Counterman

Stellantis celebrated a major milestone with the opening of its new Mopar Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in East Fishkill, New York. The $64 million facility enhances parts distribution across the Northeast and supports both dealers and customers. Leadership and Community Support Mopar leaders and a Dutchess County legislator spoke to state officials, Stellantis partners, UAW leaders and employees. They emphasized the new facility’s impact on customer service in the local community. Commitment to Growth and Service “The launch of our new Mopar Parts Distribution Center in East Fishkill marks a significant investment in our long-term growth and service capabilities,” said Mopar Senior Vice President for North America Darren Bradshaw. “This facility supports our dedicated UAW-represented workforce with the tools and environment they need to succeed. By integrating cutting-edge technology and automation, we’re strengthening our supply chain, accelerating delivery times and reinforcing our commitment to dealer and customer satisfaction along with employee success.” Mopar Parts Distribution Center Capacity and Strategic Positioning The 534,000-sq.-ft. facility is strategically located to serve dealerships and customers across the Northeast. It houses over 46,000 unique parts and expects to process more than 2 million shipments each year. Boosting Local Economy and Infrastructure “The launch of the Mopar Parts Distribution Center is a tremendous boost for East Fishkill,” said Dutchess County Legislator Steve Caswell. “This facility is not just an investment in infrastructure, but in our people, our businesses and our future. Stellantis’ decision to bring this advanced distribution center and nearly 100 jobs to our community underscores our town’s potential as a growing hub for technological and economic development.” Introducing Next-Generation AutoStore Technology This Mopar PDC is Stellantis’ first U.S. facility using the AutoStore automated storage and retrieval system. AutoStore includes 40 robotic units using advanced technology to move along a grid above stored parts. They retrieve parts from 70,000 bins across 18,000 square feet and deliver them to processing stations. PDC employees then prepare the final shipments for distribution. Enhancing Efficiency and Inventory Management AutoStore automation boosts speed, accuracy and dependability of order completion. It also reduces the warehouse footprint needed for storing inventory. Sustainability and the Mopar Parts Distribution Center The East Fishkill Mopar Parts Distribution Center is one of 21 Mopar facilities in North America serving dealers and aftermarket customers. Mopar merged the Tappan and Boston PDCs to reduce the region’s storage footprint. The AutoStore system further decreases the physical space needed at the new East Fishkill location. These efforts support Stellantis’ broader goal of lowering carbon emissions. The post Stellantis Opens New Mopar Parts Distribution Center in NY appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Research by Carfax shows the used car market surging in both value and volume. The automotive aftermarket is positioned to benefit significantly—and among those who understand it best is Steve Tucker, president of Automotive Parts Associates (APA). In an industry where profitability is boosted by the number of repairable vehicles on the road, the recent upswing in used car sales is providing tailwinds that aftermarket businesses are ready to ride. “An increase in used car sales as well as an increased valuation of those cars both have huge benefits for our business,” Tucker explains. “With more vehicles on the road in that sweet spot of being 4-12 years old, our opportunity for selling parts increases exponentially.” That “sweet spot” Tucker refers to is the prime range for aftermarket demand. These vehicles are typically out of warranty, increasingly in need of maintenance and repair, and owned by drivers more likely to invest in keeping them roadworthy—especially when used car values are holding strong. It’s a powerful combination that leads to increased part sales, especially in high-failure-rate categories. Data is the Differentiator According to Tucker, the key to capitalizing on this growing opportunity lies in one word: data. “Keeping track of what we need to have on the shelf to service this aging car parc is the number one driver in capitalizing on servicing these vehicles,” he says. “Also understanding how the types of repairs change as the vehicle ages is important. Here again, data is the driver to success.” From stocking the right parts for the right model years to understanding when customers shift from premium to value-tier products, every decision aftermarket businesses make should be rooted in understanding vehicle age trends and consumer vehicle repair behavior. “Understanding the brands and price points that change as the vehicle ages also must be top of mind,” he adds. Growth For Established Players With used car sales rising sharply, some might foresee a flood of new players entering the aftermarket to capitalize on that replacement parts demand. But Tucker doesn’t see it playing out that way. “Having an aging car parc also means expanding your inventory in order to cover those additional model years adequately,” he says. “Having inventory dollars invested in the right places is not something that happens overnight, and so new entrants into this space are few and far between.” Instead, he anticipates new investments going into existing aftermarket businesses. The industry’s resilience—especially during economic uncertainty—continues to attract capital. “I won’t ever say we are recession-proof as an industry, but we are recession-resistant,” Tucker notes. “Our space has proven to be an attractive one for investors and I don’t see that changing.” Vehicle Categories for Strong Sales While aging vehicles generally mean more part sales overall, Tucker is quick to point out that those sales fluctuate based on a variety of factors: vehicle miles driven, car parc composition and failure rates. “When you take all of those into account, we see categories such as brakes, ride control and chassis all having exponential growth,” he says. “Anything the vehicle must have to start, run and stop effectively are all areas of strong growth.” And as used car values rise, owners are more inclined to authorize discretionary repairs, reversing a trend often seen in older vehicles. “We will also see more of those discretionary repairs come into play on older vehicles as their value holds strong and steady,” Tucker adds. The post Used Car Sales Upswing Brings Promise to the Aftermarket appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

RBR Truck Parts, with three locations in Texas, recently joined Power Heavy Duty. Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts LLC is a heavy-duty parts distributor serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. The company provides aftermarket parts for all truck makes and models. RBR caters to owner-operators, local fleets, service centers and municipal accounts. It offers high-quality products to keep their customers’ vehicles running efficiently. Strategic Location in a Major Trucking Hub The Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex is home to 8.5 million people across more than 200 cities. It is a major hub for the trucking industry. RBR’s Hutchins, Texas, location sits near Interstate 45, just 250 miles north of Houston. Houston ranks among the nation’s largest ports. RBR also operates near a large rail/container yard and major warehouse operations. This allows the company to serve the region’s trucking needs effectively. Its heavy-duty network connection strengthens its position in this critical market. Product Selection and Facilities Support Growth RBR serves a diverse customer base throughout North Central Texas. The company stocks a wide selection of aftermarket truck parts. These include engine components, suspension parts, brake systems, wheels and tires, filters, fluids and accessories. The Hutchins location includes a 14,000-sq.-ft. showroom and warehouse. A 5,000-sq.-ft. facility in Duncanville and a 7,000–sq.-ft. branch in Fort Worth support operations. Owner Rony Santos and general manager Cesar Perez lead the RBR team. Partnering with Power Heavy Duty for Continued Success “RBR Truck Parts is a well-established business known for honesty, integrity, and their strong ties in the community,” said Jim Pennig, vice president of business development, VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. “They are dedicated to growing their business with quality parts from Power Heavy Duty’s network of supplier partners, and we look forward to supporting them with great programs and true group value.” The post RBR Truck Parts Joins Power Heavy Duty Network appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has designated June 2025 as Automotive Service Professionals Month (ASPM). ASE encourages industry members to use Automotive Service Professionals Month as a chance to appreciate and recognize service professionals. ASE invites organizations to host recognition events, special programs and other celebrations to honor these essential workers. An Opportunity to Honor Hardworking Technicians Service professionals play a key role in keeping vehicles safe, dependable and efficient on the road. ASPM offers a dedicated time to celebrate their hard work and commitment to quality service. Companies and organizations across the automotive industry are encouraged to participate in this national appreciation effort. You can organize celebrations, appreciation initiatives or employee recognition programs during June. Commemorative Logo and Digital Materials for Automotive Service Professionals Month In recognition of ASPM, ASE has created a commemorative logo for use by companies, organizations, and individuals. This logo helps show appreciation for vehicle service professionals in a visible and meaningful way. Additional ASE digital materials are also available to support celebrations and promotional efforts. These resources are free to download at ASEtoolkit.com. Established in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) upholds and promotes high standards of service and repair through the assessment, certification and credentialing of current and future industry professionals, and the prestigious ASE Blue Seal logo identifies professionals who possess the essential knowledge and skills to perform with excellence. Today, there are approximately 220,000 ASE Certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit www.ase.com. The post Celebrate Automotive Service Professionals Month This June appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Each year, Auto-Wares Group of Companies selects one top technician from its Certified Service Center Network. This individual represents the group at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance’s Technician of the Year competition. Casey O’Sullivan, shop foreman at Interstate Auto Care, received this year’s title as Auto-Wares Group of Companies’ technician of the year. Honoring Experience and Team Dedication “Having had Casey on our team for over 25 years, I speak for the rest of my team in congratulating Casey and the other tech of the year nominees for this well-deserved nomination,” said Bill Nalu, owner of Interstate Auto Care. “Like every year, the field of competition promises to be challenging, but the fun and camaraderie that they will share during this event will be something they will never forget.” Prize Package and National Alliance Technician of the Year Competition O’Sullivan was honored with a prize package including a gift card, a Blackstone grill and a custom winner plaque. Casey will represent Auto-Wares Group of Companies at the National Alliance Technician of the Year competition, July 7-10, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan – The Motor City. During the competition, the finalists from the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance will take a written test to determine who will take home the title of Auto Value & Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year. Dedication to Learning Sets O’Sullivan Apart O’Sullivan earned the Auto-Wares title by excelling among many strong applicants. Auto-Wares praised his training log, which reflects a deep commitment to growth. Casey is an ASE Master Technician. He began working in the field at just 18 years old and now leads through experience and dedication. He also attends industry events such as Tech Expo to stay current with new developments. Leadership Recognizes Commitment and Skill “I couldn’t be happier for Casey. His dedication to his craft is on another level. I’ve known Casey for about 18 years, and one thing that he has never stopped doing is learning,” said Michael Hellenberg, sales manager for Auto-Wares. “I am very proud of Casey for his accomplishments in the business and look forward to him representing Auto-Wares in the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year program.” Program Recognizes Top Technicians Nationwide The purpose of the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year is to honor and award the professional technicians in the automotive aftermarket service and repair industry. The program recognizes the top professional automotive technicians across North America. Nominees were evaluated on technical skill, diagnostic expertise and training record. “Casey represents the best of the aftermarket — skill, professionalism, and pride in the work,” said Brian Burkett, director of sales at Auto-Wares. “We are proud to recognize him as our Technician of the Year.” For more information about the program, visit www.technicianoftheyear.com. The post Auto-Wares Names Casey O’Sullivan 2025 Technician of the Year appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Mevotech announced the launch of 193 new part numbers. The parts now cover more than 106.8 million vehicles in the U.S. and 10 million in Canada. The company said this expansion shows its commitment to high-performance repair solutions for technicians. “We know technicians need solutions that don’t just fit, but go the extra mile in durability, performance and ease of installation,” said Richard Stothers, SVP, engineering and research, Mevotech. “With this release, we’re not just expanding our catalog – we’re delivering smarter, more durable parts designed to keep vehicles out of the bay and on the road.” Mevotech New Parts Include TTX Control Arms for GM Trucks The new parts lineup includes TTX front upper control arms. These control arms fit late-model GM 2500 HD and 3500 HD working trucks. The company said it designed the parts from the ground up for severe duty. The control arms feature patented technologies and solid forged construction. The company said these parts are ideal for tough job site conditions. Extended Coverage Now Reaches Model Year 2024 Mevotech added coverage for domestic and import vehicles through model year 2024. Mevotech said that the new parts reinforce its focus on technician-friendly solutions. The post Mevotech New Parts Launch Covers Over 100 Million Vehicles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Associates (APA) appointed Rich Echternacht, owner of Good Guys Auto Parts, to the APA Board of Directors. APA said he brings hands-on industry knowledge, entrepreneurial experience, and strong support for APA shareholders and TruStar members. APA described Echternacht as a longtime champion of independent automotive businesses. New Voice on the APA Board of Directors Brings Ground-Level Insight Echternacht started his career in the automotive aftermarket as a counter trainee at NAPA. He gained firsthand industry knowledge from the ground up. In 2009, driven by a passion for customer service and a desire to build something of his own, he founded Good Guys Auto Parts. The business is located in Iowa City, Iowa. Good Guys Auto Parts Joins APA in 2023 Good Guys Auto Parts joined APA in 2023 after Echternacht recognized the value of APA’s responsiveness. He especially appreciated APA’s advanced inventory modeling technology. The tool made a lasting impression and influenced his decision to join the organization. Board Role Strengthens Voice for Independent Businesses “APA felt different from the start—they actually listened,” said Echternacht. “They were responsive, supportive, and offered tools that helped us operate smarter, such as inventory modeling. That’s why I’m excited to join the Board of Directors—to help ensure small businesses like mine continue to have a voice and the resources to thrive.” APA Recognizes Grounded Leadership and Perspective “Rich’s journey—from the counter to company owner—is one many of our members can relate to,” said Steve Tucker, president of APA. “He understands the challenges and opportunities our members face and brings a fresh, grounded perspective to the board. We’re proud to have him join our leadership.” Commitment to Diverse Member Representation APA said Echternacht’s appointment shows its commitment to representing diverse voices across its membership. This includes owner-operators and independent automotive shops who rely on APA for support. The post APA Board of Directors Welcomes Rich Echternacht appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NEXUS Automotive International presented Federated Auto Parts with the Milestone Achievement Award. This award recognizes Federated’s 40th anniversary in the aftermarket industry. NEXUS gave the honor during the recent NEXUS Business Forum in Abu Dhabi. “We greatly appreciate NEXUS Automotive International for recognizing Federated’s 40th anniversary milestone with this esteemed award,” said Sue Godschalk, CEO of Federated Auto Parts. Global Collaboration Leads to Milestone Achievement Award Godschalk said the company values the partnership with NEXUS and the Automotive Parts Services Group (APSG). “By working in partnership with NEXUS, the Automotive Parts Services Group, including Federated, is able to learn from a global community of aftermarket suppliers, distributors and innovation providers, and share practical, sustainable solutions with members to help them in their local markets.” NEXUS Business Forum Hosts Award Presentation The NEXUS Business Forum took place April 8-10 in Abu Dhabi. The event brought together over 700 aftermarket professionals from around the world. More than 85 suppliers and approximately 215 member companies participated. Jeff Koviak, CEO of the Automotive Parts Services Group, accepted the award on behalf of Federated. 40 Years of Federated Federated Auto Parts was established in 1985. The company was founded by the late Art Fisher. Fisher Auto Parts and Westwood Auto Parts became the first two Federated members. Three additional WDs became members throughout 1985—Automotive Jobbers Supply in April, and Warehouse Inc. and Auto Distributor in December. Today, Federated has more than 80 members located throughout the United States, Canada, the Bahamas and Mexico. A yearlong celebration will include special programs, promotions and events for Federated members, customers, suppliers and other stakeholders. The post Federated Honored with NEXUS Milestone Achievement Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group) will hold its 2025 membership conference April 28- May 1. The event will take place at the Gaylord National Harbor in National Harbor, Maryland. “This year’s conference promises to be a very productive meeting between members of The Group, supplier partners and associates. It gives us the opportunity to interact, collaborate and build growth initiatives that benefit all,” said Jeff Koviak, CEO of The Group. “We look forward to visiting our nation’s capital, learning how history influences our industry and joining forces to set a win-win course for the future.” 2025 Membership Conference: Four Days of Engagement and Strategy The 2025 membership conference will run for four days and include many informative sessions. Topics will cover tariffs, inventory management, sales training and Right to Repair legislation. The event will also feature a vendor expo and scheduled one-on-one meetings. These meetings will bring together members of The Group and supplier partners. Breakout Sessions to Support Brands The agenda will also include breakout sessions focused on each banner-marketing brand. These sessions will help teams align their goals and strategies, according to The Group. “By coming together as ‘The Group,’ we can harness our combined strength, share our ideas and innovations, develop plans for mutual success and profitability, and take collective action to achieve our common goals,” said Koviak. The post The Group to Host 2025 Membership Conference appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

As the 2025 NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series heats up, Advance Auto Parts and NASCAR announced a new collaboration. The Advance NASCAR partnership will support local short track racing through “Advance Auto Parts Night at the Races” in 17 markets. The program aims to boost support for local tracks, drivers and their communities throughout the season. During select race weeks, fans from Colorado National Speedway to Seekonk Speedway will experience special events. These will happen both at the tracks and at Advance Auto Parts retail stores nearby. Advance NASCAR Partnership Fuels Local Track Engagement “Advance Auto Parts has been a tremendous partner in raising the profile of short track racing across the country for the past several years, and this is an exciting next step in working together to grow motorsports on the local level,” said Joseph Dennewitz, managing director of NASCAR Regional. “This is a great opportunity for NASCAR and Advance Auto Parts to show appreciation to our race fans who cheer on their favorite drivers at local short tracks each week, as well as support some of the best venues and racing in NASCAR.” Dominion Raceway in Woodford, Virginia and South Boston Speedway will launch the new program in April. Grandview Speedway in Pennsylvania will close the season in September. Advance Stores Host Fans and Drivers Each “Advance Auto Parts Night at the Races” will include activities at a local Advance Auto Parts store. Stores will host driver autograph signings, giveaways, and other fan-friendly experiences. “As NASCAR’s Official Auto Parts Retailer, we’re thrilled to further enhance fans’ experience and ignite their excitement both at our stores and at local tracks where people are passionate about racing,” said Jason Hand, senior vice president of U.S. Stores. “Advance Auto Parts is all about being your community store, so we’re excited to support local tracks, dedicated NASCAR fans, and our customers in their own backyard.” Visit the NASCAR Regional website to find fan events and race dates near you. Full Schedule of 2025 Advance Auto Parts Night at the Races: April 19 – Dominion Raceway (Virginia) 26 – South Boston Speedway (Virginia) May 10 – Bowman Gray Stadium (North Carolina) 17 – Seekonk Speedway (Massachusetts) 24 – Berlin Raceway (Michigan) 31 – Jennerstown Speedway Complex (Pennsylvania) June 7 – Elko Speedway (Minnesota) 13 – Wake County Speedway (North Carolina) 13 – Limaland Motorsports Park (Ohio) 21 – Langley Speedway (Virginia) July 26 – Riverhead Raceway (New York) 30 – Hawkeye Downs Speedway (Iowa) August 9 – Salina Highbanks Speedway (Oklahoma) 9 – Colorado National Speedway (Colorado) 15 – Lee USA Speedway (New Hampshire) 30 – New Smyrna Speedway (Florida) September 6 – Grandview Speedway (Pennsylvania) The post Advance, NASCAR Partnership Boosts Short Track Racing appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Niterra North America will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Sissonville, West Virginia, campus on May 9, 2025. The celebration also marks the grand opening of the Niterra Distribution Center, a major expansion to the site. The company said the milestone represents three decades of growth, innovation, and support for the West Virginia community. Niterra said the new facility adds 75,000 square feet to the Sissonville campus and creates approximately 30 new jobs. Sustainability and Efficiency Define Niterra Distribution Center According to the company, the Niterra Distribution Center features cutting-edge technology and eco-conscious design. Automated storage and retrieval systems improve inventory accuracy and operational efficiency. Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems help reduce environmental impact and cut operational costs. Enhanced security systems safeguard products and personnel at every stage of the distribution process. Expandable capacity allows the company to scale as customer demand increases, Niterra said. Commitment to Community and Long-Term Growth “We are incredibly proud to reach this 30-year milestone,” said Michael Schwab, president and CEO of Niterra North America, Inc. “Our success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, the loyalty of our customers, and the support of the Sissonville community. The opening of our new distribution center is a significant step forward in our journey, expanding operational capacity and improving logistics efficiency. We look forward to many more years of success.” The grand opening event will be at the Sissonville campus on May 9, starting at 11 a.m. It will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a tour of the new facility. The post Niterra Distribution Center Grand Opening Highlights 30-Year Milestone appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products (SMP) announced new additions to its electronic parking brake actuator program. The company said the parking brake actuator is one of the fastest-growing categories in the automotive aftermarket. Standard offers coverage for both import and domestic vehicles. Automakers now use electronic parking brake actuators on almost all new vehicles. These have replaced manually operated cable parking brakes. The new parking brake actuator plays a critical role in vehicle safety systems, according to SMP. SMP: Quality Engineering in Every Parking Brake Actuator Standard said its parking brake actuators are always 100% new and never remanufactured. They are engineered to match OE performance. These actuators integrate seamlessly with electronic safety systems. The plug-and-play design simplifies installation. Technicians do not need additional programming. Many actuators also include the correct O-ring and hardware for a complete repair. New Applications Cover Ford, Jeep, Subaru and More Standard has introduced new applications for millions of late-model vehicles. Coverage now includes Ford models like the 2023–22 Escape, Bronco Sport, and Maverick. SMP also added the 2024–23 Super Duty trucks. Other new applications include the 2024–22 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ram ProMaster. Mercedes-Benz vehicles through 2023 and Subaru models through 2024 are now covered. SMP expanded its program to include additional Mazda, Audi, Volkswagen and General Motors vehicles. SMP Supports Distributors with Training and Tools “Standard’s parking brake actuator program is the most comprehensive in the industry,” said John Herc, vice president of vehicle control marketing at SMP. “In addition to industry-leading coverage, we are providing our distribution partners with training, marketing materials and key category insights to help them capitalize on the growth of this category.” Actuator Catalog Available Online Standard lists all parking brake actuators in its online catalog at StandardBrand.com. The company also supplies listings through electronic catalog providers. The post Standard Motor Products Expands Parking Brake Actuator Program appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

March 31, 2025, marked a milestone in engine oil development—the first license date for the GF-7 motor oil category. While that might sound like just another specification in a long line of upgrades, for professional parts counter pros selling to independent repair shops, it’s a moment that carries real-world impact. Understanding what’s new—and how to help shop owners explain it to their customers—could be the difference between a routine oil sale and a value-driven recommendation. First, What Is GF-7? GF-7 builds on the progress of the GF-6 specification introduced in 2020. Like its predecessor, GF-7 is split into two categories: GF-7A for most modern gasoline engines and GF-7B for low-viscosity formulations like 0W-16, commonly used in vehicles from Japanese OEMs like Toyota. The key takeaway? GF-7 oils are fully backward compatible. If a customer’s vehicle previously called for GF-6, GF-5, or even GF-4, a GF-7A product can safely be used. For 0W-16 applications, GF-7B covers those needs—just make sure the shop isn’t using a 0W-16 oil in an engine not designed for it. “When they developed the GF categories almost 30-plus years ago, the idea was that it’s an evergreen category, so they’re all backward compatible,” Dr. Michael Warholic, global technology director, Valvoline Global Operations. “The caveat is that GF-7B category. Some engines don’t like thin oil because they’re just not made to operate that way. You have to be careful about misapplication. “The OEMs identified that and developed a shield icon with 0W-16 label to make it easy to identify it versus 0W-20 or heavier oil,” he said. How to Identify GF-7 on the Shelf Paying attention to the API designation and symbols on the bottle is key. Counter pros should be looking for the API “donut” and the Starburst or Shield symbols: • The Starburst still signals general GF-category oils (GF-7A). • A Shield symbol identifies 0W-16 oils under the GF-7B track. • Look for API donut to know it’s GF-7. “It boils down to: if you see the Starburst, it’s a qualified GF oil. If you see the donut on the back, it has the API credentials on it,” Warholic explained. There’s a one-year transition period where GF-6 oils will still be in circulation, but by March 2026, GF-7 will be the standard. “Model Year 2026 is when we expect the OEMs will start to notice GF-7 oils in the owner’s manual,” added Karl Kocher, director of light duty product strategy, Valvoline. Why Should Your Shop Customers Care? Not all oils are created equal, and consumers are becoming more selective. GF-7 brings improvements in durability, fuel economy, wear protection and emissions performance. This includes: • Deposit control: GF-7 increases limits on piston cleanliness to limit deposits, helping prevent buildup that can lead to costly repairs like ring sticking. • Wear resistance: Chain wear limits are tighter to protect timing systems and avoid check-engine lights. • Cold start protection: Improved low-temp viscosity performance means oil flows better when the engine is most vulnerable—at startup. • LSPI protection over time: GF-7 includes a new test for aged oil’s ability to resist Low-Speed Pre-Ignition, protecting direct-injected turbo engines long after the oil change. • Ash limit: For the first time, GF-7 introduces an ash cap to help reduce emissions—a nod to the increasing regulatory pressure on internal combustion engines. Selling the Upgrade In addition to standard GF-7 products, some oil suppliers are offering “above and beyond” formulations. Valvoline’s Restore & Protect, for example, is a fully synthetic motor oil that aims at both older, high-mileage vehicles (restore) and new vehicles (protect). While the oil sports a proprietary formulation, Valvoline has noted two proprietary technologies–Active Clean, which removes deposits, and Liqui-Shield, which prevents deposit formation. “The active technology behind the Restore and Protect products is the same in our GF-6 and our GF-7 products,” Warholic confirmed. “For GF-7, it’s built on a slightly different platform to meet the requirements. The Restore and Protect technology is above and beyond even the deposit performance required for GF-7. It exceeds that performance and does something that no other oil does or that’s actually required by GF-7. It is our own proprietary technology.” That’s especially valuable in older engines that were exposed to less advanced oils under earlier standards like GF-4 or GF-5. With Restore and Protect, your shop customers can offer a tiered service—a standard GF-7 oil for maintenance, or R&P for vehicles showing signs of engine wear or for customers wanting the best protection available. Bottom Line for Counter Pros • Understand the labeling: Starburst = GF-7A; Shield = GF-7B; look for API SQ on the donut. • Ask about the vehicle: Year, model, and what oil is currently being used. • Explain backward compatibility: GF-7 oils replace earlier categories in most cases. • Be proactive: As model year 2026 approaches, shops will need help identifying the right oils—GF-7A or GF-7B—and transitioning their inventory. GF-7 isn’t just a new acronym—it’s the new baseline. The counter pros who get ahead of it now will be the ones their shop customers rely on tomorrow. The post What Counter Professionals Need to Know About GF-7 Oil and How to Recommend It appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

PRT announced the latest additions of new aftermarket products to its portfolio of complete strut assemblies and shock absorbers. PRT said the 18 products represent more than 10 million vehicles in new coverage. The company added several significant models to its portfolio. These include the Toyota Yaris, Ford Escape and Volkswagen Touareg. PRT also introduced products for new applications like the 2023 Hyundai Kona. Pickup truck coverage includes the GMC Sierra and Honda Ridgeline. Models Include Passenger Cars, SUVs and Trucks The expanded coverage targets a wide range of popular vehicles. These include sedans, SUVs and pickup trucks. PRT said the updates help meet ongoing demand in the market. New Aftermarket Products Now Available in the U.S. “These continuous product launches aim to broaden our application range across the North American aftermarket,” said Bruno Bello, director of global marketing at PRT. “The new items are available in the U.S. and ready for shipment!” In March, PRT announced the latest additions to its portfolio of complete strut assemblies and shock absorbers in the North American Aftermarket. The 27 new products represent more than seven million vehicles in new coverage. The launches include models like the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Challenger and Suzuki SX4, in addition to brand new applications including the Chrysler Voyager and Pacifica 2023, as well as the Ford Transit 250 and 350 HD 2023, among others. Contact PRT or Visit Online for Details For more information, call 1-770-238-1611, visit www.prtautoparts.com, or follow @prtautoparts. The post PRT Releases 18 New Aftermarket Products appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Headquarters (APH) recently hosted its annual conference with 500 attendees. Store owners, managers, sales representatives, suppliers and support staff came together. Held under the theme “Say Yes,” the event spotlighted 2024 accomplishments. APH also recognized APH outstanding team members who made significant contributions to the company’s success. Leadership Presented Awards to APH Outstanding Team Members An awards banquet was a major highlight of the conference. APH leadership personally honored top performers across multiple categories. CEO Corey Bartlett presented the awards with key leaders. These included Jim Gruber, general manager of BENCO Equipment; Lonnie Kocmick, president of Refinish Supply Co.; Jason Vogel, president of APH Stores; Tim Gardner, vice president of stores, western division; and Rick Lease, vice president of stores, eastern division. APH’s store operations team and support center staff selected the recipients after thorough evaluations. CEO Commends ‘Say Yes’ Spirit and Team Dedication “We are delighted to celebrate our outstanding team members who truly embody the ‘Say Yes’ spirit,” said Bartlett. “Their exceptional dedication to supporting their teams and customers has been essential to our success in 2024. We are proud to honor them and share in their achievements with our industry partners.” Store Manager of the Year Among APH Outstanding Team Members The evening’s top honor went to Matthew Shupick, who earned the 2024 Store Manager of the Year award. He has managed the Eagle Butte, South Dakota, location since 2015. “Matthew quickly demonstrated his leadership skills, rising to manager in record time,” said Gardner. “He is genuine, down-to-earth and has made a lasting impact on both his team and his community. Driven by a strong sense of duty, Matthew’s commitment to his team’s success and the community that raised him is truly inspiring.” Additional Award Winners Recognized In addition to Shupick, APH honored several other standout contributors: Impact Player of the Year: Doug Thompson, Minot, North Dakota Outside Sales Representative of the Year: Tony Serr, Aberdeen, South Dakota BENCO MVP of the Year: Shane Zahn, Bismarck, North Dakota Refinish Supply Co. MVP of the Year: Tim Christensen, Sioux Falls, South Dakota Counter Sales Representative of the Year: Mike Schenk, New Glarus, Wisconsin Driver of the Year: Don Vanderberg, Sioux Falls, South Dakota Regional Manager of the Year: Derek Goblirsch, Southern Minnesota Support Person of the Year: Kris Stelling, St. Cloud, Minnesota Annual Conference Reinforces Team Spirit and Growth APH emphasized that the annual conference strengthened the company’s collaborative culture. It showcased both the achievements of APH outstanding team members and the teamwork behind APH’s ongoing growth. The post APH Outstanding Team Members Recognized appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article