces 176 SAE net horse-power at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb.-ft. of

torque at 4,100 rpm and runs on regular grade gasoline. With front-wheel drive, the EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive models are EPA-estimated at 22/29 mpg.

RAV4’s flex lock-up control torque

converter helps increase fuel efficien-cy while also smoothing powertrain performance. Lock-up can engage at speeds as low as approximately 12 mph, a marked difference from the previ-ous generation’s approximately 25 mph engagement speed. A driver-selectable Eco mode also promotes efficient driv-ing to help maximize mpg.

Sport Mode sharpens shift tim-ing, throttle response, and steering response. When downshifting the RAV4

six-speed automatic transmission in “S” Mode, engine revs rise with a clearly audible “blip,” adding character to the driving experience.

Advanced Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive

The new-generation RAV4 debuted a sophisticated new Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive system, which coordinates through a high-speed interactive management system with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems to enhance performance, han-dling and safety.

When Sport mode is selected, torque transfer to the

rear wheels will start from the moment the steering wheel is turned, switching to a 90:10 front/rear torque dis-tribution to reduce the load

on the front tires. If understeer devel-ops, torque transfer to the rear wheels is automatically increased by up to 50 per-cent, further reducing front tire loading to provide enhanced lateral grip.

For off-pavement driving and certain other driving conditions, push-ing an AWD Lock button locks torque distribution in a fixed 50:50 ratio at speeds up to about 25 mph. Above this speed, the system automatically reverts to Auto mode.n

"When developing the new RAV4 we spent a lot of time talking to con-sumers to understand what they wanted and needed in a small SUV,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division.

Page 35: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal December 201335 www.IneedOEMparts.comSouthern Automotive JournalAugust 2012 35www.IneedOEMparts.com

Southern Automotive Journal August 201235 www.IneedOEMparts.com

Gwinnett Place Ford(770) 813-6825(866) 665-9318 (770) 662-6156

3230 Satellite Blvd.Duluth GA 30096

FAX

Page 36: Southern Automotive Journal

Southern Automotive Journal November 201336 www.IneedOEMparts.com